Work Text
All Starry Eyed & Fiery Inside
"Do you know all the constellations?"The sudden question sparked confusion in Rayla, causing her to shoot a confused look at the boy beside her. "Er, what?" she replied.Callum's attention was directed straight toward the sky, almost as if he was gazing wonderingly into the vast space. "You know… the stars?" he lazily prompted.Rayla's confusion did not deteriorate. If anything, it just increased. She looked down in her lap and noticed Zym sharing the same look as her. At least she wasn't the only one lost here. "Uhhh, why?" she gently asked.He shrugged, eyes still upward. "I dunno, I just figured, since you're uh, well—a Moonshadow Elf—you'd know a thing or two about the stars?" He offered an innocent smile her way. He seemed hesitant with his thought. As if saying it out loud made him realize how silly it sounded.Rayla couldn't help but giggle at the boy's awkwardness. Her gaze fell back onto the campfire before them, leaving a moment to ponder the question he'd asked. Meanwhile, Callum's gaze shyly craned back to the sky, assuming the conversation had died off then and there.The two were currently sat a mere feet away from each other. Callum had his knees crunched up to his chest whilst Rayla kept her legs crisscrossed, allowing for a certain Storm Dragon to lay there. Both their eyes had been fixated on the blazing fire for quite some time now. They dwelled within a blissful silence for nearly ten minutes. Rayla contently found herself petting Zym's head whilst staring into the campfire. Callum was sketching in his notebook once again, but Rayla didn't pay it any mind. She was too busy being wrapped up in the moment to really bother. Besides, she figured it was just another sketch of Zym.But the sudden randomness of Callum's thoughts were a notion to be desired.Where did he get these thoughts?Regardless of how much it ruined their peaceful silence or how abstract it seemed, Rayla was more than willing to entertain him."Well, I can't say I don't know nothin' 'bout them," she suddenly spoke.He quickly drew his attention to her and raised a brow. "But you know some?"Rayla sighed as she shook her head. "Well, duh. Who doesn't know anything about stars, Callum?" she sarcastically replied. "Besides, last I checked, Stars and Moon were separate categories on the wheel of Six Primal Sources." She lifted her hand and wiggled her finger around in a circle teasingly, remarking with a smug grin. "And that's like assuming since you're now a Sky Mage, you know everything about the weather." She leaned over and squinted at him. "And do ya? Mister Weatherman?" she jokingly asked, "What's the sky looking like tomorrow then?"Callum disappointedly frowned at his companion. That was win in her book. "Fine, fine, you made your point. It was a dumb question," he dismissed with a weak wave. He fell back onto the ground and stared up into the sky, smiling once more. "Would stars be considered part of the sky?"A snort escaped Rayla before she could stop it. She immediately covered her mouth and attempted to hide her bundle of chuckles. "Oh, knock it off!" Callum whined, throwing a playful punch to her ribs.Ralya held her hands up innocence and smirked. "Alright, alright! I'm done," she conceded. She stared at Callum for moment and followed after him, leaning back against the grass. Her gaze flew up into the black sky and the sight above amazed her.A vast sea of darkness, illuminated by speckles of sparklights. About millions of bright dots, stretched across the night sky. Underneath it all, just the two of them (and Zym)."What brought this on?" Rayla questioned.Callum sighed. "I dunno… just… I thought the sky looked pretty.""So? The campfire's pretty too.""Yeah, I know.""Then?""I dunno," Callum replied, wearing an earnest smile. "I just, I noticed the Katolis and realized that's the only constellation that really stood out to me. I-I mean, I do know some, but like, I guess I just realized I don't really know much of them," he shyly admitted, eyes still to the sky.Rayla cocked her head at Callum. "What? Whattya mean ya see 'Katolis'?" she repeated in finger quotes. "Where? How? We're in Xadia, Callum."He laughed. "No, no, no, the constellation above us!" he quickly supplied. When he noticed Rayla's confusion remained, he sighed and grabbed her left hand with his right. Without even thinking, he raised their hands to the sky and pointed above them.Rayla stared at the point of his index finger and noticed he was pointing at one of the largest stars. Slowly, he began to trace his fingers around the stars, connecting the dots with an imaginary line. His finger led her around in a near circle, creating small gap near the bottom. His finger drew up a vertical small line at the break, and another smaller line on the other side. This shape, although crudely connected, looked familiar to Rayla, she knew she'd seen it somewhere. A large circle with two lines, almost like a circlet."Wait… is that—""The crown of Katolis?" Callum suggested. "Yes, yes it is. Named after my kingdom," he proudly stated. He slowly brought down his and Rayla's hand to the ground, smiling at the stars. He seemed quite pleased with himself for Rayla's reaction.However, the Moonshadow Elf has a different view of wonder in mind. She shot Callum an amused look, to which he noticed, and laughed at his statement. He stared at her confusedly, awkwardly stammering, "Wh-What? What'd I do?""Ha! Oh, I just, that's-that's not a constellation!" she laughed, shaking her head at the young boy beside her."What? How? What'd you mean!""Callum, you're actually looking at Sol Regem's horns!""What!""Yeah!" Rayla nodded. When she saw Callum's confusion, she immediately grabbed his hand and pointed up at the constellation. Mimicking the same concept, she led his hand around the stars, pointing out the distinct outline of a large pair of horns. It was nearly shaped like the horns of the Sun Dragon the two had encountered when they first entered Xadia.Callum's eyes widened at the sight as he released a gasp. "Whoa… you're-you're right!"Rayla scoffed. "When have I ever not been?" she cleverly shot back."Ha ha," Callum rolled his eyes. "Okay, oh so wise Elf, show me what else you know then?" He used his free hand and gestured to the sky above them.Rayla proudly smiled. "Gladly!" she eagerly tightened her grip on his hand and led him around. Callum raised a brow at the shape she'd shown him. It looked like a symbol or letter. "That one's the Night Watcher," she announced after finishing. Their hands fell down at their sides, still firmly connected. "The constellation is the Draconic symbol for its name."Callum's eyes gazed up at the constellation in wonder. "Wow…" he gasped. Rayla smiled at his wonderment. He looked like Ezran gazing upon a sweet treat. Callum's attention never deferred as he curiously asked, "How do you say it?""Noctis Vigil," she answered. "Old Elven tale was told around long before I was a wee lass. Parents tell their kids that the Night Watcher reigns high above the sky at night, watching their dreams and taking care of them." She chuckled to herself. "The idea was that the symbol was suppose to represent protection and comfort kiddies and all that, but when you grow older ya start to realize—""—That a word in the sky seems kinda absurd as a protector?" Callum guessed.Rayla nodded. "Bingo."The two shared a laugh. Their fits of giggles and snickers were enough to get Zym smiling. After a moment, Rayla said, "Alright, show me one of yours."Callum awkwardly chuckled. "Uhh, ha, I don't think ours is as interesting as yours.""Obviously," the Elf teased. "But I'm still curious as to what else you humans came up with with.""Okay, well…"And it continued. The two laid there, in a blissful quiet silence. Delicately whispering to each other as they pointed out the stars their peoples had named. Small fits of laughter exchanged between them, like a bunch of little kids. Callum watched in awe as Rayla excitedly explained the origin and details of the symbols and signs marked within the space of the stars. All the while, Rayla smirked and laughed at Callum's direction and indication of certain strange constellations."But, why a belt though?" she'd asked, blatantly confused.Callums sighed, his face scrunched up as he briefly pondered the question. "I… actually don't know."Rayla snorted. "Honestly, humans seem to have a fascination with jewelry and accessories in the stars." She smiled at the thought. "Guess it's a nice idea. But it's really materialistic…""I always felt like it's because the real gem is up there, ya know?"The sudden genuineness of his voice threw her for loop. Rayla shot him a look, wonderingly staring into his content eyes. He just seemed so happy with everything. Just this moment, to gaze upon the universe above. It was adoring. The way his smile creased upward as he observed the constellations was heartwarming. The way his green eyes gleamingly reflected the vast speckled sea of stars was entrancing. The way his hand calmly and comfortingly intertwined itself with hers.Heat rose to Rayla's cheeks as the realization hit her. They had been holding hands for… a really long time now. She had no idea how long they'd been lying there, pointing out the stars, but she remembered this began with Callum. She can recall him easily wrapping his hand around hers and leading it around. But the real turn came when she repeated the same gesture.She wasn't sure when that leading around led to this. This, entanglement of—well what was it? Why did this feel so comforting? Why did it make Rayla feel so warm and… safe? And why did the fact that Callum's effortless method of slipping through her hands make her feel happy? Why did she feel this way? When did this happen? When did she start finding solace in his presence?She looked down at their hands. They were resting by their sides, firmly held together. His fingers slipped perfectly through gap for each of hers. His five fit her four. Like it was meant to be. It was as if his hand was meant to hold hers, to encase it, to warm it. Almost like he was supposed to hold her—"Sorry," he suddenly spoke up.Dazed, confused, (along with a mix of other emotions) Rayla blinked as she returned her gaze back to her companion. "Sorry, what?"Callum slowly looked over at her, nervously smiling. "I guess that was a bit too… real, huh?"She stared at him for a few seconds, then realized he was referring to what he had just said. "O-Oh," she stammered out, "Ri-Right, yeah." She shook her head and smiled. "Nah… it was… sweet. I think it's cute."Callum raised a brow. "Really?" he inquired, clearly surprised. He must've noticed her awkwardness. "Are you feeling okay?"Rayla nodded, gazing back up at the sky. Her grip relaxed along with her smile. "Yeah… I'm fine." She sighed, contently. "Just feeling a lil' warm."
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Jokes for Another Time, Truth for Now
"What're you doin'?"The sudden question startled Callum's focus, causing him to throw his sketchbook high into the air. Desperately, he clambered over the log he was sat at in attempt to retrieve the airborne artwork. However, he failed on ever possible level as he tripped over his foot, fell to the ground, and caught the book with the back of his head. He laid in the grass, face planted deeply in shame, as he listened to his Elven companion snicker at his shortcomings."Y'know," he spoke up, wincing as he pushed himself off the ground, "you could warn a guy." He glanced up from the ground and shot Rayla an annoyed look.She simply placed her hands on her hips as she turned up a smug smile. "Aww, but then I wouldn't get to see that face of yours!" She laughed as Callum frowned further. "Besides, I wasn't that stealthy." She quirked up a brow as she added, "Maybe if you weren't so wrapped up in your art you'd hear me comin'!"Callum rolled his eyes as he dusted himself off. "Rayla, I'm not sure if by Assassin standards that was considered noisy, but for an average guy like myself, I'd consider what you just did to be practically soundless." He shook his head as he picked up his book. He sat back down on the log and started to flip through the pages. "Seriously, you were like invisible!"Rayla blankly stared at Callum for a few seconds. "Uhh, I can turn invisible…"Callum glanced up from his book and frowned once again. "You know what I meant.""I was in front of ya.""Exactly, stealthy!" he mused, "Never saw you coming!"Rayla rolled her eyes as she made her way over to the log. Rested beside Callum's spot, laid a small Storm Dragon, dazed in a slumber. She made sure to spare a few pets for the baby, taking solace in his pure purrs. As she stroked the dragon's head, she looked back at Callum. She noticed how easily he fell back into his sketching. A discomforting thought swarmed in, leaving her to hesitantly acknowledged Callum. "Y'know, that could've been dangerous.""Relax, it's a sketchbook, the worst I could've gotten was a mild concussion," he jested.Rayla frowned. "No, I meant me sneaking up on ya." When Callum looked up from his book and stared at her confusedly, she further explained, "If I was still out gettin' berries and it wasn't me who found you here… you… you could've been—""Whoa, whoa," Callum hastily interjected. "Rayla, relax, it's not like I was sleeping or anything! And besides," a proud smile found its way on his lips, "I'm a Sky Mage, I can defend myself!" He jerked his thumb to his chest as he puffed it out.Rayla stared at him for a moment, allowing a small smile to escape as she watched. He wasn't wrong. But that didn't change how much she was worried about him. Or about how vulnerable he really was. "Aheh, right…" she nervously chuckled. "But…" she closed her eyes and sighed. "A wind and lightin' spell ain't gonna be enough… y'know?" When she perked open her eyes she found a woeful ridden face.He looked discouraged.Rayla mentally cursed herself for belittling Callum's skills. "I-I don't mean they're not useful!" she quickly amended. "It's just… ya still don't know a lot of Sky spells and there's a lot of dangerous wildlife around here too." She slightly shrugged. "I just don't want somethin' happenin' to ya because I wasn't there to—" she stopped herself. She could feel a heat rise in her cheeks and nerves chilling down her body. With widened eyes Rayla let out another shy, nervous laugh as she shook her hands. "I-I-I mean, if I wasn't… able to help ya… learn self-defence?" she finished, coming off more as if she was suggesting the idea rather than anything else.Callum stared at her, confusion struck all over. "I… uh-huh…" he nodded. "I… I do…" He shook his head and sighed. "But, I've already told you how much of a flop I was at swordsmanship and anything else with weapons." He dropped his sketchbook in his lap as he palmed at his face."Heeey, c'mon, you said you learned the ol' sweep-the-leg thing I've been doin'!" she cheerfully addressed.He responded with a small pout as he brought his hands down to his lap. "I said I tried that once, and failed miserably. Of course you know how to do it," he let out a soft sigh, "you're amazing at everything."A chirp erupted from Zym, who appeared to be looking very interested in the two's conversation, whilst a sudden silence stirred between them. Zym's eyes had opened wide at Callum's words, as if he'd now developed an interest in the current topic. His mouth hung open with his tongue dropped out, hanging onto this excitement of possibilities. There was something there between them he was seeing.Callum and Rayla merely sat stiff and still, red in the face. Callum awkwardly coughed, averting his eyes toward the ground, the surrounding trees, the sky—practically anything and everything that wasn't Rayla's eyes.Rayla, on the other hand, couldn't help but stare at the boy before her. His genuineness threw her for a loop along with her heart, leaving her blush to settle within her cheeks for a long time. She smiled at his awkwardness. He meant it, and she knew he did. "Thanks…" she managed to say.Callum's gaze had briefly found its way to hers, before launching back down to his book. "N-No problem… I-I mean it," he muttered as he opened up his book.Rayla's smile grew. "I know." This feeling in her heart, this was all too familiar. This moment, maybe it was time? Maybe it was time for her to say something? Anything at this point. "Callum, we need—" she trailed off as she noticed his sketches. Or rather, the image he'd been staring at. It was the sketch she drew of the Six Primal Sources. But this time, each symbol had a small jot note beneath it, listing off strange traits. She noticed under Moon, he'd written, Illusions? Invisibility, sub category? And it was like that for the other Five."Rayla?"She looked up at Callum. "Huh?""You were saying…""O-Oh!" She smirked, opened her mouth, then stopped. The curiosity had beaten her. "Whatcha writin'?"Callum's brows raised. "Oh! You mean this?" he gestured to his book. "Oh… well, I was thinking… earlier… how it'd be cool if I tried to learn the other Arcanums," his voice fell into a shy whisper, as if he was embarrassed to mention it. Rayla couldn't find the words. Learn them? "Like well, I just thought, if I managed to learn the Sky Arcanum, then I could learn maybe the Moon's? Or anything else really…""Oh…""Yeah, thought it'd be handy and well, now that you brought up my combat skills, I guess it'd be useful!" Confidence perked up in him as did a smile. "Of course, I still have to go through the trouble of actually learning all the names of spells and their symbols, but I feel like being in touch with the Arcanum is a good start."Rayla couldn't help but stare in wonder. Callum always seemed to have a passionate side he often hid. But, it was very obvious to Rayla that he wanted to express this side more often but was just never offered much of an opportunity to do so. She figured with the stories he told her about his forced training as a prince, he was often limited in what he was allowed to do. It was as if the slightest tease of curiosity would peak his genuineness, and then, reveal this even softer, more precious boy. She had no doubt in her mind that he would be a great Mage."Rayla?""Sorry, what?" she answered, slightly dazed."You were uh… kinda staring… for a long time," Callum pointed out, wearing a faint blush among his cheeks."Oh, er, my bad," Rayla replied. She laughed as she began to rub the back of her head. "Um, an-anyways! Ya need any help with the Moon Arcanum?"Callum raised a brow. "Seriously? You'll try and help?""Hey, don't act so surprised!" Rayla feigned offence, pout her lip at the boy.He laughed. "No, no, it's not that! It's just, last time, was more of a vague and flashy show than a demonstration…" he admitted, smirking her way.She chuckled, shaking her head. "Fine, I'll give ya that," she acknowledged. "But I might as well an' try to help ya. In anyway I can at least."Callum's smirk creased further upward. "Thanks, I appreciate it," he softly said.His sudden drop in tone caused Rayla's face to faintly flush, but still managed to elate a large smile."But uh, it's the middle of the day, so…" he awkwardly laughed, nodding up to the sky. "I think it would kinda be hard to work with understanding the Moon more."Rayla's face morphed into a small frown as she glanced up at the sun and squinted. "Aye, I suppose you're right 'bout that…" she admitted. "Well, what've you been doing so far?""I've thinking about what sort of powers and abilities stem from the Moon," Callum explained, pointing to the list of notes he had under the Moon, "And, it seems like from what I've seen, and heard from Lujanne, everything about the Moon is really just about the line between illusions and reality… and well, what really is real and what isn't. Like, trying to understand the relationship of what's really in front my eyes but also getting that what's not, isn't exactly fake…. Y'know?" he asked, cocking a look over to his companion.Rayla blankly stared at him for a moment. "Uhh, no, not really," she admitted with a brief laugh."Ha, right." Callum sheepishly shrugged. "Sorry, guess it's kinda had to explain something that even I don't understand." He stared down at his book for another moment, then laughed. "Maybe I should use Dark Magic again." He let out a goofy snort then said, "I mean, being unconscious in exchange for the secret of Primal Magic seems like a good deal. Haha!"A dead silence fell over Rayla as she stared at Callum with wide eyes. He was the only one laughing. He just, shook his head as he slapped his knee in pride. Almost acting as if what he said was "funny". But, the aching in Rayla's heart and the sweating in her clenched palms didn't tell her anything about what Callum said was funny. Flashes of a drained face, echoes of moaning and wailing began to run through her mind. She remembered holding a near lifeless, breathless boy in her arms. She remembered embracing her sickened friend, nearly shedding a stream tears at the sight. She remembered a moment she thought she'd never ever have to have again. It was an insane rush of emotions."You're insane," she thoughtlessly voiced out.Callum's endless stream of laughter halted at her sudden edge. "Wh-What?""What?""Where did that come from?""Nothing! Nowhere!" Rayla hastily shouted. Callum eyed her suspiciously for a few seconds before she cracked. "Fine," she sighed. "I was just trying to say, that you shouldn't joke about something like that." She threw Callum a stern glare as she scrunched her face at him. "Nothing about that is funny."Callum's eyes went wide as he threw up his arms innocently. "Whoa, I-I didn't mean anything serious by it! It-It was just a joke Rayla. I don't actually want to do Dark Magic. I was just trying to joke about how after all that I managed to learn the Sky Arcanum." He let out a strained laugh as he weakly added, "I mean, n-no harm done right?" He developed into a shrunken form as he shyly looked at her. "Right?"Rayla stared at him, blankly, shocked to her core. "I…" She wanted to say he has no idea what happened. She wanted to tell shout how badly she was shaken up about it. She just wanted to look him in the eyes and say how close it all was. "R-Right…" she forced out, edging a small weak chuckle. "Of course," she softly added. Rayla immediately rose up from her seat, and jerked her thumb over her shoulder. "I'm-I'm gonna patrol one last time. Just to be safe." She took one step and was quickly stopped by Callum's hand.He held tightly around her wrist. "Rayla," he said lowly, "Talk to me." His hand slowly maneuvered down to her hand and entrapped his fingers with hers. "Please," he quietly begged.Rayla kept her body turned away as her head sunk down. She tried to find the words whilst she swallowed hard. "Callum…" she breathlessly whispered, "You… you almost died…"In that moment, the atmosphere dropped to a chilling temperature. Any reaction Callum could've possibly had died in his throat as his eyes widened at the revelation. He felt Rayla's hand tightened around his. Almost as if admitting this would suddenly cause him to slip away. He could feel her shaking, and could see her face, despite how desperately she tried to hide her pain. She looked sad. Far sadder than he'd ever seen her before."Rayla… I…" he bit back on his words as he stared at her. He felt her shimmy her hand, and he immediately clenched on. He reached forward with his other hand and grabbed her other arm by the elbow. "Wait, wait, wait," he hastily said. Slowly turning her around, he raised a worried brow as he asked, "What happened?"They were both standing now. Both staring into each other's eyes, just inches apart. Callum could see the fear in her eyes, whilst Rayla saw his worry. With one, simultaneous breath, the two soaked in the moment before sitting back down on the log."I… I still don't really know what saved ya," she admitted, shaking her head. "But… but I remember what was happening." Another sharp inhale. "Your eyes were dark, like, sickened. I-I never seen anythin' like it. It was like they were sealed shut! You just… you weren't openin' them," she airlessly said. "Then…" she closed her eyes. "You stopped breathin'."Callum's eyes widened even more. Before he could even respond, Rayla continued."Ya were just gasping! Just, lying there clinging onto… I-I-I don't know what!" She threw her hands up in the air. "It-It was just, everything was so silent and all I could hear was you. Just… practically begging for air." Rayla's head sunk down in her hands. "I didn't know what to do. I… I just held ya because I was scared. I-I thought, if I let go for second, you'd…" She managed to glance up at his shocked face with tears brimming her eyes. "I dunno…" she shook her head once again as she added, "I just wanted to hold you…" Rayla closed her eyes once again and held them shut. She tried to fight back her tears, but could only feel them building up even more. They were practically beating away at her eyelids, begging to be released.Suddenly, a warmth encased Rayla. She opened her eyes to find herself wrapped within Callum's arms. He had her head rested on his shoulders and let her arms slowly find their way around him. "It's okay," he whispered, "it's okay." He continued to repeat the words, he said them quietly and repeatedly until Rayla responded."No," she muttered, "it's not." He slightly pulled away from their hug to look Rayla in the eyes. "Callum… you… you were nearly—""But I'm not," he sternly interjected. His face was serious. With a tightened jaw and a hardened stare, he said, "I"m here now. An-And I'm fine!" His hand made its way up to her cheek and stroked off a tear. "See? I'm fine." His smile returned, and he gave Rayla an earnest look.Rayla couldn't help but smile back at his genuinity. "I-I know…" she chuckled. "I know you're here. And I know you're fine now. But," she let out a sigh, "That doesn't change what happened. That doesn't change what I…" she could do this. She could say it. She had to say it. "Felt…""You mean… being scared?""No-I… Wait, yes, exactly!" Rayla agreed. "I was terrified Callum!"He nodded. "I mean, I get it—""No!" she hastily interrupted. "Ya don't!" Her eyes were filled with fear. Fear of rejection. Fear of embarrassment. Fear of the truth. "I… what I felt… when I almost lost ya," her voice dropped to a hushed whisper, "I didn't wanna lose someone I cared about." Callum smiled at her earnestly. Just before he opened his mouth to respond, Rayla added, "Someone I care about a lot."His brows raised high as his mouth morphed into a thin line. "Oh," he squeaked out, dropping his hands down to his lap."Yeah…""Oh… huh…""Yup…""I… I…""It's alright!" She assured, shaking her head, nearly startling Callum. "I just needed to get it off my chest." A nervous laugh erupted from her. "It's just been… on my mind… for awhile—well since it ever happened—but none of that is important." She raised up from the log and cleared her throat. "I… I think I should really scout ahead." Rayla vaguely gestured a finer over to the direction she had supposedly come from. "I'll be back in… probably a few minutes…" she gently supplied.Callum stared at her as she walked, wordless for a few short seconds. Only managing out a brief, "Okay…"He watched her pensive, reserved face shun itself away from him—the same face he'd drawn many times before. He watched her hands wrap around her arms in a shy embrace. He watched her walk in small, hesitant strides. A million thoughts were rushing through his mind, and the only word he could handle was "okay." Callum stared in silence as he tried to conjure up any semblance of a significant meaningful thought. The mention of his unconscious incident brought his mind back to his breathless atmosphere. The exact moment when he felt the same amount of emotions running around in his thoughts. He remembered the exact words that changed everything after he awoke. The words his mother had told him.Callum took a deep breath and rose up to his feet. "I care about you too!" he shouted. Rayla stopped in her tracks and turned to stare at him with wide eyes. "A lot… as well…" he softly added, a blush crept up on his cheek as his gaze slowly drew downward.Rayla flushed bright cheeks back at him and shyly smiled. Courage finally building within, Callum raised his head and met her eyes. The moment lasted for a barely a minute before anyone decided to move. They needed more time to think, that was obvious enough. But it was enough to know that there was still a moment between them where they understood each other. Standing still, silently staring at one another. Their mirrored shy smiles, their hesitant words, it was all they needed.For now, anyways.
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Moonflies
Rayla was, by no means, an artist. Sure, as a young elf, she had learned how to perfect her penmanship and trained herself to recognize and draw Draconic symbols. And maybe, to others—perhaps those who were unskilled—they'd consider her choreography as an assassin to be an art in of itself. Though it seemed Callum certainly thought it was a beauty to witness. A compliment he'd mention along with his flushed cheeks every so often. It was an endearing gesture Rayla secretly appreciated. But apparently, Callum found it so amazing that he had taken the liberty to even sketch Rayla in her natural state.The young elf was completely overwhelmed with flattery, embarrassment, and a whole other assortment of emotions the moment she discovered Callum's sketches. It had happened during a late night sleep; she saw him passed out with his sketchbook at his feet. Curiosity got the best of her. There were pages and pages of sketches of her in nearly every scenario. Some were of her just standing or looking off into the distance. Others were of her caught in some sort of fighting stance, weapons drawn, wearing a hardened look on her face. And rarely, the occasional sketch of her sitting and looking pensive, looking almost relaxed.Beautiful wasn't good enough of a word to describe the art she'd seen.So of course, the next opportunity they had to some solemn silence, she brought it up. It had happened as the two walked alongside one another, with Zym eagerly prancing away beside Rayla. Casually, she mentioned how she found Callum's sketches to be quite beautiful. She was happy to praise his work considering how much of it was her, and how much effort went into them. His reaction to her words were a delight to hear."O-Oh, thanks!" he awkwardly replied. "I-I hope I didn't come off as…""What? Stalker-ish?" Rayla mused.Callum sheepishly nodded as he rubbed the back of his neck.She snorted as she waved her hand dismissively. "Callum, relax, I'm quite honoured you chose to draw me actually." For some reason, her heart fluttered at the sight of his smile."Really?" he asked."Really.""Wow… so… you-you don't mind me drawing you?" he asked, more hesitantly.Rayla smirked as she offered a thumbs up. "Not at all!" she assured him. He seemed to quirk up at her answer, which only made her press on as an idea popped in her head. "In fact," she enticingly added, "if ya ever want to use my body, just ask!" The words hadn't registered in Rayla's mind until she saw Callum's reddened face. That did not come out like she intended for it to. "I-I mean—if ya, well, want to sketch me again! An-And well, I…I'd be willing to-to pose for ya!" She turned away from him and let out wavy breath."Uh-um, y-yeah!" Callum agreed, managing a small smile at her. "I-I'll be sure to let you know!"Thankfully, the two continued their walk in silence right after. Most likely because neither were really willing to add onto their last conversation. Zym had sauntered alongside the two and seemed increasingly curious as to why they both were wearing such flushed faces as they walked. Regardless, the topic seemed to die there and eventually, the two found themselves more comfortable and less red.Or, at least, until nighttime.As Ralya prepped their camp, she instructed Callum to go and gather some berries for the night. Shortly after his departure, Rayla noticed how the scenery around them suddenly brightened up immensely. She glanced up from campfire she'd been prepping and turned around.It was a swarm of Moonflies, all gathered around and flickering around her. Zym, who had stayed with Rayla, began eagerly jumping after them. With a hyperactive attitude and a drooling tongue, the Dragon Prince hopped after the swarm, startling the flickering lights and making them scatter. Rayla couldn't help but giggle at the scene.They were small, fragile insects. They had six small legs and an adorable pair of wings to carry them. The coat of their skin was notably dark and purple, mixed in with some stripes of navy blue. But the real attraction to the little creatures, were the sizeable bright lights emitting from their rear ends. It was a shining white glow, that repeatedly flickered as they flew.Simply put, Rayla found them to be—"Beautiful," Callum's voice came in.Startled, Rayla whipped her head back around to find Callum stood across the other side of the campfire. He had a large sum of berries in the palms of his hands, laid out on a handkerchief, and an awestruck look on his face. His eyes were wide with amazement and his mouth hung agape at the sight before him. Rayla couldn't help but smile at his reaction. Callum was always easily astonished by the flora and fauna of Xadia. That wasn't to say Rayla wasn't in awe of the sight either, she was just more used to seeing such a scene."Can I sketch you?"The question had come out so abruptly Rayla had to do a double take before managing a response. "W-What!" she stuttered out.Callum's face winced at her reaction, leaving him to awkwardly shrug at her. "I dunno… you said earlier today you wouldn't mind…" he trailed off as he began to look around her.Rayla bit her lip as she replied, "Aye, I did." She wasn't sure where he was going with this."Well…" he steeled himself and found Rayla's eyes with a serious stare. "This is a good background." Rayla raised a brow. "I mean, the fireflies look beautiful, and with you in the middle it's like…" he raised a free hand and gestured an L toward her. "Perfect," he gleamed.Once more that day, Rayla's cheeks flushed with red. She wasn't sure if he was calling her perfect, or the scene around her, but either way, the pit of her stomach was fluttering with some Moonflies of her own. She sheepishly chuckled as she rubbed her arm self-consciously. At the time, offering herself up to be a muse seemed harmless. But now? The way Callum was staring at her made her feel… weird inside. It wasn't a bad weird either. She only knew it had something to do with this pit feeling inside of her."Uh… yeah… sure?" she hesitantly answered.Callum's face lit up like the insects flying around them. He instantly tucked the handkerchief full of berries in his backpack and settled down on the ground. He sat with one knee bent near his chest and the other looped underneath. Resting his sketchbook against his leg, he eagerly flipped open to blank page as he instructed, "You just, uh, relax and sit there!"And of course, Rayla forgot how to relax so she just awkwardly laughed and slouched down into a cross-legged position. She leaned back on her arms and offered up what felt like a strangled smile. Thinking to spare her face from anymore intense heat, Rayla kept her eyes away from Callum's. She stared at everything and anything. Her eyes darted across the line of trees surrounding their campsite. They nervously danced around his outline—just barely managing to avoid his eyes. And occasionally, they made their way over to the Dragon sat on his other side. Zym had seemingly lost interest in the swarm and devoted his attention to Callum's sketch, wearing an excited smile as he watched. Rayla mimicked the Storm Dragon's expression as her gaze flung back to the swarm of light flying nearby.Deciding to break the silence, Rayla spoke up. "They're Moonflies by the way." Casual conversation was good enough to get her mind off her nerves, right?Not looking up from his sketching, Callum confusedly uttered, "Huh?""These lil' fellas?" Rayla nodded her head over to the insects. Callum paused his sketching and raised a brow at his companion. "They're called Moonflies.""Oh." He had a look of surprise written all over his face as he took in the fact. "I had no idea there was such a thing!"Rayla chuckled. "Yeah, lots of creatures in Xadia are often related to the Elements," she raised her palm as a Moonfly slowly approached her. "Moonflies only shine in the Moonlight."Callum grinned as he shook his head. "Of course they do," he commented, returning to his drawing. He bit on his lower lip as he quirked up his brow. The pace of his hand sped up every so slightly, and the light sound of his pen skidding across the paper became more rapid. Rayla bit back an amused giggle.She wasn't sure why, but the sight of him sketching was enough to warm her heart. The state of comfort and joy that he immersed himself in was something Rayla envied. He looked as if he was having the time of his life, pouring out his passion on a piece of paper. The faces he made, the show of his concentration and focus, were actually… cute.Rayla's face heated up as she realized where her thoughts were headed. She was merely sat there, posing for her friend in a romantic literal moonlight. By the Moon, she really needed some help composing herself. Her mind was racing through so many thoughts she was convinced it was gonna run out of her. The smile on her face was suddenly supported by an overwhelming amount of nerves.Since when did she get so easily emotionally wrecked?"Well, for what it's worth," Callum suddenly spoke up, nearly startling the assassin from her own thoughts, "I think they compliment you perfectly. Regardless of their names." He raised his head up from his book and smiled at Rayla. The heat in her cheeks had no chance to settle as Callum turned his book around to show Rayla his sketch.It wasn't like a mural or anything of a royal portrait. It was a simple sketch, no colouring, just a pencil and paper. But that didn't negate its beauty. It was profile angle of her, sat cross-legged on the ground, arms leaned back. Her gaze was tilted upward, a hint of glimmering interest in her eyes as they were transfixed on the swarm of Moonflies dancing around her. And the smile on her face was a smile she didn't even know she was capable of.Rayla couldn't believe her eyes. Within the span of a few short minutes, Callum managed to create this picture of something she had never seen before. Or rather, something she thought wasn't possible. Not to pat herself on the back or anything, but the simplest description would be that she looked beautiful."Do… do you like it?" came a tentative, small voice.The elf's eyes darted up from the book and over at the set of eyes that was holding it. Her heart nearly broke at the sight of his worrisome insecurities. The Mage's eyes were downcast as his lips quirked up a half-smile."Aye, I do," she softly answered, offering a sincere smile. Slowly, she crawled over to Callum's spot and sat right in front of him. She pulled the sketchbook away from the boy's hands and skimmed through the artwork in a much gentler, focused view. Her thumb hesitated its proximity near the sketch, knowing the possibility of smudging it was very high. "Y'know, you're very talented." She raised a knowing smile up at the artist.A faint blush graced his cheeks as a shy, and somewhat proud smile fell upon him. "Th-Thanks! I… I'm glad you like it…""I mean, what's not to like?" Rayla rhetorically inquired. "The detail is just so… precise and clean. The Moonflies look so beautiful too!""Beauty is hard capture sometimes," Callum admitted, shyly shrugging. "The only reason why these look so well is…" he smirked at Rayla. "I've got a really good muse."Instantly, Rayla's face flushed with red as a sudden chill edged down her body. It wasn't a bad chill. It was the type of chills one would get when something incredible had just blown them away. In this instance, she supposed Callum's compliment really threw her for a loop. The pit in her stomach felt even more fluttery than the swarm of Moonflies shining all around them. His proud, dumb smile elicited a smile of her own. Her body reacted all on its own. Which is why she didn't bother to stop her hand from finding his, allowing them to interlace and tighten. She didn't stop herself from caressing his hand with her thumb or from grinning ear to ear like an child. She was smitten, there was no doubt."Well," she finally spoke. "I've got myself a good artist too…" with whatever confidence she had, she winked at the boy with a smug smirk."Quite the pair, aren't we?" Callum jested.A yip exclaimed from Zym, who had sauntered over to the two and tucked himself between them, right underneath their interlocked hands. He held an excited grin, tongue hanging as he happily nodded, almost as is he was approving of the two. They shared a laugh at their dragon companion, both reaching to pet him. As the two pet the young prince, Rayla's gaze flew back to Callum."By the way, if you ever need a muse—""Oh don't worry," he interjected, smiling back at her. "I don't think I'll ever lose my muse."It might have been the cheesiest thing he could've ever said. Seriously, Rayla couldn't think of a line any dumber or sweeter than that. But, with all the Moonflies flying around them, and the two of them under the moonlight, holding hands and smiling at each other—she wouldn't have had it any other way. It was cheesy, sure, but in that moment it was also the most perfect thing Callum could have ever said.Rayla laughed, shaking her head as she continued to thumb over Callum's hand. "Keep that up, and you might end up losing your muse," she joked.Of course, she wasn't going to let him know her real thoughts. Not yet at least.Callum snorted. Readjusting his grip on her hand, he tightened their hold and pulled her hand close to his lap. "I doubt it," he proudly replied, "I think I've done enough to the point where a reference's not needed." With his free hand, he began to flip through the all the pages, barely allowing Rayla a chance to catch a glimpse of the sketches streaming before her. There was just, dozens of them on every page. She'd seen only a handful before, and she knew he had done a multitude of them. Yet still, watching them flip past before her—it was a flattering sight to witness. Rayla wasn't always an easily embarrassed person, but Callum's sketches always seemed to bring out a new side of her.She looked up at Callum and noticed his proud smile. He finally found the confidence to show her all of them. She stared him right in the eyes and let out a small smile. Only one word came to mind."Beautiful."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
A Sight to See
As the gleaming sun dawned on Rayla's sleepy form, her face winced at the sudden contact of brightness that fell on her eyes. Not wanting to lose her sleep, she turned her body over, shutting her eyes firmly and leaving her back to suffer to the sun. A frown fell upon her as she realized her body was lacking another warmth. She slowly slipped out a peak, to which she was met with a smile and a loving pair of eyes. She opened both eyes and raised a brow at the boy rested before her."Uhh, mornin'?" she chuckled.Callum had his head rested in the palm of his hand, elbow propped up on the grass, and wore the biggest smile Rayla had ever seen for someone who had just woken up. "Morning," he softly greeted. With his free hand, he maneuvered down to Rayla's, slowly intertwining their fingers. He always treated it like a delicate process, each of her's sliding between his one at a time."Are ya always this creepy in the mornin'?" she inquired. "Or is it only I who has the luxury of being creepily stalked?"Callum laughed as he thumbed over Rayla's hand. "Sorry, I was just admiring the view." He brought her hand up to his lips and peck it ever so gently.Rayla's cheeks flushed at both his words and his gesture. But, in spite of herself, she still managed to snort and erupt in a explosion of laughter. The small dragon that laid at their feet startled awake, releasing a small yawn of exhaustion and irritation. Rayla shook her head as she smiled back at the boy before her."Not even noon and ya already said the cheesiest, most dumbest thing ya could think of," she teased, squinting up at him.He shamelessly shrugged back. "You love it," he shot back.She snorted. "Ya've got no proof."Callum's grin grew. "Your smile says otherwise."Rayla grinned back at him. "I've got no idea what ya're on 'bout." Callum amusedly shook his head at her. She followed up by scooting closer to his body and pulling his hand closer to her chest. "I'm merely, 'admiring the view' in front of me." She winked. Callum's grin managed to grow even more. She knew how much he loved cheesy, sweet lines. He drew her for Moon's sake, of course he had a sweet side reserved for cute flirty lines. Little did Rayla know that she actually had an affinity for them too."So," she began, "ya got up early, eh?"Callum happily nodded. "Yeah, kinda just, happened…" he mildly explained with a small shrug. "I gotta say though, you look very peaceful in your sleep." He chuckled. "Especially in the morning.""Aye," Rayla replied. Her smile quirked up into a smug smirk as she said, "If ya wanted watch me sleep ya could've just told me. No need to be all secret stalkery about it."Callum's face dropped into shock. "W-What? I-I'm not! I-I wasn't!"Rayla snorted. "Sure ya weren't," she sarcastically teased. "That's exactly how someone who was guilty of stalking would react.""Rayla," he frowned.A burst of laughter escaped from the elf before him. She giggled away as she brought her other hand up to her lips, covering them somewhat modestly. "Relax, I'm kiddin'!" she claimed, bringing an arm up to Callum's shoulder. She reassuringly patted his arm, smiling at him as she did so.His frown shifted into a small pout. "Yeah, the smile on your face says otherwise," he accused, cocking a brow at her.Her smile upturned more as she chuckled. "I've got no idea what ya're on about."A sigh escaped from the Mage as he rolled his eyes. "Not even noon yet and you've still managed to tease me at least three times," he drawled.Rayla scoffed as she pulled herself even closer to Callum. "Speakin' of, how 'bout we wait till noon before we head out?" she offered, thumbing over Callum's hand.He raised his brows in surprise as he scooted a smidge closer. "Oh? You want to relax and take it easy for once?" he jested. He smirked as she lightly smacked his arm.Rayla pouted in response. "I'm too tired to get up," she defended. "'Sides, I'm also too comfy to leave." She closed her eyes and smiled.Callum nodded. "Gotcha." He winked, though she couldn't see. "If it's any consolation," he added, bringing her hand up once more to his lips, "I feel the same." He kissed them again, smiling at how her face flushed."Great," Rayla chirped. "Now turn around, I wanna be big spoon."::::Callum hated sleeping in caves. If he had to choose, he preferred the outdoorsy, dirty grass over a rock hard cave for camping. He understood the values of having roof over their heads, but it was not comfortable for sleeping at all. Regardless, he still made do with what he had and propped his bag up, fluffing it like a pillow. He glanced outside, and smiled at the sun slowly setting on the horizon. He supposed being in cave mountain also reaped the benefit of a great view. It was beautiful, very serene."Hey," Rayla greeted upon entering the cave. "So the town I found actually had some more Moonberry juice, I got ya some." She grinned, passing one over to the boy.His face fell for a moment, but he quickly amended it with a smile. "Thanks!" he opened the drink but stopped himself once he heard a yelp. He looked over and found Zym staring up at him with a pout. Callum glanced back to Rayla, who had turned around and was looking off into the distance. Quickly he tipped the drink down to the storm dragon, smiling as he watched him gulp it all immediately.Rayla turned back at smirked. "Wow, ya finished it quick this time."He nodded and wiped his mouth with his sleeve. "Yup, so good!" he cheered.Rayla jerked her thumb over her shoulder. "The sunset looks real nice, ya gonna sketch it?"Callum chuckled, shaking his head. "No, that's a… I'd need pastels.""Ya sure?"He nodded. "I mean, I could," he added, "but, I'd prefer painting something like that instead." His smile quirked up as an idea came to him. "Maybe I'll sketch it some other time. With you in the foreground."Rayla snorted. "Ahh, a muse's work is never done eh?"Callum chuckled as he shook his head. "Not to me at least. Though, I am a bit tired now." As if to prove his point, a yawn escaped the artist as he attempted to cover his mouth.The elf grinned. "Aye, I can see that." She nodded her head over to his bag. "Go on and nap, I'll take first shift."Callum pouted. "But who will I have to comfort me in my sleep?" he whined. He crawled over to his bag and adjusted himself as he laid his head down. Patting the spot beside him, he said, "C'mon let's sleep!"Rayla chuckled. "Love to, but someone has to keep watch at least throughout the evenin'," she reminded him. "I'll wake ya when we can switch shifts." She turned around and made her way over to the cave entrance."Fine, but after all the cuddling we had this morning I expect to be compensated later!" he called out.Rayla rolled her eyes as she sat down on a rock. She figured Callum was a cuddler. Though the real shock was that she had no idea she was one herself. It was surprise to Rayla as she slowly discovered how needy they both were, romantically speaking. Not to say she found it bad or anything. They both liked being in each other's proximity; holding hands, arms wrapped around one another, or even the subtle brush of their shoulders. They liked being near each other. She loved it when he pecked her on her forehead, her hands, her cheek. She loved it when he tried to sneak in a quick sketch of her, thinking she didn't know.And she loved how Callum was the same.She knew she had traits that he loved. Things he found worthy of sketching, admiring. He'd openly compliment her acrobatic skills and swordsmanship. He enjoyed hearing her talk, she was certain of it. Often times he'd let her talk and she smiled as she noticed his smitten stare. He always had that twinkle in his eye when he was passionately focused on something. Whether it be his sketching or her, he always had that look.Her gaze flew back to the boy resting behind her. She smiled at him. There just something about the way he was resting that made her smile. With the sunlight dimming slowly, it creeped away from his figure. It looked so peaceful. So pure. She always liked the way Callum looked when he dozed off.His smile slowly creaked upward, like he was about to start the best sleep of his lifetime. His face always looked so content, regardless of whether he was face planted into his sketchbook or on the cold hard rock he so childishly complained about. She knew that he could fall asleep on anything though, just by the way he slept. He wasn't like a log or anything, that was all Ezran and Bait. When they traveled with them, they were the hardest to wake.Callum was more like her. He could easily doze off whenever and wherever, so long as he was given permission to. But, he always preferred to wait for her. Rayla found it endearing. He promised he'd stay awake, keeping himself occupied by trying to sketch or by playing with Zym, but it was always futile as sleep got the better of him. Yet still, she loved how he tried to fight it. His head would bob up in retaliation, but eventually, he'd concede and let himself rest. Sighing contently, he would drift off, smiling like a baby. Actually, she wasn't even sure if Zym slept like that. So she supposed he had that going for him all on his own. Not to say she didn't like it.She'd never admit it, but she liked watching Callum go to sleep."I can feel you watching me," his voice suddenly spoke up, "stalker."Rayla scoffed. "I've got no idea what ya're talking about."Nope, she'd never admit it.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Expectations
Callum wasn't much of a party animal. In fact, he was the exact opposite, he would rather not be anywhere near a party at all. Being cooped up in an art studio all day and night did that people. So of course, when Soren and Claudia hauled him out of his studio earlier that night, he loathed the fact that they practically dragged him to a frat party. He hated that they not only removed him from his safe haven, but they left him no chance to even change out of his outfit. So there he was, leaning up against a wall, arms crossed against his paint stained, blue v-neck sweater.He shook his head and sighed as he glanced down at his body. No one could really notice his caramel pants, as they were covered by his large stained black apron. It stopped at his knees, and the Katolis crown embroidered at the bottom right, which was barely noticeable what with all the paint stains splattered around it. Point being, Callum was all by himself. Looking like a homeless painter. Of course, Soren thought up a brilliant idea and threw his varsity jacket over Callum, offering something to cover his upper half. But, it was way too big on him and barely covered his apron. He rolled his eyes and scanned the scenery.A bunch of young adults, grinding up on each other, dancing mindlessly to eardrum bursting music and chugging copious amounts of liver lynching liquor. Yeah, parties were definitely not Callum's scene. Even though he hadn't drunk anything at all, he decided to head to the bathroom. Figuring that hiding out there might be better than literally anything else happening around him.As he walked around, searching for the restroom, he contemplated the consequences of just slipping away indiscreetly. Sure, he'd have to return Soren's jacket the next day, thus resulting in him getting lectured by Claudia and Soren. But at this point, he'd take a lecture about socialism over being social himself. And even if someone caught him, he doubted that any stranger would stop him or even care. He was even more confident in that neither of his friends would catch him. Soren was too busy getting drunk playing beer pong, and Claudia was playing pool with her squad. No one would notice.So, slipping out was the best option. Callum changed his current destination and made his way over to the front door. He hurriedly walked over to the door. The sooner he was away from this nightmare, the better."Leavin' so soon Soren?" a Scottish voice came from behind.Callum froze up just before the door. How did anyone think he was Soren? He looked down and internally groaned. Well, he supposed if someone was intoxicated and looked at him from behind, where all they could see was the jock's name, he figured they weren't entirely wrong in their assumption. Shaking his head, Callum decided to ignore the voice behind him as he took one more step."Wait a minute," she said skeptically, almost sounding as if she was nearing the boy. "Ya're not Soren."Callum turned around with small smile and shrugged. "I'm not indeed!" He looked at the girl and was surprised to find her donning a similar varsity jacket. She had the Katolis crown emblem embroidered on the sleeves, much like the jacket he was wearing, and a black shirt underneath that said My Way is Better. She tucked her hands into the pockets of her blue jeans and walked forward, leaving the hallways to echo with the sounds of her black boots stomping."So why're ya wearin' it then?" she inquired, shooting him a raised brow. Her tone was that of an accusatory one. Did she think he stole this jacket?Callum let out a nervous chuckle as his eyes avoided her hardened glare. "S-Soren lent it to me," he stammered. Mentally, he sighed at himself. Stammering made him look even more guilty.The girl neared him, stopping just a few inches from his face, staring him down. Her navy blue eyeshadow was actually really… pretty, and very well supported her narrow stare. Callum's eyes lingered away from hers as he noticed how her white hair had some light purple streaks, coming down to her shoulders. She was really, really pretty. Callum's face flushed red as he realized two things. One, she was really close to his face and two, he was staring at her for a long time."Uh-uh, I—"The girl bursted out in a fit of laughter, holding a hand to her stomach as she shook her head. She was in a clear state of euphoria, giggling like a teenage girl. What did he do? He looked at her in utter confusion. Was he funny? Since when? He began nervously laughing with the girl, eyes darting all over the place as he wasn't even sure how to react."Ah hah!" she exclaimed, "Ya shoulda seen your face!" She snorted very loudly and proceeded to continue her pursuit of giggles. "Oh man… Soren did say you were a gullible one." She wiped a tear from her eye as she coughed. She actually cried, from laughing.Callum frowned at the girl as he concluded that he officially didn't like her at all. Her laugh was obnoxiously annoying and her smug smile was the of one he wished he wipe off her pretty face. Internally, he berated himself. Who cared if she was pretty? Trying to remain defiant, he crossed his arms across his chest and raised a brow at the stranger."So I'm assuming you know who I am?" he inquired.The girl cleared her throat as she straightened her back, composing herself. "Yessir. Soren's told me all about ya." She stuck her hand out to Callum. "Rayla. Quarterback," she said with a grin.Callum's facade of anger—if that was what you could call it—faded at her politeness. Still, ever the skeptic, he cautiously shook Rayla's hand. "Callum. Artist." Again he mentally face palmed, because she literally just said she knew him."I know," she nodded with giggle. "I also know that you're the type of guy who'd carefully shake a friendly stranger's hand." She lifted their joined hands and smirked.Callum snorted. "For the record, friendly strangers are the type who can mean the worst business." He retracted his hand and added, "I mean, if a stranger offered you some candy in a white van, that's a bit suspicious."Rayla laughed. "Very true!" she agreed. "Then at least allow me to prove I'm just a regular friendly stranger with no ill intentions." She placed her hands on her hips and slanted her body to the right. "Swear it on my varsity jacket."Callum smirked and feigned a pondering look, acting as if he was actually considering the offer. He settled with a blank stare. "I'll pass," he denied. "I was on my way out anyways…" he trailed off, pointing to the door.The white haired girl frowned. "Booo," she shouted. "C'mon, why even go to a party if ya're gonna leave?"Callum scoffed. "Because I didn't willing go," he answered. "I was forcefully removed from my studio," he gestured down at himself, "as you can tell. Soren and his sister are the kidnappers."Rayla acknowledged his attire as she looked him up and down. She held her chin as she observed him. "Yeah, I will say," she shrugged, "apron looks cute." Callum's cheeks immediately flushed at her compliment. Rayla's brows raised as a chuckle escaped her. "Jeez, relax it just a compliment."Callum cleared his throat as he crossed his arms. "Y-Yeah, I know. Thanks." Why was he did he make things so awkward? It was literally painful for him to even drag out this conversation any longer.Rayla snorted as she shook her head. "Alright, how 'bout this," she tilted her head at him, "Ya stick around for like, fifteen minutes, and I'll show ya some fun."He shook his head with a laugh. "Thanks, but uh, no thanks." He turned around. "My type of fun is more arts and crafty than your usual drinking and party games.""Aww, c'mon!" she whined. "Who said anythin' 'bout drinking?" She shot him an offended look. "I'm sober, thank ya very much. And I meant just going around mingling!""All the more reason to leave," he muttered under his breath. He grabbed the doorknob and opened the door."Booo!" Rayla teased. "Ya're being boring."Callum turned back as he stepped into the doorway, and shot Rayla an unamused look. "Well, you and I clearly have different tastes, so…" he shrugged. "That's that. Nice chatting with ya." And with that as a close, Callum marched out the room not even considering how disappointed the football player really looked.He walked out of the fraternity house, brushing past the partygoers who were gathered out on the front lawn for some reason. He didn't care, he just wanted to get back to the art studio and paint. He ignored all the catcalling people made and the explosive energy they had as they pumped their liquor filled red cups into the air. He just kept on walking until he got to the street. He let out a breathy sigh as he finally had some space to himself outside. Callum continued walking down the street, lost in his thoughts. At least until he heard a voice call out to him."Callum!" he turned back and raised a confused brow as he saw Rayla running after him. She was waving at him as she sprinted down the sidewalk. He wasn't sure if he should keep walking or wait, as he wasn't really up for more conversation but didn't want to be a complete jerk at the same time. "Man, ya walk fast," she stated as she caught up with him. "Ya should join track with speed like that," she jested.Callum rolled his eyes as he turned around. "I'm only fast when I'm in a hurry to get somewhere I want to go," he simply replied, continuing his pace.Rayla snorted as she walked up alongside him. "Figured as much." She grinned at him. "Still, ya could've at least waited for me." She jerked her thumb back at the house. "I had to let my friends know I was leavin'. Because unlike you, I didn't want to be rude."Callum shot her a bewildered look. "They ditched me first!""And revenge never solves anythin'," Rayla countered with a knowing look. "Ya're only spinning a terrible wheel of hate."Callum scoffed. "Whoa. Sorry, didn't expect to be lectured oh so wisely this evening," he sarcastically retorted."What did ya expect?" Rayla curiously inquired."Drunk screaming, alcohol all over the floor and walls, deafening music, and inappropriate dancing," he listed off on his fingers. He turned his head at Rayla and smirked. "So far it's been four for four, at least until you surprised me. So congrats," he complimented.Rayla chuckled. "Thanks, but that's not what I meant," she explained, "I mean, before Soren and his sister kidnapped ya." She tilted her head as a curious look formed. "What were ya doin' in your studio?"Callum let out a content sigh. "Ahh, I was gonna paint." He frowned as he remembered how unfinished it was. "Well, at least, try to anyways.""'Try'? How'd ya mean?""Nothing, just… a creative block," he muttered under his breath."This for a project?""Nah, just a side thing," he casually answered. "Nothin' too special.""Booo," Rayla complained, "stop being vague."Callum cocked a confused brow. "Sorry, just, I dunno, thought that the details are kinda boring." He shrugged."I wouldn't be asking if I wasn't interested," she defended. "Besides, I kinda wanna see what it is that's so worth ditching a party for."Callum stopped walking as he looked at her with even more confusion. "Is that why you're following me?" he asked as she stopped as well.Rayla grinned. "Aye. Soren's always talking 'bout your pieces and I've never seen them at our school's art show casings." Callum's brows went up at that detail. She went to those? "So, I'd love to see what the hoopla's 'bout." A chuckle escaped her as she nudged his elbow. "It's also a late night and we just came from a party of drunks." She gestured all around them as she said, "Who knows who's out there? I'm merely makin' sure ya get home safely."Callum snorted. "Appreciate it, but I'll be fine," he assured her, "My dorm's near the art wing, I'd barely be in any danger.""Ahh, but 'barely' still means danger is afoot, so I'll be your bodyguard for the evenin'," she declared. When she noticed Callum's frown, she frowned back. "What? Ya don't want a bodyguard?" Before he could even respond Rayla cut him off, "Or ya just think I'm too much of a meathead jock to 'get' art?" She shot him an accusatory glare.His eyes went wide as he stammered, "I-I don't! N-No!""Ya kinda implied it back at the party," Rayla reminded him. "'Different tastes' right?"Suddenly, guilt crept up on Callum. "Look, I… I'm sorry if I offended you, okay?" he admitted. "I just want to work on my stuff, be in my studio and do what I like," he sincerely explained. "Alone…" he quietly added. He didn't want to be rude, nor did he want to ditch her completely, but… he wasn't exactly comfortable sharing.Rayla's face shifted into a skeptical smirk. "Nah, I think I know what needs to happen," she said, "I'll kill two birds with one stone." She grabbed his hand and began taking the lead, walking ahead of him.Callum was glad she was ahead because she wasn't able to see his red cheeks. "Wh-What?""I'm going to show ya somethin'," Rayla stated. "And, if I can prove to ya I've got a good understanding of art, ya got to show me some of yours.""Wh-What! I don't agree to this!""Too bad, we're already on our way!" she laughed, leading him toward the Katolis campus. She hurried their pace, leading toward through the courtyard.Callum thought about his options. He could've pulled his hand and hightailed it over to his studio, but she would no doubt catch him. Or, he could entertain whatever this was for a bit longer, then rush over to his studio. He settled for the latter, hoping that whatever Rayla had in mind wasn't too long nor too extreme. "Where exactly are we going?" he asked, because he might as well try.Rayla replied, "It'll ruin the surprise!" And that was what she left if off with.Callum frowned at the irony of her being vague when she accused him of the very same thing literally minutes ago. He had no idea why he was even entertaining this. Maybe he really was interested? Or it was boredom. He nodded at that thought. It was definitely boredom that was driving him. Or maybe it was the fact that he didn't mind her dragging him around. Regardless, he noted how nice it felt to hold her hand. It wasn't a firm grip—he actually could've slipped out with ease anytime—but it was enough to tug him along.As he let her lead him around, he noticed how faintly familiar their surroundings were. Callum's eyes widened as he realized where she, the football quarterback, was leading him. "Are… are we going to the football field?"Rayla sighed as she suddenly hurried their pace even more. "Knew I shoulda blindfolded ya," she said under her breath. She looked back at him and held a half-smile. "I don't suppose anything I say will change your reaction?" she inquired. When she was met with Callum's blank face she pouted. "C'mon, gimme a chance! I promise it'll be worth it!"He should've said no. But he didn't.So Callum found himself being led up to what he presumed to be the stairs of the stadium. He never attended a game before, so he never saw what it was like. He was surprised as to how big the interior was. Not even five minutes and Rayla was still leading him up throughout the halls. It was notably dark in certain spots, as if by selective conservation only every other light was lit within the hall. Finally, he and Rayla approached the tunnel.It was then when Rayla released his hand that he realized she too had a faint blush. Callum could see a stream of light pouring into the tunnel entrance, no doubt from the stadium lights. "Okay, so, brace yourself, alright?"Callum merely rolled his eyes. "I think I'll be okay," he sarcastically shot back.Rayla countered with a determined smug smile. "We'll see about that," she happily replied.Taking the lead, she walked out the entrance and stood at the end, patiently waiting for Callum. Slowly, he trailed down the hall letting his eyes scan out the scene before him. And boy, he was not prepared. Just as he stepped right out of the corridor, his eyes widened at the sight before him. An entire stadium, empty. Nothing for yards on end, just emptiness. The bleachers were so vacant, so devoid of presence that the air of the nothingness crept all over Callum's spine.But the lighting, that was a whole other story. Nearly all of its focus was on the field, the bright, grassy green field. Sure, the bleachers had some lights, in between the rows and such, but the center of Callum's focus fell where he knew it should have. Where the light was focused. It was so strange for him to see something so captivating on something so empty. All this energy, all these lights, all these stands were presented toward a stage that didn't exist.In simpler words, Callum was in awe.He found himself gripping onto the guard rail, tightly. He felt a pair of eyes on him so he flew his gaze back over his shoulder, frowning as he saw Rayla's smug look. "Okay, yes, this looks amazing," he admitted. He turned back. "Just.. wow…""I know right?" she agreed. "C'mon, sit," she suggested as she sat down at a nearby seat. Patting the spot beside her, Callum wordlessly obeyed. "It's so simplistic, but a killer view eh?""It's contrast," Callum explained, eyes still focused on the field. "A lime green, white striped field, and surrounding it are walls with a darkish grey, with a burgundy border at the base. Our school's colours are very cold, dark," he looked around them, "Much like the shadows and dim lighting around us." He then pointed over to the field. "But at the centre, it's just this warm lighten up spotlight. But the irony of it, is how empty it is." He edged out a large smile as he looked.This was a great scene. A beautiful idea.A light whistle startled him from his thoughts. Rayla grinned as she began a slow clap. "Damn, well spoken," she smiled, "you truly have a way with words."Callum sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. "O-Oh, sorry, I kinda went on a ramble there, huh?"Rayla nodded. "Aye, but nothin' wrong that! What ya said was very… beautiful," she admitted. Leaning back in her seat, she rested one arm behind her chair as the other fell onto her lap. "I sit here before the start of every game," she softly said.Callum's brows rose. "Why?"She shrugged. "I dunno, I guess… the view's nice." Her smile upturned more. "It's like, when I'm down there, there's this whole world of expectations and pressure. Hundreds of eyes on me, my team. Like, it's easy for me to lose myself down there. In the crowd, or in the game." She let out a content sigh. "But up here? It's different. When nobody's around and all I have is just this vision of what it really looks like to just see it all empty, I think it's calming.""Because you're so used to seeing everything so full and energetic that emptiness is a nice change of pace," Callum explained, staring at her. "That's actually… really beautiful Rayla." Her brows shot up as her eyes widened at Callum. Hastily he threw up his hands and shook them as he said, "I-I-I meant what you said! Th-That pregame stuff!" He coughed into his hand and silently prayed his blush was settling. "Like, I get what you mean. Having this view of something you usually used to be flipped around and shown in a more… intimate, personal light makes you feel good." He looked back at the field. "It-It's like having a show out in the middle of an empty audience, but it's a show that's got something to say even though there's nothing there!" Callum's grin grew once more. "It's saying that show is about to begin, and you're lucky you get to see how it starts…""I knew you'd get it," Rayla proudly claimed as she lightly punched Callum's arm."Ow—what? What do you mean?""Nothin'," she shrugged, "But I told ya I have an eye for these things." She crossed her arms across her chest. "I've only started going to those monthly art showcases three months ago," she stated, "They're all so beautiful. So many artists with stories to tell, and I'll admit I don't get all of them, but I still find them to be pretty insane." She looked at Callum as she said, "All of these artists are tellin' stories even though not everyone can relate to 'em, but when ya the picture ya just… get it."Callum chuckled. "Wow, I'm glad to hear someone appreciates it regardless." He shook his head as he scratched his cheek. "You don't know how many times I've had to explain to Claudia or Soren that the piece I'm making is about childhood, or loneliness, or hate, or vengeance." He rolled his eyes. "Not a lot of people can relate to those feelings, maybe it's 'cause they've never felt them."Rayla cocked her head and shrugged. "I haven't felt much of those either," she said casually. She stopped and pondered the idea before elaborating. "Actually yeah, I haven't."So… you don't have a connection to your childhood?" the artist questioned."Don't think so," Rayla admitted."What about when you threw your first football? Your first real game?" Callum suggested. "Memories like those had to have resurfaced at this," he gestured to the field.Rayla's face shifted into a look of realization. "Aye, I suppose you're right." She pondered the idea more and followed up on the conversation. "And I guess I've felt loneliness and hate before trying to get into a football team." She scoffed. "I was lucky enough to get into my high school's all boy team.""And now you're in a coed team!" Callum cheered. "That's a step up!""Yeah, it is!" she agreed, laughing.Callum eyed her suspiciously. "But wait, even with all that gender discrimination stuff, you're telling me you've never had a lust for vengeance before?" he skeptically asked.Rayla shook her head. "Nope. I mean, grudges I guess but I've never really wanted to attack someone before," came the earnest reply. When she glanced over at Callum's face, she raised her brows at his blank expression. "What?""That's a lie," he declared.Rayla feigned an offended look. "What? How dare ya! I'm bein' honest!""In a sport where you literally tackle other players, you're saying you've never had the urge to get even with another dude?"Rayla opened her mouth but stopped herself as she realized what he was implying. "Fair point," she replied. Soon enough, two burst out into a fit of laughter, holding their stomachs as they laughed to their heart's content.Callum wasn't sure what it was, but Rayla's laugh was suddenly something he liked hearing. Earlier that night, he had an issue with how obnoxious it sounded. But now? He wanted to hear more and more the longer she laughed. It was very genuine, very pure. Very her. Much like her smile when she talked about this gorgeous view, he admired its vulnerability and how small it was. He eyed her with a small smile of his own as he watched her compose herself. She cleared her throat and smirked back at him. Why was he so entranced with her?"Callum?" she spoke up, with worried look. "Ya good?"He startled himself as he focused back in their conversation. "Uh, y-yeah! I was just… lost in thought," he answered. It was not entirely a lie."'Bout what?""Uhhh," Callum's gaze fell down to his hands rested his lap. An idea came to his mind as he looked back up at Rayla with an eager smile. "Wanna help me get some vengeance?" he excitedly asked.Rayla's brows shot straight up. "What? How?"Callum cleared his throat as he straightened his back. "Well," he began in a formal tone, "I was just dragged out of my studio, taken to an obnoxiously annoying party, then ditched all to my lonesome."Rayla giggled at his story as he explained. "Aye, that sounds terrible," she chimed in.The artist grinned as he pointed at the football player. "Exactly! Just dreadful," he declared. "Fortunately, Soren was bright enough to lend me his varsity jacket during his drunken despair and so—""This'd be the perfect chance to do somethin' to it," Rayla concluded, wearing an excited smile. "Oooh, I am so in!" she cheered. "I love messin' with him!""Great!" Callum gleamed. He pulled off the jacket and eyed it with a raised brow. "Now the question is, what to do to it?"Rayla smirked. "If I may?" she offered, holding her hand out. With a shrug, he silently handed the jacket over it the football player. He watched her stare at it with devilish eyes for a few seconds. "Step one," she announced, hopping out of her seat and kneeling on the ground, "grossify!" Rayla looked underneath her seat and proceeded to shove the jacket right under, pressing up against the bottom for a few moments, then pulled it out like a magician. She whipped it right out from under and stood tall and proud. "Tada!"Callum's eyes went wide as he saw the once burgundy varsity, now covered in old chewed up gum and some questionable stains he did not want to know the contents of. He brought his hand up to cover his mouth as he fought a gag."Yikes," Rayla chuckled. "Strong gag reflex?"He shook his head. "Not usually, but then again, I don't think I've seen anything more… ugh," he shivered. He stood up from his seat and crossed his arms across his chest. "What next?"The devilish smile she shot Callum's way sent chills down his spine. With some hasty walking a few minutes later, the two found themselves near the front of the campus. Again, ever the skeptic, Callum was wondering why they were there, but he decided at this point keeping shut and following the football player seemed to reap no downsides. So, he silently watched Rayla approach the flag pole.With a grin, Rayla proceeded to tug on the pulley system, watching the flag drop straight down to her feet."Rayla?" came the strained call, "What if we get caught?"She snorted. "Relax, I'll take the heat," she replied, wrapping Soren's varsity around the rope. "This'll be a great thing to see first thing in the mornin'!""I don't have class tomorrow," Callum pointed out, "and I think I'll be too busy hiding to see this."Rayla sighed. "Oh don't worry, Soren won't do anythin' to ya," she assured him. After one last tight knot, she proceeded to wring up the flag and jacket, with rapid pulling she giggled as she saw the varsity hang by its sleeves, just underneath the Katolis flag. "And besides, I said I'd be your bodyguard so that also entails handling Soren if he can't handle a joke," she reminded him. Taking a few steps back she sighed at her masterpiece.Callum looked up at the sight and laughed. "I will say, it does look hilarious." He looked at her. "A real work of art—maybe you should make something for the next showcase?" Rayla laughed and once again Callum smiled at her echoing laughter. "Ohh, please tell me you'll film his reaction?"She brought her fist up and smirked. "Count on it."Callum nodded as he bumped his fist with hers, smirking at the sight once more. "You sure you've never gotten vengeance before? Because for something off the cuff, that was pretty elaborate and quick," he asked with a suspicious look.Rayla shrugged with a smirk smile. "Guess I've been harbouring a little bit of revenge against Soren for a while now.""Whelp, glad to know I'm bringing out this new side of you," Callum mused. "Turns out vengeful you is pretty malicious." He crossed his arms across his chest as he felt a chill. He guessed his v-neck sweater wasn't as warm as he thought. Though he giggled again as he stared at the jacket above them. "To be honest, I think Soren'll be too hungover to even notice right away.""Aye," Rayla agreed, "Five bucks he doesn't notice until noon?"Callum raised a brow. "I'll take that action," he shook her hand. "Two in the afternoon.""Ahh, after his lit class?" Rayla noted. "I suppose he might notice on his way out." Callum shrugged as his teeth chattered. She tilted her head. "Ya okay?"Callum smiled and nodded. "Y-Yeah." He nodded his head over back to the campus. "Now, would you mind 'escorting' me to my studio?"Rayla smirked with a raised brow as she dug into her pocket. She pulled it her phone and said, "Really? It's already a quarter midnight."Callum shrugged as he began walking. "Well, I'm feeling inspired," he simply replied, "now you coming or not?"Rayla stared at Callum with an excited smile. "Sure!" she cheered, running after the boy. "Does that mean I get to see your studio because I helped ya out of your block?" she eagerly inquired. "I mean, I did just show ya somethin' crazy cool."Callum pondered the idea as they walk. That was what she meant by two birds one stone. She really was something else. He smiled at her as he said, "Maybe some other time."Rayla pouted but sighed. "I guess that's better than not at all," she reasoned."Exactly!" Callum agreed. A cool breeze blew against the two and left the artist to seeth in pain. Looking worried, Rayla began to take off her varsity jacket."Oi, just wear this," she offered, handing it to him.Callum's brows raised as he motioned her to stop. "Uh, it's okay, I can handle it."Rayla frowned. "I can handle it," she jerked her thumb to herself. "You," she pointed at him, "are clearly sufferin'," she blatantly stated. "Now stop being an idiot and put on the damn jacket," she sternly ordered.Callum gulped his counterargument and nodded. Hastily, he threw on the jacket. He was surprised how well it fit him. It was then he just realized their size difference. Rayla was about an inch or so taller than him. The sleeves perfectly ended at his wrists and the jacket wrapped his body firmly. It was very warm, surprisingly comforting. He looked over to Rayla and smiled his thanks."Wow, ya look smashin'!" she grinned. "Fits ya well!" They walked in silence after that, shoulders brushing against each other. Eventually, she bumped her shoulder against his and asked, "Ya liked it right?"He looked Rayla and chuckled, knowing exactly what she meant. "Of course I did." He returned the bump and nudged her with his elbow, "You've really got a good eye." A very brief blush fell on her face, he didn't expect that. "I mean, I guess if you go to all those showcases…" his voice trailed off as a sudden thought occurred. He glanced a confused look over to the football player. "If you've gone to the past three showcases, how have you not seen my work before?"He noticed as he stared, Rayla looked more sheepish than ever before. She had a faint blush on her cheeks and made a modest attempt to hide it. "I… I have seen your stuff before," she shyly admitted. "I just, I figured since ya never showed up at the events ya were kinda shy 'bout your stuff so…""You didn't want to mention it?" he confusedly guessed."I'm a big fan," she corrected, very quietly.Callum's brows raised high in shock. "Oh."Rayla nervously rubbed the back of her head. "Y-Yeah, I… I guess I just really wanted to meet ya. So, when Soren told me ya'd be comin' tonight, I thought I'd try to find ya." She was really trying to avoid his gaze.They came to a stop. Callum glanced up and realized they arrived at the art studio. He let out an awkward chuckle. "Well, I guess I'm glad you did," he admitted. "What a weird turn of events," he pointed out, "Never thought a football jock would be a fan of my work… at all."Rayla laughed. "Guess that's another thing ya didn't expect tonight," she joked."Guess so," he agreed. Another breeze blew threw and Callum watched in awe as he saw Rayla's purple streaked white hair fly through the wind. That was another image he did not expect that evening. "Can… can I sketch you?" Both their eyes went wide at the question. He did not mean to say that out loud.Rayla's blush grew even more. "O-Oh! I… ya'd want to?" she asked.Steeling himself, Callum nodded. "Yeah… I think you'd look great," he held his hands up and framed a portrait around her, "A nice sketch. Maybe I'll paint you. Sometime."Rayla's smile grew as she nodded vigorously. "Yes! I'd like that!" She crossed her arms and smugly added, "And maybe we can work on gettin' back at Soren's sister too."Callum smirked. "Yeah, I'd like that," he admitted. He turned around and gestured to the door. "This is me," he stated. As he reached for the door he noticed he still had the jacket on. "Oh," he began taking it off, "here—""Keep it," Rayla dismissed, holding up her hand. Callum ceased his actions and stared at Rayla. "I wasn't kiddin' when I said it looks good on ya." She smiled, adding a sly wink.Callum grinned at her, slowly nodded his head in agreement. "Yeah… and this gives you another excuse to come over!" he addressed."Aye," she agreed, "I'd like that." She started backing away, still smiling at him. "An-And, maybe it's a good excuse for ya to come to our next game?" she offered, wearing what Callum knew to be a hopeful look.He chuckled, nodding at her. "I mean, my expectations have changed a lot… heck, maybe a football game would a surprise too." He grinned at her, noticing how her excitement seemed to increase even more."Great! Well, see ya around," Rayla waved. She turned back and walked off. Callum smiled as he saw the new bounce in her step whilst she walked."Yeah," Callum said, "See ya around."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Moonlight
"Rayla, this getting old."Callum found himself wandering very aimlessly late at night. He had Zym in his hands and a very tired expression on his face. He looked up all around him, and scanned the bushes and trees. A month had flown by across their journey and so of course that meant a new moon had shown. And, with a new moon shining high above in the night sky, that left Rayla to revel in her superpowered abilities.The instant the dark clouds cleared way for the moonlight to shine, Rayla turned back at Callum with a childish grin. A grin he'd come to know as her mischievous and annoying side (of course, he said that, but deep down he found it to be quite adorable). Before he could even say anything, she chuckled."Hey Callum," she called out, pulling on her hood. "See ya later!" she laughed, activating her powers.The artist frowned at the sight of the nearly invisible Moonshadow Elf disappearing into the shadows. Ever since they started… dating? Callum supposed that was what it was called. After all, two teenagers travelling alone, holding hands and such? That was dating, right? Either way, as time progressed, Callum realized how much of an influence he was on Rayla. At the start of their journey, she'd never even consider the chance to goof off whilst walking or even have fun. Getting the Dragon Prince to Xadia, Zym to his mother, that was the most important priority.But now?She was off hiding in the trees, giggling like a child. Callum rolled his eyes as he picked Zym up from the ground, holding him close to his chest. He sighed to the little Storm Dragon as he muttered, "I know buddy, I'm getting tired of it too." He continued to pet Zym as they wandered down the dirt path. "Rayla!" he called out. "This was funny the first time, it was cute the second, now it's just a hinderance.""Ah boooo," her voice echoed from the shadows. "Stop bein' so lame."He chuckled. "Ohh, the irony," he whispered to Zym, who yapped an agreeing smile back in response."Hey, I heard that!" Rayla warned. "Oh, ho, ya're gonna get it now!" A bit of rustling shimmered around Callum, and then silence.He stopped in his tracks and stared into the direction where thought the source to be. "Rayla…" no response. "C'mon, we gotta hurry to the next town!" He let out an exasperated sigh as he looked down at Zym. No response came again. "Is she really gonna go this?" he rhetorically asked.Zym tipped and shrugged with his two front legs. Callum chuckled, "That was adorable." He let Zym's head as he turned to the set of bushes in front of him. "Fine, if you're gonna keep goofing off, Zym and I will just keep walking to the next village in our own!" When she didn't say anything Callum quirked up a smug smile as he shouted, "And he and I are gonna share the bed! There'll be no room for you or cuddling!" Nothing.Callum frowned with slumped shoulders as he kept walking. He was actually positive that'd work. Nevertheless, he kept true to his goal and kept walking. He didn't mind sleeping on the dirty grass, heck, he was actually getting used to sleeping in caves too! But, that was all thanks to Rayla's presence. And Zym's too, of course. They made an effective team of cuddle buddies, a trio of togetherness. That said, a roof and a bed in an inn wouldn't be so bad every so often.The pair walked on as the deafening silence accompanied them. The parted clouds allowed enough of a gap for a stream of the moonlight to seep through. Callum looked up at the moon and sighed at it. If he understood the Moon Arcanum too, he'd be pulling tons of illusion nonsense just as well. Maybe he even better than Rayla's. But alas, he had only learned a handful of Sky spells for the time being.A sudden chill crept down his spine as a breathy breeze blew from behind. Callum froze up as he turned his head around. Did he just… feel a breath? "Rayla?" Nothing. So she was clearly messing with him. The Mage rolled his eyes and kept on walking.A hiss suddenly sizzled out from the treetops, echoing all around the forest. Xadian creatures like insects and birds fled from their hiding places. As if there was presence that disturbed them, like Rayla. Or perhaps a predator lurking within the dark. Callum chuckled to himself, shaking his head to rid himself of such foolish thoughts. Zym confusedly cocked his head at the boy's sudden reaction."Don't worry Zym," Callum assured him, "There's nothing of there. It's just Rayla."That was what he believed anyways.But as the night progressed, Callum's alien did not let up from the set chilling nerves that had been scraping down his spine. Rayla had taught him about trusting instincts awhile ago. She said, "Whenever ya fee a sudden creepin' on your back. Run to me or get ready to fight." Again Callum laughed, and again, the Storm Dragon within his arms shot him a look of worry. What if Rayla had just run off to go scout ahead? She had done it before—granted, she always told him before she left—but maybe she decided to mess with him by not saying a word.Again Callum shook his head. "She's messing with us," he mutters to himself, though he tried to convince himself that it was for Zym."Calluuuum…"Instantly, the boy froze in his tracks. That, did not sound like Rayla. At all. His eyes went wide. He was definitely not alone. Had sounded like a withered, frail voice. What was he supposed to do now? Taking a deep breath, Callum kept on walking. If he could let this voice believe that he wasn't aware of its presence, he could surprise the stalker. But he still didn't know where it came from. He thought about using Aspiro to blow away the leaves and bushes, hopefully revealing the stalker lurking around them. Worse case scenario, Fulminis would not only light up the surrounding area, but also set fire to the scenery.He figured Rayla would be upset if he caused a forest fire in mere self defence, but that change didn't the fact he was scared for his life. And Zym's too of course. He kept on walking, this time, his legs shook with each step he took. This was getting difficult. It felt like the set of eyes fixated on him were all over the place. His body had become overwhelmed with this sensation of nerves, this creeping alertness in there was a gaze glaring at him from within the shrubbery, the shadows. This… this had to be Rayla."Calluuuuum…"He let out a nervous gulp. Or not. He felt a shiver in his hands and noticed that Zym had a worried look on his face. That settled it, this was definitely not a prank anymore. Rayla would never go to the extent where Zym would be at risk of getting scared too. She was way too caring to even do that. It was like their hidden pact. Zym was off limits.Should he respond to the voice?"H-Hello? Any-anyone there?" he said in a strangled voice. Mentally, he facepalmed. He sounded like a total scared child. Clearing his throat, Callum planted his feet and straightened his back. "You don't want to mess with me!" he shouted, letting his voice echo out.Another breeze came through and Callum shivered. He shook his head. He could do this, he could stand his ground. Removing one arm from his grip on Zym, he readied his index finger at his side. A quick Aspiro and he could distract their assailant, perhaps he could even stall long enough until Rayla returned. Ever the optimist, but he needed to consider all possibilities."Calluuuuum…"Or running, running was an option too.With that, Callum turned around and ran. "Rayla!" he called out. He sprinted as fast as he could. But he could hear within the wind, the sound of the leaves and branches shifting. Something was following them, fast. He just kept running. "Rayla!" he shouted once more. She had to be nearby at this point. Callum's face dropped as another realization came to him. What it they had gotten to her first? She was fooling around, she was off her game earlier. Anyone could've snuck up on her.He had to make a stand.Coming to a hard stop, Callum dropped whipped around and with his finger, drew the Aspiro symbol. "Take one more step!" he warned. He heard a branch snap from behind him. "Aspiro," he whispered, blowing into the symbol. He whipped around and focused the wind, leaving the trees and shrubbery to bend at its will. Worry overwhelmed him as he realized that nothing was behind him. His spell was dying.A tap on his shoulder startled him. Hastily Callum turned around and was instantly met by a dark, nearly invisible, smile. Before he could even react, the smiling lips planted themselves onto his, silencing any possible scream he could've released. His eyes closed shut as the firm force made its mark on his mouth. He didn't even think about recoiling, as the presence of the lips before him felt so familiar, so warm. It was the type of feeling he'd usually feel on his cheeks, his hand, his forehead. The type of feeling that'd put him at ease, that would make him feel warm.He opened his eyes and smiled against the lips pressed up against him as he noticed the face before him was visible. He pulled away and laughed. "Wow… I… I always thought our first kiss would be underneath the moonlight, but never thought you'd be invisible for it."Rayla's now visible face, was red as her moonberry juice. "Ah… hehe," she giggled. "I… I guess I just needed to work up the nerve."Callum laughed at Rayla as he placed his arms on her shoulders. "By sneaking up on me?" he smiled. A sudden brush against his shin caused him to chuckle at the Storm Dragon curled up against it. "You gave Zym quite the scare too."Rayla chuckled. "Nah, he saw me when I first vanished, he'd actually been watchin' me lurk," she dismissed with a casual shrug. "I thought it'd be fun to mess with ya though." She began laughing as she shook her head. "Ahh, ya shoulda seen your face! Oh goodness, ya were all, 'H-hello?' Ahaha!" Rayla bawled out another bout of laughter. "Ahh… ya were so adorable." She winked as she placed her hands on Callum's hips.He rolled his eyes. "Next time, I'd prefer just the kiss." Callum smirked. "And, maybe if you can work up to it, visible lips?"Rayla sighed as she leaned close. "We'll see."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sick
"Oh my gosh," Ezran groaned. "Why don't you just go make out with her already?"Callum started up in a shock as he looked over to his younger brother. "Wh-What!" he exclaimed, "Where'd that come from!"Ezran gave his brother an unamused look as he raised a brow. "Seriously?" he asked.When Callum stared at him wordlessly Ezran followed up by gesturing over down the courtyard. Callum's gaze followed his brother's direction without any hesitation, especially since there was certain someone who was stood in the centre of it. Rayla, outfitted in her semi-formal advisory clothing, had set of twin blades gripped within her hands. Twirling them effortlessly, she slowly turned, scanning her surroundings. Four crownguard, two equipped with longspears, two with broadswords. They were evenly spaced, weapons drawn, and slowly approaching the Moonshadow elf.Rayla's eyes narrowed as she firmly gripped her blades and inched her right foot forward. The spearman in front of her flinched. He was easily impulsive. Smirking, she stepped forward and watched as he readied his spear for a lunge. But before he could even make his attack, Rayla pushed off her feet and launched herself backwards. She whipped her body around and spun like a top, readying her blades as she flew toward the other spearman. With no time to react, the crownguard simply moved his spear to block the oncoming attack, allowing Rayla to slash right through his spear and send him down to the ground hard.As soon as she landed on her feet, Rayla turned around and prepared herself for the two swordsmen rushing at her. Simultaneously, they both arched their broadswords back—one aiming high, one aiming low. Right as they swung at her, Rayla hopped off the ground and twirled in the air, rotating between the two blades as the flew below and above her. As Rayla rotated in the air, she threw her legs out, scissor kicking both swordsman square in the face and flinging them a few feet back. She landed, back toward the final spearman, ears perked. She waited, she listened. A few steps edged close and she whipped her body around, forming an X with her blades to block the spearman's lunge.Right as the spearhead connected with Rayla's blades, she clicked down on her handles, letting her blades curve into hooks and entrapping the spear. She spun her body on her right heel and threw her arms forward, flinging the spear out of the crownguard's hands. Simultaneously, she stuck out her left leg and kicked the guard straight in the gut, sending him flying back a few feet.Proudly, Rayla flipped her blades into themselves, sheathing them as she stood straight and tall. After dusting off her hands, she hurried over to the beaten soldiers and helped them their feet, making sure they were unharmed and such.Throughout all of this, Callum had his arm propped up on the table and his head resting in the palm of his hand. His face? Pure admiration. Ezran watched on as Callum let out a content sigh and batted his puppy dog eyes at his fiancée. This was getting ridiculous. "That," he claimed, pointing at his brother's face, "that is exactly what I'm talking about!"Callum furrowed his brows at his brother's outburst. "What? What did I do!""I literally just pointed at Rayla for like five seconds and you instantly just got lost in her… again."Callum scoffed. "I did not."Ezran made a blank face. "What were we talking about earlier then?" he asked monotonously.The Archmage opened his mouth but stopped himself as he pondered the question. "Uhh… jelly tarts?" he guessed.Ezran sighed. "Lucky guess," he muttered under his breath. "But that's besides the point!" he declared, wiping the smug smile of his brother's face. "We were having a conversation and you totally checked out. Three times already! And that's today!" Ezran shook his head and laughed. "Honestly, I'm happy you and Rayla are engaged, really! Like, over the moon for you! But, I thought the whole point of you guys visiting was so we can spend time together?"Callum's face shifted into confusion. "It is? We have been!""Oh really?"The two brothers proceeded to exchange in a battle of shouting and bickering as Rayla finished assisting the guards she had just fought. "Nice work boys, but, not nice enough," she teased.A few sighed at her remark whilst one chuckled. "One of these days Lady Rayla," he warned, quirking up a smirk.Rayla laughed. "Until then, ya might want to invest in becoming a Sky Mage with all the air ya were hitting," she shot back. The guards laughed, shaking their heads as they brought their gear over to a nearby bench. Smugly smirking to herself, she looked over her shoulder and was happy to see Callum and Ezran watching. Or at least, it looked to be them watching, they were pointing at her after all. She turned back and chuckled at the disappointed guard stood in the entryway. "I thought ya said these were your best guards?" she teased, placing her hands on her hips.Soren scoffed. "Yeah, well, they are to me," he pointed to himself. "And since Ez made me the Captain of the crownguard I say they're good.""Then maybe ya should make them your guards!" she offered, clapping her hands together. "Ah, see? Problem solved!""They were—are, my guards," he explained, "but since I thought they were good enough to be in my elite guard, I thought they'd be good enough for you." He glanced over to the bench and pouted with slumped shoulders. "But, it would appear not."Rayla snorted. "Aye, ya could say that." She shrugged. "But also, as I keep tellin' ya, I don't need guards!" she drawled, frowning at Soren."I get it, I get it," Soren dismissed, "but it's protocol by the King himself. If Ez wants you to have guards then you get guards."Rayla rolled her eyes. "Even if I don't want 'em?"Soren frowned as he crossed his arms. "Why do you even want to be armed? You're an advisor," he gestured to her outfit, "You literally have no need to do anything. Besides, with guards you can focus on your fiancé instead of showing off to him." He nodded over to said man and chuckled.Rayla glanced back and smiled at Callum. To which Soren rolled his eyes, he should've expected that. Her smile was lovingly sick and pure, as were her innocent eyes. Soren whistled over to the guards gathered at the bench and raised his brows, nodding over to the oblivious Moonshadow elf. They took one glance and shook their heads in disagreement, in synchronization. Annoyed, Soren frowned at his guards as he crept up on the unsuspecting girl. He removed his sheathed sword from his belt and held it upside down. He watched as Rayla contently sighed at Callum, tilting her head at him like she was lost in his eyes. Smirking, Soren hurriedly swiped at her feet with the handle, tucking her legs out from under and causing her to release a squeak and fall nearly face first onto the ground.Luckily, Rayla was experience enough to react and catch herself from face planting. She turned around and frowned at the head guard. "What gives!"Soren chuckled as he extended his hand to help her up. She accepted, albeit reluctantly, and stood up. "If you are like this when you're with Callum, how are you going to defend yourself?" he questioned. "That is why you need guards."Rayla rolled her eyes as she dusted off her navy blue, thigh-length skirt. "Har, har," she sarcastically replied. "I was just… interested in what they were talkin' 'bout is all!" she defended."Oh? And what were they talking about?" Soren inquired, throwing a knowing brow.Rayla opened her mouth to respond but silence herself as she realized she had no idea. "Uhh… me?"Soren glanced over at the two and sighed. "Lucky guess." He pointed his finger upward as he stated, "That doesn't change the fact you were distracted. And if you can afford to be distracted, you can afford to have some guards.""I wasn't distracted!" Rayla exclaimed.Soren snorted. "Please, you're so lovesick it's actually sickening in of itself.""I'm not lovesick!" Callum declared, rising to his feet as he slammed his hands down on the table. All eyes within the courtyard shot over to the Archmage and the King. Sheepishly, Callum winced as he realized the amount of attention he brought over with his reaction and shyly sunk back down into his seat.Ezran scoffed as he looked over at Rayla and Soren. He smiled, glad that he got their attention, and waved them over. "Soren, settle this for me," he requested.Soren happily marched over and stood firmly straight. "Yes, King Ezran?""Callum," he pointed, "is lovesick. Right?"Callum instantly huffed at the claim whilst Rayla chuckled. Before he could even defend himself, Soren nodded. "Oh yeah, definitely. But I'd argue Rayla is even more love sick than Callum," he jerked his thumb over to said elf."What!" she shouted. "Am not!""She's just kind, and endearing," Callum defended, crossing his arms at Soren. "And just loves to make sure I'm safe, that's all!" He flashed a smile at Rayla as he added, "That's who she always is. She just loves to protect and watch over those who need it."A small flush overcame Rayla as Soren and Ezran dumbfoundedly stared at the boy. "You realize you just said you're someone who needs to be protected and looked after, right?" Soren checked over, cocking his head in confusion."And what's wrong with that?" Rayla inquired. "I think it's very sweet Callum's willin' to admit his own faults. He's always aware of it," she sweetly smiled back at her fiancé. "He's always passionate! And he wears his heart on sleeve and ain't 'fraid to express how he feels.""See?" Callum gestured at her as he looked at Ezran. "She's literally defending me right now, how sweet and kind is that!" He turned back to Rayla and added, "Speaking of, you're the sweet one."Rayla cooed, "Aww how?" She leaned over and pointed back at him. "By sayin' that ya're only solidifying my case 'bout ya bein' sweet."Callum shook his head. "No—""Oh, my, gosh." Soren groaned. "Forget it, you're both equally lovesick on each other." He threw his arms up in defeat. "Yeesh," he sighed.Ezran rolled his eyes. "Listen, I get it, you're newly engaged, you've finally got the approval of both the Kingdom and Xadia, but man, can you guys go one minute without being… you?" When the two gasped in offence, the King scoffed. "C'mon guys, you have to realize it right?"Rayla frowned as she grabbed Callum's hand. "Aye, I realize that ya two have a problem with me and my finacé for no reason!" She dragged said fiancé with her and muttered, "Let's get outta here Callum."Soren and Ezran watched as the two stormed out. They exchanged a quick shrug then went on about their day. There was no convincing those two. They were definitely too lovesick on each other.::::Rayla had her arm propped on her table as she rested her cheek in the palm of her hand. Letting out a content sigh, she smirked as she dreamily blinked at the boy across from her. Callum was currently sat in the lounge chair of the library sketching in his book. He occasionally glanced up from his sketchbook, eyeing up the scenery around him with a wondrous curiosity. He was so excited to learn Ezran had renovated the library, and so he wanted to sketch the new layout.Everything was cleaner, there were more attendants around, and a lot of the furniture was either refurbished or replaced. Callum was happy to capture the new design. And Rayla was happy to watch.Claudia, on the other hand, was happy to smack Rayla on the head. They were literally just in the middle of a conversation about the latest trade deal between Xadia and Katolis, a conversation Claudia thought they were both invested in. Suddenly, the elf just trailed off mid-sentence, completely disregarding her friend as her attention focused on a certain someone.She couldn't help but roll her eyes. She was not jealous, that ship had set sail long ago. In fact, Claudia was very happy for the two. She helped Callum with his proposal, gave him advice on what not to do and how to do it. In the end, she was happy to witness a teary eyed Rayla gasp out a very quiet yes to Callum's big ask. It was such a sweet and pure moment to watch.Now, she wished she could use Dark Magic again to suck the life out of herself.Because boy did she regret helping them now. Ever since they got back from their trip in Xadia, they claimed to want to spend time with their friends but either found themselves always around each other or were too busy looking at one another to even notice their friends. All in all, it was getting very tiring."Rayla," Claudia called out."Aye?""You were saying?""Uh-huh…"Claudia rolled her eyes once more. Maybe there was one way to get her to talk. "Callum's sketching?" she offered."Yeah, he's real cute…" Rayla softly agreed.Claudia frowned. "No, I… do you want to still talk or not?""Look how focused he is!" she squealed, slightly pointing at the boy. "Aww, his face is scrunchin' up! That means he's shading!""That's great… but, we were having—""Oooh, his lil' eyebrow went up, he made a mistake!" Rayla gasped. "Aww, the poor boy," she placed her hand on her heart, "he was so close now he's gotta erase.""Unbelievable—""He's scrunchin' his face again!""That's it!" Claudia screamed, shooting straight out of her chair. Both Callum and Rayla were startled out of their trance. "I am done!" she declared, packing up her stuff. Before either one could even ask her about what was wrong, Claudia shot a finger at Rayla and said, "Why don't you just make out with him already!""What—"With that, she stormed out the library in a huff, shaking her head in annoyance as she left. Callum and Rayla watched her leave, both staring wide eyed at the girl's sudden outburst. They eventually found each other's gaze and smiled with a shrug."What was that about?" Callum asked."Beats me," Rayla replied. She smirked as she walked over Callum's seat and sat beside him, wrapping her arm around him as she leaned close on his shoulder, carefully not hitting him with her horns. "How's the sketch?"Callum proudly smiled as he showed her. "Whattya think?""Beautiful," she said in awe. Her gaze fell on his as she added, "Like ya."Callum blushed as he began skimming through his sketchbook. "I think these beg to differ," he countered, referencing the pages and pages of Rayla he had."Nah, if ya ever drew yourself ya'd make something even more beautiful.""How about we say it takes one to know one?""Aye," she pecked his cheek, "I can settle for that."Callum stared lovingly into her eyes as he slid his fingers into hers, wrapping softly around them. "If I had to be lovesick, I'm glad it's on you."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Scars Within the Scarves
"Why do ya wear that scarf all the time?" Rayla suddenly asked.Callum raised a brow as he turned over in the bed, directing his confusion toward the elf. "What?" his time had come out a bit cold, but he amended himself by softly saying, "What brought that on?"The room was dimly lit, with only a dying lamp rested on the nightstand. Zym was rested on the foot of the bed, sleeping soundly. The room wasn't chilly in the slightest and even if that were a factor, they had a blanket. The motel they were staying at was in a region close to the border, a generally fairly warm area. So with all these facts in mind, Rayla furrowed her brows in confusion as she noticed Callum going to bed with her whilst still donning on his red scarf. It was her turn to be big spoon for the night, and as she cuddled close to the Mage she noticed the red scarf flapped down in front of her face. It was then that she realized he had been wearing it every single second of every day since they met.So she couldn't help but wonder about it."I mean, we're in bed," Rayla addressed, "I just thought it'd be uncomfortable or somethin'." She shrugged. "Like, don't ya get hot in that?"Callum shrugged back, fighting back a frown. "No, not at all.""So, ya get cold easily then?" she inquired."No," Callum denied, "I just, I'm fine!" He nestled around in his spot and smirked at Rayla. "See? I'm practically like Zym," he said confidently. "It makes me feel…" a sudden crestfallen look overcame him and worry quickly dropped within Rayla, "comfortable." His voice soft spoken, hesitant and quiet.She knew that tone. He had the exact same tone when he talked about his dad's death. This concept of vulnerability and fear all laced within a small voice. A small boy who looked too afraid to let out all his emotions at the cost of staying strong for his little brother. The look of anguish and sadness that had briefly swept him told Rayla the main idea of the story that was buried behind his history. That scarf meant something to him. Deeply in every way.Rayla managed a smile. "That's good," she nodded, bringing her hand down to his, "Feelin' comfortable is nice."Callum smiled at her. Of course she understood. He tightened his hold on her hand and brought it up between their chests. "Thanks," he quietly muttered.Rayla winked. "No problem," she whispered. "Now c'mon, we need to hit the hay and I need a big spoon." She released her hand from Callum's as she turned around, scooting back into him. She curled her legs up and adjusted herself comfortably. He knew it wasn't his turn, but he owed her.Callum smirked. "I got you." He wrapped his arm around Rayla's stomach and pulled her close to his chest. He made sure to tuck his head down low to avoid Rayla's horns, then kissed the back of her neck. With a simultaneous sigh, the two closed their eyes and allowed the slumber to take them.A solemn silence suppressed the room for a few mere moments. Callum's eyes were wide open. He was still holding Rayla, tightly, closely, to his chest. He looked up from her head and smirked at her horns. Though they were a hassle for nights when he wanted to cuddle, he didn't hate them. In fact, he found them to be downright adorable. Still, being the little spoon was really enjoyable. But he quickly realized the issue within their relationship was that both of them wanted to be the little spoon.He loved that reached a compromise though. Rayla first offered switching after the first half of every week, and she allowed Callum to have the extra four day. He of course denied the offer and suggested they just switch every night. Things like that made him notice how kind and understanding Rayla was. Nights where he wanted to stay up because he had a sketch he wanted to finish before turning in, Rayla would reluctantly allow him but also would stay up with him, keeping watch over him just in case. Whenever Callum was feeling parched or snackish, Rayla would eagerly pass him a bottle of her moonberry juice or rush off to get some berries.Callum appreciated that she was always willing to help him in anyway. He made sure to exert the same effort in return. He always made sketches of her to show off and make her feel happy and warm inside, because he knew that it had that effect on her. He always made sure to carry everything and Zym, just so she was ready for anything. Also because he had to do something with himself. He tried to do anything to help. Whenever they had time to stay at motels in towns, Callum would don on his cloak and try to rent a room for the night, acting like an elf. They even attempted a date once in a shop, which was awkward, but very much sweet, to say the least.Rayla would obviously comment later that his impersonation was downright atrocious, but she appreciated him making an attempt to blend in. In every regard though, Callum knew Rayla was equally appreciative of the efforts he made. But Callum knew that wasn't enough.Honesty was the biggest thing in their relationship right now.So, he owed her that much. "Rayla?" he whispered. "You awake?""Aye," she softly replied."Okay." He took a deep breath. "My mom knitted it," he explained. Instantly, Rayla turned around, eyes locked on the boy as her hand returned to his. He managed a small smile. "It was going to be my birthday present for that year…" his voice cracked and his vision suddenly overcome with blurriness. "But… I… we… she—""It's okay," Rayla whispered, bringing her free hand up to his cheek, cupping it softly. "It's okay, I get it," she nodded. "Ya don't have to say it."Callum shook his head. "No, I can, it's… it's behind me," he nodded. Taking a big gulp, he tightened his grip on Rayla's hand. "After we… lost her, my dad talked to me in private. I was young at the time so he tried to explain it as gently as possible. He said he wanted to talk about life… and how that sometimes, there's changes that happen that we just don't expect…" Callum's small smile fell. "I… I remember when he told me, I-I first just felt… confused." He let out a chuckle. "It set in very quickly afterward. There was just… an emptiness all of a sudden. Like… all the warmth inside me just suddenly went cold and I couldn't even feel anything. I felt cold, I felt empty, I-I didn't even understand what I was feeling at the time."He took another deep breath. "The amount of cold I felt, I just… I was in pain. Everyday from then on I was just wallowing in darkness, sadness, just…" he swallowed hard, "empty." Shaking his head, Callum closed his eyes. Tears began to swell up within them. He remembered that time all too well. "I avoided Ezran for a while, my dad, everyone. I didn't eat much and I couldn't even bring myself to sleep because I cried all the time. I was just… exhausted. Physically and mentally. It hurt to even walk down the halls because I'd always see her. Everyone thought I was too young to understand but I was old enough to know how emptiness felt like."Rayla pouted as she brought Callum's hand up to her lips, pecking it softly as she thumbed over it. With her other hand, she wiped away a tear as it streamed down his cheek. "It's okay…" she whispered. "It's okay…"Callum shook his head and smiled at Rayla. "It was bad for awhile… until my dad told me he was cleaning out some of my mom's things." He cleared his throat. "At first, I was mad, like, how could he just get rid of it all so quickly? But… he explained that he was only moving it into storage. He thought it'd be a good idea if I helped. At the time, I didn't get it… at least until we dug through her wardrobe."::::"Hey! Callum, look at this!" Harrow called out. Callum looked over his shoulder and found the King to be holding a small sky blue blanket. "Your mother told me she held you in this when you were a baby!" A laugh escaped him as he shook the blanket. "Ahh, I wish I had seen that."Callum stared at it with a confused look. "Why does she still have that?"Harrow's smile slightly fell. "Well, because she liked it," he walked over to the young boy, folding up the blanket in his arms. "And because she liked it so much she wanted to keep it." He knelt down before his stepson and gestured the blanket toward him. "Some things are just worth keeping sometimes… because they can bear a great deal of meaning behind it."Callum looked down at the blanket and frowned. It was nothing. Just a blue, baby blanket. Ezran already had a blanket. It wasn't his mom. This was useless to Callum. It was just something that used to be useful to him. He shook his head and turned around. "I'm going to go through the bottom drawer," he pointed over to her wardrobe as he wandered over.Harrow sighed as he dropped his shoulders. His gaze flew over to the small portrait painting he had on above the fireplace, it was rested on the mantle. He sadly smiled at the picture and muttered under his breath, "I'm trying, Sarai." He looked back at Callum and watched as he sorted through the drawer. He hoped there weren't any unmentionables lying there, as he was not prepared for any conversations of that regard at the moment."King Harrow?" Callum's small voice called out.Harrow immediately raised his head and looked at Callum. "Yes, Callum?""Why does Mom have this?" he turned around, and thankfully, he had a red scarf in his hands.A sigh of relief escaped the King as he approached the boy. "Oh uh…" His gaze fell down as a smile formed on his lips, the realization had set in. "She made it…" he whispered, "of course she did."Callum's brows raised. "What? What is this?"King Harrow chuckled as he knelt down, placing his hand on his shoulder he said, "That, my boy, was going to be your birthday present this year."Callum's eyes went wide. "Really?"Harrow grinned. "Really."His stepson gasped as he began feeling the material. It was soft, like a plush toy. He hesitantly unravelled the cloth, and stare at it in awe. Proportionally, it looked big. Like it could cover his entire face. He moved to wrap it around his neck but stopped, and looked up at the King. "C-Can I?"Harrow happily nodded. "Of course."Eagerly, Callum began wrapping the scarf around his neck, looping around him as many times as he could. Eventually, he found himself with a massive pile up of cloth bunched up against his face. Harrow chuckled at the display whilst Callum struggled to find himself a gap to breathe. It… it was warm. He breathed in the scent and his eyes began to water within an instant. Harrow's enjoyment ceased as worry sunk in."Wh-What's wrong! Callum?"Callum looked up at Harrow, leaving the scarf to fall down to his neck. With big emerald eyes he blinked up at his stepdad, fighting back his tears as his lip quivered. "Can I… keep this…" he softly mumbled.Harrow stared at his boy with wide eyes as he slowly raised a brow in confusion. "Wh-why? I-I mean, you can. Of course you can!" he quickly answered, nodding his head. "You… you like it?" he hopefully smiled.Callum nodded. In a quiet, small voice, he whispered, "It smells like Mom…"::::Rayla began sniffling, with a shaky laugh, she wiped a few tears from her eyes. "Wow… that's… that's the sweetest thing I've ever heard." She smirked. "And ya've said some pretty sweet things to me so far."Callum chuckled, wiping a tear from his eyes with a grin. "Heh, yeah… I suppose I got it from her."Rayla nodded. "I bet ya did."He smirked as he adjusted his scarf, bringing it up to his chin. "It still smells like her… or at least, I think it does.""Good, 'cause if it still did I think that means ya don't wash it," Rayla joked, laughing.Callum laughed. "Naah… it's more like, it feels like it's her. Like I always have her with me. It makes me feel safe." His gaze softly widened at Rayla's violet eyes. "Well, safer than I already feel with you.""I'm glad I can make ya extra safe then," Rayla cooed. She moved up to Callum's forehead and pressed her lips against it softly.He sighed. "She would've loved you."The Moonshadow Elf's eyes brightened as her cheeks flushed as red as Callum's scarf. "R-Really?"Callum nodded."I'd swear it on my scarf."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
New Addition
"I want another one."Rayla moved her head up from her book and furrowed a brow at her husband. He was stood at his easel, currently sketching out another portrait of Rayla. She noticed that his gaze was focused out the window, almost as if he was looking off into the distance. Rayla turned the page of her book and lowered her gaze, asking, "Another what?""Another one!" he repeated, excitement pouring out of him as he turned to his wife. He placed his hand on his hips and grinned at her. "Y'know," he wordlessly gestured out the window.Confused, Rayla put her book down as she directed her attention outside. She smiled at the sight. In the courtyard, there were two kids. A boy and girl, each with white hair, running around with sticks in their hands, arming themselves as if they were swords. The boy, who had a lengthy amount of hair that nearly fell at his shoulders, wore dark blue pants with a maroon sweatshirt. The girl, with disheveled short hair—by choice apparently—spun the stick on her fingers with an excited smile. She wore a navy blue robe that stopped at her knees, and maroon fingerless gloves. Lian and Isha, their little halfling children.Rayla's eyes widened as the realization hit her. "Oooh no!" she denied, shaking her head. "Nope, nope, nope!" She vigorously shook her hands. "No thank ya." She threw a pointed at a the Archmage and said, "If ya want another one then ya can either push it yourself or magic one up! Otherwise? We're a four person family!"Callum laughed as he walked over to Rayla. "Right, right, I'm sorry." He knelt down and smiled. "That'd be cruel.""Exactly." She closed her eyes with vigor."Buuuut," Callum smirked. "Just so we're clear, you'd be fine with any addition to our family so long as you don't have to birth them?""Exac—" Rayla stopped herself when it dawned on her. She instantly opened her eyes and hastily said, "W-Wait! No!" She shook her head. "Callum—"He instantly backed away and threw off his apron. "Too late you already said yes earlier!" he shouted as he ran out the room.Rayla ran up to the window and pushed it open. She watched as he ran down the street and shouted, "Ya better not create some magic baby!" She frowned as he continued running, most definitely because he tuned her out. She looked at her kids and noticed their confused looks. "Your dad's just being silly. Again."::::"Mum, why isn't Dad home yet?" Lian asked as he placed the last bowl on the table."Aye," Isha chimed in, "he left hours ago and hasn't returned yet." She began placing the cutlery and frowned as she spared a glance outside the window. "We don't get to stay at the cottage much.""Yea!" he younger brother agreed."I know," Rayla muttered. She continued to stir the pot, tuning it her children's endless complaints."And he promised to show me another spell!" Isha added."Yeah!""I know," Rayla sighed."And he said he was going to do another family portrait!" Isha reminded."Yeah!""I know dear," Rayl groaned. She lifted the spoon up to her mouth and tasted it. She wasn't sure if it was because of her attitude, but her stew tasted more bitter than usual.Isha's voice fell to a whisper, "And Dad's cooking is better…""I know!" Rayla shrieked. She turned around and frowned at her kids. "This ain't easy y'know?" She crossed her arms at their blank faces."But Dad taught us," Isha countered."Yeah!" Lian agreed. "He also told us not to let you near the kitchen."Rayla smirked. "Ya know what? Ya lot might want some more meat in your stew, how else are ya gonna be big strong trolls?" she teased, pointing a spoon at her daughter.Isha stuck her tongue out at her mom. "Ya're just jealous because we can cook!" she proudly declared.Rayla laughed as she shook her head. She turned back to her stew and continued working on it, deciding adding some more spices might liven up the taste. But she swore that the first five would've done so. "Ya cook one omelette and suddenly Ya're all world renowned chefs.""The chefs back at the castle like our eggs!" Lian addresses. "Gerald always says, "We've got the makings of a true chef!'" he pinched his fingers together as he mimicked his accent.Isha rolled her eyes. "That aside, why don't ya let us cook?""'Cause I'd appreciate it if we didn't get your Uncle Ez mad because we burned down the family cottage," Rayla shot back."But ya can supervise?" Isha offered. "Dad and Chef Gerald always did that. And we made some good breakfasts!"Rayla frowned, though her daughter couldn't see it. "Breakfast for dinner isn't good. And what's wrong with stew? Ya put enough of anything and it'll taste good!" She turned around and offered a spoonful toward her daughter.She recoiled in disgust and backed away, raising her hands in fear. "If it's all the same with ya Mum, I think Lian and I'll wait till Da comes home."A sudden sound of the door swinging open drew everyone's attention away from the food. "Honey, I'm home!" Callum announced in sing song.Rayla rolled her eyes. Of course he'd enter like that. She watched as her children's expression lit up with excitement. She waved them off. "Yeah, yeah, go run to your father," she said monotonously, "Ya babies."Isha laughed as she followed her younger brother out the dining room. Rayla chuckled to herself as she listened to the pitter patter of their feet. They always loved running, and Rayla loved that energy. Rayla was similar when she was younger, so she was happy to see a lot of herself in her kids—aside from their ears and small horns of course. That said, she knew that they had some sort of secret alliance with Callum that made them want to tease her at every possible turn. Of course, Rayla knew it was all in good fun, but she wasn't always going to let them get away with it all the time.A sudden shriek startled Rayla from her thoughts. "What! What happened!" Rayla screamed.Lian ran into the room, eyes wide with excitement as he rushed to Rayla's legs, hugging them firmly. "Mummy! It's the greatest thing ever!" he cheered. "Thank you so much!""For what Lian?""Mum!" Isha shouted as she ran in. "She looks so cute! Can we name her?" she asked as she rushed over to her mother.Rayla's eyes widened. "He didn't…" she whispered."But I did!" Callum cheerily replied. He poked his head right around the dining room archway. "Oh I did, my dear."She pouted at her husband as she clasped her hands together. "Callum, ya know I love ya, but please, please, please, tell me ya didn't adopt a baby?" she asked with a tired voice.Callum laughed. "Naaah, of course not!" he laughed. "What? You think I went over a hospital, asked any of the nurses if there were any babies without parents, signed adoption papers, and took a baby?" he asked, mustering up a serious face. Though the tone he was using had Rayla worried."Yes. That's exactly what I 'thought'," she exclaimed. "But now ya got me thinkin' otherwise!""I didn't," Callum said seriously.Rayla sighed out of relief. "Thank ya." She managed a small smile."Because I got a baby Sky Dragon instead!" Callum cheered, stepping fully into the room with a whitish grey little dragon in his arms.Rayla's eyes went wide as her jaw dropped. "But… but… how?" she stammered, "when did—why did—no, no, no!" She stomped her foot. "Ya did not just kidnap a baby Sky Dragon from her Mum!"Callum's eyes shot open in shock as he quickly shook his head. "No! Of course not! No, no!" he laughed as he made his way over to his wife, petting the small dragon as he walked. "Ray, no, she's from an adoption shelter.""What?" Rayla asked."Yeah, it's a whole thing," Callum smiled, "like, they find and discover little abandoned babies and look for people who are willing to look after them. The shelter said they found her in nest after they saw the mother… shot down," he sadly whispered. Rayla's face fell at the statement. "It was shortly before that Dragon Hunter bandit group was shut down. They rescued the egg and started hatching it." Callum grinned as he looked in Rayla's eyes. "Ever since I heard about it, I visited whenever I had the chance. I didn't want to say anything till she hatched. I had Ez stop by just to tell me her name. Zeusia." He lifted the baby dragon and cooed. "I saw this lil' girl and thought, she reminds me of Zym." He turned her over and allowed her to blink her little bluebell eyes at Rayla. "Doesn't she?"Rayla stared at into the baby dragon's eyes and sighed. Her heart melted at the innocence staring back at her. Zeusia's tongue fell out as her head flopped onto Callum's arm. She purred as she blinked at Rayla. That look brought back so many memories. Memories of her, Callum, and Ezran travelling throughout the lands, carrying a young dragon king. Memories of their merry band of three, happily running about and cuddling Zym. Memories that included the devastating struggles and amazing adventures that occurred when she and Callum alone entered Xadia.Her face slightly flushed as she remembered the experiences that entailed alongside Zym's journey. Experiences like, her and Callum's first kiss—he chimed in long after they finished, but was very energetic for it. All the nights he snuggled alongside them when they slept together, those was moments she enjoyed too. And there was that one time he interrupted them when they nearly had—"Ray?" Callum spoke up. Startled from her embarrassing thoughts, she looked up at her husband with a blush. "You okay?"She smiled with a nod. She moved her hand over to Zeusia's head and stroked it softly, grinning at how she purred. She looked down at her kids and chuckled. "Ya're gonna have to help look after her, ya know?"Isha nodded. "We will!""Ya'll need to make sure she's fed.""We will!" Lian said."And help her fly too, she needs to learn that.""We will!" they said together.Rayla chuckled once more. "And make sure ya help her realize her powers and potential?"Callum placed his hand on her shoulder. She looked over and found him to smugly smiling at her. "We will," he softly said.Rayla rolled her eyes and let out an exaggerated exhaustive sigh. "Well…" she nodded over to the stove top. "If ya can fix up dinner, then I'll go make sure we have some grub nearby for lil' Zeusia," she said with a cheery smile.Callum's eyes lit up. "On it!" he hurriedly handed the dragon over to Rayla and proceeded to rush over to the stove. He moved the stew pot aside and and began prepping all the leftover ingredients. Rayla scoffed as she watched him basically restart from scratch, ignoring her pot as a whole. She looked back at her children, who were wearing wide smiles with curious looks, and laughed."Yes, we're keepin' her."Rayla laughed once more as she watched her kids cheer and scream, running around the dining room out of sheer and pure happiness. Rayla looked down at Zeuia and smiled. This was a good idea. She was sure of it.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Confession
"Oookay," Callum sighed. "You can do this."He gave himself a hardened stare through his reflection in the lake. Taking deep breaths, Callum closed his eyes and focused. He believed he could do this. This was nothing. This was easy. He convinced himself of that enough times. But of course, that fell flat on many levels. For many days now he had gone over this. There was just so many possibilities. Too many outcomes where everything changes because of his dumb decision.Callum shook his head and slapped his face. He shouldn't think like that. This was Rayla he was thinking about. They've been friends for months now, there was no way she'd throw it all out the window because of one little thing. Callum's face fell. He hoped she thought it was a little thing. If she just brushed over it and accepted it, no questions asked, then nothing awkward would happen."Oh am I kidding," he said exasperatedly. He frowned at his reflection. "This is gonna be huge! Of course she'll have something to say!"A yip from behind dragged Callum's attention away from his annoyed reflection. He managed a small smile at the young Storm Dragon sat behind him. Zym cocked his head to the right as he gave a questioning stare over Callum's way. His tongue hung out as his tail wagged back and forth. This wasn't the first time Zym had caught him talking to himself nor looking weird. The poor dragon must've been very used to his antics at this point.Callum's face lit up as an idea crossed his mind. Well, if he was used to it. "Hey Zym," he called, "You mind helping me with something?" He yipped a happy smile and nodded in response, bouncing off in all fours. "Great! C'mon!" Callum waved him over to a nearby rock. He patted the spot and watched as Zym sat down at an eye level with him. He smirked at the Storm Dragon's eager attitude. "Alright. Just… give me your impression."Zym tilted his head in confusion.Clearing his throat, Callum clasped his hands together and rubbed them quickly. He mustered up a brave smile and look Zym in his eyes. "Okay. So… okay…" he cleared his throat once more. "Rayla, I—nope, nope, that's dumb." He raised his finger in the air. "We have been travelling together for quite some time—ah! That's it!" he grinned excitedly.Zym yipped once more, blinking confusedly at the the boy."Right," Callum nervously chuckled. "So… Rayla," he gestured to Zym, "as you know… we've been… travelling alone together for long time." He bit his lip and pondered. "Well, I guess two months and a half might not be long, b-but maybe it is? And, well, a small portion of that time was with Ezran and Bait. And I guess you could count all those merchants and such who gave us rides as not alone time. And, Zym has been travelling with us too," at the sound of his nickname said dragon perked up and smiled. Shaking his head, Callum cleared his throat for the umpteenth time that day. "Anyways…"Rayla, you and I have been friends for awhile now. And, I'd like to think we're even best friends even! I mean, I know so much about you, and vice versa and all that. An-Anyways, well, as your best friend, I think I owe it to you… to… tell you things… no, everything! Just, be honest! Because, you know, honesty is one of biggest in our relationship that we focus on—well I mean…" Callum groaned as he facepalmed himself. He dragged his hand down his face and slowly blinked at the Storm Dragon before him. "Did you get any of that?"Zym shook his head and left his tongue to hang out. Callum sighed. "Figured as much." He turned back to the lake and stared at himself. Why was this so difficult? Was he really overthinking things?The worst outcome would be that Rayla would just stop talking to him. Callum's neutral expression fell as his mind started considering other possibilities. Possibilities where she'd be so mad and upset with him, she wouldn't even talk to him for the rest of their journey. Or maybe she would just leave him, take Zym with her and decide that this was all just a waste of her time. That he didn't deserve anything to come for doing something so brave and noble. That maybe he was just a terrible friend for even considering this. Or maybe she'd kill him.Callum sighed once more. Why did he have to feel this way? Everything would be simple for him if he just never had these dumb feelings. But nevertheless, as one of the many things Rayla liked about him, he was a passionate guy. If there ever was something that irked him or made him excited he had to make a big deal out of it. And for someone who was told be to something he wasn't for so long, having a breath of fresh air like this was amazing. It was freeing to be this expressing.Callum's eyes closed. But that was the key. Just breathe. He took a deep breath and turned back to Zym. Opening his eyes he uttered out, "Rayla." He mustered up the most confident smirk he could manage and said, "We need to talk.""Aye? What 'bout?"A started shriek came from the Mage as he hopped up on the spot. He immediately whipped his body around and stumbled back a few feet, landing against the rock. "Rayla!" he greeted, smiling at the smug elf before him.She crossed her arms across her chest as she jutted out her hip. "Hiya," she smirked, "Now, uh, what'd ya want to talk about?"Callum opened his mouth but stopped himself as he glanced back at Zym, who had wordlessly smiled back. "Uhhh, that we should get going!" he jerked his thumb back toward the forest. "I-I mean, sunset is upon us and uh… yeah…"Rayla stared at him with a cocked head and a confused stare. "Uhh, aye, I know," she chuckled. "I just had to go to the bathroom, yeesh." She walked over to Zym and picked him up from the rock. "No need to get all impatient.""Right, sorry," Callum apologized as he followed after her. Crisis averted, so far. But, the skeptical glare Rayla shot his way told him that this wasn't going to be the last time she asked about it.::::Ralya knew something was up. Callum had been acting a bit strange for the past few days. She noticed how every so often he'd just trail off into a deep thought. His brows would scrunch up and his lip would quiver down. Whatever was bothering him was something serious. Something that seemed to upset him. But he seemed so determined to stay quiet about it. Rayla could tell he was lying when he said it was nothing, or when he said he was just thinking about a sketch. She had been with him long enough to tell when he was thinking about sketching.His face was more elated, still concentrated, but it was obvious he was thinking about something that made him happy. Things like that made Rayla all the more suspicious of how he was acting. She hoped that the time he spent sketching before bed was enough time for him to settle whatever was bothering him. But, it only seemed like it just opened up more opportunities for him to worsen his thoughts. Whatever he claimed this nothing was, it was something alright.And the way he was acting earlier today cinched Rayla's beliefs.It was well into the evening, and Callum had just finished setting up camp. He was patiently waiting for her return, as she had taken the liberty of gathering some more berries for the night. Zym stayed behind with Callum, and she couldn't help but feel a bit jealous at that. She was noticing how often Zym hung around the artist. But at least he was safe.Speaking of said Storm Dragon, a sudden yip brought Rayla's attention over to the clearing. She smiled as she noticed Callum and Zym's gathered nearby Callum's possesions. "Great, ya got the fire ready!" she chirped. "Now, with a nice fire, we can enjoy lil' snack before bed." She shook the handkerchief of berries in her hand."About that." Callum rose up from the grass and stared Rayla with a serious look. "We need to talk."Rayla's eyebrows rose at his sudden seriousness. This was it. He was going to talk about it. She cleared her throat and nodded. "Uhh, sure. Okay." She walked over to Callum and sat down in front of him. "Lemme just put the berries in your bag—""That can wait," Callum stressed as he knelt down. He placed his hand over hers, and pushed it back to her chest.This was really urgent. "Okay?" Rayla nervously laughed. She looked at Callum's emerald eyes and was amazed at how hardened and serious they were. It was then she noticed the moonlight shining down around them, glimmering off the light grass. It was then she noticed her nerves were crackling like the fire lit beside them. It was then she noticed how his hand suddenly wrapped around her wrists, holding them firmly. "What is it?" she dared to ask.Callum took a deep breath and closed his eyes. "Rayla," he opened them, "We've been friends for awhile now, right?" She silently nodded. "And well, I know how important it is… for… our relationship," her brows went up, "that we're completely honest with each other." Callum brought his hands over Rayla's folding her fingers over the berries in her palms. He caressed her hands softly. "So… I… I think I owe it to you to be honest." He released another deep breath and smiled at Rayla, sincerely. "I've been mulling over this ever since we entered Xadia and well… I think my feelings are dead set serious."Rayla nodded. "Callum, ya can tell me." She grinned encouragingly.Callum nodded back. "Okay." He took a swallowed hard. He removed his fingers, slowly unfolding Rayla's and softly said, "I don't like Moonberry juice."Rayla's brows went up as she tilted her head. "What?""I don't like Moonberry juice," he repeated, more confidently.Her brows furrowed as a frown fell on her face. "Seriously?""Yeah, I-I know, it's very resourceful fruit in Xadia and it's practically everywhere," Callum rubbed the back of his neck, "But I just can't stand the flavour! It-It's too bitter and sugary. And it's so thick! Like, pancake syrup but worse! And the smell is just like grape juice, it's too strong!" He shook his head and looked at Zym. "I-I've been giving my drinks to Zym when you're not looking and actually eating a secret stash of Sunberry bread from that town we stopped by a few weeks back."Rayla rolled her eyes. This idiot. "Oh my gosh," she groaned. "I thought this was something serious! The way ya've been acting recently had me worr—wait, ya've had a secret stash?" she questioned.Sheepishly, he nodded. "Yeah…""What? Why!" Rayla bundled up the berries in the handkerchief and with a free hand, grabbed Callum's bag. She rifled through it and gasped when she found two loaves of Sunberry bread. "I can't believe ya!"Callum shrugged as his face winced. "I'm sorry!" he shouted. "B-But you just kept getting more every night and I could at least enjoy the berries, but you made every batch into juice! I-I—""And ya gave it to Zym!" she pointed aggressively at said dragon, who just yipped excitedly. "Ya said ya liked it!""I know! I lied! That's why I'm being honest!""Ugh, what kinda boyfriend lies about liking a drink?""I didn't want to upset you!""Oh but wasting money on bread and secretly keeping it to yourself for weeks is better?"Callum shut his mouth as a weak finger lifted. "Ah… that sounds worse when you phrase it that way—""That's 'cause it is.""—but I don't think it's as worse as the juice, so I'm fine."Rayla gasped. "Oooh, that's it!" she shook her head. She grabbed a loaf of bread from his back and smashed her entire pile of Moonberries onto it. Callum gasped in horror as he watched his light coloured bread darken with maroon. "Now ya've got to deal with it!" she shouted, shoving the bread toward him.Callum frowned miserably at the sight of his bread and sighed as the juice dripped down his hand. "Why…" he whined quietly. "It was so good.""Then maybe next time ya can think 'bout sharing it with ya girlfriend!" she said haughtily, turning her chin away. She stood up from her spot and walked over to the campfire. "Oh, and ya can forget about being lil' spoon tonight.""Okay that's too far!"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Game On
Callum didn't hate football. He actually found it to be pretty interesting sometimes. The plays he had heard about on TV or from Soren, sounded really fun and cool. And he had seen some games before, but of course, all of this came from within the safety of his dorm. Callum didn't mind sports, but he did mind the crowds that surfaced with them. He would watch a game from the comfort of his bed rather than sit in the stands with hundreds of other rowdy and reckless fans.But there he was, clad in his best tan jeans and long sleeved sweater, checking himself out in the mirror. He figured casual would be good, and comfortable too, as he knew it was a bit breezy out. The only question was if he should wear a jacket or not. The realization hit him as he looked in the reflection, noticing a particular maroon and gold coloured jacket, hung on the back of his computer chair. Callum gulped as he turned and picked up the varsity jacket.His thumb dragged over the embroidered emblems of their College's crown as he pondered the idea. This simple medium sized varsity jacket was the whole reason he was even going to their school's football game. He turned it around and smiled at the name, Rayla. The girl that had been on the artist's mind for days. She had done something no one had ever done before: get him out of a creative block.Of course, she had done much more than that too. Callum definitely enjoyed the night they spent together. It was short lived but different. A type of fun he had never had before. Rayla was an enigma to him. A football jock who was a fan go his art pieces? And Scottish too, he was wondering about that! All these questions, and his go to plan was to drop off her jacket before the game. He knew where to find her after all."Ugh, please tell me you're not about smell that," a voice came in. Callum shot his attention over to his now opened door and scoffed at the figure. She shot wore a knowing sly smirk, along with gothic mascara to back up her attitude. Her attire, a simple black leather jacket zipped up nearly all the way, and a pair of dark gray shorts and black stockings that ran down to her leather boots. She pulled a few strands of her purple highlighted hair it from her usual raven black, and scoffed at him. "If you are, my standards for you have will have lessened immensely.""I was not!" he defended. "I was just thinking if I should wear it or not."Claudia laughed as she leaned up against the frame. "Callum, you already did once. What's the big deal about doing it again?"His face grew sheepish. "It's day time.""Yes, it is.""And well… people will see?""So?""Isn't that a whole thing?" Callum exclaimed, clearly fed up with his friend's slow uptake. When he was met with a confused look, he groaned. "Like, wearing a jock's varsity jacket? I don't know wanna bring that type of attention to Rayla." He frowned as he looked back down said jacket.Claudia rolled her eyes. "If she didn't want that, then why did she give it you?""We were the only two around and it was cold and dark out," Callum explained.Claudia frowned. "Then why didn't she take it back when she dropped you off?"He recalled their conversation and blushed at how nice she was about it. She thought he looked really good in it. He realized he couldn't say that it loud, so he merely shrugged. "I… I just want to give this back to her, no problems."Claudia sighed. "Then why couldn't you get Soren to do it? He's literally her captain. He sees her every practice." She crossed her arms. "I don't get why we need to show up early just to do this."Callum shrugged once more as he turned back to his reflection. "I just think she'd like it back before the game. And besides, you and your dad always show up early to cheer for him anyways," he replied, firing back with a confident look, "How's this any different?"His friend scowled. "It's different by two hours," she deadpanned.Callum shook his head with a chuckle. "C'mon, I told you, you don't have to come."Claudia's face lit up, startling him. "And miss out on the chance to meet the girl who got you to come to a football game and prank my brother?" She guffawed, exaggeratingly so—or not, Callum could never really tell—then dropped into a serious stare. "No way." She nodded her head over to the hallway, "Now let's bounce." She took her leave, bending down to the floor and picking up her helmet. "And you better not cry when you're on my bike!" she teased as she tucked the helmet under her arm.Callum rolled his eyes as he followed after. He checked over his belongings in his messenger bag; wallet, keys, sketchbook, eraser, pens and pencils. He sped up his pace and caught up with Claudia as she walked out the boy's dormitory. A realization occured as which sparked a question. "Hey, I thought you knew Rayla?" he asked as they approached her motorcycle.She shook her. "Nah, I've seen her at their practices. But she was one of those football friends Soren hung out with during team stuff. She's not really in his circle much. Or rather, my circle." She donned on her helmet and sat down on her bike. She glanced over and even with the tinted screen, Callum could feel her evil grin. She clicked her teeth and nodded over to the empty space behind her.Wordlessly, Callum obeyed and climbed on. He felt like that this a bit of a warning not to prank her like he did Soren. The second she revved up the bike, he figured he was correct. Within seconds, they were out of the boy's dormitory and on the roads within the campus. The artist held on the with a fierce grip and silent prayer to any deity listening.The second they came a to stop at the parking lot outside, Callum hopped off and stumbled his footing. He couldn't believe Claudia drove around on a death trap like that, and then upped the ante whenever he was onboard. All because the first time, he got off and vomited, now he was known as the guy who couldn't handle Claudia's bike. He rarely ever wanted to climb onto her bike, but he wanted to make good time today. Without waiting, Callum made a dash over to the entrance of the stadium, ignoring Claudia's call.He rushed to the ticket booth and fumbled into his messenger bag for his ticket. The man at the booth impatiently tapped his fingers against the table as he eyed Callum with lazy eyes. Callum's face dropped as he realized he was missing his ticket. He shoved his hand in and rummaged around the bag, pushing aside his things with haste. How did he forget?"Hey Callum?" Claudia's voice arrived. He quickly glanced up and saw her waved a pair of tickets in her hands. "I was trying to say, I have the tickets, remember?" She shook her head with a chuckle as she approached the booth. "Sorry 'bout him, it's his first game," she explained to the man as she handed them the tickets.He shrugged in response and ripped them up, and handed them back to Claudia."Thank you!" she said as she grabbed Callum's back and pushed him inside. As soon as they entered the hall she sighed. "Jeez, I get you're excited but relax alright?"Callum rolled his eyes as he took his ticket back from Claudia. "I'm in a hurry okay, I wanna make sure I can catch her before they start warm ups and everything!" He sped up his pace and recalled the path they had taken the night they were there. As he made the turn, he heard Claudia whistle and so he turned around."Yo, eager beaver, locker rooms are this way," she clicked her teeth as she jerked her thumb over the other direction.Callum's eyes darted between her and the other direction and he nervously laughed. "Uhh, right, but—" he stopped. If he told her, then she would follow him, which would result in endless teasing. "I, washroom," he strained out.Claudia's brow quirked."Just, go ahead! I'll catch up with you!" he waved her off as he backed away. She seemed to skeptically obey, as she slowly walked off with a confused look. As soon as Callum rounded the corner, he dashed up the stairs. This was it, this was his chance. He ran through the halls and smiled in delight as he found the section he wanted. He stopped right before the exit and took a deep breath. Quickly, he fumbled the jacket into his hands as he checked its pockets. Everything was in order. With a confident smile, he marched out the hallway and paused at the sight. An empty field and a coat of glimmering sunlight shining off the lime grass. It was a beautiful sight."Well, fancy meeting ya here," a Scottish voice chirped.Callum turned to his right and chuckled at the white haired girl before him. She was leaned over in the same seat as last time, decked out in a pair of black ripped jeans with combat boots, with a turquoise flannel tied around her waist. She wore a black t-shirt with rolled up sleeves that said, Tired. Ironically enough, her expression seemed as eager as his. She patted the empty seat next to her and Callum happily sauntered over and sat down."Well, I thought you'd like this back," he held out the varsity jacket with a smile. "Y'know, since you have a game and all." He nodded over to the field.Rayla chuckled as she took the jacket. "Thanks," she smiled. She held it for moment and stared at it with an arched brow. Lifting it close to her face, she took a whiff. "Did ya throw this in the wash?" she asked him.He awkwardly shrugged and said, "Uhh, maybe." He laughed. "I just thought I owed you something for keeping me warm that night, so a little Downy freshness couldn't hurt."Rayla snorted. "Thanks. I forget to wash this thing sometimes since I wear it so much."Callum nodded. "Oh I could tell, why do you think I washed it?"She scoffed and playful punched his arm. "Shut up!" she giggled. She then threw on her jacket and sighed in content as she hugged herself. "I missed the feel of it."Callum smirked. "Sorry to keep you two away then.""Nah," she dismissed, "I'm glad I was able to let someone else experience its warmness for a change."He stared at her with a genuine smile. It was warm alright. But it was more so that the jacket felt like her instead. Callum liked it. It was soothing and soft. It reminded him of that night. "Well, thanks," he softly said.She smirked. "No problem! If ya ever need a jacket again or bodyguard, ya know who to call!" she joked, nudging her elbow against his.He laughed. "No, no, I meant for that night." Her brows raised. "Helping me with block was great. I finished the piece!" he proudly announced.Rayla's face lit up. "Callum that's great!"He nodded. "Yeah!" Her excited smile motivated him to keep going. He took a moment and nodded once again. "And uh, I want you to be the first to see it."Her face flushed a bit as she stared at him in surprise. "M-Me?" she pointed to herself. It was a ridiculous gesture, but she was obviously surprised.Callum chuckled and nodded once more."A-Are ya sure? I mean, I get if ya want to keep that whole thing private and—""Rayla," he interjected as he placed his hand on her shoulder, seizing her stammering. "I want you to see it. You first. Before I show it at this month's showcase," he smiled warmly at her. The two simultaneously noticed his hand on her shoulder, causing him to retract immediately. "I-I mean, you are a fan of my work and since you helped me, the least I could do is show you first!"Rayla smiled back."S-So yeah!" He confidently nodded. "I think you'll really like it, and uh, maybe then…" he gulped. "I could sketch… you after?" he asked in a quieter voice. Rayla's brows raised once more. "I-I mean—I know I offered and you already said yes, it-it, doesn't have to be that urgent!" So much for that confidence. "I'm fine with you just wanting to hold off on that—""I'd love to," Rayla smiled.Callum stopped his rambling and looked at her. "Really?""Yes, Callum, I'd love to."He let out a laugh as he pumped his fist. He quickly cleared his throat and composed himself as Rayla laughed. "Sorry. Guess I'm just a bit excited."She shook her head. "Relax, it's adorable." She winked. "So uh, when do ya want me?" Her face flushed as her eyes widened and mouth dropped in horror. "To meet up!" she hastily added, "To meet up with ya!"Callum's face, equally red, strained for a smile as he coughed. "Umm, af-after the game is fine. If-if you're free." He awkwardly rubbed the back of his head. "I-I understand if you and your team have after game rituals or something."She eagerly smiled. "Yeah, I-I'm free! I can raincheck one pizza party," she dismissed with the wave of her hand. "They'll live without me."Callum raised a worried brow. "You sure?"She nodded. "Besides," she smugly smirked, "I'd take an art piece showing with you over another testosterone filled feast with Soren anyday." The two shared a laugh. A sudden alarm cut off their joy, and brought Rayla's attention to her phone. "Ahh, damn, looks like time's up. Better hit the locker room." She rose up to her feet. "Thanks for returning this again," she pulled on her jacket, "and washing it."Callum smiled. "No problem. See you after the game?""Aye," she nodded. "Will ya be sticking around till then?" He smugly smirked back as he dug into his pocket and pulled out his ticket, waving it before him. Her face blushed at the gesture as she chuckled. "Gee, looks like I've got a fan of my own!"Callum laughed as he watched her walk off. "Call it returning the favour!" he shouted down the hall. He smiled to busked proudly as he heard her laugh echo throughout the hall. He loved hearing her laugh. He glanced down at his ticket and looked at his seat number. Claudia and her father managed to snag him a seat in the section they usually sat, which was practically near the front. His eyes widened as he realized his distance. "Rayla, wait up!" he called out as he rushed after her. He found her casually making her way down the corridors as she turned back to look at him with a curious face."Aye, what's up?""Mind if I walk with you?" he inquired. She quirked a brow and he elaborated by shaking his ticket. "My section's close to your locker room anyway, so might as well." Feeling bold, he added, "Plus I could return the favour!""Favour?""Yeah!" he smiled. "Since you played bodyguard for me, I'll do it for you!" There was a moment of silence before she burst out into a fit of laughter. Callum frowned, though he enjoyed hearing it, as he rolled his eyes. "C'mon! I'm not that bad!" he defended childishly as he walked after her.Rayla quickly shook her head as she said in between giggles, "No, no, no, of course not!" Once she composed herself, she said, "I'm very glad to have my artist in shining armour."Callum flushed at the tease but preserved. "Hey you never know!" He shrugged. "A star football player all by her lonesome in the corridors right before a big game? Anything could happen!" he pointed out dramatically.Rayla giggled as she playfully shoved Callum with her shoulder. "Fine, fine, I guess having an armed artist as my guard would be pretty cool," she conceded. The two began walking down the stairs. "And I guess I've had worst partners watching my back."Callum snorted. "Is that a good thing to hear before going into a football game?" The two laughed once again, leaving the stairwell to echo with their joyful symphony. He couldn't help but smile at her.Rayla waved a dismissive hand. "Pfft, nah, real magic is all on the quarterback!" she proudly declared.Callum rolled his eyes. "I think you're a little biased," he mused."What? No!" she defended. "There wouldn't be a game without a QB. How do ya think they'd move the ball 'round?""Well in that case, there wouldn't be much of a game if there wasn't any players," Callum cleverly shot back.Rayla scoffed as she lightly elbowed the artist in the ribs. "Alright wise-guy, no need to get all smart with me," she teased. "And besides, if ya knew half of anythin' 'bout football, ya'd know I'm not wrong sayin' QB is an important role." They finally reached the bottom of the stairs and began walking down the corridors. "Hope that seat of yours is a good one. 'Cause while the view is nice when the field's all empty, it's also pretty cool when there's a game."Callum smiled. "I don't doubt it.""But also, make sure to keep your eye on number thirty-one," she said with a wink. "I heard she's feisty one."He laughed as he nodded knowingly at her. "Oh is that a fact?" he inquired sarcastically. "Well, I'll be sure to keep my eye on her," he said with a smile.Rayla warmly smiled back. "I'm glad I've got a fan of my own.""Can you make that double?" Claudia's voice rung out. The two looked over to the locker room entrance and found her smiling at them. "Because I am a big fan of this," she chuckled, gesturing toward the two. Callum felt a faint blush on his cheeks whilst Rayla confusedly stared at the girl. "Claudia, Soren's sister," she greeted as she extended her hand.Rayla cocked her head and chuckled softly as she accepted the handshake. "Uhh, yeah, I know. I've seen ya at our practices?" she stated as if it was obvious. A smirk fell on her face as she crossed her arms and popped her hip out. "You're also one of Callum's friends, eh?" Callum wasn't sure what to feel about that mischievous look on the football player's face.Claudia beamed a happy smile as she nodded. "I am! Callum's spoke of me?"Rayla nodded. "Aye, at great detail," she explained, "You also ditched him at the party, aye?" Claudia's eyes widened at the sudden accusation, leaving Rayla to proudly grin. "Figured," she added. Looking to Callum, she teasingly nudged his elbow. "Guess we still got one more loose end to deal with, huh?"Callum glanced back to Claudia and was shocked to see her nervous for once. He eagerly jumped on the opportunity. "Oh yes!" he dramatically stated, "Definitely." He threw a wink his friend's way, and caused her to frown more."H-Hey, was it that much of a big deal?" Claudia defended with a pout. "I mean, you two met after all?" she gestured to the two with a sly brow. Then, a smug smirk emerged. "And it obviously did well for you…" she teased.Callum's face flushed one more as Rayla was taken aback with a faint blush of her own."H-Hey—""I—"Claudia laughed at the two as they stammered. "Whelp! Guess I better find my seat," she announced as she pulled out her ticket. She strolled past the two with a proud smile, then stopped behind them. "Oh, and you too right Callum?" she turned and asked, "You are in the same section with me after all."Callum nodded. "Ri-Right, but I…" he turned to Rayla, who shot an unimpressed look Claudia's way."Ohh," Claudia gasped. Sarcastically, she replied, "I gotcha." She repeatedly pointed at her nose then back at Rayla's. With a wink, she threw a two finger salute at the two. "I'll leave you two to your lonesome!" she said in singsong, then vanished around the corner.Rayla groaned. "Oooh hoo," she shook her head as she bit her lip. "I can't wait to get her!"Callum laughed. "Maybe after I sketch you, we'll plot a prank," he addressed with a small smile.The football player turned with an eager look in her eyes. "I'll hold ya too that!" she pointed at him.He nodded as he winked at her. "Swear it on my canvas," he quipped.Rayla began to back toward the locker room door. "Which I'll be on!" she remarked."Of course," he nodded and with a gentle bow, he backed away. "See you on the field?"She smiled as she placed her hand on the handle. "See ya out on the stands." The two waved as the separated from each other's sights.Callum's smile that was directed at her leave, disappeared as soon as he rounded the corner, as he was met with a very smug grin. He frowned at the instant he saw Claudia leaning up against the wall with her arms crossed. She quirked a brow as he marched past her, not meeting her eyes. "Ooh," she seethed. "He's upset," she said to no one in particular.Callum rolled his eyes with a sigh. "Did you have to do that?" he drawled out as she caught up with him.The two made their way out the corridors and over to the stands. "Hey, you ditched me for a sneaky underhanded meeting," she pointed at him accusingly. "That's fair play." She shrugged nonchalantly.He frowned at her as they made their way over to their section. "You ditched me first.""And look where that got you!"He rolled his eyes again.A pregnant pause lingered as they walked. "Seriously though, where has that Callum been?" she asked with surprise laced within her voice. "You sounded so… confident! You were all flirty too," she nudged his elbow with a knowing look, "Honestly, that was pretty smooth!"His face faintly reddened at her compliments. Secretly, he was happy that he got her approval and learned that he was doing well with his interactions. But outwardly, he was still annoyed she teased them and showed no remorse for it. Callum glanced down at his ticket as he made his way over to his seat. "Glad to know I have resident eavesdropper," he sarcastically enthused.Claudia snorted. "Whelp, maybe you shouldn't have conversations in a loud, echoey hallway," she remarked as she sat down next to him.Callum kept any further comments to himself as he looked at the nearly empty field. Some workers had gone out and began prepping some equipment, and a few of the players started filing in. Rayla of course, was yet to be seen as she was no doubt still getting ready. Callum did not mind Claudia's teasing however. As he did know she eavesdropped, he also knew she was aware that they openly brought up their upcoming prank. No doubt, she was afraid of what that entailed. So, he still had that to be proud of. His phone buzzed and a smile grew. And that too, of course.::::"Geez, next time, I'll get the damn jacket myself if it means you'll take ages!" Soren's voice pained Rayla's ears as it echoed throughout the locker room. Granted, he was on the other side of the door, due to it being the women's room, but his annoying voice still powered through. She rolled her eyes as she slid her pants on."Oi, relax Mom. If it bothers ya so much I'll text ya next time!""What were you two even doing? Macking lips?"Rayla's face cringed at the statement. "Eww, please don't ever say macking again." She shuddered. "That coming out of ya mouth sounds… wrong." Soren sighed in response. She smiled to herself as she could practically envision him rolling his eyes in irritation and stomping his foot. "Now quit ya whining! Coach Harrow'll be pissed if he finds out ya've been chilling in the locker room instead of getting warm ups started!""I'm—I was—hey, I'm checking on you!" he shouted back."Not what Harrow will think!" she teased back in singsong. She began sliding her cleats on and smirking proudly to herself as she did so."Just be ready!" he yelled before stomping off.Rayla chuckled to herself as she began tying her shoe. She figured Soren would get on her case about being a few minutes late, but she was a bit surprised he was curious about what she did with Callum. She supposed they really were friends in a way, as the only thing she picked up on from his curiosity and annoyance was concern for his friend and genuine intrigue. No doubt, he and Claudia were well aware of the two's night together and were curious about the follow up. Heck, she was too.She smiled as she maneuvered the next shoe over. Her gaze briefly flew over to her jacket, which was just lying on the bench. She looked at it fondly as she thought about the only thing that's been on her mind these past few days. The artist who donned the look and made it work. She shook her head. How could she have easily fallen like that? It was the first time she'd ever worn that jacket and not thought about football, but instead a person. A very sweet and passionate person, who was creatively hilarious in his own way.She fell hard.Suddenly, she noticed a slip of paper began sliding out the left pocket. She hurriedly grabbed it and unfolded the slip. Eyes widened as a faint blush fell upon her cheeks. A string of nine digits and a small, very cute, sketch of a football player throwing a football. Like a schoolgirl, she squealed to herself as she instantly grabbed her phone and began inserting the digits. Without hesitation, she texted him.
Well played.
Not even two seconds, and he sent back, Your move?
Game on.
Yeah, Rayla fell hard.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Surprise
Rayla didn't often like surprises. As an assassin in training, she grew up on focusing in on her senses and staying alert. Surprises were the speciality of assassins, and so she never made a point of getting surprised herself. Runaan taught her that religiously. So whenever the event occurred, it startled her. The first time Callum tried to surprise her, he covered her eyes and shouted, "Guess who?" All sense flew out the window along with Callum's whole body, as she twisted his arm and launched him over her shoulder. From then on, Callum made a habit of trying to get Rayla used to "fun surprises."That term sounded weird to Rayla.Mixing fun with an element of something she often attributed with danger, was strange contrast. But then again, it was a nice surprise the day she learned Callum loved her back. It was a nice surprise when a good portion of humans and elves, from both nations, began to accept the peace after the war. It was a nice surprise that Claudia and Soren settled on no hard feelings when they reunited with her and Callum. It was also a really nice surprise when Callum dropped on his knee and showed Rayla her ring. Eyes swelled up in tears and a choked, "yes," later, the two found themselves in a joyful marriage. Fast forward years later, two little halflings and a baby Sky Dragon later to be exact, she found herself with a family of five. That was a surprise.So of course, Rayla learned not to question Callum's desire to surprise her whenever proposed. It was why she easily closed her eyes and let him blindfold her. It was why she trusted him when he took her and the kids, also blindfolded, on a long, secretive carriage ride. It was also why, despite the sounds of waves crashing and the familiar, discomforted feeling of scattered sand at her feet, Rayla remained faithful in her husband. Because surely, after all their years together, he wouldn't dare."And now," Callum shouted, removing her blindfold, "surprise!"Rayla slowly peaked open her eyes and her face paled. It was exactly what she thought. A flooded floor of sand before her feet, and a large, vast oceanside staring down her path. Her body flinched as the next wave crashed at the nearby rocks aggressively. She felt her hold on her children's hands tighten at the sound of the water waving back and forth. Realizing the cause of this predicament, she turned and glared at her husband, who cleverly enough, was several feet deep into the sandy beach. She took it back. Surprises were still terrible."Callum," she said through gritted teeth."Yes my dear?" he sweetly replied, laying down a large blanket at his feet. She hated it when he was being sweet, especially when he was doing it deviously. That was her thing."I'm going to kill ya," she spat.Callum rolled his eyes. "Love you too!" he shouted as he began pulling off his clothes. Rayla couldn't help but stare at the man's sudden bare chest. He had obviously grown in health over the years, and his muscles definitely grew too. His body was more toned, and his calves were great. So maybe there wasn't that much of a downside to this, but Rayla was still mad. "I know you're staring!" he teased as he kicked off his boots. All he had on was a pair of beige pants, rolled up to his knees and an overwhelming large sense of pride. He was so smug looking at her nervous face. He was basically asking for a punishment.She was definitely making him big spoon tonight."Callum, we're going back to the cottage."He frowned. "Aww, c'mon Ray, what about the kids!" he gestured to them.Rayla looked down and noticed Lian and Isha were wearing nervous looks as well. "They're scared Callum!" she shouted back. "C'mon, we have to go! Ya can't make 'em do this if they're afraid!"Callum chuckled. "Ray, you let them learn Primal Magic with me and taught them self-defence, a little water won't hurt them!" he shot back. "Besides, how will they conquer their fears if they keep avoiding them?" he added with a sly smile.Rayla groaned. "I hate wizards," she whispered to her kids. "They're stupidly wise.""Mum said ya're stupidly wise Da!" Lian announced.Callum laughed. "Of course! Now, as your resident stupidly wise father, I suggest you all come on down and hop in!" He turned around and ran straight into the next wave, raising his arms high and wide as the water overwhelmed his body. Rayla's body jumped at the sight of her husband disappearing into her enemy element, but relief washed over like the water as she saw him emerge, near the coast of the beach. "See? It's fine!"Rayla released a shy smile as she looked at the kids once more. Lian slightly giggled at the sight of their father goofing off, but tightened his hold on Rayla's hand. Isha looked more pensive as she inched her foot forward and kicked the sand. They were still scared. "Callum…" she said strainingly."They're only nervous because you are," he retorted as he shrugged at her."Am not!" she shouted."If you say so Ray," he nonchalantly replied. A yip echoed out and another small splash emerged at Callum's feet. "Ahh see!" he smiled as he watched Zeusia hop out of the water and splash once more. "Zeusia loves it! And she's a Sky Dragon! They're practically opposite elements!"Rayla frowned. "Ya're a bloody Archmage, ya know they're not!"Callum shrugged again. "Whelp, as the only Archmage, I'm now declaring that they are!""Ya can't do that!""Why not?" he teased back. "You can't exactly stop me from doing what I want, since…" a smirk creaked on his lips, "you're all the way over there." He raised a sly brow as an annoyed frown fell on Rayla's face.He was so dead. "The second your shrivelled lil' wrinkly body crawls outta there, I'm beating ya with my bare hands!" Rayla roared as she stomped off. "C'mon kids, let's just sit in the cool shade while your father fools around!" She hurriedly led the two over to nearby tree and sat them down. Rayla now understood why Callum didn't let her bring her books or any of her gear, nothing else to entertain her and no weapons to throw at him. She hated that her husband was smart. As she sulked in the shade, she noticed Lian was boredly fingering a spool of grass whilst Isha looked over at the ocean.They were as bored as her. This was Callum's fault. She knew what he was trying to do, but this was a family vacation. Not a moral life lesson or anything. He was ruining their fun. Lian released a bored sigh as Isha slumped her shoulders. Rayla reached over and patted her daughter's back. "It's alright sweetie," she lovingly soothed, "Ya don't have to play in the water."Isha looked back at her mother and managed a small smile. "Okay Mum. I won't—"A sudden heavy, loud splash disrupted their focus. All eyes flew over to the water, where they immediately widened at the sight of a twisted snake-like stream of water, twirling high into the sky. At the base, floated Zeusia, who looked as if she had just hopped off the high skyscraper of water. At the top, rested Callum, who was coasting alongside the twirling water, waving down at the three. "Geronimooo!" he whooped as he hopped off.Rayla gasped as she covered her eyes. All she heard was a splash and a fit of laughter. Both Callum's and the kids'. She slowly peeked her eyes and saw the two laughing at their father splashing around. The two were closer to the sand and waving at him as he casually floated around his water tower. "See? Fun!""How'd ya do that Da?" Isha shouted."Ocean Magic, my little mage-in-training!" Callum shouted back. He lifted a finger and as it glowed bright blue, painted another Draconic symbol. Whispering into it, he pushed through the airborne letters and released a large wave out from under him. The wave skated across the shore of the beach and kept Callum afloat above, safe and sound. "If you want to learn…" he snapped his fingers and allowed himself to drop gracefully on the soft sand. "Hop in," he gestured a free hand toward her.Isha smiled as she took a step forward. The second her food connected to the sand, she froze up and looked over to her mother. With a pleading look, her eyes asked it all, "Can I go?"Rayla released a deep sigh and slowly nodded. "Be safe," she advised. Her daughter eagerly ran off, shedding herself of her garments with the acception of her wrappings underneath. Rayla watched with a strained smile as her daughter splashed in the water, laughing as her father attacked her with an obvious light and softened, water spell."Can I go too?"She looked at her youngest, and felt her heart quake at his delicate question. He pouted at her as he shyly swung his hands at his sides. Rayla nodded once more. "Stay close to your Da and sister. Don't go far from the shore, ya hear?""Yes Ma!" Lian shouted as he ran away. Of course, being the young'un that he was, he forgot to shed himself of his clothes and dove right into the water. Callum gasped in shock as Isha laughed at her younger brother's antics. Rayla merely facepalmed at the sigh of her husband trying to pull off her son's now heavily wet clothes.As she removed her hand she slowly smiled at the sight. At least they looked like they were having fun. Rayla knew that her kids got their fear of water from her. From their first baths, she realized that the fear had been instilled into them from her. Callum took responsibility of handling all baths after that, as he managed to amuse them with simple ocean spells to distract them during their cleaning. Rayla wished Magic could help her get over her fears. But she wasn't like her kids.Isha had a knack for magic and inherited Callum's curiosity, so she was more attracted to Magic. She still learned the basics of self-defence, as Rayla wanted her to, but mainly devoted herself to her father's teachings. Lian was more flexible but had a definite interest in fighting, despite being so relatively young. His interest in combat arose the same time Rayla began training as a young elf. Yet the sight of Magic and spells still entertained Lian's young mind, so he watched whenever he could. They had their reasons for being interested, so they had their reasons to ignore the ocean and live in the magical moment.And Rayla had…Her face dropped to a frown. She had her kids, she had them to look forward to everyday, their smiles and laughter. She had a new pet, a Sky Dragon who she declared to protect and take care of for the rest of her life. And she had her husband. A lovable idiot who, despite knowing her deepest fear, still pursued the chance to help her conquer it. Rayla's face shifted to a small smile. She definitely had something to help her live in the moment. She had multiple things that made her look forward to every single day. She had her happiness.She rose up from her spot and dusted away at her dress. With all that happiness, she could always shoot for ambitious goals. With a wide smile, she ran over to the shore. Running full speed, she jumped at her oblivious husband. With his back turned and in the middle of an incantation, she landed right on him. Wrapping her legs and arms around his entire body, she exclaimed, "I did it! I did it! I did it!" ignoring her husband's shrill shriek of surprise.Callum stumbled his footing as he tried to balance himself out whilst also grabbing onto Rayla's legs. "Whoa whoa, careful Ray!" he advised as he found his footing. "Don't go saying you did anything yet, you're not even touching the water!" he started leaning back, smirking smugly as he did so.Rayla's eyes widened as her grip tightened. "Don't drop me!" she squealed as she ducked her head into his back. Callum laughed as he stabilized himself. She quickly made a fist and lightly punched his back before grabbing back on him. "Shut it," she muttered."Ha, ha, Mum's scared!" Lian teased.Isha erupted in a fit of giggles. "Aww, Ma's afraid of the water!"Even Zeusia chimed in with her own yips of laughter.Rayla's face flushed. "Oh knock it off ya lot!" she barked. "Ya were feeling the same too!"Callum snickered. "Nah, I'm pretty sure they just felt bad for you."Rayla frowned she arched back her other fist, but halted a she noticed the scene before her. With a smirk, she placed both hands on Callum's shoulders and pushed herself off him, sending him forward. Somersaulting through the air backwards, she perfectly landed on her feet and smiled at the confused bunch before her. With a sly wave of her fingers, their collective faces dropped as they realized the increasing noise behind them. As soon as they all turned around, a huge wave collapsed on top of them, immersing them in water for a good few seconds. Rayla laughed boisterously as she clenched onto her stomach, ignoring the annoyed faces of her kids. Callum merely smiled warmly back at her. Wiping a tear from her eye, she released a content sigh.She supposed surprises weren't so bad every once in a while.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Clichéd Constellations
Clichés weren’t always a bad thing. Rayla’s come to realize that there are some moments in life, you just have to appreciate them for what they are. Moments. Just little snippets of reality, meant for you and only you. That was the philosophy Rayla stood behind, the idea she believed, all since she began crushing
hard
on her travelling partner.
Sure, it was cliché for her to fall for him. What with only having a month’s span of time together, realistically it made no sense. From the get go, she didn’t exactly
hate
Callum. Rayla wasn’t even sure if she was angry with him. She just wanted to do her duty. She wasn’t even sure if she
could
kill him. All she knew was that he looked in her eyes and sensed something. Like he knew she didn’t want to do it, or that she wasn’t going to do it. He just knew her.
He knew to trust her immediately too. On a whim, he betrayed his friend and ran to her aid, conjuring up a spell to save them both and his brother. A rocky and most bizarre start to a strange but fun adventure. The unlikely beginning of a travelling party.Throughout their entire journey, she’s come to rely on him, depend on him like a partner. Even when he didn’t trust her, she did with him. Because there was just something about him.
And from then on, they slowly found a mutual bond within each other. A shoulder to lean on, a laugh to share, and a target to tease. Slowly she found his smile to be the highlight of her days. She saw his unrelenting sarcasm and dry wit as funny in their own way. He just grew on her. More than she thought. Rayla didn’t have all the answers. She just knew Callum was important. Important in their mission, important in becoming the first human Mage, important to her.
Turns out something inside her grew too.
Her heart.
Slowly, his laugh became an elated tune she swooned over. His perky smile made her feel warm inside. And his jokes, still dry and stupid, were somehow funnier than she ever remembered. But most importantly, his
hands
. Ever since that night under the stars, next to the campfire, Rayla couldn’t help but
remember
his touch. They’ve held each other before—in embrace—but this was different. The way his hands slipped into hers so effortlessly. It just felt right just grew for Callum. Even with the slightest moment, the two of them just felt right to her. Even with a night under the stars.
“Are you sure that’s a dragon?” Callum’s question disrupted her deep focus, causing her to startle in her spot. He noticed her reaction and raised a brow. “Whoa, you okay?”
“Y-Yeah,” she answered immediately. “I was just thinking for a moment. What was your question?” she innocently asked.
Callum raised his head up from the grass to gaze at Rayla with a more curious look. The two were lying side by side once again, hands just barely an inch away from each other. He chuckled, shaking his head as he laid back to look up at the sky once more. “The fact that you weren’t even paying attention makes me believe it’s not true even more.”
Rayla looked back up at the sky and realized what he meant. She had just pointed out the constellation representing
Thunder
, the previous King of the Dragons, Zym’s father. A topic that hadn’t seemed to budge the sleeping dragon at their feet. She rolled her eyes at his statement. Unconsciously, she slipped her hand into his and dragged them about above them, pointing out the outlines of the stars. “That’s his horns at the top, then if ya trace it down there, you faintly get—”
“A beard?” Callum guessed. His head turned in thought. “Dragons have beards?”
“Kings do apparently,” Rayla teased.
“Hmm, you made that up,” he accused in a childish tone.
She snorted. “Duh, not all kings have beards I’m sure.”
“No not that, I mean that constellation,” he argued, shaking his finger up at said stars. “It’s just too big and weird.”
Rayla frowned at his statement. “Your people have a constellation dedicated to some hunter guy.”
“And yours have stories about a word in the sky,” he shot back. Sensing her annoyance, Callum glanced at her. “If you have to make up constellations to feel cooler, that’s fine. But don’t knock down my stuff too,” he cleverly added before gazing back at the stars.
She rolled her eyes as she brought her hand down. Or rather,
their
hands down. Her face instantly reddened as she realized: they were still holding each other’s hands.
Again
. This was the second night they stargazed, another night where they taught each other about their people’s astronomy, and it happened again. Zym was tuckered away near their feet, their campfire was burning on its last few embers, and a flatbed of grass cushioned underneath their bottoms. The very first night it happened, Rayla knew what it meant to her. This was what started her whole debacle. And here it was, the very same situation, and it caught her off guard again.
It was just too easy. Scarily easy how they could just slip their hands into each other’s with such ease. A night where there was an entire sky filled with stars, and Rayla’s focus wasn’t on the beauty above, but the boy beside her whose hand held hers. The constellations she pointed out outshone his, but he made a show of always being defensive. And she loved it. She loved hearing his people’s stories about their stars, no matter how absurd they seemed. She loved making fun of them just to get a rise out of him. Rayla just loved how it
always
worked too. Yes, she was far gone in the pits of smitten.
“Make it up to me,” he spoke up.
“W-What?” she said, half in a daze and half out of confusion. She blinked at him as he smugly smiled.
“Show me another,” he cheekily requested. “But a
real
one this time,” he teased.
A brief second passed and she realized what he was talking about. Rayla opened her mouth then paused. Quirking a brow, she stated, “But it’s your turn.”
He rolled his eyes. “Yeah, but now I’m afraid the next one I show you’re gonna say is either fake or make fun of it.”
She scoffed. “Aww, c’mon, ya know I don’t mean it!” He didn’t budge the frown on his face. “Don’t be such a baby!” After a few seconds of staring at him, she sighed. “What if I promise not to tease ya?”
“Swear?” he perked up with a somewhat hopeful look. He was such a child.
“Aye, my heart for Xadia,” she winked at him. “I swear on it.”
Callum seemed satisfied with her response, and somewhat embarrassed? A faint flush appeared on his cheeks, Rayla swore she saw, but he seemed to fight it back as he looked back at the sky. His focused remained above as Rayla’s breath hitched. For she felt his hands momentarily tighten around hers, leading above their bodies. She extended her finger, and allowed him to lead it around. It was at this point, she usually just gave up on following his finger. Subconsciously, she would remember the outline, but outwardly, her gaze trained on the embrace of their hands. Her gazing was not on the unity of the stars above, but their conjoined gesture below.
“Done,” he smiled proudly, lowering their hands once again.
Her eyes widened as she realized she actually wasn’t paying attention this time. “Wh-What? Sorry, I didn’t see.”
He frowned at her. “Are you trying to tease me by making me redo it?”
She chuckled. “No! I just… lost it for a second. Try again?” She extended her finger and smiled as he reluctantly conceded. She needed to be more careful. It was getting real bad for her. As their hands traced the sky, Rayla was much more focused on the outline Callum was drawing for her. And for a second, she just couldn’t believe it. It was very small, with the bottom of the image extending down with only three stars as its stem. But the top, it was clear as day. The cup-like form above, the small swirlish waves circled at the top, it was like a crude yet adorable attempt drawn by a child. It was a rose.
It looked… “Cute,” she uttered out softly.
Callum raised his brows. “C’mon, you said you wouldn’t tease!”
“I’m not!” she quickly defended. She smiled at Callum as she looked at his eyes, his sincere eyes. Because of course this meant a lot to him, of course it meant a lot that he showed her something so fragile and small. His passion was reserved on his sleeve, barely sheltered by his cuff whenever it was just them. Rayla knew this. He hadn’t shown her his drawings yet, as that was a step in a whole new direction. But this was a step forward. He was letting her see more of himself. “What’s it called?” she curiously asked.
“Nothing special,” Callum shrugged. “
The Rose
,” he simply supplied.
“Simple works,” Rayla shot back.
“Yeah… my—” he stopped himself. Rayla noticed and glanced over at his fallen expression. It looked saddened, but also laced with a small sense of content. There was something there. “Someone once said that to me,” he continued. Someone close. “She once told me that roses were a symbol of romance, and that whenever a couple found themselves underneath the brightness of
The Rose
, it’d seal their fates as lovers. So… as simple as it was, it works.” Callum’s face slowly grew into a small smile. “Ridiculously cheesy, I know.”
Rayla squeezed his hand, causing him to look back at her. “I don’t think so,” she softly said, “I mean roses, a night under the stars, that definitely sounds like a romantic moment.” She smiled at him. “Whoever… told ya that, they must’ve had a nice experience of their own.”
Callum gently nodded. “They did.”
A firm embrace between a few folded fingers, and a sea of stars scattered high above—it was sweet. Rayla knew it. It was the definition of cliché, and no doubt was something she’d blush about the morning after. But she didn’t care. Whatever was buried inside her mind subsided because it just didn’t matter. The moment between them was brighter than any star above them that night anyways.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Compromise
Rayla realized it was getting increasingly difficult to avoid Callum these days. What with the fact that, they travelled together the entire day and what not. After making it across the borders of Xadia, their pace gradually slowed. And with good reason. Security in Xadia was ten times greater than that of the human kingdoms, and so patrol scouts were a constant issue for their party. Couple that up with the multiple towns along their way, the two decided caution and pacing would be a better approach. So each day began with a decent trek, then ended around evening with a decent camp set up in either a clearing or cave. Rarely ever would they make the risk to rest in an inn, mainly because of their low income or lack thereof.Regardless, that meant a good approximate twelve hours of their day was spent with the two going on a stroll with a baby Storm Dragon. Zym would casually saunter between the two, perkily yipping and smiling at every possible turn. Callum remained simply enamoured with every piece of scenery they came across. The flora and fauna became notes of his that he wished to sketch one day, and the towns exerted this energetic culture he seemed to envy. Rayla knew her companions were enjoying their travelling.But she was struggling. Not because her partners were a nuisance, or were slowing her down. But because a recent development of their very first night in an inn, set a large fire inside Rayla. Now, each and every night she made an effort to delay or progress themselves to the point where taking residence in a town or village was not an option. Because while she loved sleeping in beds and wrapping herself up in nicely made blankets, she just had to avoid the discomforting thoughts that came with staying at an inn. She had to avoid them at all costs."Hey Rayla, you said the next town's only two hours away right?" the artist suddenly spoke up. Her face slightly dropped, but the boy was a foot ahead and was set on looking forward. "I bet if we hustle we'll make it just in time for sun-down!" He offered a warm smile as he glanced down at Zym. "Whattya think buddy, think we'll make it?" An excited yip from him was all he needed to hear. "What about you Rayla?"She smiled at him. "Uhh, I suppose so," she answered. "But, are ya sure ya can make it? I don't mind sleepin' outside."Callum shook his head. "Nah we can do it. Besides, I know how much you love the beds in the inns!" He laughed as he began hurried his pace, waving both Rayla and Zym to follow. "Plus, gives me more of a reason to try out my elf impression!"Rayla rolled her eyes. "Fine fine," she chuckled. "But I'm so not witnessing that embarrassment again! This time, I'm talking!" she shouted as she ran after the boy.::::"One bed again… huh?"Rayla's luck was just terrible.Callum awkwardly laughed as he set his bags down on the nightstand beside their bed. It was pathetically small, most likely intended for one person, but they didn't exactly have spending money for a two beds nor a bigger one. "Whelp, maybe this means the blankets are softer?" the boy suggested as he began feeling the material laid out. His face grew into a smile. "Ooh, Ray, it is soft!" he said in awe.She forced a smile at him. "Are… are ya sure ya're comfortable sharin' with me?" she gently asked. "I-I can sleep on the floor, we do have camping gear after all, it wouldn't be any worse than a cave—""Pfft, c'mon," he casually waved his hand, "I know you prefer the bed! Besides, we've slept in worse conditions right?"Rayla's face flushed as she recalled the last inn. A shared bed, a small blanket, a very, very close embrace—"Rayla?" She met his concerned stare. "You okay? You're kinda red."She shook her head. Her cheeks were really warm. "O-Oh, yeah, I'm fine," she awkwardly smiled. She rubbed her arm as she made her way over to the bed. "It just looks cramped is all."Callum's face fell into a frown. "Hey, if it bothers you that much you know I can sleep on the floor—""No!" His eyes went wide. Rayla shut her mouth as she took a deep breath. "I… it's fine. We can share. But… ya can go to bed first. I'll keep watch for bit, just to be safe." She turned around and walked over to the window, intently focused on avoiding—and ignoring—Callum's gaze. She was doing a terrible job at hiding her problems. "Callum, go to bed," she ordered.He sighed. "Rayla… just tell me, what's bothering you?"She turned around. "Nothin'.""Nothing?""Nothin'," she affirmed."Really?""Really," she gritted her teeth.Callum smugly raised a brow. "Your tone suggests otherwise…"She stomped her foot. "Callum!"He raised his arms. "Don't get all mad!" He laughed. Zym took the opportunity to jump up into the bed. "She's being ridiculous, right?" Zym tipped and left his tongue to hang. "See? Zym agrees!""No he doesn't," Rayla frowned.Callum rolled his eyes. "Well he certainly thinks your being weird." He shot the dragon another look. "Right?" Zym nodded, then rolled over on his back, offering his belly up to Callum. He easily complied and began scratching the young prince's stomach. "Now why can't you tell me what's bothering you?"Rayla sighed. "It's… complicated…" she muttered under her breath."What?""I said it's complicated!""How so?"She rolled her eyes. "Because it is!"He frowned. "Then I'll sleep on the floor.""No!""Then you want to sleep on the floor?""Yeah—I mean, I'd prefer not to but—""Then what's wrong?" he asked. Rayla stopped herself from shouting in frustration as she saw the innocent expression plastered on his face. She realized she wasn't exactly being open about her issue, and so she wasn't exactly helping. "If it's about sharing, we've done it plenty of times already. Heck, we've even done it in caves too even though we didn't need to!" He smiled. "I think we're comfortable enough around each other to the point we can handle sharing a bed.""That's exactly the issue!" she screamed.Zym startled at the pitch and shot yo on his feet whilst Callum jumped in his seat, clearly shaken from her scream. The two merely stared at each other for a moment, Callum confused and Rayla red-faced. Zym glanced back and forth between the two, curiously expecting some sort of development to occur. After a good moment, Callum rubbed the back of his head. He let out a laugh as he looked at Rayla. "I'm… sorry?" His smile seemed to grow as he innocently shrugged. "Guess I never considered that sharing a bed with my girlfriend would be such a problem?"Rayla released a long and annoyed groan. "No it's not because of that, ya idiot," she barked, ignoring the smugness laced within his smile. "I'm just… ugh!" She crossed her arms as she kicked the dust at her feet. "Nevermind, it's stupid," she mumbled as she walked over to the other side of the bed. "Let's just sleep!" she suggested after she blew out the candle and sat down at the edge.Callum chucked as he leaned over across the bed and knelt behind her. "Ray…" he softly teased, "c'mon…" He wrapped his arms around her, offering a small peck at her cheek.She sighed once more. "Fine…" she relented. Turning around, she faced him with resolve as he backed away to create some space. "I wanna be lil' spoon tonight."He stared at her, befuddled. "What?""Nearly every single night we've… cuddled, ya've been the lil' spoon. I wanna be lil' spoon," she asserted more defensively. "One night ya tossed over and I… like being lil' spoon," she admitted with a small smile.Callum raised a brow and opened his mouth."But I know ya like it too!" she quickly added, lowering her head. "So I don't wanna take that away from ya, because I also like spooning ya too…" she hastily muttered under her breath. "So… I'd just… I'd prefer if we can make a compromise…" As soon as she looked up she regretted it.Callum was trying so hard not to laugh, it looked like it was hurting his face. She scowled at him. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" he hastily apologized. "But…" he snorted. "Rayla… c'mon, it's us," he smiled, "of course we can work out a compromise!"She let out a sigh of relief, then smiled. "I… I know."Callum laughed as he laid down on the bed, patting the empty space in front of him. "Now c'mon, we'll sort out the Spoon Schedule in the morning—""Don't call it that.""—for now, allow me to cuddle with my girlfriend," he cheekily declared.With a happy nod, Rayla slipped into the comfort of her boyfriend's arms, signing contently as he slipped his arms around her. Being a little spoon was a pleasure. She'd confess to that any day.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Good Greetings
Warmth.That was the way Rayla's mornings always began. The very second her mind started to retain some semblance of consciousness, she felt a comforting warmth press up against her forehead. And each and every morning, she smiled with her eyes shuttered because she knew the source of her warm rise was none other than the Mage sleeping with her. Or rather, awaken before her. The very second she peered her eyes open, they were met with a glowing, graceful sunrise outlining itself around the one boy she admired so much. In other words, a very good start to a day."Well, someone certainly looks happy," Callum teased as he stroked a loose strand of hair from Rayla's face.She chuckled as she blinked her eyes into focus. "What? Can't a girl just enjoy a nice mornin'?" she inquired with an elated pitch. Rising up, she propped her elbow on the grass beneath her and rested her face in the palm of her hand. "Besides, the morning view's certainly something."The boy before her developed a small blush, but shook it off with a laugh. "How is it that it's been barely a minute and you already have something to quip?" he pondered at her with a longing look, to which she smiled gleefully."Well how do ya nearly always manage to wake up a minute before me, just in time for a morning kiss?" she shot back.He proudly smirked. "It's easy to wake up when you're reminded of something important," Callum stated confidently.Rayla rolled her eyes. "In that case," she leaned over, bridging the gap between them with only a hair of an inch, "I guess ya can say the same for my quips!"Callum grinned. "Good to know I'm important too.""Like ya didn't already know," she mused, lightly thumping his chest."Good to be reminded every now and then." He winked back."Aye, but how 'bout ya remind me how good morning kisses are?" she teased with an arched brow. "I've seem to forgotten?"A sly smirk formed on his lips. "Gladly." And a comforting heat soon exchanged between them.::::Warmth.The very exact feeling Callum felt every single evening, before taking his evening nap. Not often did he do so, but when the opportunity was presented or if that was the only chance for rest, Callum would find himself embraced with a pair of soft, supple lips up against his temple. A sudden warmth would stir up inside his mind, and then like wildfire, spread throughout his body—creating a tingling sensation that would send him into a comforting slumber. This presence lasted him a good cycle of sleep, enough to dream a good dream, with a lot more warmth involved, but most importantly made him feel safe.He spared a quick, cheeky peek at the perpetrator and smiled at the sight of the girl sneakily walking away. She would always be perched a good distance away, crouched down at some vantage point perfect for her highly trained ears. She always made sure to look away, her back toward him as if she knew he would be peeking at her. Of course, she knew he knew, but she still made the effort of hiding it. She simply just crossed her arms and glanced off into the distance, eyes toward the horizon of the setting sun. Callum couldn't help but gander at the gleam outlined before him.It was perfect.She stood there, basking in the remaining light of the sun, cautiously looking off to their surroundings, wary as ever. She glistened with the streams of sunlight and relaxed in the comfort of a slowly rising darkness—her element. Callum gave up on fighting his smile the first time around. At this point, it was routinely of him to watch her before he slept. Which, obviously sounded creepy out of context, so he never made a habit of bringing it up in fear of relentless teasing."Oi, go to sleep."And, so much for that attempt.He released a fake snore as he shut his eyes.Rayla giggled. "For real," she slightly pressed. He could hear her footsteps approaching. "Or is this flat cave too hard on your bottom?" she asked in a baby voice.Callum peeked one eye open and smirked at her taunting pout. "Hardy har," he sarcastically shot back. "It's not the ground, it's the lack of comfort that has me so restless!" he dramatically exclaimed.Rayla rolled her eyes. "I'm not cuddling. I told ya, I take watch for a bit," she stoically stated.He pouted back. "Well how can I sleep?" He furrowed his brows as he grew a frown, "You kissing me all the time before I wink out certainly doesn't help me tucker out. In fact it's the opposite effect!" The assassin's brows rose. "Oh, not… not in that way, but—you know what I mean!" he hastily shouted.Rayla burst into a fit of giggles, kneeling closer to the boy at her feet as she held her stomach. Callum merely watched with a blank face as his girlfriend tried to compose herself. "Sorry, sorry, I'm tryin'—""To tease me.""Aye, always," she cleverly quipped. Proudly smug at his frown, Rayla sunk down and grabbed Callum's head with both hands, holding both cheeks within her palms. "But, no, seriously? Do me a favour and actually try to catch a few winks?" She leaned in and pecked his lips, kissing his edges ever so delicately. So brief, but long lasting—just like the sunset. "We'll cuddle later."Callum sighed as he watched her walk back to her spot. What a ridiculous request. Like it was that easy.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Picking Pain & Plants
“What’re ya doing?”The sudden arrival of Rayla’s voice sent Callum into a startled shriek. He stumbled away from the bush, ungracefully landing on his rear and hands. He looked over at the confused Elf, who was notably holding Zym in her arms. He too perked his head in interest, curious about what was going on. Rayla however, remained concerned. Her face scrunched up with worried brows as her lips dropped to a pout. In all honesty, Callum had no idea what he was doing himself.He never thought picking flowers would be so hard, yet here he was. Covered in dirt and soil, a few questionable stains that either came from the flora he was set to remove, or some creature of some sort. Regardless, he had no back up plan.“Ummm… picking… flowers?” he slowly edged out.Rayla’s expression remained as it was, worried and confused. “Why?”“Uhh… because they looked pretty?” he took a shot in the dark. It wasn’t exactly false, they were beautiful. It was precisely the reason why he was drawn to them in the first place. Near the base of the olive coloured bush, laid an assortment of blue-violet flowers, with the petals forming a ball-like cup, and the stamen coated over with a light luminescent yellow. It reminded him of her. And like a child on instinct, he stopped in his tracks and immediately tried to pick some. But as it turned out, flowers have these things called roots, and so Callum was met with some resilient force.Rayla merely stood still and stared at Callum as he helped himself to his feet. “But… those are…” she seethed as her shoulders rose in fear. “Ya do know those are poisonous, right?”Callum’s face dropped within an instant. And then so did his body.:::After a short seven minutes, Rayla managed to cleanse Callum of the irritation contact that arose from the flowers he had been interested in. The two were sitting on a nearby log, with Zym encouragingly watching from the base of their feet as Rayla worked her magic—figuratively, not literally. With a dab of a cold wet cloth, she caressed his hands, carefully observing them as she did so. “Yeesh, what made ya want to stop and sniff the roses?” she jested, dabbing his palms once more. “They looked pretty,” he repeated once more, as if that was an answer.“No duh,” she replied, “I meant, what made ya just stop walking and just start going on a flower hunt?” Rayla looked up at Callum. It was then she noticed how elusive his eyes were, how deadset they seemed on staring at Zym. “Callum?” She followed his sightline and realized he was actually staring at the set of flowers he attempted to collect. “ Callum .”Like he’d been awoken from a daze, he whipped his head back at her. “Yeah?”“What is up with ya and those flowers?” she inquired. He shrugged. “What can I say? They look pretty.”She scoffed as she dabbed his hand once more, hard . As he winced from the cold sting, she shot him a look. “Now ya might not be able to feel your hands for an hour or so. They’re numb from all the contact they’ve had and all the odour they’ve picked up. Ya’re not allowed to pick anything up until ya can feel them again, okay?” He seemed uninterested, or at least, more amused at the idea and so Rayla followed up with a remark, “Next time something’s pretty, sketch it instead of touching it, okay?”He merely chuckled softly in response.She felt weird, about how lacklustre that was of a reply, and so she added, “Be more careful, okay?”Callum nodded. “Yes Ma’am.” he offered a two fingered salute and smiled.Zym immediately perked up and hopped onto his lap and with that, they continued their trek.::::Their walk was short lived. Callum knew he was getting distracted, but he couldn’t help it. It wasn’t because he couldn’t feel his hands. Though the numbness was annoying and very discomforting, he simply ignored the strange feeling as he looked around. Xadia just had so many beautiful things. The flora practically emitted magic from their roots. The wildlife seemed to bask in magical prowess and beauty, it just left him dumbfounded. All this wondrous light, and it all seemed to precious and pure. Everything caught his eye. He wanted to sketch it all, to roughly lay out the background and foreground and establish a set of colours—to canvas this world with a poor copy of a painting, because he could never actually capture such scenery. It was all so beautiful.And it all reminded him of her so much.Rayla’s home was definitely a place filled with exciting adventures. He doubted she ever got bored within the borders of Xadia. Every acre they walked turned up newer and more magical walks of life and setting. The insects and birds, the sounds of their instrumental chirping and hollering, were an elegance of their own. The array of plants and leaves, with how they arranged themselves into a scattered but coloured pathing, it was mesmerizing. Vines hanging high and low of strange patterned cold colour schemes. Bushes had bold colder but more beautiful, eye catching combinations spread around them. It wasn’t long before Callum found himself distracted again. A good hour into their walk, starting from their recent hiccup, was slightly smooth sailing before he noticed another collection of flowers. These ones were at the foot of a tree, and stemmed fairly close together from the ground. Their stems were a dark green, pricked with spots of olive. The petals were also cupped, like the ones before, but were violet with splashes of olive coated around the edges, and its stamen—a glowing white beacon. It was easily the eye of Callum’s beholder. He spared one glance ahead of him, noticing Rayla’s attention seemed focused on Zym and his perky desire to munch on every insect in sight. Now was his chance. This time, Callum approached the flowerset slowly and carefully, readying his fingers around the stems as he squatted down before them. His hands hesitated as his eyes reflected the golden gleam of the white stamen within the flowers. It was just so captivating. Slowly, his hands curled around a good bunch, grouping together four flowers. There was a slight, strange feeling he felt from holding them close, but he chalked that up to the numbness in his hands.With one quick motion, he swept his hands high, yanking the bunch straight out from the ground. It turned out he used a lot more force than he anticipated, and so he flew back from his squat and fell on his back. During his fall, he caught a brief flash of the flowers within his grasp, launching high above him and scattering about. It was a pain, as he now had to gather them and neatly arrange them, but his focus was more on the actual pain stemming from his palms. Releasing a loud, painful wail, Callum rolled around on the ground, screaming in agony as he clenched his now bleeding hands. The pain was so sharp and cold, it stung worse than any wasp. The last he recalled before passing out was a worried Zym rushing to his aid, and very terrified looking Rayla kneeling beside him. Bright side was he could at least feel his hands again.::::After a good fifteen minute break, Callum finally came to. And was immediately met with a fury of rage. “What the hell were ya thinkin’?” Rayla shouted. “Ah, I know the answer, ya weren’t!” she hastily added, “Why would ya start touching things when ya know nothin’ about the area!” She paced back and forth, shaking her head as she continued, “Honestly, ya’ve got me thinkin’ ya have some sorta death wish or somethin’! After what just happened earlier this mornin’, why would ya touch more flowers! Especially ones with thorns!”Zym remained seated during her rant, simply glancing back and forth between the two. Callum was laying down on a sleeping bag they recently acquired, wrapped heavily in a blanket. Well tucked in too. He barely managed to make sense of what Rayla was ranting about, as his senses were just returning. He instantly winced as he moved his hands, a reaction that definitely caught Rayla’s attention. “Hey, don’t move!” she ordered, stomping her foot at him, losing all sense of bite in her tone. “Your bandages are still new, I don’t wanna ruin ‘em!”Callum nodded as he sunk back down. “Right… of course…” he managed to say.That seemed to light a fury in Rayla’s eyes. “Oh don’t go actin’ like ya finally understand me! Because if ya had, ya wouldn’t be like this to begin with!” she shouted, waving her arms about infuriatingly. “What the hell were ya even touching those for? And don’t ya dare say it was ‘cause they looked pretty!” she barked out, pointing an accusatory finger his way with a vengeance. “I…” Callum closed his mouth. Rayla raised a skeptical brow, expecting a witty remark or a cleverly thought out retort of some sort, but nothing followed out of the Mage’s mouth. Nothing except his element, just a breath of air exhaled from his lips as he hung his head low. Since when did he ever do that? He simply accepted defeat without a fight. “What is up with ya?” she softly asked.Callum glanced up from his sadness and let out a sigh. “It’s… it’s stupid.”Rayla rolled her eyes as she knelt before the boy. She wanted to push, but she knew better than to stay mad. “Callum, ya’ve done plenty stupid things. The list can’t get any worse,” she mused. It was a slam on him, but in a more light-hearted reassuring way. He managed a small smile, which in turn made Rayla smile back.Another deep breath, and Callum shook his head. “I… I just…” he glanced over at his bag, which laid near him. Beside it, rested his satchel sketchbook. He reached over and began flipping through the pages, ignoring Rayla’s obvious confusion. “I just wanted to give you something that well… reminded you of how… cool you are,” his voice dropped into a soft spoken hesitance as he turned the book toward her, “But I don’t think this means anything.”Rayla’s hands trembled as she held Callum’s precious book, the one thing she had never been able to see for herself, let alone hold. The page he’d shown her, was a rough sketch of a flower. It didn’t look like it was of an actual flower, or at least, not of one they had passed on their travels. It was very sharp, with its stems pricking outward a coat of small thorns, shaded with extensive care and reworks. The petals bloomed into a wide spread, each one folding intricately into the next—similar to that of a ball gown, creating a puffy outline of petals surrounding a stud of a stamen in the centre. It was small and the buds were very round, sketched to a perfection of a sphere, but it was captivating. It was just a flower.Rayla blinked out of her trance as she realized she’d been staring for a while now. She glanced at Callum, and noticed his shyness enveloping him. Rayla looked to Zym, who seemed to encouragingly nod over to the sulking artist. Right, Rayla remembered, words are what he needed. She continued to blink at the drawing in awe. Like, any words would have to do. “It’s… wow…” She looked back at Callum as she very cautiously thumbed over the details of the drawing. “What made ya want to do this?” came her soft question.Callum’s gaze did not stray from the grass. “I… I dunno… I just wanted to try sketching flowers. But, after I saw all the ones today—they all seem so much better.” He raised his head at Rayla as he found her eyes. “Because every single one reminded me of you… and your culture and well…” his voice trailed off as his gaze flew elsewhere, “they… for… you,” he muttered under his breath.Rayla’s brows rose as she processed what he was trying to say. Taking one more glance between the sketch and the artist, she was dumbfounded. She shook her head as she leaned over. Placing a hand on his shoulder, she said, “I was wrong… ya are stupid,” she thumped the top of his head with his own sketchbook, then flashed a pearly white smile. “For even thinkin’ that a flower made by ya wouldn’t outshine all the others.”She stood up and admired the piece one more, before handing it back. “When ya get the chance, ‘pick’ me some more would ya?”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sharing is Caring
Rayla wasn't exactly big on revenge. Or rather, she just had a strong sense of justice. She had never taken a life before, even though she knew that the reasons she fought for were justified, she also knew balance would never be restored. She understood that punishment must be dealt to people who commited ill deeds, but acting out of spite of revenge would only loop an endless cycle. Callum taught her that. He taught her that change has to start somewhere, and while it may be difficult, some have to start changing things even if it's harder on them. And right now, things were especially hard on Rayla.It was late into the night. This time, they decided to go the extra mile and really push themselves before taking camp, and so they continued walking well into the evening. The moon was bright out, and the land around them illuminated from its reflected light as well as the natural lighting from the plant life. They had taken shelter in a small cave, just at the foot of a hillside. Rayla had taken the opportunity to keep watch whilst Callum set up a campfire. But alas, the moment Rayla dreaded had come, dinner.Due to their limited amount of resources and time, food had always been a second priority in travelling. They usually made room for about two to three meals a day, but what those meals often lacked… satisfaction. They would be enough to get the nutrients needed to get them energized and going, however, saying they were pleased with their meal would be a stretch. Feeding Zym was never really an issue as wherever they spent the night, there was almost always a nest of insects or a group of bugs ripe for Zym's taking. It was only a matter of looking away when he feasted on the insectoids. Their usual routine would be picking the berries around their area, and since they were in Xadia, they had a large spread of moonberries at their disposal.Or at least, that was the plan.But a recent discovery ended with… a drastic change in meal plans. And now? Rayla just couldn't help but feel guilty for what she was putting her boyfriend through. Their current situation stood as this, Zym was off nearby a small crack in the wall, pestering a swarm of ants he'd seen upon entering the cave. Rayla was enjoying herself to a baked sunberry bread she had heated over the campfire, courtesy of her Callum—for both the bread and the campfire. As she munched on her chewy soft bread, she chewed with a frown as she heard the discomforted noises erupting behind her. Guilt eating up inside her, she couldn't fight her urge to look back at him. And she instantly regretted it.Rayla was met with a very pitiful sight. Callum, who was sat beside the campfire, was in the middle of downing another bottle of moonberry juice. Or rather, forcing himself to. Upon reaching halfway of his recent bottle, Callum's face scrunched up as he removed the drink from his lips, gagging at the opportune moment of air. He wiped his mouth with his sleeve as he launched himself into a coughing fit. Wincing at each cough, Rayla let out a deep sigh."Ya know… I do have sunberry bread to spare," she spoke up. Picking a piece off and gesturing toward him, she offered, "Ya can have some."Instantaneously, Callum glanced over at Rayla and rapidly shook his head. Smiling apologetically, he raised the half empty bottle and said, "No, no! This is fine! I just… drank too much too quickly is all. Went down my throat roughly." He let out a laugh and then proceeded to chug the bottle whole. "Besides, it's like you said, these have all the basic nutrients needed to get through a day!"Rayla managed a small smile as she watched him pop open another bottle. Any thoughts or words she had in mind dissipated at the sight of Callum reluctantly downing another bottle of moonberry juice. Rayla let out another sigh as she chewed on the piece she picked off. He had been like this ever since the night she learned he hated moonberry juice. Ever since, Callum started giving Rayla his sunberry bread and as well let her have full rights over their spending, allowing her to buy whatever she wanted to eat. Callum on the other hand, wanted nothing to do with it. It seemed like he was suddenly very adamant about ingesting moonberry juice and moonberry juice alone. He told Rayla he learned to make it himself from watching her, and started going off on escapades to satisfy his quench.In actuality, Rayla knew he just felt guilty. And it hurt her that he was being so stubborn about it. Another cough echoed throughout the cave, causing Rayla to release an annoyed groan."Callum for the love of Xadia, just have some of my bread!" she shouted, whipping her body around as she waved the loaf in the air. "Ya're practically choking yourself over there!"Callum desperately shook his head as he raised the bottle at her. "No, no, no, I'm—""Not fine," Rayla interjected. "Ya're not fine in any way! Honestly, just have some of my bread, ya bought this too!""It's for you though, and Zym, if he wants some," Callum pointed out. "I can," a cough escaped him, "I can handle… this." He cleared his throat and smiled at Rayla, proud as ever."Ya make it sound like ya're dying," she stressed with a blank face. "I get it, ya don't like moonberry juice! Stop suffering over there and makin' me feel bad and we'll swap!" She gestured her bread toward the boy, and with a free hand, motioned him to come forward."No," Callum persisted. "I might not like the flavour, but I can learn to love it.""Callum, that's the dumbest thing ya said today," Rayla monotonously fired back. "Ya don't have to force yourself to like or love anythin' if it's hard for ya. Besides, I prefer moonberry juice over this sunberry bread anyways, so…""But I was hiding it from you for weeks," Callum addressed, with a small voice. "And… that was a very stupid thing for me to do. You were out foraging and collecting food for us and I spent our money on food for myself because I couldn't stomach something that saved us money." He sighed as he sunk his head. "I… need to make it up to you, so…" he raised the bottle high. "Bottom's up!" Before Rayla could even stop him, he chugged the remainder of the drink, letting it pass deep into his throat. Not even a second had passed, and the poor Mage's face instantly filled with a repulsive look, almost as if he was wishing he could vomit. Rayla winced at the very audible gag he released, and sighed as he threw himself into another coughing fit.Having enough of his stupidity, Rayla walked over to Callum. She sat before him and gestured the bread toward the boy. "Eat this," she ordered."But I'm—""Not fine at all," Rayla interjected. Trying again, she shook the bread in his face and narrowed her brows. "Eat this," she sternly spoke, "Or so help me Thunder, I'll shove it down your throat!"Immediately the Mage swiped the bread out of her hands and munched away. As he chewed his bread, Rayla let out a sigh of relief as she watched him eat and savour his meal for a change. She glanced down at the pack of bottles laid out beside him. It was a simple three by six, tied together by thread. The same six bottles they washed and reused for the countless refills of moonberry juice. The same bottles that started this whole fiasco. Rayla picked up a spare bottle and observed it, smiling at the familiar item."It's really rough on your throat, isn't it?" she stated nonchalantly.Callum swallowed, and with much reluctancy, nodded. "It feels too… viscous, it's so thick but bitter, I just, I can't enjoy the taste."Rayla scoffed as she placed the bottle back on the ground. "Because it's like medicine. Good medicine tastes bitter."Callum chuckled. "Is that your way of saying you're taking care of me?"Rayla laughed in response, throwing a light punch against Callum's shoulder. "Hah! When ya do dumb stuff like this it's kinda hard not to!" The two shared another laugh that seemed to peak Zym's interest, causing him to retreat and return to their sides. They dwelled in a comforting silence before Rayla spoke. "I… I appreciate that ya wanted to make it up to me," she lightly began, "but, don't go forcing yourself to do anything ya don't like. Especially if it's for me." Her eyes remained heartfelt and soft as she pierced through Callum's hesitance. "Because I want ya to enjoy your own things too."He smiled at her. "I… it was just about that. I think as a well… what we are now, travelling together as… a couple, I need to step up," he admitted earnestly. "I wouldn't mind suffering if it was for you."A brief flash of Dark Magic and passed out Callum flew into Rayla's mind for a moment.She frowned. Shaking her head, she placed a hand on her boyfriend's shoulder, staring into his eyes. "Thank ya…" she smiled, "It means a lot to me that ya'd be willing to do that, because I would too… for you." Callum seemed to brighten at the reply and motioned to take another bite, but was stopped by Rayla's grip. He confusedly glanced at her soft eyes. "But," she added, "I'd appreciate it if suffering wasn't a necessity…"Callum opened his mouth then stopped himself. He looked contemplative but managed a small nod. "We'll see." It was a safe response. It was a reasonable response. It made Rayla happy. "We'll try."With a smile, she followed up with a wink as she raised the moonberry juice once more. "Aye, I'll drink to that."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Favourites
"Alright, how 'bout favourite colour?"Callum paused his sketching as he took a moment to glance over at Rayla. She was laying down on her back, head up in the clouds. The two were sharing a blanket and sitting outside on the quad, during a pretty vacant time of the day. Rayla has her arms rested underneath her head and her legs bent and crossed over each other. Callum was sat just a few inches away, cross legged with a sketchbook and pencil in hand. He took a moment to stare something Rayla, observing her outfit of the day. A simple pair of black ripped jeans with a bold black pair of timberlands to bottom it out. Her shirt, a gray v-neck with a graphic that said, Play Hard Eat Harder, was slightly obscured by the large burgundy coloured varsity jacket she had donned on.Callum smirked, and taking a shot in the dark, answered, "Burgundy?"Rayla snorted as she turned her head to face him. "Why? Because it's our school's colours?" she mused."I mean something has to sell it for you if you keep wearing that around," the artist pointed out, lightly tapping her arm with his pencil.The Scottish girl laughed as she shook her head, clearly amused with his reasoning. "Nice try, but no. I actually thought it was kinda obvious?" She gestured to her white hair, presumably focusing on the purple streaks highlighted within them.Callum smirked. "Purple?""Violet, but yeah," she corrected.He snorted. "That's not violet. That's like, basic purple." Rayla shot him an unimpressed look. "What? I'm an art student! I know violet and that's like, close to violet, but not."Rayla rolled her eyes. "Way to shoot down all my money spent on this then," she muttered as she flicked a strand of her purple streaks. "If ya know so much about colours and shading, how do ya not know it only looks brighter because of the sun?" she gestured to said sun with a dramatic wave of her hand.Callum squinted at her for a moment, then nonchalantly resumed his sketching. "Your hair blends well with it. It's a good contrast, looks good on you, but it stays bright in any shade and matches the white so no, it's not the sun.""Wow," Rayla smirked. She turned over and rested her head in the palms of her hands, propping her elbows up on the blanket. "Did ya just compliment me?" she gleamed with a wide grin.Callum's brows rose as his cheeks faintly flushed. "S-Seriously? That's the takeaway from all of this?"Rayla laughed as Callum attempted to return to his sketching. "Sorry, it's not often an artist compliments your style." Said artist merely rolled his eyes at her remark "Anyways… your favourite colour's…" she squinted at him, and Callum couldn't decide if it was to mock him or if it was actually for observation. "Hah, I bet yours is red."His brows rose in surprise as he looked at her. "Wow, that's, right? How'd you know?""It's twenty-five degrees out and ya're wearing a red scarf?" she casually pointed out, gesturing to his body.Callum glanced down and laughed. He supposed it was kinda obvious. No sane person would just don a red scarf in scalding hot weather unless they had some attachment to it. And, the red scarf, while it did mean something, also complimented his blue cardigan and beige khakis. Then again, he was essentially wearing a Fall outfit in the prospering beginning of spring. "Fair point," he acknowledged. He glanced down at his sketch and frowned. He was trying to sketch her, secretively, but she kept tossing and turning so much his reference was getting jagged."Oi, when are ya gonna tell me what ya're sketching?" Rayla whined as she turned on her back, looking up at the clouds.Internally, Callum groaned. "It's nothing, just a dumb idea," he dismissed. In actuality, the conversation seemed easier to avoid with him not bringing up the topic at all. It definitely wasn't because he was embarrassed to ask her once again.She scoffed. "Ya said that about your painting with the old oak tree! Soren said ya brushed it off non-stop. But it's one of the top showcases displayed in the Gallery in the art department to this day."A small smile grew on Callum's lips. "You… you check the gallery there too?" He was surprised. He knew she was a fan of his work, but he didn't think she admired him that much.She sat up from her spot and punched his shoulder. "Knock it off!" she barked. "I already told ya… I like lookin' at your art sometimes." Rayla turned her head and glanced down at the ground. "It's… nice to look at. It's why I wanna see your studio more often, to see what else ya've got in the works."Callum smiled at her as he nodded. "Of course, you will." He closed his book and shrugged. "But, not until I've got more to show you," he added.Rayla seemed satisfied with his answer and nodded back, smiling at him. Just as he was about to return to his sketching, she nudged him with her elbow. "Hey, it's your turn."He stopped and paused. Right, they were trying to learn more about each other. Thinking to make some fun out of it, the two turned it into a guessing game, trying to guess the other's favourites. So far he's learned her favourite season is Fall, like him, and that pizza is her favourite guilty pleasure food—his was tacos from Taco Bell. She loved Star Wars, but loved Lord of the Rings more in terms of trilogies, but Princess Bride always had a special place in her heart for a go-to film. In truth, a lot of their questions were silly and basic, like favourite day of the week or time of day; all asked mainly to spark more conversation. Apparently they both agreed Thursday was a good day and that anything past midnight was fun. Of course Callum was a night owl for obvious reasons, but Rayla had her fair share of staying up just for the fun of it. It was a lot more fun that they both expected.Callum pondered the idea and settled on something related to arts."Favourite artist?" he asked. He smugly smirked to himself. Call him a cheat, but there was no real win for her here. It wasn't like his was impossible to guess, but more so just something no one would think of the first time around."Hmmm," she contemplatively stared at him as she placed a hand on her chin. A good half-minute seemed to pass, leaving Callum to chuckle at her deep concentration. "The Beatles?" she answered.His eyes shot wide open. There was no way. "How… did you peek at my playlist when I let you in my studio?"Rayla feigned a gasp. "How dare ya!" she dramatically replied, "I can make an educated guess, ya know?" When he shot her an unimpressed stare she frowned. "Ya did a piece a few months ago about peace within a home, the one inside an apartment building? In the background, ya had a record album hung up on the wall.""So what, you just guessed from that?""Callum, ya also had one up in your studio," she deadpanned. "Tell me there's no connection for somthin' so obscure?"He facepalmed as he sighed. "Right… nice guess…" he muttered. Boy, was he a smart one. "Well, it's my turn, anyways. I think…" he looked at her with contemplation. Her whole personality screamed an indie pop vibe, mixed in with pop rock music, but her artist side also hinted out some outgoing explorations. It was a shot in the dark but—"Taylor Swift?" Yeah, he had no idea, so he guessed.Rayla stared at him incredulously. "What? I mean, I love her, but not that much! Do I give off a Swiftie vibe?" she asked with genuine concern. Holding a hand over her chest, she muttered, "Goodness, I had no idea…"Callum chuckled. "To be honest, I was just guessing. I got nothing." He shrugged."Laaaame," she teased. "My favourite artist is Owl City."He blinked at her. "Who?"Her eyes widened. "Ya've never heard of Owl City?" she said in a low whisper as she crouched down.He dropped his shoulders as he mimicked her actions, mocking her with a quiet voice. "No?""Seriously!" she gasped.He flinched at her reaction, now fearing the follow-up of what would come if he said yes. "M-Maybe I have? I… don't really know artists that well, just songs." That was true. He'd heard dozens of catchy songs on the radio but never paid attention to the artist behind them. "Just last week I found out Ed Sheeran wrote Photograph."Rayla's eyes widened more. Callum couldn't help but feel that he broke her. "Ray?" You uh… you okay?""Fireflies," she blurted out."Ex-Excuse me?""Fireflies, at least tell me ya've heard that?" she pleaded, clearly in shock.Callum stopped and focused, desperately trying to recall a time he heard a song with fireflies in its chorus. Nothing, nothing at all came to mind. "Nope?" he hesitantly replied.Rayla's widened eyes grew wider, it seemed impossible but now they were as big as saucers. She looked like she just received terrible news or someone just kicked her puppy. "Ya've got to be jokin'," she muttered.Callum shook his head. "I'm serious.""Where the hell were ya during 2009?""Alive? Just… not listening to… what was it, Owl City?" the name flew of his tongue so strangely. That did not sound familiar at all."Well that needs to change." She immediately dig into her pocket and pulled out her phone. He saw her increase the volume to full blast as she swiped through her apps, tapping on her Spotify. It seemed instantaneous with how quickly she had it ready, but Callum assumed it must've been her last song listened to. They must've been a good artist then. She hit play and held her phone out to him. With open ears, Callum listened as the first verse began,
You would not believe your eyes
If ten million fireflies
Lit up the world as I fell asleep—"What? Is he talking about stars?" Callum asked."Shush," Rayla hissed.—And leave teardrops everywhere
You'd think me rude but I would just stand and stare
The chorus kicked in,
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly—"But it does—""Callum."—It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
'Cause everything is never as it seems
"Is he talking about insomnia?""Oi, just listen."
'Cause I'd get a thousand hugs
From ten thousand lightning bugs
As they tried to teach me how to dance
Callum opened his mouth, ready to criticize once more, but paused as he noticed Rayla's face. She was mouthing the words with a small smile, eyes focused on the album pictured accompanied with the lyrics. The electronic pop song seemed to entrance her, causing a light gentle sway with her body as she mouthed the second half of the second verse.
A foxtrot above my head
A sock hop beneath my bed
The disco ball is just hanging by a thread
These items, these words, sounded so bizarre and strange to Callum, but the beat and tempo remained consistently catchy. But most notably, they seemed to strike a cord with Rayla, as she smiled a seemingly familiar smile. There looked as if there was history within the upturned corners of her lips, like they had been the product of someone who had listened to an electropop song on repeat for several hours. It was a picture perfect smile of nostalgia.The chorus returned, and Rayla begun singing along in a hushed tone,"I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
'Cause everything is never as it seems."
She froze up as she met Callum's eyes. Closing her mouth from embarrassment, she shyly cowered her gaze away from his, emitting a small laugh as she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. Callum couldn't believe the star player of the football team was nervous to sing around one guy. It was adorable.He smirked as he shifted his weight onto his arm. "This song means a lot to you?" he asked.She simply shrugged. "I mean, it's a catchy, if that's what ya mean," she supplied."You know it's not," he shot back.Rayla looked at him and shrugged once more. "It's… I just listened to it a lot growing up. And… it sounds nice. When ya think about the meaning behind it," she explained, shaking her phone at him.—million fireflies
I'm weird 'cause I hate goodbyes
I got misty eyes as they said farewell (Said farewell)—She smiled at him as she continued, "Y'know, about growing up and all that?""What?" the artist exclaimed. "How'd you get that from that?"Rayla snorted. "Well on the surface, duh, it's about insomnia and whatever," she easily explained. "But, "she added, "if ya really give it a listen ya get the whole nostalgia of time. And like how fast it really moves ya know?" She smiled at his contemplation. "I mean, it sounds like a kid who just wishes time slowed down," she said as she gestured to her phone with her free hand.—like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
Because my dreams are bursting at the seams…
The song stopped as Rayla pulled her phone away from Callum. It started to loop once again, picking up from its rising electronic piano in the background. The first verse began as Rayla said, "Growing up, it just sounds… nice to listen to." She smiled at him head on, obviously proud with herself. She leaned back on her arms, knees bent, as she flipped her hair behind her back. She swayed once again to the beat humming along with the tune.Callum looked at her in thought, comparing the lyrics he'd just heard with her own reasoning. As an artist, it was easy to misinterpret and create new meanings for any and all pieces. Some things just had more meaning than expected, others had less. But the look of pride and pure enjoyment on Rayla's face took the cake for him. She really was an artist in her own way. He needed to stop being surprised by that by now, because it was an amazing thing to see each and every time—the way she expressed her passion.Needless to say, Callum found himself a new pose he wanted to sketch for her.And a new favourite song too.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Heavy Thoughts
It was raining hard. That was the most notable thing of the entire evening. During their walk, a sudden outburst from the clouds stirred above and started hailing down a wave of water. The sudden bombardment of rain forced the two to one conclusion: shelter. Immediately, they searched for any semblance of cover from skies and settled in a small cave nearby. That had been over an hour ago, and it was clear to them that there was no sign of the rain ever letting up.
The heavy pitter patter of the droplets was all that filled the air of silence aside from the freezing rain. Zym was just on the edge of the cave, still sheltered, but definitely eager to prance around in the rain. His tail wagged with motivation and his tongue hung with a lust. Rayla was sat up against the wall of the cave, both arms resting on her knees as she gazed out to the open clearing nearby. Zym could handle the rain, but it was a foolish idea to let him run about all by himself. And with how heavy the rain was, neither of them wanted to chance getting sick during this adventure.
Callum sought the opportunity to finish up on sketches—it was what he claimed at least. He was opposite of Rayla, cross legged and wearing a focused face as he dragged his pencil around. Rayla could tell from how his tongue stuck out he was shading, but also from his brief glances, he was actually sketching her. It was cute he tried to hide it though, so she didn’t say anything.
Her gaze returned to the pouring rain beside her. It was raining heavily. The type of atmosphere and weather that was actually ideal for an assassin. Rayla’s hand unconsciously found itself gripping onto one of her twin blades. It remained in its sheathed form, small and innocent. Rayla flicked her wrist and emotionlessly watched as the blade unfolded itself. The blade had seen a fair share of battles, but was far from worn out. But it was in desperate need of some buffing and sharpening. She chuckled to herself.
Runaan would scold her.
The sudden drop of her lips happened all too quickly. Her face frowned at the blade as her grip tightened. Her hand began to shake as the thoughts flooded her.
The blade is an Assassin’s weapon.
Don’t drop it.
Hold onto it like it’s an extension of your body.
Her firm grip held on as she clenched her teeth.
Ha! Like a natural.
Nice grip. Good control.
Rayla’s head fell as tears built up in her eyes. She held them back with conviction, steeling her nerves as she swallowed hard. Her hand couldn’t stop shaking. She tried using her other hand to hold it firmly, but it only worsened. It was then she realized both of her hands were shaking, and she had dropped her sword.
Careful. This can take your life as easily as it can take others.
Never lose this.
This is one of your greatest tools.
Her eyes firmly shut as she began shaking her head. She didn’t want to remember any of that. The streams had already begun, but there was no avoiding them. There was no avoiding the obvious. There was no avoiding memories.
The sudden contact on Rayla’s shoulders startled her to a squeal. She looked to her left and found Callum sat beside her, wrapping his arms around her in a warm embrace.
You can’t be caught off guard
.
The words rang out deep in her mind but her focus still remained on the moment with Callum. He was pulling her close, offering himself to her, anything she needed. Wordlessly, she accepted and rested her head on his shoulder. A quiet knock erupted a chuckle from Callum. She must’ve hit him with her horn. She opened her mouth to apologize but was cut off by his movement, he was readjusting himself as he retracted his left arm but pulled her closer with his right. He slowly and patiently rubbed his hand against her right arm.
“It’s okay,” he whispered into her hair, “it’s okay. I’m here.”
She nodded, closing her eyes and letting out a deep breath. She found her calm and inhaled and exhaled a few more times, soaking in Callum’s presence. She opened her eyes and started rubbing away her tears, but stopped once she saw Callum’s handkerchief. She let out a quiet thanks as she accepted the fabric and started wiping away her tears.
“I’m… sorry,” she replied as she handed it back. “That was… that was random…” she admitted, feeling a rising heat within her cheeks. With an awkward chuckle she shyly rubbed her damp cheeks. “I—”
“Ray,” Callum softly spoke, “it’s fine,” he assured her. He encouragingly squeezed her arm and smiled as pecked her forehead. “You don’t need to explain.”
Rayla shook her head. “It’s…” He deserved to know. Her gaze returned to the rain outside, and she noticed Zym was now giving her a sad stare. Even he could tell something was up with. Rayla’s attention darted back to Callum’s previous spot, where she noticed his sketchbook and belongings laid all by their lonesome. He definitely dropped everything the second he heard her crying. Yeah, he needed to know. “He loved the rain,” she managed to say.
“Who?” came the confused response.
Rayla’s gaze flew over to the plummeting droplets of water outside. She could easily see herself traversing through the onslaught of water, like second nature she knew her spots and how to disappear. “Runaan,” she answered quietly, “he… he always liked the rain.”
Callum seemed to pause to absorb the information, but then settled with a small laugh. “Lots of people do. It’s pretty sometimes. Sometimes it’s not too bad.”
“Yeah… but he didn’t like it for the same reasons most do,” she explained. “He said sound is an Assassin’s greatest weapon. The way we use it and adapt with it is what makes us formidable.”
“Didn’t work too well on me though. When we first met that is.” He was trying for humour, and his forced chuckle was showing that. Rayla managed a half-smirk but didn’t laugh. Callum seemed to drop his forced facade and cleared his throat. “Anyways… he sounds like a great mentor.”
“He was,” Rayla nodded. “Everythin’ I ever knew… from him.” She sighed. “Rain was the hardest environment for me to get used to.”
“Because of your fear?”
“I have a fear of the ocean, not water,” Rayla corrected. She rolled her eyes in annoyance. “It’s not like a glass of water will get me shakin’ in my boots. And the rain here isn’t exactly terrifying.”
Callum chuckled. “Sorry. My bad,” he apologized.
Rayla shook her head. “It’s fine.” She took another breath. “He just… he always liked training in the rain. It’s hard to move through, but with all that noise…”
“It’s easier to do your job,” Callum finished.
“Aye,” Rayla nodded. “I often just slipped or got mud all over my blades. I’d drop ‘em a lot because of that. He’d scold me.” Her attention instinctively returned to her blade from before and caused her to retrieve the weapon with haste. Her firm grasp around it made her whole body on edge. “‘
Hold onto it like it’s an extension of your body,’
he’d say.” Callum’s other hand wrapped itself around hers, comfortingly massaging her knuckles. Her grip lessened, and her body felt more at ease. With an empty chuckle, she went on,“Gosh… ya know… the day this all went south for me… it was raining? Just before this all began…”
Callum remained silent, likely allowing her to air out all her feelings. “It just… it was perfect. Raining, and we had the advantage. Just… took one guard. Runaan was so confident I could do it too,” she released a humourless laugh. “After all that training, it should’ve been easy. One takedown. One life.” A deep sigh. “But none of that happened. Instead… this,” she gestured, with her free hand, all around them, “happened.”
Callum remembered her telling him about the guard she let live. He remembered the guilt that ate up inside of her when she recounted every detail. How much she regretted what that all unfolded. But, he also knew the relief she had. He knew that even with all those regrets, there was a part of Rayla that was glad that her blades weren’t bloodied. He’d told her that time and time again. But this time, this was different. This was about something else.
“You don’t know he’s dead,” he stated. When she said nothing, Callum continued, “He might’ve made his way back to Xadia sooner than us. He’s not the one dragging around a useless human, so he’s probably had better luck traversing through the lands.” It was a weak defence, but he had to try.
“Yeah…” Rayla softly said, “but, he’s also the type to put everythin’ on the line. Him sending that message arrow that night, I just didn’t… get the feeling that he…” She swallowed hard. “I don’t like my instincts there.”
Callym nodded as he rolled his tongue around in his cheek. “Yeah… I get it…” he let out a small chuckle. “I had the same feeling about my dad.”
He could feel her freeze up at the sudden mention of him.
It was still a sore spot for her too, he supposed. “I mean… deep down I had my suspicions. But it… it was easier not to think about it, because… it made it feel less real.” He shrugged. “Guess that’s all mourning really is… just… trying not to think about it much at first.” He pulled his scarf up to his mouth and inhaled the scent. Faintly, he remembered
her
. He quickly returned his hand to Rayla’s and wrapped it around her clenched fist. “Eventually we can remember them without… feeling empty.”
Rayla nodded. “Eventually,” she repeated.
Callum smiled at her response and threw his attention over to the pouring rain outside. The faintest of smiles crossed his face as he thought about his step-father. “He liked the rain too,” Callum added. “Gave him more of an excuse to keep me and Ez indoors. Closer to him and my mom.” He smiled as he recalled all those rainy days back in Katolis. “But also just… liked looking at it too.”
Ahh, see? It’s not too bad.
The rain is actually quite peaceful.
Under all that noise there’s something quiet, how do you think the calm comes after?
He laughed at that words that flew through his mind. “He just… always wanted to look at things optimistically. He always looked at the rain with a smile, he just always had something nice to say about it.” A sniffle escaped him, it wasn’t until then that Callum realized he was crying a bit. Rayla’s embrace shifted from her being comforted to him being enwrapped in warmth. She was holding him closer now. “Like… under all that noise and wetness, there’s actually something nice under there,” his gaze flew down to Rayla. “I guess for your case, it’s true.”
Rayla’s head turned up to him. “How so?”
“You guys seemed to enjoy running around in it,” he pointed out. “I guess if there really was anything beautiful underneath, it’d be the Assassins running inside it.”
Rayla managed to smile through her blush. “Cute,” she commented as she lightly thumped his chest. “Here we are, crying our eyes out and ya still find a way to shoot a cheesy line.”
Callum shrugged. “Sorry.”
She shook her head. “Don’t be… I’m… thanks,” she whispered back.
“He sounds like a great guy.”
“Thanks… so does your dad.”
Her weapon fell to the ground as she intertwined her fingers with Callum’s. A deep breath and the two managed to snuggle closer together. The echoing of the rain around them muted under their synchronized breathing. They closed their eyes and sighed together.
“I’m sorry…”
“Me too.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Seasick
Callum was no stranger to sickness. Whether it be the common cold or a sudden fever, he and Ezran had dealt with their fair share of sicknesses over the years. The only thing that would set them apart from most folk, is the fact that they had nurses to take care of them. The mere second one of them caught something, there’d be a nurse right away—medicine prepped and a hot meal on the go. Callum learned a lot from them. He learned the importance of keeping your body healthy and clean, whilst also avoiding things that could obviously harm it. And so for the better part of three years, Callum had avoided feeling ill in any way.
He had taken that time to watch over Ezran more extensively. Things like making sure he was eating—which later on became an issue of too much over too little—and staying hygienic. He always made sure he did his scheduled baths and ate healthily as possible. For the most part, he did good. But there were of course scenarios his young brother would catch a cold, and Callum tasked himself with the mission of learning how to cure it. Everything he’d seen from the nurses taught him all he needed to know. But that didn’t mean he knew everything.
For example, Callum had no idea how to help with seasickness.
“Hey, Rayla?” Callum called out. He glanced over at the Elf and seethed at the sight of her bent over on the railing of the ship. “H-How… how you doing?” he lamely asked.
Rayla turned her face away from the swaying waves crashing against their boat and managed a very, very weak smile at Callum. “I’m… I’m fine…” she groaned, gesturing a thumbs up. She must’ve noticed Callum’s obvious discomfort and worry, and tried to force a stronger smile. “S-See? I—” a wave disgust filled the girl’s face as she forced her mouth shut and puffed her cheeks. She turned back toward the ocean and proceeded to release the loudest gag Callum had heard in his entire life.
That wasn’t leaving his mind anytime soon.
He winced as he listened to her repeatedly air out her lungs, practically forcing this morning’s moonberry juice into the vast waters. That was the third time she vomited. Also the third time Zym tried to cover his ears. It was not a pleasant ride for anyone aboard. Speaking of, Callum’s worry was temporarily distracted by the sudden contact on his shoulders. He turned around in a startle and released a small squeal, much to the amusement of the Elf before him.
“Whoa, relax lad,” the sailor calmly advised, “No harm here,” he chuckled.
Callum stepped back as he pulled his hood over his head even more. Clearing his throat, he responded, “Oi, it’s aight laddie.” He visibly cringed at his “accent” as he smiled at the Ocean Elf.
The sailor rubbed the back of his head as he said, “I just uh, came to warn ya ‘bout your friend over there.”
“Warn?” Callum echoed.
“Aye,” the Ocean Elf nodded. “The other passengers can’t stomach the sight of her… well lack of, stomach.” He erupted a boisterous laugh. When he noticed the boy’s unamused face, he awkwardly coughed. “A-Anyways, uh, I’ve just been getting complaints…” his face fell into a nervous smile as he glanced over to the other passengers scattered around the deck.
Callum awkwardly laughed as he met the unsightly stares of the other elves. “Sorry,” he apologized. “She just… gets motion sick,” he informed the sailor.
The Ocean Elf nodded. “It happens, don’t ya worry about it,” he assured. “But uh…” a gag echoed out from Rayla’s direction causing the two to frown at each other. “Can ya—”
“I’ll see what I can do, don’tcha worry ‘bout it mate,” Callum replied as he waved the elf off. “I’ll be right on it!” he shouted as he walked over to Rayla.
Zym was nuzzled up against Rayla’s shin, attempting to catch some sleep. Rayla was rested over the railing, both arms overboard with her head hanging with them. Hesitantly, Callum placed his hand on her back, patting it in a slow, awkward manner. “
Heeey
,” he softly greeted, “how are you doing?”
Rayla glanced over at him with a dead frown.
Then immediately returned to barfing out another ounce of what Callum recognized as a maroon coloured liquid. “Guess moonberry juice and ocean don’t mix well, eh?”
Another stare.
Another gag.
Callum seethed as he stepped closer to Rayla. “H-Hey, c’mon you…” he stopped himself. “You’ll be alright. Just… deep breaths, right? Deep breaths!” he repeated as he motioned his hands up and down. “In and out,” he said whilst inhaling and exhaling.
Rayla nodded at him attempting to take as many deep breaths as she could.
“Pace yourself Ray,” he advised. He noticed a spot of puke dripping down her chin and opted to use his handkerchief to wipe it off. As he stroked her face with the cloth, he turned her head to face his eyes directly. “Keep breathing. In and out. Five seconds each.”
Rayla nodded once more.
She smelled terrible. But Callum was willing to let the slide the moment he saw he smile slowly forming. Her eyes were shuttered and her face was deep in concentration. Her breathing was more controlled now, and her presence felt more relaxed. He could feel her easing her cheek into his hands. He allowed her, and watched as she took his hands and held them on her face. She opened her eyes and managed a small smile at him.
“Can… can ya just stay close?” she gently asked. “I… I feel a lot better with ya here.”
He nodded. “Sure. Anything you need,” he insisted.
“Distract me,” she begged. “Anythin’ to take my mind off all…” she paused, holding in a deep breath. “This,” she finished.
“Sure, sure,” Callum agreed. He quickly tucked away his handkerchief and held Rayla’s face. He honestly had no idea if this was what she meant by staying close, but she seemed to like it before so it was safer staying this way. He held her cheeks with soft embrace and thought about her request. A distraction. “Umm… when it gets dark out, you wanna go stargazing again?” he offered. “You can point out all the other fake constellations you guys have.”
Rayla scoffed. “Like yours are any better.”
Callum smirked as he maintained his gaze on her eyes. “You guys just wanted an excuse to plaster Draconic words into the sky.”
“Ya guys have a crude drawing of a man with a bow,” she shot back. “Zym could draw better than that.”
At the mention of his name, the young dragon perked both his ears and head on alert, looking up at the two in curiosity. “Careful,” Callum advised, “wouldn’t want to draw too much attention to the little guy here.” Zym rested his chin back into the depths of his arms. “We’re lucky no one seems to mind him much. Or realize who he is.”
Rayla explained, “It’s because he’s a Storm Dragon. His kind is so rare, that most people might see him at first glance and think he’s an Ocean Dragon or somethin’.” She shrugged as she looked down at Zym. “Plus, no one’s crazy enough to think two kids are just suddenly carrying around the dragon prince out of—” a gag escaped her out of nowhere.
Callum lifted her head and sheepishly smiled. “Try not to look down. It… doesn’t help,” he warned. “But uh, that’s cool… what you said about Zym,” he added with a small shrug, “Good to know our cover won’t exactly be blown anytime soon.”
“Please.” She scoffed. “If anyone’s gonna blow our cover it’s ya.”
Callum’s brows furrowed. “Me? How?”
“With that terrible accent ya’ve got going on it’s amazing any of the crew think ya’re an Elf!” She laughed, shaking her head. “Like jeez, is that what I sound like to ya?”
Callum frowned at her. He had been trying his best. With the cloak Rayla had donned the time she tried to impersonate a human, it was his turn to give it a go. They needed to cross the lake in order to get the town. It had been a close call getting to the docks on time, but Callum had essentially held onto Rayla for doing all the talking. That hope died the second they set out from shore, as she merely collapsed against the railing. Since then, the other passengers had distanced themselves from the two and kept disgusted stares, clearing put off by her sickness.
He had been the reliant one on interactions since then. And judging by Rayla’s snark, he clearly didn’t do as well as he hoped. It was more so he was doing as bad as he suspected.
“At least I’m not going around saying ‘Howdy humans! Human fellas,’” he mocked in a country accent.
Rayla rolled her eyes. “Please, my disguise was perfect.”
“You caused a mob to form in town and literally forced us to run for the hills.”
A soft thump was directed at Callum’s chest whilst a venomless scowl flew to his face. “Hey, that wasn’t on my disguise. I was preoccupied with another mission, remember?” She crossed her arms. “I haven’t had anyone catch onto me yet. But ya however,” she pointed up at his hood, “your lack of horns might do ya in.”
Callum smacked her finger. “And pointing at it will really help,” he hissed. “Besides, I already have the perfect disguise!” he confidently claimed. When he was met with a blank stare he sighed. “C’mon, I’m wearing a hood, got no horns? And a weird accent? Obvious elves will assume I have some estranged and tragic backstory about my horns and my past, and no one’s willing to hound me for details because they fear they’ll only bring back the trauma I’ve tried so hard to suppress,” he dramatically finished.
Rayla stared at him with an amused face. She was desperately trying to fight back a smile, Callum could tell, but it was in vain. She opted for a quiet chuckle as she shook her head. “Ya’re ridiculous sometimes.”
“True,” Callum agreed. “But at least it makes you smile,” he proudly declared.
Rayla chuckled. “I’m sick, I’m practically one minute away from vomiting
tomorrow’s
lunch. Anythin’ ya say can make me laugh.”
He still smiled, no point in hiding how proud he was of himself and of her. She really was trying to stay focused on their conversation and it showed. He managed to keep her mind distracted and calm, and the best way that worked was just by them being them. As always, they could easily lose themselves within each other’s words, within their presence. They just had that effect on each other. He couldn’t help but smile at that.
With a bold confidence brewing inside, Callum leaned close and quickly kissed Rayla’s lips. Her face dissolved into shock as she asked, “Why would ya do that to yourself?”
Callum maintained his smile. “Because…” he shrugged. “You deserve it.”
A blush grew on her cheeks, definitely unrelated form her sickness as she formed an apologetic smile. “My breath stinks though.”
Callum nodded as the scent suddenly overwhelmed his body. He leaned over the railing and started to take his turn with upchucking the sunberry bread he had this morning. The taste still lingered on his lips and regret built within the pits of his stomach, alongside his rising disgust. It might’ve been a smarter idea to go for the cheek, but he was too lost in the moment. He felt Rayla’s hand comfortingly sort itself on his back, patting it softly. But the motions suddenly stopped as a firm grasp replaced them. Retching ringed out from Callum’s left and as he glanced over, he was met with Rayla’s face. It looked as if the two both had failed their attempts at comforting each other.
“Dammit,” the familiar sailor’s voice returned. “I asked ya to take care of her, not join her! Ya lot are going below deck, ya’re disgusting to look at!” he shouted as he stomped near.
Callum couldn’t care. It was worth it.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Warmth
Rayla’s mission was the most important priority. Everything else around her faded into nothingness as her goal repeated in her mind. Nothing else at that moment could distract her. She was running. As fast as she could, she bounced from each rooftop across town, scouring the pathways. Her perceptive eyes scanned the crowds, eyes focused on the objective, the target she needed to find. She couldn’t lose it. Not now.
Her attention was momentarily caught by a brief flash of something that turned into an alleyway. It
looked
like it. That was all she needed to go rushing in. She leapt across the street and over to the next rooftop. Quietly, she maneuvered her way above the alley, following her newfound target. It looked like this Earthblood Elf lady was holding it. Rayla’s eyes squinted at the item, it was clear to her that now was her chance.
She rushed down the roof and launched herself into the alley. Landing perfectly on her feet, she stared down the Earthblood Elf and drew her twin blades, crossing them at the lady. “That doesn’t belong to ya, hand it over!” she shouted.
The lady gasped in fear as she held her hands close to her chest. “Wh-What are ya talkin’ ‘bout!” she pleaded, “I-I didn’t take anythin’!”
Rayla’s eyes narrowed unrelentingly at the Earthblood Elf. “Then what’s that in your hands then?” she challenged, pointing her right blade at the elf.
She cowered back in fear whilst confusion struck her face. “Wh-What? Ya mean my scarf?”
“It’s not yours,” Rayla spat.
The fear within the lady’s eyes widened a tenfold. “I-I’m sorry? I… I don’t know what ya’re talkin’ ‘bout, my mum
just
gave this to me,” she pleaded as she unfolded the cloth and held it out to her. “H-Here, t-take it! Please don’t hurt me!”
Rayla’s eyes widened in shock as she saw the scarf unfold in the moonlight, clearly revealing its darker shade of red. It looked nothing like it. Her face dropped as she realized what she was doing. “Oh… I’m…” she retracted her blades and held her hands up. “I’m
so, so
sorry Miss!” she apologized. She took a step forward and paused as she watched the Earthblood Elf cower back. “I’m… this is a misunderstanding, I… and I completely just…” she sighed. “I’m so sorry. I… I just thought ya stole it,” she muttered, obviously embarrassed as the words left her mouth.
The lady seemed to relax a bit more, a small sense of relief exhaled from her lips. “Ya’re… looking for your friend’s scarf?” she lightly inquired.
Rayla nodded as she let out a sheepish laugh. “Yeah… it’s uh a red… I’m sorry… I
really
overreacted here. I—”
“This scarf means a lot to him, I assume?” the lady guessed, daring on a smirk. “And he must mean a lot to ya, aye?”
Rayla’s face flushed as she shrunk her head down into her shoulders, wincing at the claim. “Aye… he…” she sighed. “Listen, I’m so sorry ‘bout this. I-I can… pay ya, to like, I don’t know, make up—”
“It’s fine my dear,” the lady dismissed. Rayla opened her mouth, ready to object, “Ya’ve clearly got important things to do. Just next time, try not to jump people in an alleyway?” Her tease earned another wince from Rayla, but she smiled nonetheless.
“Right, sorry. Again,” she shyly added, backing away from the lady.
“Go and find your
friend’s
scarf,” she instructed, throwing a wink. “If I see any red scarves I’ll be sure to let ya know the next time ya hop down.”
Rayla nodded. “Thanks.”
With that, she hopped onto the roof and continued her parkour pathing across the town. Never had she been in more of a hurry to get out of a situation. Coupled up with the clear embarrassment and shame she felt, she was also in a hurry. This was an important mission after all. The second the two came into the inn of this town, Callum noticed his scarf was missing. He had just realized as soon as he began sorting his belongings.
“It’s gone.”
Rayla at the time, was just settling in bed. Her head rose at Callum, who was staring with wide eyes at his bags. “What is?” she asked.
“My scarf…” he quietly whispered.
She instantly shot out of bed and rushed over to the boy. “What? How? Someone took it?”
Callum shrugged. “I just… the town was so crowded… it must’ve slipped off,” he muttered. He had his cloak on too, there was a lot of clothing weighing down on him. In a crowded space, it was easy for it to slip his mind for a split second. And split second’s all a thief needs.
Rayla’s brows furrowed in anger. “Someone stole it. C’mon, we’ll report this to the townsguard,” she ordered, taking Callum’s arm as they headed to the door. Zym encouragingly barked and followed suit.
But Callum removed his arm with vigour as he stared at Rayla with shock. “And draw attention to the Dragon Prince here?” he shouted in a low voice. “Ray, it’s fine—” she noticed how too easily the words flew off his lips. “—we can’t risk attention like that right now. It’s… besides, I might’ve just dropped it. I can look for it on our way out tomorrow.” As if that wasn’t any harder.
Rayla didn’t like how quick he was to give up. She also didn’t like how Callum thought so little of his clearly meaningful article of clothing he wore. She knew what it meant to him. But, ever the pragmatist, he knew it wasn’t worth it to go out of their way to look for something as small as a scarf. But the weight behind it was a big as their current mission to the Dragon Queen. Rayla didn’t want to sit by and watch him sulk over something they could fix. Something
she
could easily take care of. She owed him way too much to let it slide. So after a feigned sleep—with Callum as little spoon obviously—Rayla allowed Callum and Zym to wink out before her, giving her the opportunity to slip out of their room and into the streets.
And thus she began her search.
She started off with the entrance to the town from which they came from, and found herself chasing tails. The Earthblood and Ocean Elves weren’t exactly known for integrating red popping colours to their wardrobes. Rayla knew someone had stolen it. And like most thieves, they were probably lurking about in the crowds still, working their paycheck.
Not if she had anything to say about it.
Granted, she almost committed a mugging herself, but she stopped it before it could escalate. So she was justified.
Perching herself on a wooden archway above a bridge, she scanned her scenery once more. Dozens and dozens of blue and green coloured clothes blended together to mix into this Earth like atmosphere. It was a well complimented colour scheme that easily meant anything red would stand out. Which also meant Rayla’s next target caught her eye with ease. Just for a moment, she swore she saw a tint of red bussel through the crowd. She squinted at the area as she hopped down to a lower roof, getting a closer look onto the scene.
There it was again, slightly lower around everyone’s waistline, a long reddish cloth brushed by everyone. By the complaints and exclaims of the people within, whoever this was, was clearly in a hurry to get out of there. That meant one of two things. They had made a decent load for the night and were rushing out to call it a day, or, they knew they were being watched. Not wanting to chance the latter, Raya hurried her pace along the roofs, keeping focus on her peripheral as she noticed the small red hurry down the street. Suddenly, the red vanished, leaving Rayla to halt in her tracks. She stopped and scanned, immediately noticing the flash of red duck behind another nearby alleyway.
History sure repeated itself for sure, but Rayla didn’t care about repeating mistakes. In one bound, she hopped across the street and skidded down the roof and into the alley. Landing on her feet, she drew her blades and turned around, facing the thief before her. “Drop the scarf ya
scum
,” she uttered with venom.
All bite behind her words was instantly loss as she realized who her opponent was.
A young Earthblood Elf, around Ezran’s height, lying on the ground, cowering in fear. His clothes were a dirty pair of beige pants, with rips scattered all around the shins, and two discolored and clearly different boots, one brown, the other black. His long sleeved shirt looked like it was once lime green, but now shaded from its worn out time on the streets, bearing its own rips and tears along the sleeves and chest. Overtop that, his brown leather vest looked like it was on its last threads, barely holding itself together over the boy. But that wasn’t as bad as the health of his hygiene—his brown hair muddied up along with his cheeks, and his horns were chipped, like the war had taken place all over his body, and he had nothing to defend himself. His face was clearly distraught, scared of everything and anything that surrounded him.
And in his hands,
was definitely
Callum’s scarf.
Rayla’s heart dropped as she realized what the situation in front of her meant. Could she—was she, really about to do this? In fairness, what the kid was doing was wrong and ethically, the only thing that redeemed it was that he was doing it to survive. But, that scarf had history. It was Callum’s history.
Her first move, which she should’ve done sooner, was retracting and sheathing her blades once again. “Hey, hey, hey!” she hastily greeted, raising her hands in innocence. “I-I won’t hurt ya!” she assured. “I just… I’m sorry I gave ya fright there,” she apologized, stepping forward. He seemed to flinch at her desperate attempts at inching closer, but not enough to go running. He must’ve been too scared to move. “I… I get it,” she nodded, “region get’s pretty cold down by the lake side, aye?”
He reluctantly nodded.
“I’m Rayla,” she introduced, waving at the boy as she knelt down. “And ya are?”
He bit his lip, fighting the desire to answer her. “L… Lian,” he answered.
“Well… Lian,” she lightly smile, “I…
really
need that scarf back.” Her face shifted into a desperate plea. “It… means a lot to someone I care about, and… I can’t bear to watch ‘em so hurt.” There was a hesitance laced within his face, a reluctance as she neared him. “It… it’s the last thing he has of someone he really loved. And… I… this is the
least
I can do to help… him…”
The boy’s eyes glued onto hers with a sense of curiosity. “Safe?”
She blinked at him. “Pardon?”
“Keep him… safe?” he quietly asked.
Rayla nodded. “Yes. This… this helps him feel safe.”
Lian stared down at the scarf in his hands, holding it with a vice grip like his life depended on it. And it clearly did. Rayla couldn’t believe what she was doing. She was asking a homeless child to sacrifice the one thing he managed to claim for his own survival. She was asking him to let go of a value he never once had. Practically begging him to keep his nothingness as nothing. She closed her eyes and sighed in her mind. They didn’t set out to make a difference by changing nothing.
She rose to her feet and smiled at the boy. “Nevermind,” she spoke up. “Keep it,” she said, noticing his surprise, “ya need it more.” She had no right to even let those words fly out of her mouth, but she also had no right to take it from him. As she turned her body away, she added, “I’m sorry.”
To the child.
To Callum.
To his mom.
She just couldn’t do it.
A sudden grip around her ankles startled her out of her self-pity. She glanced down and found the boy tugging at her right boot. In his other hand, he held out the scarf to her. Her eyes grew as she realized what he was doing. “Are ya—”
“
Calidum
,” he told her, looking up at her with a smile. Bless her heart, the most beautiful smile she had ever seen from a child. “Keep him…
Calidum
.” The words slowly processed her in mind, and her heart flew.
Like time had slowed down to a crawl, she finally grabbed the scarf, with a soft tug and pulled it close to her body. One sniff and she felt Callum’s presence. It was definitely his. She looked down, ready to thank the boy, but found nothing at her feet. She looked around and found nothing.
One more look at the scarf told her all she needed. Not to let this moment go to waste.
::::
The morning after, the two found themselves wandering the streets of the town. Zym was cuddled close in Callum’s arm, with his other taking the opportunity to hold Rayla’s hand. They embraced their intertwined fingers, smiling at each other. “Thanks again,” he brought up for the ninth time that morning.
After tuckering out upon her return, Rayla opted to give Callum’s scarf back in the morning. He desperately fought off his tears and thanked her repeatedly, clearly grateful for everything she had done. She made no mention of the child and their encounter, and smiled when Callum tried to downplay his emotions behind the scarf. He tried to dismiss it the night before, but Rayla saw right through it.
“Your mum wanted ya to have it,” she easily replied, “It’s the least I could do.”
Callum chuckled to himself as they walked. But a sudden familiar face caught Rayla’s eye, causing them to stop in their tracks. The boy was sat up against a nearby trash bin, staring up at the clouds with a curious wonder in his eyes. Before Callum could say anything, Rayla hurried over to young boy. His attention shot down in surprise at her return and smiled at her, darting his attention between her and Callum.
“
Calidum
?” he asked her with a smile.
She nodded, a faint blush flushing her cheeks. The whole idea seemed so obscurely silly to her. “Very,” she tugged on Callum’s hand. “Thank ya,” she added. She dug into Callum’s bag pulled out two bottles of Moonberry juice. Callum seemed to catch on her motives and pulled out a loaf of Sunberry bread, and handed to the boy. Rayla placed the bottles at the boy’s feet. “
Calidum
?” she offered.
Lian eagerly accepted the bread, taking a large bite out of it with a gleeful smile. “
Calidum
,” he gleamed, patting his stomach. “Thanks,” he cheerfully replied.
Rayla shook her head as she nuzzled the boy’s head of hair. “Nah, thank ya,” she smiled back. The two parted ways from the child, continuing their stroll down town.
“What was that about?”
“Nothin’.”
His face dropped. “Well, what’s with you guys just butchering my name now?” he accused.
Rayla rolled her eyes as she laughed. The words seemed to cross her lips so simply. “
Calidum
. Draconic for warm.”
“Oh… well in that case, let’s spread the
Callum
when all this is over!” he cheered. “Whattya say?”
Rayla laughed. “I’d like that.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Dreams
"What made ya want to be an artist?"The question seemed so abrupt to Callum her startled himself from his work. Raising his head from his desk, he turned over to his bed, where laid Rayla. She was lying stomach down, attempting to work on her homework from Philosophy. He was sketching once more, practicing his anatomy lessons her learned earlier her day. They decided to work together, but Callum quickly learned Rayla was more of a chat and talk kind of student. Not that he minded of course.He chuckled as he furrowed a brow at her. "What brought that on?"She dropped her pencil and looked at Callum, shrugging nonchalantly. "I dunno. I just… I guess I realize I've never asked."Callum smirked at her, clearly not buying her nonchalance, but deciding to throw a bone regardless. "Well, what didn't?" He smiled to himself thoughtfully. "Everywhere around me there was art. Growing up, it was hard not to notice. My mom loved exposing me to some of her favourite Shakespearen plays, and showing me her craft work that she did in her younger days. She used to spend her entire teen years just, doing art. The amount of stuff she made, the things she showed me? It was insane."Rayla smiled. "That sounds nice.""Yeah…" he released a content sigh. "My step-dad did his fair share too. Although his tastes kinda varied from me a bit, he also loved exposing me to literature. Moby Dick, Grapes of Wrath, Lord of the Flies, he introduced all those classics even though they were, two or three reading levels above mine.""Wow…" Rayla said in awe. "So… ya've practically been inspired by a young age, eh?"Callum chuckled. "I guess you could say that. But… I didn't want to be an artist until like, my last years in elementary school.""Where?"The artist had almost forgotten the girl before him hadn't even originated from his country. He had yet to really ask about her past and such, but gathered she moved to America specifically for Katolis College, so she hadn't exactly grown up here, but fairly understood a few bits and piece of American culture. "Oh uh, they're like," he stopped to ponder his explanation, "uhh, you guys have primary schools, right?""Aye.""Well, they're like the same thing. Some vary to like, kindergarten to grade five, others go to grade eight," Callum explained, "And well, for my school, it went to grade eight.""And ya didn't realize ya wanted to be an artist until then?"He nodded. "Maybe around like, grade seven more accurately, but yeah." Callum smiled as he remembered how it all began. "I was uh, from a young age, like around grade 1 or something, my folks and teachers realized I was gifted.""What, were ya creating paintings that could rival Picasso?" the football player teased.Callum laughed. "No, no, nothing like that," he shook his head, "I apparently have photographic memory."Rayla's eyes went wide. "Oh…" she said, clearly surprised. "Wow… that's, that's amazing!"His cheeks faintly flushed at the compliment as he attempted to brush it off, "Nah, it's-it's not a big deal." He waved his hand dismissively. "An-Anyways, it's just, they realized it and after a bunch of tests, it was true. So… yeah, that sorta made studying and schoolwork a bit easier."Rayla laughed. "I'd imagine so," she mused. "Ya're the ideal package! Smart, cute, and artsy," she finished with a wink just for good measure.It seemed Callum's cheeks were dependant on betraying him that day, as he felt them darken even more. "W-Well, not exactly," he corrected. "I uh, didn't exactly do well in math. And when it came to application questions, I didn't really set the bar high."When Rayla's brow raised in confusion, Callum sighed. "Just because I have the photographic memory, doesn't mean I have the knack for actually understanding what I remember," he sadly explained. "My, 'gift', if you can call it that, sure made studying things like the sciences a breeze, the memorization with chemistry and biology flew past with ease. But… actually applying what I learned? Like, thinking questions? I tanked them almost all the time." His smile was plastered on with no warmth, it was a sad smile. "I-I could remember all the formulas and equations, sure, but… I just… never understood how to really, apply them. Like, actually use them the way they were supposed to. Memorization practically means nothing if you can't understand what you're memorizing."A rough silence stirred between the two. Rayla had risen up and was now sitting cross legged on Callum's bed, frowning. She looked like she was pitying him. He couldn't blame her. He practically shut down the cool idea that was photographic memory, and replaced it with something like it was a curse that he couldn't accept."It's like," she spoke up, "there's a difference between memorizing and understanding…"His eyes widened in surprise. "Yeah, exactly," he smiled. "How'd you… yeah."She shrugged. "It's kinda the reason why I actually like literature growing up," she explained, "A lot of my other classmates just memorized all the themes we talked about in class, and all the quotes, and all that junk. But I… I could tell none of them really bothered to understand literature. They were all smart kids, so they studied literature like any other science. But… it's more than that." She smiled as she looked down at her fumbling thumbs. "They can remember all we talked about in class, all the themes and metaphors we discussed, but they'd never really feel them."Callum couldn't help but smile at her. Of course, out of all the people he's met in his life, she'd be the one person who could actually understand what he has been going through. He chuckled as he shook his head. "That's exactly why I fell into the arts," he said in a soft tone. When he was met with her curious and intrigued smile, he smirked back. Homework and sketches be darned, this was clearly going to be a long one."Like I said, I didn't get maths and all that. But, man, I remember the first painting I saw." He laughed, realizing the irony. "I mean, of course I would," Rayla rolled her eyes, "but it was… it was life changing. It wasn't the first painting I ever saw, but it was the first one that really moved me.""Anyone famous?""Yeah, but it'll surprise you," he warned with a smile. "Starry Night," he said with a whispered pizazz.Rayla furrowed her brows. "Really? Of all the Van Gogh's, I would've thought it would be somethin' like The Church at Auvers, or The Potato Eaters, heck, maybe even Starry Night Over the Rhône!" she laughed. "I mean, it's a beautiful one, no doubt his most famous piece."Callum nodded. "Yeah… but, it just, the emotions I felt when I saw it. I felt like, this was telling me something. It was showing me… something I never had before." He smiled as he remembered all the feelings that overwhelmed him that day as a young boy. "After all the other things I've seen, and memorized, seeing Starry Night made me finally understand something for once. I felt Van Gogh's emotions against the brush, the story within the skies, the dimness and light he illustrated." He released a wondrous sigh. "It-It just hit me all at once and… it felt good. It felt amazing. That, I could not only understand the emotions, this, illness he wanted to capture, the contrast of death and life all around this asylum—it hit me all at once." Callum looked at Rayla with a proud smile. "It was the one thing I was glad to have stuck in my mind."Rayla stared at him with awe. "Wow… that… that sounds beautiful Callum.""Thanks," he replied."So… your photographic memory led ya to the arts?" she clarified, still curious."Yup. If I have the memory, I decided I might as well fill it up with things I actually like," he jested, shrugging with nonchalance.Rayla chuckled. "That's amazing…" Her frown formed as she looked down at her schoolwork. "Sounds like ya've had your whole life ready.""Aw, c'mon, like you haven't?" Callum retorted. "You're the star of our football team! Soon NFL scouts will be on your radar and you'll be on… whatever the best team is for the NHL."Rayla rolled her eyes and snorted. "The New Orleans Saints, and no, I'm more of a Seahawks fan," she proudly informed him. Callum threw up his hands in innocence and shrugged. "But… it's not that," she frowned. "I… I dunno."Callum frowned at Rayla. Scooting forward on his office chair, he rolled over to his bed and placed his hand on her knee. "Hey, c'mon, talk to me." She stared back at him, hesitant. "This is about why you asked me, huh?"She nodded."Well… I'm all ears," he gestured to her.Rayla let out a deep sigh. "It's… complicated." Callum restrained himself from rolling his eyes. That was the most vague cliche to start with. "I… I'm not some, big shot football player because I've been watching American football in Scotland since I was a wee lass, and I've always dreamed about making it to the big leagues!" she said in a dramatic high voice. "I was never like that." Callum's confusion only egged her on. "I… there was a football club at my old highschool and… my dads lived in America for a few years and loved playing football in their free time. So, of course they brought that passion with them when they came home. Whenever they were off from work they'd just play in the yard, tossing the ball back and forth. Of course I joined, and so, when I heard there was a team at my school, I wanted to see what else the sport had in store!" she cheerily smiled.Callum mirrored her excitement."It turns out when ya've been playing football ever since ya were six, that makes ya a real star athlete in terms of a rookie team that apparently just got put together during my first year," she said in a shy voice, erupting in nervous laughter at the end.Callum's jaw dropped. "Well yeah," he exclaimed, "practicing from a young age kinda helps!" He laughed, shaking his head at Rayla's sudden shyness.Rayla scoffed as she lightly thumped his shoulder. "That's besides the point!" she shot back. "An-And it wasn't like I was a star wide receiver, or the best tackle or center, because all I really practised was just throwing!"The realization hit Callum like the sudden reveal in a mystery movie. "And that's how you became a star Quarterback!" he said, eyes widening at the conclusion. "Wow…"Rayla sighed. "Aye… from then on, I… I maintained my grades, I kept above honours and such, I-I loved English and all the Humanities courses." Her small smile, that had briefly returned, faltered. "But… my dads said football was a good pastime and I shouldn't stay on the team if I wasn't going to give it my all." She shrugged. "At first, it was for fun, but since our rising rookie team started winning tournaments and championships, whatever ya call 'em, it brought the attention of a lot of people. People with strings." She frowned. "A bunch of college scouts from America made the trip to Scotland to see my last game. We won, decimated the team, and it was great!" Callum laughed at her cheery recap. "But, that win was so good I got riddled with dozens of offers from college scouts."Callum's eyes went wide once more. "Whoa…""Yup," Rayla nodded. "So I basically lost any all chances at, well, deciding my future because how can I, a girl with a low income household, turn down a scholarship offer at some of the best Colleges in America?" She scoffed. "I couldn't do that to my parents. Not especially after all they did to encourage my playing." Her smile returned as it seemed with the memories associated with it. "But, I actually enjoyed school! English class was my favourite, I loved every second of it. And…" she stopped herself, as if she was too ashamed to say it.Callum's eyes darted over to her Philosophy book, and it hit him. He leaned over and held her hands, halting them from twiddling around with her thumbs. "Philosophy."She nodded, shamefully, as if she had committed a sin. "I… I had so much fun… I actually loved learning about Metaphysics and Ethics, and how Philosophers debunked and proved theories and beliefs back then. I… I loved it. But… football came easy to me. Football just, happened. And… I was told that life doesn't always hand ya stuff, so when it does, ya better be acceptin' with open hands." She shook her head. "If I had this one talent that made me, well… me. If it could make my dads happy… then… I had to." She smiled as she looked up at Callum. "But, the offer still came to me and I had to make my choice, so I settled on the one option that made sense. The one school that made me an offer and had a prestigious art program."Callum smiled. "Katolis College.""Katolis College," she echoed, nodding her head. "So yeah… I… I'm here, and I-I do love the sport! But… this," she flicked her open book. "It's still fun."Callum frowned. "And because you're on a scholarship, you can't drop the ball."Rayla shook her head. "Nope, gotta keep on throwing it. It's how I can stay." She shrugged. "Part of me wants to leave, to go back and just… I dunno. But, another part of me wants to stay here to see… what I can do. If… If there really is a shot for me here. I just… I don't know what I want to do. I'm in college, and I still don't know where I can go from here."Callum stared at her, wordlessly. That… was a lot to take in. Practically everything he knew about her just shifted to fit this gap of a history lesson. That sucked. He had no idea what to say. He had his life figured out and molded by his interests, but Rayla never got the chance. "I'm… sorry. That… you're stuck with football."Rayla scoffed, retracting her hands from his. He hadn't even realized he was holding them for that long. "Don't be. I like football. I do. Love it in fact! I just… I dunno if this was what I wanted to become." She looked at Callum with a small smile. "When I asked ya what made ya want to be an artist, I just… I wanted to know if all dreams started out like mine. Like… there was always this other path, but ya're forced to go down one way because—""It's easier," Callum finished. Rayla stared at him, surprised. "Rayla, as an artist, let me just say, shooting for your dreams is always hard." He laughed humorlessly. "It's never easy. And it is a struggle. But, the struggle is different for all of us. I had to overcome my whole photographic memory thing and apply to what I love. Others, they need to settle on what they want and how they want to do it. Some know everything they want to be and become, but can't afford it!" He grabbed her hand and smiled. "The point is. Whatever you want to be, you can still decide. And it's not too late. If you're still pursuing Philosophy and Literature because you want to, that's fine! But eventually, down the road, you're gonna discover which path you want. Right now you're one of the few people who can actually have a choice later on in life. You get to decide what you want to be, because you worked hard what you loved."Rayla seemed to stare thoughtfully at the artist, letting his words soak in. She embraced his hand, smiling at him and nodded. "Ya're right. I… I can decide."He nodded. "Exactly.""I love my studies, and I love football," she exclaimed, "I can do both for now!"Callum nodded again. "Exactly.""An-And, when I'm ready, I'll tell my dads!" she whispered.Callum squeezed her hand. "And I can help with that, if you want."Rayla smirked. "And what, buy ya your own ticket to Scotland? I'm here on scholarship, I'm not made of money!"The two shared a laugh, echoing the room with their reunited joy. Neither of them could be bothered to notice how long they stared into each other's eyes. Or how comforting it felt to hold each other's hands. None of them realized how much of their lives they just dumped onto each other, and how much that meant to them. They couldn't be bothered to even consider how close they were, laughing in pure bliss. What that meant to them, could be decided in the future.Only in their wildest dreams.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
What Embrace Means to Me
Rayla liked hugs.
She was no stranger to affection growing up, and what she lacked from her parents, Runaan made up for in his own way. The occasional comfort from rewarding her for simple things like her first successful knife throw, or her first spar win. She’d look to her mentor with an excited smile, showing full on how proud of herself she was. He’d smile back and openly accept her rush of hugs. His embrace around her made her feel proud, at home, safe.
Her parents’ hugs weren’t exactly different. Back before the disaster that struck with the Dragon King, she’s receive welcome home hugs all the time whenever she came back from training. Her mother’s hug was soft, and warm, like a blanket. Her father’s was similar to cloak, not as warm as her mother’s, but clearly good enough to keep her sheltered and safe. She can faintly remember how it felt to hug them before they betrayed the Dragon King. Before they were cowards.
Grievances aside, their hugs and Runaan’s made Rayla embrace the idea of entrapping herself into the comfort of another. She learned it’s the best way to make people feel at ease, to ground them, to make them remember they aren’t alone. It was the type of thinking that made her hug Ezran and Callum so much. The times they went through hardship, or needed the comradery, they held each other in their arms. Their friendship only signed itself with their contact.
And it was then Rayla learned what friendship hugs were like.
She liked hugging Ezran. He was cuddly, comforting, and felt raw. Like the physically embodiment of joy had actually taken the opportunity to hug her specifically. His probably felt like what hers felt like when she was younger.
But Callum? Callum was different. She didn’t feel friend vibes from him, or the same energy she felt with Ezran. She felt comfort, but that was a definite in a friend. It was to be expected. But his warmth reminded her of her mother’s, almost, intimate. She felt a lot warmer after hugging Callum. Regardless if it was for comfort or just embracing the moment, Callum’s felt different.
It wasn’t until he nearly died, when Rayla released why.
Ya mean too much to me.
She felt it. Of course, only she was holding him. But it made sense after that. All her emotions, into one—what she thought to be at the time—final embrace. Her heart quaking at the expectations, the mere idea of him not opening his eyes. But the relief that erupted as soon as he awakened. The flutter in her chest when she saw him expose his sudden mastery for Air. Her instinctive ability to always smile when he smiled back at her.
It was love.
Maybe.
Possibly.
All Rayla knew, was that after that, she loved hugs.
Especially Callum’s.
::::
Callum liked holding hands.
It made him feel secure and grounded with his companion. Walking around, holding someone’s hand, made him aware. Aware that he wasn’t walking alone. Aware that the path he walked, was shared. It made him aware that, regardless of how small the gesture was, the contact between his hands and another’s felt reassuring. It felt safe.
His mother’s hands made him feel safe. When she walked him around the castle, exposing him to their new home, he felt safer. In a new, bigger, and somewhat colder place, her hands warmed his worried self. Fast forwarding through the years he loved to walk around the castle holding her hands. Even though he had memorized the entire place down to the stone, he liked holding her hands and walking. It was refreshing.
Holding hands with Ezran was sweet. He felt comforted, and he could tell Ezran did too. It felt nice to walk around and hold his younger brother’s hand, knowing full well how much faith was put into their grasp. The way Ezran held on when he was younger, felt like his entire life was being entrusted into him. It was reassuring knowing how much his brother trusted him, and how much that trust held on years later. Ezran’s hands were nice and soft, fragile but firm when scared. Like during a thunderstorm or snowstorm, walking around late at night to tire him out was the go to strategy for Callum. Of course he’d hold his hand all throughout. Of course he easily accepted his trust and led him around, fully on guard for anything. Ezran’s touch was trusting.
Callum had never held hands with his friends before. Soren seemed to want to touch him with a wooden sword more than any basic skin on skin contact. He seemed to reserve his expression of care with more directly physical actions than the clear cut and dry comforting ones. Of course Claudia was a different story. Callum always wanted to hold her hands, to understand what it felt like to hold the hands of—what at the time he considered—a true Mage. He dreamt up the day he could muster up the courage to ask her and walk down the halls of the castle with their fingers intertwined. But after her dark side shown through, Callum couldn’t imagine those same hands that conjured magic to destroy their last Hope ever being comforting.
So his last resort was Rayla.
It was merely only for a moment.
Practically could fly by in their heads as nothing but a casual touch.
All it took was one night under the stars, rested beside a small burning campfire. He had taken the opportunity to discuss the constellations that reigned high above, and learned he and her had different constellations from their cultures. The curiosity and interest took priority and they fell into it. It just happened. He wanted to show her all the stars he knew, and vice versa. And their night shifted easily into this nice, tender moment between the two. A moment where they just learned about each other, and their peoples. It was nice.
So nice, that Callum hadn’t realized he’d been holding Rayla’s hand the entire time. He had her in a firm, soft embrace, intertwining each finger into hers. It was perfect. Her fingers slipped into his like they were meant to, and the way she squeezed his hand, holding onto him with a warm comfort, it was nice.
It wasn’t until the next night they tried again, that Callum realized why it felt so nice.
Her safe was different from his mom’s. It’s refreshing feel was different than that. It was reassuring and nice. It was different from the trusting touch he felt with Ezran. Different in the ways his family’s hand felt to him. But it didn’t feel worse. It felt sweet in its own way. It felt like the type of touch he hadn’t ever felt before. It was the type of touch he imagined he’d feel when holding Claudia’s hands.
Rayla’s hands fit his.
Like they were meant to.
Maybe that meant something?
Either way, Callum still loved holding hands.
Especially Rayla’s.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Just Teasing
“So, whattya think?” Callum asked, holding up his sketch to the rest of the group sat at their table. An early afternoon, no classes for any of his friends, he suggested they sit down somewhere and have lunch together. He realized that in all his time spent hanging out with Rayla, he never actually hung out with her
and
his friends. Sure, Soren had spent time with her during practises, but Rayla had stated before how bare minimum their interactions really are. And Claudia only had seen the girl and spared a few greetings, nothing concrete. So he wanted to get some good interactions between the three.
Of course, Claudia and Soren jumped at the opportunity because there was one thing Callum had
never
done in the time they knew him:
make plans
. It was so random and such a spur of the moment kind of thing, Claudia was surprised at how nonchalant he was about it. Any other person wouldn’t be surprised, because plans like these are meant to be spur of the moment, but Callum? He didn’t work that way. Soren was impressed Callum was so relaxed about the details too, he texted them to show up whenever they can, as long as they just send a heads up in advance. It was so lax and cool, they were convinced something was amiss.
And then they realized why.
Somehow, Callum failed to mention that he also invited Rayla. And boy, was it obvious to the siblings why.
Claudia perked up first, smiling at the artist. “Wow Callum, that looks beautiful!” she said, praising his drawing like always.
Soren raised his brow as he thoughtfully looked upon the sketch. “Wow, nice detail. Another great to add to your collection!” he mused, raising his can of pop at the young man.
A snort erupted from the other side of the table. Soren and Claudia, sat on the one side, glanced over at the other football player in shock. She was sat beside Callum,
very close
to his person, and rested her back against the table, extending her legs the other way. Her arms propped up onto the table, she casually glanced at the drawing, making a face of disapproval. She shook her head. “Ya’ve done better.” Claudia and Soren couldn’t believe what they were hearing from the woman. Especially since it was a drawing of
her
!
It was a sketch of her mimicking the exact pose she was in right now, done to what they thought was a perfection! Like always. But Rayla had the audacity to say otherwise? Before either sibling could rise to object and defend their friend, Callum himself chuckled.
“Aww, c’mon,” he whined.
Rayla rolled her eyes. “It’s not
bad
,” she amended, turning her body around and tucking her legs underneath the table, “but.” She grabbed the book and placed it down on the table, pointing at the edges of his sketch. “Your lines are bolder around my arms. It’s not in a stylistic way too, because I’ve seen your other sketches of me and of people. And your shading kinda lacked around my neck, it looks… off.” She glanced up at the artist and quirked up a smirk. “Plus, ya gave me four fingers instead of five.” She laughed, sliding the book back toward him.
Callum snorted. “Maybe I think you look better with four,” he mused, “besides, less fingers might mean you’ll throw better.”
Rayla laughed, curling back her pinky finger, she held her hand up at him. “Shall we test that theory?” she glanced over at Soren. “Ya brought your football right? Toss it here, I wanna see if I can show Callum proper shading by colouring his cheeks black and blue,” she quipped, gesturing her fingers in a frame around his face.
Callum laughed in response as he held up his hands. “How about I try again? And if I do it properly, you
don’t
attack me?” he suggested.
Rayla smiled as she leaned in close, bumping her shoulder with his. “No promises.”
He smirked as he pointed his pencil over to the football in Soren’s hands. “I bet I’d have better luck sketching the ball itself then.”
Rayla feigned a shocked gasp as she held a hand up to her chest, still curling back her fifth finger. “Why Callum, are ya sayin’ that a football looks
prettier
than me?”
He shrugged and leaned over the table, taking Soren’s ball out of his hands regardless of his wordless answer, and placing it on the table. “There’s no real difference,” he shot back, “both reek of leather and are hardheaded.”
He earned a light smack to his arm. “Smartass,” she muttered. “How do I ‘reek of leather’?” she asked incredulously.
“Aside from the fact that you toss a football around nearly everyday?” Callum questioned, “Try looking in the mirror for once. Your boots are practically a tier a way from cowboy.” He scoffed, shaking his head as he began dragging his pencil around his freshly turned page. As he eyeballed the ball, Rayla rolled her eyes and shook her head, chuckling.
Then suddenly, the young woman’s eyes shot wide open as she desperately placed her hand on his shoulder, holding him in a fierce grip as if she had just come to a realization. “Cal, Cal,
Cal
,” she repeatedly slapped his arm as she bounced in her seat.
“Ow, ow, ow, what
Ray
?” he whined, attempting to shy his arm away from her barrage.
“Cowboy jock,” she whispered with a smile. The artist perked his head up from his sketch, ears wide open. “C’mon, ya
know
that’d be a fun one!”
Callum’s lips slowly upturned as he looked her way. “I dunno, I think I’d do well with a reference.”
Rayla scowled, obviously with no bite. “Ya just want an excuse to see me in a cowboy hat and boots.”
He merely shrugged as he returned to his sketching. “Yee haw,” he muttered. The two erupted into a bout of joyous laughter, clearly proud of the humour they just elicited in the past few minutes.
Speaking of the past few minutes, the two
other
friends invited to this hangout? Gobsmacked. Completely wordless. Just in awe. As Claudia exchanged a glance with her brother, she knew they were both thinking the same thing. Callum was acting different. Callum was more bolder, louder. Callum was laughing more. Heck, Callum was
talking more
. It only boiled down to one thing.
And Claudia couldn’t help but be proud of the man.
She leaned over and propped her elbows on the table, resting her chin on her hands excitedly, she sighed at the two. “Sooo,” she sweetly sung, “how long have you two been together?”
The blush that caught them frozen still spoke volumes. And stirred a flurry of denials and awkwardness they weren’t ready for. Profused proclamations about being just friends and nothing going on between them. They’re “just teasing” was all they said to defend whatever chemistry they had. This entire time, they thought Callum did this to introduce them to his girlfriend, in a formal, personal way.
Claudia turned to Soren, and found his expression was similar: dumbfounded.
There was no way…
::::
“I just, I don’t see how you two
aren’t
dating,” Claudia began, pacing around Callum’s room as she ranted, “Like-Like, the way you guys act? That’s just so… so…” she released a mixture of a squeal and a frustrated sigh, all the while waving her hands around spontaneously. “Y’know?” she asked, staring at the boy sat at his desk.
Callum snorted as he kept his head focused on his sketchbook. “No, I do not,” he laughed. “Despite all our years as friends, I still can’t speak Claudia.” She walked over and flicked his shoulder. “Hey! What?”
She sighed. “You’re being dumb,” she muttered. “It’s just… you two are
so obvious
it’s painful.”
“I’m sorry, being a sadist was not on my agenda today,” he sarcastically shot back.
Claudia groaned as she fisted her hair and returned to her pacing. “Oh my god Callum, you are—” she shook her head as she dropped her arms. “Like, how? What? You…” she stopped as she noticed what he was drawing. Or rather, what he was redoing. It was his sketch of Rayla from earlier in the quad. The one she made fun of, but actually constructively criticized. She actually commented on his work in a way Claudia and Soren never could. And by the way Callum was correcting his mistakes, Claudia could tell he was actually noting what Rayla said. She knew what she was talking about too. “Are sketching her… again…” she whispered.
Callum simply shrugged. “Yeah so? I always do. Besides, she was right about the four fingers, I’ve always sucked at hands,” he sighed, “the struggle of every artist.” He cocked his head as he smiled at the drawing. “Although, Ray doesn’t look too bad with four fingers, eh?”
Claudia’s eyes bulged. “Oh my lord—you even have pet names for each other!”
“They’re nicknames!” Callum laughed, staring at Claudia with an amused face.
“You never let us call you nicknames,” she pointed out with a pout.
“Because,
The Artist
and
Sketchers
, aren’t good nicknames,” Callum shot back, smug as ever.
Claudia made a note to make sure to mention those nicknames to Rayla later on.
She shook her head. “I just… I think—” her mind froze as she realized something Callum had just said. “Wait… did you say… you
always
sketch her?”
Callum shrugged as he made a small grunt of confirmation, still focused on buffing out his outline of Rayla.
Without hesitation, Claudia snatched the book out of his hand, and much to the complaints and dismay of the artist, began flipping through the pages. It was amazing. Nearly
every single
page had a sketch of Rayla inside it. Various pages of her just sitting, casually leaning back against a chair or wall. But most of the casuals had her laughing or smiling. Claudia might’ve not known much about art, but she definitely noticed Callum’s facial expressions were improving, or at least, different than before. They looked happier.
But there was also a select few that were obscure and clearly not casual, like they were poses or done premeditatedly. He had not just sketched her. But he
sketched
her.
“Oh you’ve got it bad…” she muttered.
Callum frowned as he snatched the book back from Rayla. “Hardy har, so she’s a fun reference to draw? So what? Tons of artists have consistent muses. Rayla’s fun to draw. Her jacket’s pretty cool and so are her outfits, it’s a nice combination to practice mixed in with facial expressions and anatomy.”
His response seemed so rehearsed and quick Claudia couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Was that what he convinced himself? Was that just denial? Was he in denial of his feelings or hers? Or did he just like playing dumber than Soren? Claudia merely laughed to herself, earning more confusion from Callum.
Surely not.
::::
“So is he a fling?” Soren spontaneously asked.
The sudden question threw Rayla off so much she nearly missed the catch, and had to duck the oncoming airborne ball. As it bounced around the grass, she heard a whistle blow from behind.
“Rayla, c’mon, don’t slack. Just ‘cause you can throw ‘em doesn’t mean you shouldn’t learn to catch them!”
Rayla sighed as she rushed over to pick up the football. “Aye, sorry Coach Harrow!” she shouted. Turning back, she shot Soren a stern glare. “The Hell’s wrong with ya?” she shouted back at their captain. She arched her arm back and launched the ball right at him.
His eyes shot wide open as he quickly threw his hands up. His form was barely enough to defend his face, and resulted in the ball bouncing out of his hand. Of course, he also yelped like a little girl too. “Yikes,” he muttered as he picked up the ball.
The whistle blew once again. “Soren, just ‘cause you’re captain doesn’t mean you can slack. Pick it up or ten laps around the field, you choose!” Coach Harrow shouted.
Soren winced at the threat as he nodded. “Gotcha Coach!” he shouted, throwing the ball over to Rayla. She easily made the catch, smugly smiled. After receiving and annoyed glare, Rayla tossed it back. He caught the perfect spiral and sighed. “Sorry for asking,” he unapologetically replied, his tone laced with spite. “I was just curious is all.” He arched his arm and threw.
Rayla caught it and took five steps back. “In my sex life?” She arched and threw.
Soren rolled his eyes and caught the ball. Five steps back and he shook his head. “Just thought, how else could you two be so close and
not
dating?” He adjusted his grip and launched the ball.
Rayla shrugged after catching. She sarcastically replied, “Uhh, because we’re friends?” She took five more steps back and shook her head, before throwing the football once again.
It spiraled through the air, perfectly arching over to Soren, who made the flawless catch in response. “Rayla, friends don’t act the way you two did!”
“Yeah they do, it’s called teasin’!” she shouted back.
Soren groaned and threw the ball, this time a little more aggressively. The ball’s spin was less gracious than Rayla’s but it made the distance. “No, that’s with regular friends. With us? Callum doesn’t let us get away with making fun of his art! Let alone being snarky!” he explained. “Like, what you guys were doing is
way different
from the way Clauds and I tease him!”
Rayla frowned as she tossed the ball up and down, clearly not believing him. “Ya’re delusional!” she stated. Before he could react, she arched and threw.
Reflexively, he ran to catch it, barely managing to get it in his grasp. He rushed back to his spot and sighed. “And I think you’re in denial!” He stepped back another five steps and threw it over.
She caught it. “That we’re just friends? Sure.” She took five steps. “Since when did ya become a love expert?” she asked as she threw.
Another spectacular spiral, another clean catch. “Aside from the fact that I’m good with the ladies?” despite the distance he could she snorted. “It’s ‘cause I know Callum!”
“Ya ditched him at a party he clearly didn’t want to go to!”
He frowned as he took five steps back. “Fair point!” he arched back and released. “But I know that he has
never
acted that way around us!”
Rayla chuckled as she caught the ball. She took five steps and shrugged. “Maybe if ya didn’t ditch him so much ya’d actually know?” she inquired before throwing the ball.
Soren caught it and laughed. “Rayla, I’ve known him longer than you! Way before Katolis too! His dad and my dad are friends! We’ve been hanging around each other since I was a freshman in highschool!” He took five steps back. “And for starters? Callum’s
never
let any of us get away with nicknames!” He tossed it back.
Rayla smirked as she caught the ball. “Probably because yours are all terrible,” she mused.
“You think Sketchers is lame?” he asked.
She laughed, clearly not ready for the name. “Okay, okay, nevermind, that’s good,” she accepted. “But so what? We just call each other our names, but shortened! Isn’t that what a nickname’s for?” he arched and threw it back.
Soren groaned in irritation after catching her flawless long armed throw. “The point is, he’s different with you! And it’s obvious you act different with him!”
“Ya don’t know me!” she shot back.
“I know you don’t talk much,” he pointed out, “You’re more laid back and chill about things! But with Callum? Clearly something’s got you up in good spirits!” He threw the ball.
Rayla caught it and rolled her eyes. “So what? Friends make each other happy! Isn’t that the whole point of friendship? We make each other laugh because we can! That’s all it is! Just teasing!”
Soren couldn’t believe it. There was no way she was that thick about it. She was right, friends do that for each other. But what
they
were doing? It didn’t feel like a just friends vibe. That teasing was more comforted, personal. Soren would know, as he was the self-proclaimed king of teasing. And what those two had? It was
much
more than what they made it out to be.
He was so wrapped up in his thoughts he didn’t noticed the ball heading toward him. “Heads!” he heard Rayla shout. With the warning in mind, he ducked and felt the whizz of the ball breeze over his back.
Another whistle. “Dammit, Soren, what’re you doing! Head in the game, stop messing around and talking about my son! Gossip later!” Harrow shouted as he hurriedly walked toward the two. “Goes double for you too Rayla,” he pointed at her as he walked over to Soren.
Rayla’s face flushed as she watched her coach breeze by. Her thoughts ran circles around her as she realized what had just happened. They were
really
far from each other. Her body crawled with stares, no doubt from the rest of her teammates. They were loud too. And her coach… of course. She felt her flushed face only brightened as she heard her teammates break into murmurs. She glared at Soren, who simply shrugged as he ignored Harrow’s berating.
Oh she was going to have words with a certain artist.
::::
“So…” Claudia began, lightly bumping her shoulder against her brother’s. “What’d you pick up on your end?”
“Just…” Soren sighed as they walked across the quad. “Pointless loops. They’re in denial right?”
“So in denial,” his sister eagerly agreed. “But like, of their own feelings or of each other’s?”
“I’d say it’s both.”
A silence stirred as they strolled. But Callum wasn’t wrong about Rayla being a good muse. He probably just never had someone to draw. Claudia and Soren hadn’t exactly offered themselves like Rayla did, so he was probably excited to have a consistent model to use. If Rayla seemed to understand art, then she probably enjoyed posing for him. And Rayla wasn’t far off about friends just jesting around. She wasn’t exactly one to shy away from snarking or dry wit, and it definitely match Callum’s. Could the two just be good friends?
As if they had come to the same conclusion, the two exchanged a look, about to speak.
“Hey Sketchers!” Rayla shouted. Their attention, as well as other nearby students, shot over to the running football player. They stopped in their tracks and realized who she was talking about.
Down her path, sat Callum, resting on a blanket with his sketchbook in hand. “Yes? My daily muse?” he smirked.
“Ya’ve got some explaining to do!” she shouted as she arrived at his spot, berating him with a flurry of swears and smacks of her hands and bag.
Claudia and Soren frowned at the sight. “They’re clueless,” they said together.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Perspective
“Now
that’s
a view.”
Rayla shot an incredulous look back something the boy behind her, halting her pace alongside the pathway. She stared at him in annoyance, then followed his sight line over toward the large mountaintops several acres adjacent from them. Sure, it was a beautiful sight. But that was the same mountain they had seen from before. A day earlier they were on the West side of the mountain, now they were on the East. From the distance, it hadn’t moved or changed at all. It’s foliage and carved landscape limited only to its 360 degree viewings. That, and it was a mountain. They don’t exactly change overnight.
“Callum,” Rayla groaned. “What’s so different about this view compared to all the rest?” she asked, with irritation laced within her tone. “All ya keep saying is, ‘Now
that’s
view!’ Like, whattya mean! Nothin’ changed!”
Callum knowingly shook his head as he clicked his teeth. “Ah, ah, ah, but that’s where you’re wrong Rayla,” he chirped, raising his finger.
Zym perked up at his rebuttal, clearly eager to see where this fight was going to lead. He sat down as he wagged his tail, glancing between the two.
“For we were on the West side yesterday—“
“I know.”
“—Which means,” he promptly ignored, “a whole new perspective!”
“Oh so instead of seeing the sunny side of the mountain at sunset, we get to see the shady side!” Rayla deadpanned.
Callum frowned at her. “What’s with that?” he asked.
She crossed her arms and shifted her weight to her right hip. “What’s with what?”
“You hating on my appreciation for a good view?” he inquired, circling an accusing finger at her.
Rayla scoffed. “I’m not ‘hating’,” she corrected. “I’d just prefer getting good progress along instead of stopping to stare at
another
view.”
Callum rolled his eyes. “Easy for you to say. You practically grew up here, this view to you might as well be another tree!
I’m
appreciating the sights!” he defended, jerking a thumb to himself.
“And slowing our progress,” she pointed out, gesturing to the path before them.
“Aww, c’mon Rayla,” he whined, “this is actually a nice view! It looks so… so… peaceful.”
Rayla sighed. She hated seeing his face get so twisted up in his passionate emotions. He stared at the view with an obvious awe as he smiled, completely entranced by its beauty. He was simple like that. Or rather, it was the artist in him. That was what she saw. And she admired that he was taking more and more strides to step out of his shell and sketch more. It made him happy. The same way magic did.
Taking a deep breath, she nodded. “Fine. But ten minutes only,” she relented. Maybe she was being soft. Or maybe she was willing to admit she was a tad tired from their walk. Either way, a small part of Rayla couldn’t help but forget about her frowning and annoyance once Callum pumped his fist out of joy. He rushed down to the edge of the cliffside, hanging his feet off the edge, and pulled out his sketchbook. The eagerness in his face as he dragged his pencil across the page was amusing to watch. He was like a child given a box of coloured pencils and endless sheets of paper. He was so immersed in his work.
Rayla recounted all the times he got like that over a small view. And how excited he got about it.
After their encounter with Sol Regem, the two had made it up the mountain across and acquired a neat view of the land they had just crossed. From a distance, Rayla laughed at how small and trivial the lava of the Moonstone Path looked. It wasn’t actually a complicated nor difficult obstacle, but it definitely raced some hearts for a moment. But Callum took a moment to glance over the river flow of lava. With his tongue sticking out and determination in his face, he sat down, cross legged, and drew the scenery from which they had
just
escaped.
And he had done so to a perfection. The lava’s streams of hot fire and molten, flowing against rocky paves floating with the current. It was done to a small, and intimate detail, but captured with much care. She supposed his photographic memory coincided with that. The familiarity with the landscape was emulated within the piece and it was obvious. The mountains and cliff sides were edged along with a realistic rough sketch, jagged like a true mountain. She asked why did he feel the need to recreate something they had just overcome.
“I dunno. It looked… like there was more to this, then just a line between two countries, y’know?” He shrugged, seeming unsure of himself as he touched off his work. “Like, there’s actually nature here to make note of. That exists.”
Since then, the cross over to Xadia was an event she looked at as a new page in their adventure, much like Callum did with his sketchbook.
Then the first town they came across, a small Sunfire village just a day away from the border, hidden amongst the wasteland trees. It was a quaint and lively town, mixed with a variety of happy and passionate elves, but wary ones too. Rayla recalled having to keep Callum in a low profile throughout and how stressful it became. An attempt to restock supplies and gain some extra became a taxing experience of keep away from the guards. Walking out, sweat beading down her body and exhausting ridden all over, she noticed Callum—while exhausted—still took the time to sketch out the village. They kept moving afterward, but he managed to get a base to work off from when they camped later that night.
He made the town lively. He made it peaceful. He captured the exact details they had rushed through. The hustle and bustle of the working and eager shopkeepers, selling off their finest merch and exotic resources, was mimicked to a fine degree of expression. The buildings were equally represented in their age, shedding themselves of bricks and stone, with the wear-and-tear of wood and molded scaffolding. The pathway was crowded much like when they were running through it, utilizing its camouflage for strangers to their advantage. But this time, its busyness wasn’t out of convenience or purpose, but a mere representation of the culture. She smiled at the drawing.
“Next time, I hope we get to walk through one,” he spoke up, clearly noticing her inspection of his work. “Maybe then all this clutter and liveliness will feel more real to me. But for now, at least it’s a good reminder.”
She quirked a brow. “For what?”
“To come back again when this is all over.”
He said that about nearly every place. He said that about the lake by the Ocean Elves, the one that glistened off the reflection of the sun’s light and mirrored the moon’s true gaze at night. He said that about the mystical and spooky atmosphere of the
Cursed Caldera Forest
. He said that about the ruins and deserted villages they had wandered across, leaving them to their rusty and overgrown peace. Every place had something to say all of a sudden. And Callum made sure to capture and tell its story.
Maybe he made her realize that the view wasn’t as small as she once thought.
“Finished!” he chirped, disrupting Rayla’s deep thoughts. Ten minutes had really flown by.
She flashed her eyes over to him, smiling in anticipation as he fine tuned his work, lightly dragging his pencil across some lines. She wondered what the story would be this time, what the focus was that captured his eye.
Callum smiled, raising up his sketchbook at her proudly. A very well drawn portrait of her from the waist up, smiling a sparingly toothy smile. Her hair captured to perfection, her facial expression emulated its exact reality, and her proportions properly sized and balanced. It looked like her. And it was the foreground of his sketch. The background weighed in its own story of mountains and scattered tree lines, with puffy parted clouds and a setting sun. But, he had told her he was sketching the view. Yet, even though she wasn’t much of an artist, Rayla clearly was the focus of this piece. It was his perspective drawn, but she was just shoehorned in at the center, posing in the bask outline of the background. It made no sense.
She quirked up a brow, ready to ask her question, but was met with a smug grin.
“See? Now
that’s
a view.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Time & Effort
“His birthday?”
Claudia perked up at the sudden question, removing her eyes from her book as she stared at Rayla. “What about it?”
Rayla rolled her eyes as she sighed. “It’s coming up, isn’t it!” she reminded, waving her arms around. “And I’ve been so busy with my diplomatic duties, I forgot ‘bout what to get him!”
Claudia put her book down whilst wearing a smug smile. “Ahh, I see, so this about how
you
messed up and want to steal my gift idea?”
She frowned. “No. I’m not stealing anythin’. I just… I need help coming up with somethin’!” she claimed. She threw herself into the chair across from the older girl and released an irritated groan. “I can’t believe after all these months, I’ve been fretting ‘bout it, and now I almost forgot!” She angrily slammed her face against the table and sighed.
“Hey, at least you didn’t
completely
forget,” Claudia pointed out, wearing a weak smile.
Rayla glanced up at the girl with a scowl. “Not. Better.”
Claudia shrugged. “Debatable.”
The Moonshadow Elf pouted as she lowered her head. “I’m such a terrible girlfriend.” She shook her head as she fisted her hair. “How could I be so wrapped up in everythin’ in our relationship and our work, but also forget to get him a gift?” she shouted.
“If it makes you feel any better, I only got him a new sketchbook,” Claudia admitted with a smile.
Rayla waved her hand dismissively as she muttered, “Eh I already got him that. Everytime we travel I pick up a new one wherever we go.”
Claudia frowned. “Wow, way to shoot down the excitement of my gift,” she deadpanned.
The elf rolled her eyes. “Relax, he’ll love yours. He always appreciates new sketchbooks,” she assured her. “But me? I’ve practically gotten so many gifts over our travels that another gift might just seem normal to him. I’ve got step up!”
The two dwelled in silence thoughtfully, carefully crafting a creative solution to the younger girl’s problem. Then, Claudia’s face lit up. Rayla excitedly turned to her in joy, expectantly waiting for her answer. “You could always
make
him something!”
Rayla’s face dropped to a frown.
“I’m going to Soren.”
::::
“A gift? Yeah I got him one ages ago,” Soren claimed, swiping at Rayla with a heavy strike.
She blocked the blow with ease as her eyes went wide. “Seriously?
Ya
were prepared for once?” With her blades crossed, she slowly started pushing against the head guard, forcing his footing a few steps back. “I don’t believe it,” she accused, alongside with her forceful push, sending him back a few feet. She rushed, with her blades switched to their hook forms, she slashed at his feet, anticipating his jump she readied her foot and kicked him square against the chest.
After landing on his back with a hard grunt, Soren flipped himself onto his feet and readied his blade. “Ouch, and what! Why? How come that’s so hard to believe?” he asked, swiping his blade at the elf.
“Because you once forgot your sister’s birthday?” Rayla shot back, dodging his barrage of swings. Once he threw a heavy left swing, she blocked it with both her blades, shooting him a look. “Nevermind that, what’d ya get him?”
Soren smugly smiled, a look that was very reminiscent of Claudia’s—she guess they really were siblings. “I’m not telling you!” he defended. “I mean,” he tilted his head, “not unless you beat me.”
Rayla smirked as she narrowed her brows. “Deal,” she gritted through her teeth. She followed through by hooking her blades onto Soren’s sword, and dragging them down to their ankles. Then, she quickly hopped into the air and dropped kicked him square against the chest. Soren flew back a few more feet, flying right out of the ring and landing right on his back. As Rayla landed on her feet, Soren’s sword clattered near them, whilst she retracted her blades into their handles. As Soren propped himself up on his elbows, Rayla crossed her arms at him, smugly smirking as she shifted her weight to her right hip. “Now, ‘bout that deal?”
Soren groaned as he heard the uproar of laughter erupting at the benches. His collection of crownsguards, all doubling over in fits of giggles and amusement, admiring their captain’s failure. “I’m going to double your shifts,” he blankly claimed. Their faces dropped into horror, earning a smile from him. “Thank you,” he smiled. “Now, as for the deal?”
Rayla’s face perked up as she walked over to Soren, pointy ears wide open for listening. “Yes, yes, yes,” she eagerly hurried, “What did ya get him?”
Soren wore a proud smile as he helped himself up to his feet. Pausing as if for dramatic effect, he raised his hands and shook them with pizazz, whispering, “A collection of feather pens.”
Rayla’s face scrunched up in confusion. “Feather pens? Quills?”
“Yeah!” Soren excitedly pitched. “I know he likes writing too, and I figured he’d like a cool collection of some rare feathers from some pretty rare creatures across our country!”
Rayla’s face tightened in suspicion. “And… did ya hunt these rare creatures?” she skeptically inquired.
Soren’s face transformed into shock. “What? Hey, I’m not Claudia, I wasn’t the one going around killing animals or whatever!” he quickly defended. “They’re collected
after
they’ve already passed. Trust me!” That only made Rayla’s suspicions grow. “Alright, fine, or not, the point is, I was not involved in killing and I do not know if anyone else is—I just got my man a present. That is that!”
Rayla’s suspicions faded as she merely shrugged. “Eh.”
“Eh? What’s ‘eh’ about that?” he asked.
“I mean, I’ve already got him quill collections before, rarer ones from Xadia, along with fancy pencils and such,” Rayla casually mentioned, shrugging once more. “He liked ‘em. But he burnt through pencils quickly, and the feathers were reserved for letter writing, which he entrusts me to do because he likes my handwritin’ more.” She frowned as she thoughtfully glanced down. “I can’t just get him another collection, he’ll be so bummed out that
that’s
my best effort for his birthday!”
Soren blankly stared at Rayla. “Wow… months of gift planning only for his girlfriend to say my gift’s a bummer.”
Rayla winced at his comment as she said, “Sorry! I-I didn’t mean that! I meant coming from me, he’ll love it from ya!” She threw her hands up and added, “Meanwhile
I’ve
gotten nowhere all morning!”
Soren rubbed the back of his head as he pondered an idea. “Ah! What about making him a gift? King Ez always did that for our birthdays, Callum loved his crafts—he’ll love yours too.”
“That’s brilliant!” Rayla exclaimed.
“Really?”
“Yes! I’ll just go ask Ez!”
::::
“So… you interrupted my meeting, to tell me you forgot my brother’s—a.k.a. your boyfriend’s—birthday?”
Rayla’s body shrank at each word as she kept her gaze lowered. She didn’t like how Ezran was also seated at his throne, holding his position of power respectively as he disappointedly loomed it over her. She managed to glance up at him, and frowned at his smug face. Maybe it was just humans in general that liked to look that smug.
“First off, I didn’t forget his birthday,” she defended, “I forgot to get him a gift. Second,” she raised her finger, “that was
so
not a meeting! Ya were practically just havin' a lunch date with Queen Aanya—”
“We were discussing the trades between our kingdoms,” Ezran quickly corrected.
“Without the rest of the council of your kingdoms? Or Xadia’s council?” Rayla inquired. “Thought that our bi-weekly meetings were supposed to consist of all ambassadors and royal heads?” she cocked her head and crossed her arms at the king, proudly jutting out her hip as she smirked.
Ezran’s face fell into a deep blush, causing some chuckles to emerge from the guards at his sides. He shot them glances, only leaving them to stifle their laughter poorly. Rayla grinned. Of course, as much as respectable and worthy of kingship Ezran was, he was also still a thirteen year old boy. He definitely had the emotions of one too.
“Alright, alright, fine it was a date,” Ezran relented, rolling his eyes.
Rayla squealed as she shook in her spot. “Oooh, ya’re
so
telling me ‘bout this later!” she demanded, pointing an excited finger his way. Ezran’s face dropped into a frown. “Anyways, I need to brainstorm ‘bout a gift I can get Cal!”
Ezran sighed. “Ray, he’ll love anything you give him.”
“Yeah, if we were still
just
dating,” she pointed out, “but we’re not! We’re way past ‘just’! We
are
!”
Ezran raised a confused brow as he glanced to his guards, who merely shrugged in confusion. “Uhh, yeah, you are?”
“Exactly! Which means no basic or regular gifts!” she explained, “I-I can’t get him sketchbooks because I’ve already done that countless times, I can’t get him pens or pencils, or quills, because I‘ve done it dozens of times! What gift can I get the boy who’s been by my side for
so
long, that shows that I can give the same effort back?” she asked with a desperate look on her face.
The guards and Ezran exchanged hesitant looks, obviously afraid of the elven girl’s outburst. They shrugged as Ezran cleared his throat. “Well… if effort’s your concern, I usually make my gifts! Callum told me he appreciates the effort and thought a lot and that’s what counts!” as he said this, the guards’ faces went sheepish, obviously reluctant to add something. It went under Ezran’s nose but was
very much
noticed by Rayla.
So obviously Callum was just being a nice brother and just
saying
that.
Which obviously meant Rayla couldn’t do that. Rayla was by no means, an arts & crafts kinda girl. She was an Assassin. Assassins didn’t exactly make birthday gifts. So that’s why she’s strictly avoiding the handmade process. She didn’t have an artistic bone in her body. At least not one good enough for Callum’s birthday.
“—why I made him collection of all his childhood drawings!” Ezran excitedly declared, shooting Rayla right out of her thoughts.
Confusion struck her. “What?”
“Yeah! I just collected all the childhood drawings he’s either made for me or left behind in his travels, and I binded them into a book! I did it myself, because I like to get hands on when it comes to personal stuff!” Ezran explained, wiggling his fingers as if by means of demonstration.
Rayla thought about Ezran’s gift and smiled. It wasn’t actually that bad. It still possessed the artistic integrity Callum appreciated
and
nodded back to his previous works. Which was something Rayla could definitely do. Something with sentimental value, but also craftsy. Something that will wring on his heartstrings, for both artistic and personal reasons.
She could do it.
::::
“Oh…” Callum uttered slowly. “You… made me… a…” he pensively held his words, glancing over to his friends for assistance. Soren and Claudia exchanged a look of equal confusion before shrugging their answer, and Ezran winced as he shook his head. Callum turned back to Rayla, his eyes faltering at how innocent and proud she looked for giving this to him. Something she claimed to be handmade, done all by herself.
It was blatantly obvious no doubt.
He held up the bundle of what he knew to be a violet coloured wool and massaged it with his fingers, slowly stretching and spreading it as he tilted his head, trying to wrap his head around what he was holding in his hands. It was still unfolding, but it also was folding into itself. There were holes in its design. At first he thought them to be for aesthetics, but he quickly realized there was no set pattern after the first four enormous gaps. After his sixth unfold, his eyes widened as it sunk in.
“You made me a shirt!” he shouted, smiling in surprise. “Wow! It… it looks good!” he nodded, smiling over at his girlfriend. His expression quickly dissipated as he noticed her pout. It hit him immediately. “This isn’t a shirt… is it?”
Rayla sadly shook her head.
“It’s…” his face winced as it clicked inside him. “It’s a scarf… isn’t it?”
Rayla sadly nodded.
“Hey…” he placed his hand on her shoulder. “It’s fine,” he assured her, “I get it, it was your first attempt—”
“Sixth,” she corrected softly.
He heard seethes and stifled snorts escaped from behind him, causing him to shoot glares at his friends. They quickly shielded their expressions, gesturing themselves over to a vacant patch of grass far away from their picnic table. He turned back and moved his hand down to hers, placing it above as he caressed it softly. “Ray, I… I love it!”
“Don’t do that,” she quickly retorted, crossing her arms. “I… I just wanted to make ya somethin’ with emotional value for once. And… I thought… since ya always have your mum’s scarf… ya’d like another… just… y’know, if ya ever want wear another.”
Callum smiled at her, shaking his head with a sigh. “Rayla,
every
gift from you has emotional value. Because it’s from
you
,” he pointed at her, getting a smile to rise out of her. “I don’t care what you get me, because I know you spent time and effort in getting it! Like every single time you just happen across a gift during our travels, you thought about it and got it for me because you
know
me.”
Rayla’s head rose as a small blush formed on her cheeks. “Thanks Callum.” She sighed. “Sorry to be such a baby on your birthday.”
He snorted, waving a dismissive hand. “Nah,” he pecked her cheek and pulled her into a hug, “you’re fine. Besides I
really
appreciate your efforts!” He dragged out his emphasis, but Rayla knew what he was doing it jokingly. She supposed the thought and efforts really did matter. “Just… never make a scarf again…”
She rolled her eyes and slapped his shoulder. “Knock it off!”
She was definitely just going to buy him another scarf next time.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sweet Exchange
“How can you not like Coffee Crisp?”Rayla merely rolled her eyes at the question as she turned her attention to the artist sat at his desk. Tonight was supposed to be some late night studying, him prepping her for her upcoming Philosophy test, while she aided him in his study notes for his Literature test. The night started off strong, until Rayal decided to bust out her bag of snacks to satisfy her sugar starved brain. Which led to her offering some to Callum. She simply tossed him some Coffee Crisps, claiming to have no desire to ever eat them.“I barely like coffee,” she mused popping a couple of Smarties into her mouth.“Yeah, but does that justify the disgusting claim of saying they’re terrible?” he accused her, pointing his unwrapped, half bitten coffee crisp at her. The crumbs fell to the floor and earned a mere chuckle from the Scottish girl.“Disgusting,” she proudly replied.Callum gasped as he turned his head away, returning his attention to his desk. “I can’t even look at you!” he declared.Rayla rolled her eyes. “Not my fault,” she shot back, “I thought your American chocolate would make it taste better but it clearly hasn’t.”The artist turned back with a confused stare. “What?”“Your chocolates taste different,” she explained. “Like, for instance, your kit kats taste worse. I dunno how or why, but they just do,” she simply shrugged.Callum blankly stared. “That’s a lie. You just want an excuse to hate on Western culture more,” he claimed, shaking his head with a laugh. “Chocolate doesn’t taste different just because it’s being sold on a different continent.”Rayla scowled. “Oh yeah?”Callum nodded. “Oh yeah.”“Fine,” she turned over to her bag and began digging into her front pockets. Callum’s brows rose. “You have more sweets?”“I like snacking,” she muttered as she pulled out a handful of chocolates. It was a wide variety too. Kit Kats, Smarties, Rockets, Aeros; the whole Halloween bag. She picked up a Coffee Crisp and threw it at Callum, smiling in delight as it bounced off his forehead and landed on his lap.He frowned as he picked it up. “Really?” He scoffed.“Eat it,” she nodded at him.He rolled his eyes with a shrug. He turned back to his desk and opened his water bottle, taking a quick sip as he sloshed it in his mouth. When Rayla shot him a disgusted look, he laughed. “What? If I’m taste testing I gotta do it right!” he defended, picking up the Coffee Crisp. “How do I know this is really from Scotland? What if you just… infected it or something,” he inquired as he skeptically scanned it.Rayla frowned. “Oh yes. I contaminated that very specific Coffee Crisp for this exact day knowing we’d have this debate, and also managed to re-seal it like a production company.” She stared at him with raised brow as she smirked. “Really?” He shrugged. “My dads always sent me treats from home. Along with their own chocolates, because Runaan doesn’t like it when Ethari eats a bunch of junk so it gives him an excuse to send them to me. Along with other snacks I can’t get here in America.”Callum’s brows rose thoughtfully. “Oh? Like what?”“Tablets, wham bars, deep fried mars bars—” she shuddered as her mouth began salvaviting. “Ugh, just… good treats.” She frowned as she noticed Callum’s face. “Oi, eat your Scotland Coffee Crisp!”Callum immediately unwrapped his new treat and popped it into his mouth, chewing it with a thoughtful look. Rayla squinted her eyes at his feigned pondering, and after a solid minute, he swallowed a nodded. “Yup.”“Yup what?”“Yup…” he smiled, “it tastes like a Coffee Crisp.” He shrugged. “It doesn’t taste different at all!”Rayla groaned as she threw her head back. “Ugggh, ya just have messed up taste buds!” Callum leaned over and grabbed the very same handful of the Scotland sweets she pulled out. Her eyes widened as she raced to swipe them from his hand. “No, no, no!” she pleaded, “don’t eat those ones!”Callum stared at her as he placed them on his desk, scattered all over his papers. “Ray, they taste the exact same. I’m just testing them out for myself to prove that,” he smugly declared as he unwrapped a Kit Kat bar. He broke off a piece and bit into it, chuckling as he chewed. “Tastes like Kit Kat,” he declared as he tossed the other bar to Rayla.She pouted as she munched on it. “Ya’re lying…” she muttered.Callum laughed. “Maybe it’s the nostalgia of knowing it comes from home that makes you think they taste different,” he said through his chewing. Rayla sighed. “No, I swear they taste different.”After finishing his sweet, Callum dusted off his hands. He noticed her childish pouted and eased up on his teasing. “Not to me at least,” he compromised with a shrug. “How ‘bout you share your Scotland treats? Maybe expose an uncultured American to the beauty of European sweets?”Rayla pondered the notion. “Eh… Da doesn’t exactly send much at a time and I only eat them sparingly!” she explained rationally.Callum blinked at her with skepticism. “You already went through half, didn’t you?” he questioned.She sighed. “More like two-thirds,” she corrected. “Next package they send, I’ll share, promise!” Rayla placed her right hand over her heart and raised her left. Callum chuckled as he returned to his desk. His face shifted into confusion as he noticed a strange, pyramid like chocolate wrapped in a silver foil, with a white tag attached. It had blue Helvetica font and said, Kisses on them. He pinched it with two fingers as he turned back to Rayla. “Hey, you’ve got some here.” She scrunched up her face. “What?”“This,” he shook it in front of her, “ Kisses ,” he read, “that’s from Scotland, no?”Rayla’s eyes widened as she slowly opened her mouth. “Cal… have ya… never heard of Kisses chocolate before?”His brows furrowed. “No? Don’t think they sell these in America.”Her face grew bewildered as she palmed her forehead. There was no way , Callum lived his entire life in the United States whilst also never indulging in the taste of Kisses chocolate before. That was impossible. She opened her mouth, but halted as she witnessed his genuine, innocent confusion. He was serious. He had never had one.“Ya’re serious?” she clarified.Callum nodded. “Uhh, yeah?”She clasped her hands together as she stared at the boy. The silenced filled the room, and nothing but a dead atmosphere lingered as Rayla tried to piece her brain back together. The moonlight streamed through the curtains, shining off the very treat Callum seemed to be so enamoured with. As he spun and observed the sweet, Rayla sighed. “Callum… they sell this here…” she stated.Callum’s face grew surprised. “No they don’t,” he claimed, “I’ve never heard of Kisses before.”“No, I swear, they sell it here,” Rayla insisted.He shook his head. “No,” he chuckled, “Ray, I’m pretty sure I’d know if they do.”“Well, I knew ‘bout Owl City before ya did, so I think things flying under your radar might not be a rarity,” she retorted, shrugging with a smirk. Callum frowned. “Fair point. But there’s thousands of pop artists in America, that’s understandable.” He raised the sweet. “But this? Never heard of it!”Rayla blinked at him. “Try it,” she suggested.Callum skeptically eyed the piece of candy before shaking his head.Rayla’s brow raised. “What’s wrong? Just try it!” she gestured.The artist seethed. “I dunno,” he thoughtfully replied, cupping his chin as he looked at Rayla. “How am I to know that this is safe?” he inquired.The jock frowned as she uninterestedly stared back. “Are ya implying I’m tryin’ to poison ya?” Callum shrugged. “You said it, not me,” he said as he tossed the sweet back into her lap.Rayla stared at him in shock. She had never heard of someone every refusing a chance to eat chocolate, unless they were allergic or diabetic. She shook her head as she picked up the sweet treat and gestured it to Callum. “Cal, I swear, just try it! Ya’ll love it! It’s practically childhood candy everyone knows!” Callum stared with curiosity, as skeptic as ever. “Hmmm, I dunno…” She immediately unwrapped the wrapper, and motioned the newly naked chocolate toward the artist. He flinched— literally , he actually flinched at her sudden action—and backed away in his seat. Rayla merely rolled her eyes as she left her hand out in the open. As if it was some sort of showcase, the moonlight from the dorm window perfectly streamed onto Rayla’s unfolded palm, shining off the glistening melted chocolate. She lightly shook her head, tempting her friend to take the bait, to understand that there was no real threat with this treat. Hesitantly, he maneuvered his fingers over the sweet, forming a pinch with his two fingers and thumb. He hovered over the chocolate, eyes squinting in suspicion, as if it were it blow or something. The idea made no sense to Rayla, but she was happy to see was at least going for it. His fingers pinched the tip of the chocolate, and he slowly brought it over to his face. Time slowed to a crawl—his eyes closed shut as his lips hung ready to receive. They sat there, tantalizingly awaiting for the sweetness to arrive. Soon enough, it brushed against his lips as he dropped it into his mouth, closing tight shut.Rayla blinked out of her trance as she realized he was finally eating it. What the heck was he doing? Why was he doing it so slowly and cautiously? She watched as Callum thoughtfully chewed the chocolate, nodding his head as he seemingly tried to piece a response. Rayla’s eyes lingered on his face. Did he always look so adorable when he was this pensive? And the chocolate glistening off his lips, the framing of his face in this moonlight, he looked… Her eyes widened as she stopped herself. She was leaning forward. She was practically off his bed and stood right near his face. Callum’s thinking seemed to dissipate as he noticed her sudden closeness. He raised a brow. “Uhh, you good Ray?” he questioned.She nervously laughed as she backed away, brushing her hair behind her ears. “Y-Yeah, I-I’m fine,” she nodded. She cleared her throat and awkwardly smiled at him as he eyed her. “I… ya just… got…” she pointed at her lips. The gesture caused her face to flush, whilst Callum’s brows rose.“Ohhh, thanks!” he realized, licking his lips with a smile.Rayla’s gaze averted toward the floor. She did not need to see that. Her eyes soon fell onto her own palm, noticing a small smudge of chocolate from where she was once holding the sweet. “Uh, so, how, um, how was it?” she asked, biting her bottom lip.Callum seemed to pause for a moment. “Oh, you mean the chocolate?”“Yes,” she nodded. What else? No seriously, what else?Callum chuckled. “I think I have had this before!” he exclaimed with a smile. “They remind me of that one chocolate my mom always bought after grocery shopping, what was it called?” He seemed to ponder the riddle within his mind as Rayla raised a curious brow. “Ah hah! Hershey’s! That’s what they were called, Hershey’s chocolate!” Rayla’s face dropped to a blank stare. Callum noticed and looked at her in confusion. “Ray?” She arched her hand back and smudged the leftover chocolatey residue against his cheek, scowling as he whined. “What was that for?” he complained, desperately attempting to shake off her hand from his cheek.Rayla smirked in pride as she removed her hand, bringing it up to her lips as she licked her palm. “Just thought ya’d want more kisses.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Appearance
“Hey Da?”
Callum rose up from his desk, dragging his attention away from his mountainous amount of paperwork and spellbooks. He turned over to the entrance of the office, and raised a brow at the young halfling stood before him. “Yes, Sweetie?”
Isha awkwardly rubbed her arm as she leaned against the doorframe. “Where’s Mum?” she quietly asked.
Callum blinked in confusion. He thought the kids knew. “Oh, uh, there was an emergency meeting called in town today. Your mum just needs to hand in some papers is all,” he easily explained. “She’ll be back in the afternoon.”
Isha’s face seemed to into disappointment, to which she quickly corrected as she plastered on a smile. “Oh okay,” she nodded, “uh, can ya let me know when she gets back?”
Callum’s brows raised. “Um, sure. But uh, I can help you too,” he smiled as he shifted in his seat. His daughter looked uncomfortable at the notion as she gazed out the window, as if she expected her mother to arrive at the very moment. Callum couldn’t help but laugh. “Isha, c’mon,” she looked to him, “whatever is, you can tell me. And, we’ll handle it together.”
Isha bit her lip as she pensively glanced outside once more. “I… I think I can wait…” she insisted. “Ya said she’d be back in the afternoon? I-I can wait!”
Callum frowned. Maybe she wasn’t looking outside for Rayla. She was on a time crunch, and she noticed noon was fast approaching. His face contorted into contemplation as he recalled his daughter’s schedule. She said she was just going to hang out with friends today. He didn’t understand what the issue would be if it counted on waiting for her mother. Nevertheless, he didn’t want his daughter to be late or whatever, so it was time he persisted.
“Isha, c’mon, I’m your dad,” he proudly claimed, rising out of his seat. He walked over to her and placed his hand on her shoulder reassuringly, kneeling down before the girl. “I’m all ears.”
“Nah, really, Da, I-I can wait for mum,” she awkwardly chuckled, backing away.
He sighed. “Issy, c’mon, I know you’ve got plans today,” he pointed out, “do you really want to be late?”
Isha’s face shifted into a hesitancy. She obviously was contemplating her predicament, weighing out her options before releasing a relenting sigh. “Okay…” she muttered.
Callum beamed. “Great! So,” he leaned forward expectantly as he raised a brow at her, “what’s the problem?”
Another exhaustive sigh released from his daughter as she glanced up at her father. She bit her lip as she met his gaze, clearly fighting against her instincts. She wanted to tell him something. But something was clearly eating up inside her. “I… I need my…” her voice dropped into a fit of mumbles.
Callum confusedly leaned forward. “What? What was that?”
“I… need my…” she muttered under her breath, “—ded…”
“What?”
Isha glared as she stomped her foot. “I need my hair braided!” she exclaimed.
Callum’s brows raised. “Oh?” he uttered. Her daughter had never wanted to do anything with her hair. “Uh… huh… I…” he seethed as he rubbed the back of his head. “You
need
it braided or
want
it braided?” he smiled. When he was met with an unamused face, he cleared his throat. “I-I mean, what’s the occasion?”
Isha bit her lip. “It’s nothing Da… I just… I wanted to look nice for my friends.”
Callum smiled. “Sweetie, your friends will love the way you look no matter what! You don’t have to put on a face for them…”
She chuckled. “Da, I love your message and everythin’, but… I
want
braids today.” She smiled as she tilted her head up at him. “Can I do that?”
Callum took in a deep breath and smiled. “Of course Issy.”
::::
In truth, Callum had
no idea
what he was doing at all. He had
never
braided hair before. Rayla never asked him to do it for her, as she rarely ever braided her hair. For formal occasions she’d chance the look, perhaps a small braid would do, but she claimed that the look as a whole didn’t feel like her, and she liked her short hair the way it was. And Callum did too.
Isha also seemed to embody her mother’s taste and kept her hair short and messy for most of her life. She seemed to argue with Rayla on the topic countless times, claiming that she liked her hair the way it was. She seemed to bask in the presence of her disheveled hair. Her split ends and parted frizz atop her scalp sold the idea that she just woke up from a deep slumber. And for a long time, his daughter seemed to love the look.
Until now that is.
Callum had no idea what was the cause for her sudden want in an appearance change. But it certainly set off a few alarms in his head. There was a reason, sure, but he wasn’t going to fight his daughter on this because it was clear as a wind spell that she really wanted it. And by all means, he was happy to oblige. The only issue was that the occupants of their household didn’t exactly have braiding skills.
Unless Lian or Zeusia had some hidden talents he didn’t know about.
“Uhh, Da,” Isha spoke up, meeting his concentrated gaze through the reflection of the mirror, “Are ya sure ya know what ya’re doing?”
Callum smiled back at his daughter as he ran a comb through her hair. “Yes, Sweetie, I’m sure,” he confidently lied. Of course he had no idea what to do. But this was urgent, and if there was one thing Callum’s learned over his years of travelling an adventuring, his best self is revealed in times of stress and conflict. Right now his conflict was how much stress this put him under, so it balanced out.
The first thing Callum obviously knew, was to comb his daughter’s hair. He’d seen Rayla do it once before. By that, he meant he watched her comb her hair, left the room, then saw her leave with braided hair. So, he was positive the first step was combing. As he ran his fingers through, stroking the comb through her white strands, he smiled. This felt nice.
He hadn’t realized his daughter’s hair had grown out to her shoulders. But the length seemed suitable enough for a braid, enough for a big one at least. As he combed through, he could feel his daughter’s unease, which made him laugh. “Issy, relax, you don’t need to be so tense.”
Her breath finally released. “Right, right… sorry,” she hastily replied. “I guess I’m just nervous.”
Callum smirked as he ran the comb through once more. “But not about me, of course,” he stated, “probably about who you’re doing this for?” his tone peaked into a high suggestive pitch. Once his little halfling realized what he was implying, her eyes widened in shock as she stared at his reflection. Callum merely waggled his brows and smirked.
“How’d ya know!” she asked.
Callum laughed. “Sweetie, nothing makes someone want to do something like this if it wasn’t for someone else.” He sighed, smiling in content as he put aside her comb. “Now, wanna tell me who this boy is?”
Isha seemed flinch at his words, causing Callum to raise a brow. “I-I already talked to mum ‘bout this,” she explained, “Ya can ask her.”
He cocked his head and chuckled, grabbing his daughter’s hair. “What? You don’t want your old man to know?”
She rolled her eyes. “Da, it’s not that…” she muttered. “Can ya just…”
He nodded. “Fine, fine, I’ll drop it,” he relented. As he held a handful of her hair, he paused, biting his lip in contemplation. Now, if memory served right, braids had some sort of twisting design. He turned his head, parting his daughter’s hair into two sections. Did he just need to twist them together?
::::
“
Ow
!” Isha shrieked, holding her head, “Da, stop!”
“Hang on, hang on,” Callum replied. “I… I got this!” he insisted, twirling her hair into another twist for what felt like the umpteenth time. He swore he had, but now her hair somehow managed to knot into itself. He wasn’t sure how in the name of Xadia he made this happen, but somewhere along the way he lost himself in all the hair and now it just became a Gordian Knot. He tugged at her hair, gently of course, one last time and sighed. He was stuck. “Ugh… I can’t… oh my goodness…”
Isha’s frown faded as her eyes widened. “Is your hand stuck?”
Callum froze. “No.”
“Then move it,” she pleaded, “it’s uncomfortable.”
“No, I’m not done,” he shot back.
“Da, it’s fine, I’ll do a braid another time—” she moved her head, wincing as she was met with a rough force. “Argh, just let me go!” she whined.
Callum seethed. “But, uh, I-I can do this!”
Her resisting seized as she narrowed her brows at the mirror. “Ya
are
stuck, aren’t ya?”
Her father gasped. “Isha, how dare you! I am perfectly capable of handling this, I would
never
align myself with such a foolish scenario!” he claimed, standing high and proud.
Isha blinked at him. “Then step away from my hair.”
“I… can’t.”
“I knew it!” Isha exclaimed, “I should’ve waited for mum!”
“Aww, c’mon, I can…” he pulled and was met with a wail of pain and annoyance. “We’ll have to cut it.”
“
What
! No! I can’t let—I can’t be seen practically half
bald
.”
“Wait, wait, can’t let
who
?”
“That’s the concern now Da? Get your hand outta my hair!”
“I’m trying!”
“Try harder!”
“Ugh, sketching braids is so much easier—”
“
Ahem
.” The two stopped all bickering and motions as the new voice’s presence echoed across the room. They turned and stared, silence holding their mouths shut as Rayla leaned up against the doorframe, arms crossed at the two. “What… I… do I even want to know what’s going on?” she tiredly asked, raising a lazy brow.
The two exchanged a glance in the mirror. “I’m…” Callum spoke up, “braiding our daughter’s hair?”
Rayla sighed. “Of course ya are,” she muttered under her breath. “Callum,” she pinched the bridge of her nose, “why are ya tryin’ to braid our daughter’s hair when ya’ve
never
braided hair before?”
“
What
!” Isha shrieked, startling Rayla and causing Callum to wince. “Ya’ve never done this before?” her daughter asked, “Then why would ya do it for me?”
“Because you looked like you really wanted it!”
“Which is why I would’ve waited for mum!”
“But you were in such a hurry to meet whoever this boy you like!”
Rayla’s brows raised. “Wait, ya haven’t told your da yet?” she pointed at Callum, staring at her daughter in confusion.
“How is
that
important now?” Isha bewilderedly asked. “I’m stuck here? Like, my hair is
literally
tied up right now!” she screamed, pointing furiously at her head. Callum seemed to flinch more at her claims, which were fairly brought up.
Rayla sighed as she walked over. “Alright, alright, I’ll get ya out of this,” she muttered.
“Please don’t cut my hair,” Isha pleaded.
“Relax, Issy, unlike your father, I
know
what I’m doing.” Rayla assured her. A few minutes passed and Rayla managed to free the Archmage’s hand and began fixing up her daughter’s hair with a comb. “Now, Sweetie, why don’t ya
really
tell your father who this is for?”
Isha took a deep breath as her mother ran her comb through her hair. She looked in the reflection and noticed her father, just over her mother’s shoulder, smiling at her. “Farha likes braids. And… she’s always sayin’ she’d love to see my hair in a braid for once…”
Callum’s brows raised. “Farha? Isn’t that Ellis’ daughter?” he recalled. She was about the same age as Isha. Ellis had gotten pregnant at a young age, but that didn’t diminish her resolve when it came to parenting. Farha was a nice young girl from what Callum had remembered from their interactions, she was a great influence on their daughter. “But what does she have to do with this?”
Rayla let out a brief sigh. “
Callum
,” she lightly stressed.
His gaze flew down to his daughter, where he noticed her small blush. The puzzle pieces finally connected, and his eyes went wide. “Oh,” he softly uttered. He could tell his daughter had been aching this interaction, as her sudden tensing at his momentary pause. He smiled, “Well, braids or not, I’m sure Farha would love your hair whatever way it looks.” He walked over to his daughter and knelt beside her. “Don’t feel like you gotta change your looks because someone
might
like it. Do what makes you feel comfortable,” he advised, gently nudging his elbow against his daughter’s.
She smiled at his response, with an obvious wave a relief washing over her. “Thanks Da,” she said back, “I’ll… I’ll keep that in mind. But,” she pointed to her head, “I
do
wanna try the braids.”
Callum smiled with a nod. “Sure thing Sweetie,” he winked. “I bet you’ll still rock ‘em not matter what.” As he rose up to his feet, he noticed his wife’s appreciative smile. So maybe he wasn’t good at braiding his daughter’s hair, but he knew how to comfort her. He’d take that as win in his book any day.
::::
“Ya’re never touching our children’s hair again.”
“But—”
“Not even the fur on Zeusia’s head.”
“
Ray
—”
“
Never
.”
“Yes ma’am.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Childhood
“Runaan says learnin’ to fight is important!” Rayla claimed.Callum hesitantly gripped onto his wooden blade. “I dunno Rayla,” he nervously replied as he rubbed his hands up and down the handle, “I’m not really… good at this.”“Well, duh,” she said dumbly. “That’s why ya’re learnin’ !” she emphasized, proudly placing her hands on her hips.The young prince sighed as he looked around them. “Ar-Are you sure about this?” he whispered. “What if we get in trouble?”“Pfft,” the young elf dismissed as she waved her hand. She quickly rushed over to the nearby bench, which consisted of Callum’s sketchbook, her bag, and another wooden sword. “Nobody’ll know,” she assured him. “And besides, they’re just trainin’ swords! The worst they’ll do is splinter your fingers,” she teased, wiggling her four digits at the boy as she picked up the spare sword with her free hand.He frowned. “I’m not sure…”Rayla frowned back as she narrowed her eyes at the boy. She noticed his gaze lingering near her area, and trained its sight toward the bench. She nodded in realization as she understood what he was looking at. His sketchbook. The one his dad gave him. She smiled as she turned back at him, crossing her arms with a pride. “How ‘bout a deal?”“A deal?” the young step-prince echoed.“Yeah!” she excitedly cheered. “Ya try this whole sparrin’ thing with me, and then ya can show me some of your drawings!” His face flushed. “O-Oh, we… we don’t have to do that.”Rayla frowned. “C’mon, ya rarely let me see them nowadays.”He sheltered his head into his shoulders as he shook his head. “Callum, c’mon,” she whined. “Ya hardly ever wanna spar with me.” She stomped her foot. “And I’ve seen ya do it with your brother!”Callum sighed. “That’s different Rayla, we’re play fighting. Just messing around. You know how to fight. I don’t—”“I’m not gonna hurt ya,” Rayla immediately interjected. “I’ll go easy on ya, and besides, it’s trainin’.” She stepped onto the courtyard’s ring and readied her wooden blade. “I wanna teach ya some moves Runaan taught me!”“But I don’t care about all that,” her friend simply replied.Rayla frowned as she visibly deflated. “But how are ya gonna defend yourself?”Callum shrugged. “I’ll worry about that later. For now, you can protect me!” he teased, pointing his sword at her chest.She laughed. “Don’t be silly. I can’t always protect ya!” she argued, “Learn how to fight for yourself!”Callum pouted. “Can I do that without swords?” His shoulders dropped as he began making his way over to the bench.“Ooh! And be like, a Mage?” Rayla excitedly suggested.Callum snorted as he tossed his sword onto the bench. “Don’t be silly, humans can’t be Mages!” he chuckled. “We don’t have Primal connections like you guys do.” He sat down and began flipping through his sketchbook.“Why not!” Rayla pouted as she walked over. “If ya won’t try learnin’ how to fight using swords, then learn how to use magic!” She waved her fingers around with a smile. “Ya can be the first human Mage!” she shouted, pumping her sword into the air. “C’mon, we’ll be a party! Me, the Assassin, you, the Mage!”Callum’s brows raised as a smile dared onto his lips. “Oh! Oh! And we can travel the lands, saving people! Adventurers!”“Magic Heroes!” Rayla cheered.“That’s a lame name,” Callum admitted.Rayla’s shoulders shrunk. “How ‘bout… Mystic Marauders?”The prince’s head tilted in confusion. “Aren’t marauders bad people?”“Okay how ‘bout ya come up with something then!” she snarked, pointing her wooden hilt at him. Callum shook his head. “I’m the artist! I’ll sketch our adventures!” he declared, already treading his pencil across his sketchbook. “Does that mean ya’ll let me see them?” Rayla excitedly asked, bouncing in anticipation. Callum glanced up and nodded. “These drawings? Sure!” “Promise?”“Promise!”::::“I looked through his sketchbook,” Sarai suddenly spoke up. Runaan and Harrow glanced away from their meals and stared at the Queen in shock. “ Sarai ,” Runaan scolded. “And?” Harrow inquired. When Runaan shot Harrow a look, the King of Katolis simply shrugged. “He’s our kid! We gotta make sure!”“Invasion of privacy,” Runaan muttered under his breath, sipping his tea. “You’re occupation literally calls on you to infiltrate private estates!” Harrow incredulously shot back. Runaan smirked. “But I can recognize when to respect my ward’s personal life.”Harrow merely scoffed as he waved off Runaan’s judgment. “So, the details?” he excitedly leaned forward. Sarai chuckled at their contrasted responses. Their back and forthcoming were always a highlight during Runaan and Rayla’s visits. “He has dozens of pages of her! Smiling, laughing, posing like a warrior—and they’re all so well done! Our young boy is smitten,” she proudly swooned.“I knew it!” Harrow whooped, happily slapping his hand against the table. Sarai laughed at his outburst whilst Runaan steadied the teapot. “I knew he was sketching her, I swear I saw once when I walked by! He got so flustered!”Runaan chuckled as he shot him a look, sipping his tea in delight. “Oh knock it off, I wasn’t spying,” Harrow explainer, rolling his eyes. “I just happened across his room and noticed for a split second.”He parted his cup from his lips. “Their quarters are a ways away from anywhere of significance to your regular routine,” the Assassin quipped. “Fine I was spying.”Runaan shrugged with a small smile. “I suppose I can’t really be talking. Rayla’s been constantly badgering me about the next time we can visit each and every day. At this point I’m nearly convinced we should just stay here!” The three shared in a small fit of laughter. “I think she just likes to show off. He really does swoon at her when she trains. The poor boy doesn’t mask his amazement at all. Bodes well for her ego,” he mused. His smile grew. “Still, it’s nice knowing that even after all that training, he still knows how to make her feel like a kid.”“It’s adorable,” Sarai commented. “She loves his attention because he gives it openly so easily.” She released a content sigh. “And he’s been so much more talkative! I think she’s boosting his confidence!”Harrow shot straight out of his seat. “I’m arranging a marriage!”Sarai groaned, “Not this again.”Runaan chuckled. “Good luck convincing her parents.”“Honey,” Sarai patted her husband’s arm. “We should probably wait till they're older?”He nodded with a shocked face. “Of course! I’m not marrying children Sarai! I’m not insane!” he stated as if it was obvious.The two muttered simultaneously, “Debatable.”Harrow frowned. “I’ll arrange it for their sixteenth birthday! They share the same month, it’ll be perfect!”Runaan shook his head as he took another sip. “Shouldn’t we wait until their actual feelings come into play?” he suggested. “For now all it may be is that young Callum has a crush!”Harrow’s excitement deflated almost instantaneously. “I suppose you’re right,” he wisely considered as he sunk back down into his seat. “Still, I’ve got my fingers crossed!”Runaan smirked. “As do I, all four,” he jested as he raised his free hand.The two exchanged a fit of laughter as Sarai rose up from her seat, sauntering over to the window sill to peek out into the courtyard. Their children had no idea they all knew they were there. But they were desperately trying to be secretive about their playtime together. Sarai couldn’t help but smile at the sight. Rayla was sitting close to Callum, looking over his shoulder as she watched him sketched. She occasionally pointed at his book, no doubt adding her own commentary or opinions on his art. Her son simply nodded along and smiled. Callum suddenly turned and raised his pinky finger at her. Rayla eagerly wrapped hers around his. They shared a nod and laughed, quickly returning to their work. The way they embraced each other’s presence so easily, was adorable. Crush or not, Sarai knew they had chemistry.And a darn good childhood in store.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Secrets
“Hey Runaan,” a young Rayla addressed. The older Moonshadow Elf seized his training, halting mid swing, and turned around to look at his student. “Yes Rayla?”“Do ya think Callum doesn’t like me anymore?”His brows flew up in shock. “What? That’s absurd! Of course he does! Why would the young prince think otherwise of you?” he inquired. Rayla sheepishly rubbed her arm. “I dunno. He doesn’t like showing me his sketchbook anymore.”Runaan’s face contorted into confusion. “What? How is that relevant?” He sheathed his swords behind his back and crossed his arms. “Before, he’d let me look through it myself!” Rayla explained. “He always just handed it to me and said, ‘Ya can look. Have fun!’ And I would!” She smiled. “But now? He’s been so secretive ‘bout it. And everytime I ask him he just says no. He only shows me when he’s sketching something we just talked ‘bout. But he won’t let me see his other drawings.”Runaan’s expression shifted. The very same drawings Sarai told them about the other day. That made sense. Rayla’s brows rose, obviously making note of his face’s change. “Oh, uh,” he casually shrugged, “Maybe he’s shy. He’s usually reluctant to show his work, is he not?” he lightly suggested. Rayla shook her head. “Not with me! He always shows me first!” she proudly stated. Runaan smirked. “Because he trusts you,” he concluded, kneeling down before her. He placed his hand on her hair and ruffled it lightly, much to her refusal. “I’m sure Prince Callum has a good reason. And in time, he will share it with you.”Rayla’s face squinted into suspicion. Something was up. ::::“Ahh, young Rayla!” Harrow greeted upon crossing her paths within the hallways of the castle. “How was your training session with Runaan?”Rayla shrugged. “It was fine. Nothing new.”Harrow smirked. “I assume you’re off in a hurry to find Callum? He’s in his room last I heard.”“I was actually on my way to ya, King Harrow!” Rayla innocently corrected. Harrow’s brows raised. “Really? What for?”“I had somethin’ to ask ya,” she answered. The idea of Rayla inquiring about his son’s hand in marriage flashed across the King’s mind, but he shook off his fantasies. “Oh? And what is it?” he smiled. “What’s Callum hiding from me?” she bluntly asked. The King’s brows rose. “Wh-What?”“Callum, he’s hiding somethin’ from me,” Rayla explained, crossing her arms, “he won’t let me see his sketchbook anymore and Runaan won’t tell me why!”Harrow’s confusion faded into worry. So now he was stuck with this. He mentally sighed—after all that bragging, Runaan dropped the ball and now Harrow’s left to clean up. He cleared his throat as he knelt down to Rayla, matching his eye level with hers. He could lie to a child. He was a king, putting on an act was simple and required the most sleek and clever minds. He could handle this. “Well uh...he… is shy!” Harrow concluded. “Yes! He’s just shy. Perhaps. Maybe he is shy of his new drawings and isn’t ready to show you!”Rayla pouted as she soaked in his words. “But,” she thoughtfully looked up at him, “he always shows me his new drawings. He likes doing that. He’s never had a problem with it before! So something must be up!” the young elf declared. “And I’ll get to the bottom of it!” she triumphantly shouted. “Oh, I uh—” the King’s words died in his mouth as he watched the Assassin-in-training race off, darting down the corridors. It turned out he wasn’t as smart as he thought.::::The sudden knocking at the door of the study startled Sarai. She glanced up from her book and raised a brow at the noise. Attempting to compose herself, she cleared her throat. “Um, come in?” she suggested. The door creaked open a crack and soon enough a set of small horns poked through, with an adorable head of white hair and a wide smile. Sarai couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight. “Ahh, Rayla!”“Afternoon Queen Sarai!” she greeted. “I hope I’m not botherin’ ya!”“Nonsense my dear,” Sarai assured her, putting down the book on the table. “Just some light reading is all. How can I help you? Are you looking for Callum?” she inquired with a pitch, raising some sly brows at the young elf.She merely pouted as she stepped into the room, lightly stomping her feet as she did so. She was upset. “No…” she sadly said. “I just wanna know what’s wrong with him.”Sarai’s eyes went wide as her maternal instincts kicked in. “Something’s wrong with Callum?” she harshly whispered.Rayla seemed put off by her shock, and shyly shrugged. “I think so. I think Runaan and Harrow know what’s wrong but nobody’s tellin’ me for some reason!”Sarai switched into confusion. “What?”“Callum doesn’t let me see his sketches anymore!” Rayla whined. “And he gets so flakey ‘bout it too. It makes no sense!” she complained. “He shys away from it so much I’m starting to think I did somethin’ wrong.”Sarai smiled at the young elf. Bless this poor girl’s heart. “Aww, Rayla,” she softly spoke, “you did nothing wrong my child.” She rushed over to the elf, kneeling down as she embraced her in a quick hug. As she pulled away she met her eyes. “Callum’s just… really private about his drawings. Perhaps it’s ‘cause these latest ones mean much more to him than the others? He might feel more of a personal attachment to them, so he’s more shy about it.”Rayla pondered her response, still holding her pout. “Hmm,” she skeptically said. “But I’ve seen all his drawings! Personal, funny, or whatever! He’s always showed me! And I want to see them!”Sarai chuckled. “I know you do, but keep in mind to respect his privacy,” she lightly advised. “If he’s not ready to show you—”“Then I take it from him when he’s not looking!” Rayla interjected, eyes bulging with excitement. “Yes!” she cheered. The Queen’s face shifted into horror. “Now, now—”“Just like Runaan taught me!” Rayla proudly declared. “I stick to the shadows, blend, observe, and attack!” she shouted, hopping into the air. “But instead of attacking I just take his book!”“Now Rayla—”“Thanks Queen Sarai! Ya’ve been a real help!” she hurriedly urged as she sped out of the room. Sarai sighed. This was definitely not going too end well.::::Rayla knew how to be stealthy. Granted, she was only eight and a half, but in all the time she’s been training and learning, she understood the basics. And the basics were enough to get her close to Callum. To catch him off guard. She knew how to blend into her surroundings. How do disappear. How to be one with the shadows. How to be silent as a whisper. She knew how to be an Assassin. This time? Her target wasn’t death. No, it was thievery. And her plan was foolproof.With an excited and hearty bounce, Rayla skipped toward the bench where callum was sat. As typical, he was sketching. His attention flew upward in a panic as he noticed she was approaching, leaving him to shut his but instantly. “Hi-hi Rayla!” he nervously greeted.Rayla grinned. “Hi Callum!” she chirped. “How’s your afternoon been?”“Good, good,” he nodded, “just… sketching.” He shrugged. “How was training?” he smiled.Rayla shrugged. “Oh, nothin’ new. Just—oh my goodness!” she suddenly shouted.Startled, Callum flinched his whole body as he exclaimed, “What? What is it!”“I dunno somethin’ over there!” she pointed over his shoulder. “Huh?” Callum whipped his head around instantly.Immediately, Rayla darted for the book in his hands, swiping it away and triumphantly running back a few feet. Of course, all the while cheering, “Ah hah! Ha ha! I did it!”It happened so fast Callum’s reaction was merely a few seconds delayed. “Hey give it back! Don’t look!” he shouted, racing after the girl.The two launching into a circular battle— literally . Rayla began running around the courtyard, whilst Callum gave chase, sprinting after her as she flipped through the pages. Sure enough, the boy’s worry increased with every passing second as she turned each page. Eventually she’d—“Wow, are these me?” She came to a stop.A very sudden stop. It caused Callum to collide into her and sent them both to the ground. Thankfully, the book cushioned Rayla’s face (and was unharmed too) and Callum fell on top of her, also free from harm. He rolled off and simply fell onto his back beside her, lightly releasing a groan.“You okay?” he asked.“Yeah? Ya?”“I’m fine. Sorry about that.”“It’s fine,” she shrugged as she turned over and sat up. “Sorry I stole this, but I had to see! And everyone around here has been so secretive I wanted to know what’s up!” She turned the page and showed him. It was two pages, both filled with sketches of Rayla’s faces, laughing, smiling, pouting, nearly every expression. “If ya were embarrassed to show me these, ya didn’t have to be.”Callum’s eyes went wide. “Really?” he quietly asked.“Yeah! I think these are pretty cool! Accurate too!” she complimented with a genuine smile. “I can see ya’re getting better with hair!”The artist blushed as he averted his gaze. “No, no, they’re not… they’re not that good,” he shyly whispered.Rayla scoffed. “Duh,” she bumped his elbow, “that’s because ya’ve been sketching them without me!” His eyes lit up. “C’mon, let’s do one now! I’ll pose!”Callum’s face shifted into excitement as he eagerly nodded. “Yes, yes! C’mon, I know the perfect spot!” The two rushed out of the courtyard, completely oblivious to the three adults lurking at the windows above.“They’re… they’re oblivious!”“They’re children Harrow,” Runaan reminded him, “You can’t expect so much of them.”“Funny coming from either of you,” Sarai chided lightly crossing her arms at them. They merely stared at her in confusion. “Rayla practically danced around you guys so easily, you essentially helped her!”They glanced at each other, then simultaneously shrugged. “Runaan, remind me again who gave Rayla the idea to steal from Callum?”“Ahh, I believe it was our dear Queen?”Sarai rolled her eyes. “Knock it off,” she warned, “I can kick both your butts with one hand.” She raised a finger at the two, silencing their smirks. Satisfied, she turned out the window. “Well, it’s no secret they like each other. That’s for sure.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Hurt
He doesn’t even remember what started it. Callum just knew that the whole thing was stupid. What he said, what she said, all of it. None of it made sense. Everything erupted into an avalanche of arrogance and emotions. She said things. He said things. They both shouted. The main similarities at the end, were how much it hurt . He had been looking for words to hurt her, looking for any semblance of something that could just sting. And it worked.
“I’m not a coward like you! Like your parents were…”
He closed his eyes as he felt the stinging pain of tears rising within them. He hadn’t meant it. He just wanted to hurt her. He wanted her to feel bad for attacking him so offhandedly. He wanted to win… whatever it was they were slapped in the middle of. An argument, a conversation, a disagreement; a mere exchange of words that seemed to fall on deaf ears from both parties. Regardless of what either thought it was, it didn’t matter. It didn’t matter because they were blinded by their emotions.
“What kind of girlfriend are you?”
It didn’t matter because they were still slinging their scars.
“What? Nothing else to say? Sure… keep more secrets from me why don’t you.”
It didn’t matter because they didn’t exist in that moment.
“I thought we built this relationship on trust?”
They were two separate people, looking to hurt each other.Callum’s hands fisted the bed sheets. He was sat by himself, in a dimly lit room. He let go of his struggles, allowing his tears to stream down without hesitation. There was no point. He had no reason to act like nothing hurt . She left. He broke them. He ruined everything. All because of some dumb pride. All because he felt like he was weak. All because he was so damn stupid.He palmed at his face, quietly sobbing into his hands. It overflowed with droplets of tears, soaking his gloves with his sadness. He could briefly hear Zym in the corner, whimpering too. The poor dragon probably had no idea what to do. Or what would happen to him now. Callum didn’t either.Callum didn’t get why they fought. He didn’t get why she said what she said. He didn’t understand why he didn’t just shut up and let things fly past. He just said something. Then somewhere along the way, trust was called into question.
“Why don’t ya trust me?”
He sniffled, swallowing hard on his tired throat. The shouting hurt him. The crying hurt him. She hurt him. She knew it too. Because those words would mean nothing if it hadn’t come from her mouth. And she used that against him. But of course, he had his own cards dealt in this game. He tossed his own set of matches to the fire and let it spread, he let it engulf them. He was no better. In fact, he was worse. ::::She doesn’t even remember how it started at first. Rayla just knew that the whole thing was dumb. What she said, what he said, all of it. Everything that happened made no sense at all. They just, combusted into a combination of anger and ignorance, completely revolving around their stupid feelings. He said things. She said things. And they both yelled. In the end, it all boiled down to one thing: it hurt . She was searching for ammunition to egg him on, to just kick him down some more pegs. And it worked.
“Why are ya actin’ like this! Ya can’t do anythin’!”
Rayla choked back on her tears, wiping away the ongoing stream strolling down her cheeks as she walked. She was barely down the block, but she left as soon as she could. She hadn’t meant anything she said. She just wanted him to shut up. She just wanted him to listen for once, to stop… whatever it was they had suddenly sparked. Rayla just wanted it done with so they could move past it. And focus on the mission. But the mission wasn’t as important.It wasn’t as important as their feelings.
“Forget about us for a bit. Our mission is what’s important!”
It wasn’t as important as their buried baggage.
“Of course, because ya still don’t seem to trust elves!”
It wasn’t as important as their insecurities.
“I can do this. I don’t need ya.”
With a shout, Rayla drew her fist into the nearest wall, creating a crater in the wooden support of the shop. She stepped back a few feet, attempting to regain her composure. She swallowed back on her tears, regretting the stinging sensation of her throat’s pains. She massaged her knuckles, not even feeling the pain what with all the adrenaline pumping through her. She humorlessly laughed. She didn’t need to act tough anymore. How could she after everything? After all that hurt her. He gave up. She broke him. All because of her own worries. All because she lacked faith. All because she was just being an idiot. Rayla’s back went up against the wall, she fruitlessly attempted to wipe away her tears, letting her sobs echo throughout the alleyway. She didn’t care about being heard. She glanced at her wrists and scoffed. Perhaps it would have been better if she did lose her hands. Maybe then things would have been different, better for them. Better if she just left, so she didn’t screw up another mission.Rayla didn’t know why they fought. She didn’t understand why he said what he said. She couldn’t grasp why she just didn’t stop herself from making things worse. But she just had to fight back. Then after that, their trust was shattered.
“Do you really think I’m useless?”
A frustrated sigh escaped from Rayla as she grabbed at her hair furiously. The yelling hurt her. The sobbing hurt her. He hurt her. And he knew it too. Because none of what he said would’ve meant anything if hadn’t come from him. And he was using it against her.Obviously, she had a hand in all of this too. She also pitched her own batch of fuel into the furnace, and she let it scorch their hearts. She was not any better.In fact, she was worse.::::Just as Callum stepped outside the room, he was met with Rayla’s face. She had her fist up, looking as if she was about to knock on the door. Startled, the two stepped back from each other, launching into a fit of apologies.“I’m, I’m sorry—” “I’m sorry about that—” They both stopped, eyes wide as they met. Raylu spoke first.“About almost bumpin’ into me… or…”“Both,” Callum answered. “I’m…” he took a deep breath, “so, so sorry Rayla.”The tears that dance across his eyes hit her heart with a pang of guilt. Immediately, she pushed him into the room, closing the door shut behind them before embracing him with her tired arms. “Why…” she whispered, “why are ya sorry? I’m the one—”“We both said things,” he whispered into her hair.She sniffed, just realizing the rising pressure of tears building within her eyes. She held him tighter. “But I… we…” she had no idea what to say.Callum just nodded against her shoulder. “I know. I know,” he softly said. He really didn’t know much about what they could say. Just what they both regretted. “I… I’m sorry,” he repeated, “I’m so sorry for being so… stupid .”Rayla nodded back, still holding onto him. She was just too scared to let go. “I’m sorry too. I’m so sorry I… I never meant to…” she choked back on her tears. “I’m sorry…”They shared in a sniffle as pulled their heads away, leaning their foreheads into a soft touch. Their sweat entangled within one another, and their eyes just an inch away. The clarity of how many tears they had shed, the pain of their tired lips from all the shouting, the agony of their faces told everything.“I will always trust you,” he told her, “You’ve always had my trust.”She never doubted him for a second.“I never thought ya were weak,” she told him, “I know ya’re strong.”He knew she believed in him. “I know you… you didn’t mean it,” he told her, “I know you didn’t mean any of it.”He had to remind her.“I know ya didn’t either,” she told him, “I… I know ya didn’t mean any of those words.”“I’m so sorry I hurt you,” he whispered. His hands trailed up to her cheeks, keeping her close, steady. He wasn’t letting go this time.“I’m sorry I hurt ya,” she whispered. Her hands embraced his face, soaking in his warmth, his presence. She was going to stay.“I…”“I—”They stopped. Biting back on their words, the rising revelation of apologies, and stared at each other. His emerald eyes shined into her eyes. Her violet gaze burrowed into his sight. They stared. They knew. Leave this for tomorrow. Leave it for later. Leave it for when they weren’t drenched in stressful sweat and painful tears. For now, they just wanted to together. With another embrace, the two burrowed their bodies into each other, soaking in their warmth. Arms firmly wrapped around, they held each other with a passion. No one was daring to ever let go. Not for a second.Neither really knew where to begin. Of course they wouldn’t. Everything beforehand was a series of unleashed emotions, no pulled punches through blind eyes. They hurt each other. It was obvious. And that type of hurt wasn’t something they could mend with words in one night. But it didn’t mean it was all ruined. It didn’t mean they were broken. It didn’t mean they hated each other. It just was a step forward. Despite all the hurt , only together, could they heal .
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Refined Taste
Rayla was exhausted. Who knew three hours of training would be so tiring? Runaan was pushing her this time. He said just because they were visiting Katolis, it didn’t mean they could relax on their training. Rayla didn’t mind of course. She was excited to learn some new things from her mentor. And even more excited that Callum was watching as well. And even more,
more
excited they were going to have lunch right after. But, three hours was a long time.
So she understood why Callum would excuse himself early. But that didn’t mean she’d let him off the hook that easily. So that was why she was on a mission to track him down.
But of course, she couldn’t find him.
Runaan said he heard him mumble something about his room. King Harrow said the courtyard—but didn’t specify which one, so Rayla checked all of them. And Queen Sarai said she heard he was hungry so the dining hall. And of course, it was then she realized none of them had actually
seen
him. They were just guessing.
So Rayla stomped around with a pout. Annoyed as ever. Until, she happened across the kitchen corridors, where noticed a familiar red scarf as she passed by. She halted in her tracks and peeked around the corner of the door frame.
It was Callum alright. He was sitting at the kitchen counter, smiling with delight as he munched on some sort of food. He looked like Queen Sarai whenever she had a plate of jelly tarts. Rayla growled as she marched in.
“Hey! ya’ve got some nerve!” she shouted, marching in.
Callum’s eyes went wide as they darted toward the door. “Rayla!” he exclaimed.
“Ya ditch me during training! And when I tried to find ya so we can eat lunch together, I go on some wild chase for over an hour!” she complained, throwing her hands up with a glare, earning a wince from him. “And then I find ya, just sat here, eating this… this… what is this?” she asked.
Callum’s chewing stopped as his guilt faded into confusion. “What? You don’t know what this is?” he asked, holding up the block in his hand.
Rayla stared at it, bewildered. It looked like it was rotten. “That looks like it went bad months ago,” she noted wincing at how Callum effortlessly swallowed his food. He had a plate beside these blocks of old food, which were filled with toast.
“Well, it did,” he replied.
Rayla’s eyes went wide. “What?”
“I mean, technically, it
did
go bad,” Callum smirked.
Rayla stepped forward as she placed a hand on Callum’s forehead, feeling up his temperature. “Are, are ya sick? Did ya eat somethin’ bad for breakfast?” After feeling not extreme heat against his forehead, Rayla grabbed both his cheeks and stared into his grass green eyes. “Your eyes look fine. Are ya okay?”
Callum laughed, trying to shake his head out of Rayla’s hands. “Ray, Ray, I’m
fine
.”
She squished his cheeks as she leaned closer. “Callum, rotten food
isn’t
food. It’s bad!” she whispered with urgency. “I’m taking ya to the Doctor—” before she could leave, Callum grabbed both her wrists with a laugh.
“No, no, no, Rayla, I’m serious,” he smiled, turning her back to him. “I was just eating some moldy cheese.”
Rayla stood there. Blinked. Then opened her mouth. What was he going on about? “Uh… what… do ya understand what’s wrong with that sentence?” she asked with a bewildered face.
Callum bit back on his chuckles, rising Rayla’s rage. What was so funny about her being concerned for his well being? He was insane! “No, Rayla, this,” he lifted up the block of disgustingness, “is Bleu Cheese.”
Her head tilted in confusion. “But it’s… white?” she pointed out in befuddlement.
Callum smirked. “No, no, it’s… that’s just the name. I… don’t know why, but it is!” he quickly explained. “And uh, this type of cheese specifically, actually tastes good when it molds,” he smiled, raising it up once more. “It’s like… better. So it’s better when it goes bad.”
Rayla’s face dropped into horror. “Ya do realize the words that’s coming out of your mouth… right?”
Callum laughed as he shook his head. “Okay, okay, I’m not explaining this right, but basically, this is okay to eat!” he assured her. “I like eating this with toast! It’s nice!” he gestured to the aforementioned plate, “it’s not bad at all.” He held it out to her. “Try it!”
Rayla’s eyes widened more as she backed away. “
What
!” she yelped. “No, no, no, no,
no way
!” she rapidly muttered. “Callum, I’m taking ya to the Doctor, because ya’re clearly not thinking straight with all the food poisoning.”
Callum scoffed as he rolled his eyes. He took her hand and embraced it. “Rayla, I’m serious! This is a thing humans do!” He looked up in thought. “I’m pretty sure it was the Kingdom of Duren that first discovered this… technique. Trust me, it’s safe!” he smiled, raising the block of death food up to his mouth.
Rayla screamed, “
No
!” And whacked the food poison out of her best friend’s hands, sending straight into the furnace gates. She stared at Callum in shock. “Are ya crazy!”
Callum sighed. “Rayla, why’d you do that!” he whined. “It was a good block of cheese too!” he groaned as he reached for
another
block of cheese? Rayla instantly slapped his hand. “Ow, what’re you doing?”
“What’re
ya
doing!” she questioned. “How are ya not getting how dangerous this is!” She grabbed his hand. “We’re going to the Doctor,
now
.” Callum grabbed at the table, attempting to weigh himself down as his best friend pulled him away. “
Callum
… we need… to…
leave
!” she urged through her gritted teeth.
Callum furiously shook his head as he grabbed onto another block of cheese. “Rayla, c’mon!” he said in annoyance, raising the cheese to his mouth. “Let me… explain—”
“No, stop!” she reached for it but Callum immediately ducked.
He rolled underneath the table and popped up on the other side. “Ah hah!” he triumphantly exclaimed. “Now, let me explain!”
Rayla’s eyes narrowed as she hopped onto the table. With determination laced within her face, she pointed at the corrupted cheese in his hands. “This clearly has
poisoned
ya! And I will save ya Callum!”
“Wait, wait—” his words died in his throat as Rayla decided to act.
By acting, she jumped onto him, holding him in a vice grip as she started slapping the cheese out of his hand. Repeatedly, she shouted, “This is for your own good!” Callum still seemed so protective of it. It must’ve been corrupted with some Dark Magic of some sort. Rayla needed to save him. And so their battle began. His profuse pleading about preserving the food, went by Rayla’s determined mission to save him.
And with one final swipe, the plate of moldy cheese flew out off the table and onto the ground.
She was a hero.
::::
“So… it’s just… aged up cheese?” Rayla inquired with a curious tone.
Sarai nodded with a smile. “Yes! It’s… it’s quiet soft and chewy. And I promise,” she pushed the plate toward the young elf, “It’s safe to eat.”
Rayla glanced down the table. To her right, sat Callum, with an eager and motivation smile, nodding her along. Her left, sat Runaan, smiling at her with amusement whilst King Harrow was sat at the head of the table. With hesitation, Rayla slowly picked up her fork and took off a piece of the supposedly safe cheese. Queen Sarai said it was safe. And she trusted her.
With a smile, Rayla shoved the piece into her mouth.
And regretted it.
After two bites, she noticed that… it was not as good as she thought it was. And it was also because, well, she didn’t exactly like cheese. She might’ve forgotten all that in the heat of all the discussion. Her face scrunched up in disgust, which was well noticed by the rest of the table. Sarai wore a look of worry, whilst the men shared in their sympathies and winced at her. Rayla turned to Callum who merely chuckled.
“Forgot you didn’t like cheese, eh?” he teased, nudging her with his elbow. “Now you know how I feel about your
moonberry
juice.”
That was well deserved payback.
Rayla forced a smile. With a mouthful, she said, “Ya want the rest?” Callum’s face lit up. And Rayla slid the plate over without hesitation.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Proposals
Another late studying session. Another night filled with junk sweets and blissful silence. Callum was focused on his latest lit paper, completely devoted to finishing his essay before they called it a night. Rayla reminded him that he had time, but Callum wanted it out of the way as soon as possible. Rayla didn’t exactly have anything to study for per se, but was rather going over some of her Philosophy notes. She claimed that it was a thing she did regularly, but Callum teased that she was just wanted an excuse to spend time at his dorm.
Not that he was complaining of course.
Callum’s learned to love the jock’s presence a lot more over their time together. Her taste in art nearly matched his, as well as her intellect and understanding. Her taste in food kinda paralleled his at times, her disliking of Coffee Crisps and consistent need to badger American cuisine sold her stance on it multiple times. And her taste in music? It was actually really nice. She always had a soft spot for the classics,
The Beatles
,
The Eagles
,
ABBA
,
Bee Gees
, and all those lovely revolutionary artists. But of course, she also had a knack for the modern pop artists.
Callum never really indulged with the modern pop, or rather, never really bothered to listen to anyone religiously. But that didn’t mean he was uncultured.
“Ya didn’t know who Owl City was,” Rayla had remarked.
Callum rolled his eyes. “Okay, but like, they’re one hit wonders.”
A breathy gasp erupted from the girl laid out on his bed. He turned around and found her staring at him, appalled. “Callum, Callum, Callum,” she shook her disappointedly. “Ya poor uncultured swine.”
The artist rolled his eyes and returned to his paper. He had thought the argument died then and there, until Rayla spoke again.
“Ya do know other artists… right?” she asked.
Callum snorted. “Yes, Rayla, I do in fact, know other artists.”
“Okay, but like… aside from Taylor Swift,” she brushed off. “Like, it’s hard to not know her.” She thoughtfully rose up from her spot and sat cross legged atop his bed. “Oh! Ya know Drake right? Kinda hard not to with all those memes of him—”
“Yes, I know Drake,” he uninterestedly replied.
Rayla pursed her lips as she stared at the boy with skepticism. “Oh! How ‘bout I play one of my playlists? Ya can tell me the name of the artist!”
He lifted his head and turned back at her. “Do I win anything out of this?”
“If ya know more than five,” Rayla explained, “Ya’ll prove that ya
do
know artists!”
He frowned.
“Okay, fine, I’ll buy ya a whole pack of Coffee Crisps.” A smile crept upon her lips as she threw him a pointed finger. “And if ya can guess the name of the song, I’ll throw in a Kit-Kat.”
He thoughtfully considered the deal. “Make the bonuses some of your Scottish chocolates and you have a deal.”
Rayla pouted. “Fine.”
And of course, as things usual with the two, their focus from their schoolwork diminished and was quickly replaced with a new task. But even then, the new task hadn’t even lasted as long as Rayla would’ve hoped. The first song played, and with an eager smile, she watched as Callum closed his eyes and delved into deep thought.
It's a beautiful night
We're looking for something dumb to do
Hey baby, I think I wanna marry you
“
Marry You
!” Callum shouted. “Bruno Mars. I like this one.”
Rayla rolled her eyes. “Well that was easy.”
Well, I know this little chapel on the boulevard we can go
No one will know
“I always found this one real catchy,” he said as he began swaying his head. Rayla snickered at his grooving, “It’s got a nice tune to sing along to.”
Rayla nodded. “Yeah, I like a lot of Bruno Mars’ old stuff.”
Callum agreed, “Same. This and
Just The Way You Are
, are my favourites by him.”
And we'll go, go, go, go, go
If you're ready, like I'm ready
A smirk grew on his lips. “You ever watch those proposal videos?”
Rayla’s eyes lit up as she excitedly nodded her head. “Yeah! With all those people doing flash mobs or singing?” she clarified with a grin. When Callum nodded, the joy spread all around as she released a content sigh. “Man, those are so cute to watch! Especially the flash mobs.”
“Yeah, the pre-chorus and chorus makes for a good dance,” Callum pointed out, “There’s a nice flow of rhythm and with the lyrics too.”
Rayla’s brows raised. “Do ya dance?” she inquired with an excited tone.
Callum laughed as he shook his head. “No, no, god no, I can’t dance. My uh, little brother dances. He’s done a lot of Bruno Mars songs.”
“Oooh, cute, does he have a YouTube? I’ll like, comment, and subscribe,” she teased, shaking her phone at him. She began to flip through her device, as if she was attempting to find the next song.
Callum rolled his eyes. He wasn’t going to say yes, because that was a topic for another time.
I'll go get a ring, let the choir bells sing, like ooh
So what you wanna do?
“Have you ever thought about proposing?” he suddenly asked.
It seemed like by accident, but the song had suddenly paused. Rayla’s head shot up from her phone as she wore wide eyes. “Wh-What?” she sputtered, red in the face.
“I mean, like, the way everyone does those videos,” he explained. He had no idea what happened, but he wasn’t going to question it. She might’ve just seen something on her phone. “Like, there are couples out there who’re comfortable posting that out for the world and even having the public see this, grand spectacle of their love. But, there are also people who prefer nice and quiet scenery. Low key, and personal.”
Rayla slowly nodded, her face now mellowing as she smiled. “Right, right. I mean. Yeah, I get ya.” She released a strained laugh. “I uh, I dunno, I haven’t really given it much thought.”
Callum quirked his brows. “Seriously? Don’t little girls usually dream about that sorta thing?” He quickly raised his hands once he met her stern glare. “Not that I’m stereotyping. It’s just… I, nah I got nothing. Sorry.”
Rayla chuckled. “It’s fine, don’t worry ‘bout it,” she waved off. “And besides, how can I worry or concern myself with things like that when I was off learning how to play football.”
Callum chewed his lip. “Right, yeah…” he frowned. “Well, you ever give it a thought?”
She shrugged. “Nah, can’t say that I have.”
He raised a brow. “Seriously? You’ve never thought about that special moment? How one day, your significant other will just… wow you?” he stated in a dramatic undertone, waving his hands with pizazz.
She snorted as she shook her head, much to Callum’s disappointment. “Nope. ‘Fraid not.”
He sighed. “Does that just mean you don’t really care? Like, about how they would propose or proposals in general?”
Rayla pondered the question as she tilted her head. “Uhh, I dunno,” she answered. “Like, I’m not opposed to the idea. But, making a spectacle? All eyes on me? I’m not sure if I’d want that as my scenery for a proposal.”
Callum chuckled. “Funny, the start Quarterback of the Katolis Football team,
doesn’t
want the attention?”
She frowned at him.
“I’m kidding, I’m kidding, I know,” he assured her. “But, proposals are meant to be spectacles. It’s basically someone’s way of saying, ‘Hey, I wanna get hitched, but allow me to show you how much you mean to me,’” he explained with a complacent smile.
Rayla raised a brow. “Never thought ya’d say that.” As he looked at her in confusion, she elaborated, “I mean like, I always thought ya’d be the type of person to say it’s not one gesture that tells the deed. But, y’know, everythin’ they do for you?” she inquired with a knowing smirk. “Like, why would ya need to profess so much of your love for one day, shouldn’t ya already be doing that?”
Callum laughed. “Well, sure, but proposals are special.” He leaned over as he excitedly said, “I remember how my dad proposed to my mom. It was just a regular family dinner, us coming over to his place,” he motioned his hands about, “and then, he just filled the table with all of my mum’s favourite things. Her favourite desserts, dinner meals, sides, and her favourite drink. He also got me some fresh summer fruits too—”
“And boy do ya love those fresh summer fruits,” Rayla chimed in.
“
Exactly
,” Callum pointed at her. “I think at the time, Dad knew he had to get on my good graces to if he was gonna propose to my mom, but I like that he made the night mostly about her. He played her favourite Bee Gee’s song—”
“
How Deep is Your Love
?”
“Lucky guess.”
“By the taste ya have, it was a fair shot.”
“Anyways, he played it and they danced in his living room,” he swayed his body, mimicking the emotions and moves he’d seen that day. “And then, he did his fancy little twirl, and slid away from her with style, then got down on one knee.” Callum proudly smirked, “Since then, I knew he’d be a cool dad.”
Rayla chortled as she threw her head back. “Ya’re such a doofus.”
He shrugged. “It was romantic. Even though it wasn’t public, it was still a spectacle. At least for my mum and I.”
“Well what ‘bout ya,” she gestured to him.
“Huh?”
“How would ya propose to your special friend?”
He chuckled. “Never thought about it.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, well, it depends on who I’m with. What they like, what they want, if they’d even want to get married—” he scoffed. “I’m not gonna plan out something big and grand, when I don’t know who it’s for.”
Rayla nodded. “Makes sense.”
“But I’ve thought about how someone would propose to me.”
She raised her brow. “Really?”
Callum looked at her with an amused face. “Yes, because guys can get proposed to, too.”
“No, no, I know!” Rayla hastily said. “I just… tell me,” she smiled, looking at him with an earnest attention.
He sighed. “I always thought, it’d be in an art gallery of some sort. Doesn’t have to be the Louvre, but like, as long as there are dozens of paintings surrounding me, and-and, maybe,
All My Loving
is playing in the background somewhere?” he laughed. “I don’t know… like… I know it’s not exactly a proposal song but, I always felt like it’d fit the moment. Just as they look me in the eye,” he closed his and sighed as he
envisioned
the scene. Like he had dozens of times before. “And spout off something poetic about love or whatever. Then, they drop on one knee. And it’s easy as that.” His eyes peeled open and found Rayla staring at him gobsmacked.
He cleared his throat as he fought off his blush. “I-I mean, it-it was just a thought… like… nothing crazy,” he laughed, rubbing the back of his head. “I-I know, it sounds—”
“Beautiful Callum,” Rayla cut him off. “Like always, what ya said was beautiful,” she smiled at him. She scooted over to the edge of the bed and placed her hand on his knee. “I think it’s real sweet. Romantic. It’s very… ya.”
He smiled at her. He hadn’t even realized the song was playing again. When did she hit play? He was too busy smiling at her, he didn’t he bother thinking about it much. “Thanks Ray.”
“Whoever ties ya down later on,” she slyly said, “better wow ya like that.”
“Fingers crossed,” he chuckled, raising his intertwined fingers at her.
With a laugh, she turned back to her notes and looked down. She hoped to God he couldn’t see her rising blush or her dumb grin, that she couldn’t fight off. It was a stupid thought. Just something that flashed her mind for the briefest of moments.
Who cares baby, I think I wanna marry you
It didn’t mean anything.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Married Life
“Da!”
Callum released a groan as he shot his head up from his paperwork. He threw his head back and shouted, “What is it now!” The pounding at his office door irked him as he turned his body around.
“Da!”
Isha’s voice rung out.
He sighed. “Come in,” he said sullenly.
The door whipped open as his daughter hopped inside. “Lian’s being a twerp!”
His eyes widened. “Whoa!” he exclaimed. “Easy there,” he advised, motioning her to calm down. “What happened?”
“He stole my hair tie!” Isha shouted.
Callum blinked. Of course he did. He wasn’t sure why he expected anything truly drastic or urgent. Only the absurd of expectations. He sighed as he palmed at his face. “Why did he take your hair tie?” he tiredly asked through his hand.
Isha shrugged as she yelled, “I dunno! He just likes being a brat!”
“Knock it off with the insults Isha,” Callum warned, “or else your little playdate thing with Farha is cancelled. I won’t take you to see her.”
His halfing sighed as she crossed her arms. “Fine. But can ya get it back?”
Callum rose up from his seat. He glanced at his paperwork and scoffed. It wasn’t like signing agreement trades was exactly entertaining. He needed a break anyways. “Fine, fine,” he walked over to the door, placing his hand on his daughter’s back as they left the study. Cupping his free hand over his mouth, Callum shouted, “Lian! Lian! Where are you!”
“The kitchen!” came his answer.
Callum rushed over to his son’s location with his daughter. He stepped inside and stared at his son, noticing his annoyed glare focused on his sister. “Isha says you took her hair tie,” he informed him lightly, “would you care to return it?”
“No!” Lian shouted.
Callum sighed. “And why is that?”
“Because, Isha’s being a big dummy!” Lian explained.
“
Lian
,” he sternly spoke, “if your big sister isn’t allowed to say insults like those, you can’t either. No one insulting anyone here, okay?” He glanced between the two. “Okay?”
“Yes Da,” they said together.
“Okay, thank you,” Callum said with an exhaustive breath. “Now, Lian, what’s the
real
reason you stole your sister’s hair tie?”
Lian pouted. “Because she’s being mean,” he answered as he lowered his head.
Callum raised a brow. “How—”
“I
am not
!” Isha shouted. “I’m not the one stealing other people’s stuff!”
Lian glanced up and stuck his tongue out at his sister.
He gave Lian a firm gesture with his index finger whilst turning over to Isha and shooting her a stern look. Both kids seemed to grasp the message and turned their heads away with a pout. Satisfied with their reactions, Callum tried again. “Alright, so, Lian, how was your sister being mean?”
“He only did it because he likes attention,” Isha mocked, leaning over Callum’s shoulder.
“
Isha
!” Calum exclaimed. “Knock it off young lady,” he looked at her, “you’re really not helping yourself either!”
Isha’s jaw dropped. “But
I
didn’t do anythin’!”
“But you’re also
not
helping,” he pointed out. “If you keep this up I’m keeping you here.”
Her eyes went wide. “No, no, I did all my chores like I promised! Ya and Mum said that was the deal!”
Callum sighed. “And it will change, if you keep interrupting.”
“See?” Lian chirped. He gestured to her with both hands. “Mean!”
She scowled at him. “Give it back ya twerp!” she shouted, lunging at her younger brother. Callum caught her, ready to give her firm talking to, but was evidently cut off as Lian hopped from behind and attempted to slap his sister. It happened so fast Callum wasn’t able to react, but thankfully Isha dodged.
“Kids! Kids!” Callum shouted. “Knock it off!” They bickered over his voice, shouting out playground insults with no rhyme or rhythm. Callum struggled to keep the two away with his arm’s length, but still managed to avoid any injuries inflicted onto each other. Instead, he was taking the brunt of them. Of course they weren’t as deadly as getting punched by a full fledged Moonshadow Assassin, but they stung just a smidge.
“What is going on here?” Rayla’s voice rung out.
The fighting came to a halt as the sudden temperature in the room dropped to a glacier atmosphere. Callum immediately dusted himself off of any dirt and scuffs, mainly to buy time to compose himself. “Hi Dear!”
“Don’t ‘hi Dear’ me without explaining what the heck I just walked into!” Rayla chastised, earning a flinch from Callum. Her tone was harsher than any blade or spell. “I came back from the meeting hall,
expecting
ya to be ready with the signed papers. Not… doing whatever that was!”
“The children were having an argument, I had to settle it,” Callum quickly explained, exhaustion laced within his voice. He walked over to Rayla and scratched the back of his head.“And no one has revealed anything at all except that Lian has stolen Isha’s hair tie.”
Rayla thoughtfully looked at the two. “One at a time, tell me who started this,” she demanded, crossing her arms.
“Isha was being—”
“Lian just took—”
“One… at… a…
time
,” Rayla slowly spoke, narrowing her eyes at them, taking a step forward.
Callum felt chills race down his spine. He knew he was the fun parent. He understood that when it came to the hardcore scolding and firm tones, she was the better option. But boy did she really know how to lay it into their kids. Of course, whenever she took that tone with them, they would become too scared to even respond. Their heads fell as they remained tight lipped.
Callum placed his hand on her shoulder, causing her to snap to him. “Divide and conquer?”
Rayla’s glare softened up as she blinked at him. With a small sigh, she nodded. “I’ll take the munchkin,” she muttered as she walked over to Lian, lifting him up from the floor and hoisting him up to her shoulders.
“I’m not a munchkin!” he softly argued, still too afraid to speak out.
Isha glanced up at her father, leaving him to smile warmly at her. “So, my little Mage, living room or your bedroom?”
She shyly kicked her foot. “Living room,” came the quiet answer.
Callum quickly led her over to the living room, sitting her down at the long sofa as he placed himself right up against her. “Now, tell me what this is
really
about.”
Her brows went up in confusion.
“Issy, your little brother always like to poke fun and do things like that,” she opened her mouth, “ but that doesn’t mean it’s right!” Callum quickly finished. “But you’ve never let it get you so easily. What’ so important about a hair tie that’s got you so mad? If you’re in a hurry, just leave your hair as is,” he flicked a bunch of messy strands dangling down her forehead, earning an annoyed head jerk.
“I can’t,” she mumbled.
“Why not?”
“Because Farha
really
liked my braids last time. And Mum’s taught me how to do them all on my own, and I really need it for my braids,” Isha explained in a soft tone.
Callum tilted his head. “Your mother has hair ties.” He knew that didn’t change the fact that the issue was her brother stole her hair tie. He understood that well. Callum just wanted to grasp at what was so special about this specific one, as he was getting a good hypothesis of why it meant so much to his daughter.
Isha’s head fell. “...gave it…” she mumbled softly.
“What?”
“She…” she sighed. “She gave it to me…”
Callum smirked. Bingo. “That’s very cool Isha,” he acknowledged. He leaned down and cupped his hand over his mouth, feigning a whisper, “I think that means she likes you.”
His daughter’s eyes went wide as her face flushed. “
Da
!” she exclaimed, pushing him away. “Don’t say that!” He laughed at his daughter's clear embarrassment. Eventually, she managed to look him in the eyes, hesitance boring into them. “Ya… ya think so?”
He smiled as he nodded at her. Confidently, he said, “I do, my little Mage.”
She smiled. “Thanks Da.”
He winked. “No problem.” He wrapped an arm around and squeezed her softly. “I know you’re brother is in the wrong here,” he quietly spoke, “but I also need to make sure: did you do anything to make him upset?”
Isha frowned. “I dunno? He’s been… just giving me the cold shoulder all morning.” She shrugged. “He got all mad when I told him I was meeting up with Farha later.”
Callum pursed his lips as he thought for a moment. “Okay,” he replied, “Well, regardless, you need to make sure you help him too.” Her brows quirked up. “He looks up to you, Issy, so you need to ease up on him too. You can’t always get upset with your brother just for Farha. Because your bond with him matters too.”
Isha bit her lip as she considered his words.
“Just promise me you won’t be as hard on him as your mother might be,” he jested, lightly nudging her shoulder.” He stood up from the couch. “I’ll go check up on them. Work on your braid,” he winked, before walking out.
“Thanks Da,” he heard her call out.
As he walked over to Lian’s room, he heard their faint whispers.
“—ee why it’s important to your sister?” her heard Rayla’s voice. “Ya can’t go around doing that, because it upsets her.”
“But she promised to play with
me
today!” Lian whined. “Everything’s been about Farha. We don’t play anymore.” Callum leaned up against the wall outside. He didn’t need to be in there to tell his little boy was frowning.
“I know Lian, but, your sister
really
wants to spend time with other friends too. Like Farha,” Rayla urged on, taking a lighter tone. “Ya have to respect what she wants. And make compromises with what ya can.”
“Fine…” he muttered. Callum heard him hop off his bed and walk toward the door. Quickly, he adjusted himself and began walking as if he had just appeared. As soon as his son emerged, he sported a small smile. “Hi Dad,” he greeted. “Sorry for… hitting ya.”
Callum chuckled. “It’s fine munchkin,” he leaned down and ruffled his hair. “Glad to know your mum’s lessons really paid off. Nice swings,” he winked.
Lian laughed as he began walking away. Callum assumed that mean the was going to find his sister, but didn’t bother with his lack of words. He heard Rayla emerge soon after.
“If ya’re gonna listen in, at least try not to let
me
hear,” she advised.
Callum laughed. “The day I sneak up on you, my Dear, will be the day the next Dragon King falls.”
She rolled her eyes. “Next time ya’re making the run to the hall.”
He smiled. “Oh, gladly!” he perked up, “it ain’t no picnic holding down the fort either.”
“They like ya more, ya’re better at keeping peace.”
“You literally just walked in on us fighting.”
“Ya know what I mean,” Rayla smiled. She stepped forward as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “If missing a few signed papers means ya keep our children happy and healthy, I’m all for it.”
He chuckled. “Speaking of healthy, when I go to drop off Issy, you are
not
touching the stove,” he joked.
Rayla laughed. “Oh gladly,” she easily agreed. “If I have to wait an extra hour for a good meal it’ll be worth it!” she exclaimed.
“Thanks for saving me though,” Callum pointed out.
“Always do,” Rayla teased. The two leaned in and—
“Da!”
came Isha’s voice. Exasperated sighs escaped the two.
“We’re ready to go!”
Callum cocked a brow as he turned back. “We?” he asked, walking over to the front entrance.
He found Isha, with her braid groomed together, completed with a small emerald green hair tie. And Lian had his backpack with him. Confused, Callum looked to Isha for answers.
“I said he can come.” she simply said. “Thought it’d be cool if he met Farha.”
Lian excitedly nodded. “Issy said I can show her my drawings!”
Callum and Rayla exchanged a quick glance, wearing knowing smirks as they did so. “Did she now? Callum inquired.
He noticed the faint blush on his daughter’s cheeks.
“Yup!”
“And did ya apologize?” Rayla clarified, eyeing her son with a smile.
“Uh huh!” Isha spoke for him. “He gave it back and said sorry.” She flipped her braid over her shoulder. “The least I could do was let him tag along with me today, right?”
Callum smiled. “Right.” He flashed a wink at her, and developed a greater at her daughter’s proud smirk. “Well, then, shall we take this show on the road?” he asked. The kids cheered as they quickly rushed out the door. He turned back to Rayla and laughed. “Best—”
“Parents—”
“Ever,” they simultaneously cheered.
They high nined each other with proud smiles. “Hopefully, if all goes well, the two might stay the night!” Callum suggested with an eager smile.
Rayla’s face lit up. “That means alone time at home!” she pieced together. A content sigh escaped her as she swooned. “It’s been ages!”
Callum laughed as he moved toward the door. “Fret not, my Dear, for tonight, is for us!” And with that, he walked out the door.
Rayla happily turned around, with a newfound pep in her step. A night with no disturbances, no maintenance, free of responsibilities. A sudden ruffle of noise echoing throughout the halls brought her attention over to the study. Rayla peeked in and immediately frowned at the sight before her. The dozens of sensitive and essential documents, crucial to several trades between villages and nations, and all the like—splattered across the floor. Either shredded to bits like a chipped wood, or soaked like a drenched coat. The culprit?
The baby Sky Dragon Callum was so gracious to adopt.
Rayla groaned as she banged her head against the door frame. Adding on the list of errands to run the next day, she had to replace those documents by regathering the council
and
regaining all signatures. The worst part was her errands didn’t end there. Because today, she forgot to get Zeusia’s food. Another groan as she palmed at her face. Every win had a loss.
Such was the married life.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Ball
“And then our next stop is this lil’ village near the edge of the Earthblood Elf regions. Lots of landscape there,” Rayla explained, “Plenty of caves to camp out in.”Callum pouted as he hoisted Zym up to his shoulders. “Great, because another inn would be too much to ask for,” he sarcastically quipped.Rayla shot him a look. “Ya got anymore money?” she asked. He sighed. “Didn’t think so, oh so wise Prince.”Callum sighed as they walked on. “You’re still upset about the trade,” he noted. “Nearly all our money for five loafs of bread!” she spontaneously shouted. Rayla glanced at him and scoffed. “Cal, we coulda used that money for other things!”Callum rolled his eyes. “‘Kay but, thinking about it more logically, we did waste a lot of money on spending nights at inns. More than we needed to,” he pointed out. Rayla harshly laughed. “Excuse me? I didn’t hear ya complainin’ about sharing a bed!”“Your ideas, your rules,” Callum teased, leaning closer with a smug smile. She pouted. “If ya had any objections ya should’ve said so.”He laughed. “Ray, I’ll never have any objections of it makes you happy,” she felt her face flush at his words, “and staying at inn, with a roof over our heads and a nice comfort blanket is something I’m okay with doing since it makes you happy.” He then twisted his body to show off his backpack. “And I know eating Sunberrybread makes you feel happy too. You just don’t like wasting money on food because you think we can rely on gathering them.”Rayla fought back her blush as she looked at Callum. “I can gather food.”“And pull lookout? And scout ahead?” Callum rhetorically fired back. “You tire yourself out a lot, the least I could do is handle the food just for a bit.” He winked at her. “And besides,” he dug into his pockets, “we still got five coins! Our pockets aren’t completely empty.”Rayla sighed. “Ya’re right,” she relented. She found her smile and chuckled at him. “Who knew ya would be such a good travelling buddy?”Callum shrugged. “I’m full of surprises.”She laughed. “Great!” she looked off into the distance. Her attention notably drawing over to the mountaintops within the near acres. “Can one of those surprises be stamina? Because if we can push it, I think we’ll make it to that cliff face before sunset!” Callum nodded as he adjusted his grip on Zym. “Get ready boy,” he told him, “we’re in for a walk!”::::And their walk was cut short.Immediately.As soon as the two made their way down the path, nearing a clearing, they heard an uproar of shouting nearby. Alert, Rayla raised her hand and motioned them to a halt. She grabbed onto her blades and unsheathed them, turning her head in every direction, utilizing her fine tuned ears to single out the direction. Callum extended his finger, mindset prepped and spell in mind, he was ready to back her up. Her ears twitched, and body shifted to the left, prompting Callum to do the same.“They’re over there,” she whispered, crouching down as she slowly crept forward. Callum followed her lead, and the two began wandering into the bushes. Soon enough, the yelling became loud enough for Callum to hear. His expression shifted from seriousness and concern, to confusion. He hadn’t spent much time in Xadia, but he was positive that those sounds, were children. With wide eyes, he glanced to Rayla, noticing the same amount of concern reaching her. She knew too. As they brushed through the bushes and leaves, the scene before them became more clear. A group of young elves, Earthblood elves no doubt, all gathered around in the centre of the clearing. All that screaming and shouting? Just the thrill of a harmless game. About six kids, all spread out in a circle, happily cheering as they kicked a small little brown ball at each other. Just a simple game with a ball. Relief overwhelmed the two as Rayla sheathed her blades and Callum released a breathy sigh. “Let’s go,” she whispered.As Callum nodded, a sudden cry came from the group of children. “No!” The two immediately whipped their heads back at the source, and were shocked to see an airborne ball flying over their way. It was so high and flew so fast, they could barely process its arc. It landed right in the branches of the tree they were hiding right under. Simultaneously, their eyes went wide as the conclusion hit them at the same time.“Hey who’s over there?” one of the kids shouted.The two ducked right away, camouflaging themselves within the bushes. “We see ya!” another chimed in.Rayla released an annoyed sigh. She glanced to Callum, who merely shrugged, and turned his attention back to the kids. He popped out of the bush and waved at them, still holding Zym with his other arm. “Hiya kids!”Rayla’s eyes went wide as she rose up soon after. “What the heck are ya doing?” she harshly whispered, even though at this point their cover was blown.Callum waved his hand dismissively as he stepped out of the bushes. “Do you guys need help with the ball?” he asked them.The approaching onslaught of kids halted in their tracks as shocked eyes seemed to take their faces. A shared gasp escaped from them, and a simultaneously step back alert Callum’s guard. His face dropped into shock as he completely forgot that there was a war between their nations for a split second. And that he was carrying a rare and almost thought extinct species in his arms. A nervous chuckle slipped from him as Rayla facepalmed.“I, uh… I come in peace!” he shouted, holding his hands up in innocence. The gesture left him to drop Zym straight to the ground, eliciting a startled yelp from the Dragon Prince. As the children remained skeptical, Callum cleared his throat, taking a step forward. “I mean no harm! I swear!” he urged on, expressing as much innocence as he could muster. Rayla sighed, understanding she would need to help vouch for him. “It’s true!” she shouted, running toward his side. “He doesn’t mean ya any harm! We’re…” “Adventurers!” Callum finished, perkily jerking a thumb at his chest. “And, as adventurers, we’re on a mission to deliver this lil’ fella,” he gestured down at Zym, who excitedly yelped, “back to his mommy!”Their faces seemed to ease up, especially at the realization that there was a baby dragon present. Half of the kids lit up at Zym’s overall cuteness, whispering words of awe and wonder.“Exactly!” Rayla chirped. “And so, we must really be on our way—” she grabbed Callum’s hand, edging him backward. She tuned out a light whistle, dragging Zym’s attention away from the new crowd and back to her. “But it was nice seeing ya!”“Rayla, Rayla, wait!” Callum exclaimed, yanking his arm off. “They clearly need help,” he gestured up at the tree.” Turning back to them, he asked, “Do you need help getting the ball out?”They all exchanged looks of worry and hesitation, obviously unsure of how to respond. Rayla sighed. “See? They can handle it.” She reached for Callum’s arm, only to be dodged.“Not everyone trained to be an Assassin at the age of six,” he teased. “C’mon,” he laughed, turning back to the kids. “You clearly can’t reach it. Just let us help!” “ Callum ,” Rayla whispered, tugging at his sleeve. “We’re already burning daylight, we can’t afford to delay!”He laughed. “If you’re patient enough to stop and let me sketch a view, you can wait a bit to help some kids.”She rolled her eyes and glanced down at Zym, who seemed to encourage Callum’s words with an excited nod. She scoffed. It wasn’t that she was entirely opposed to the idea. But their whole mission in Xadia was laying low, not a single elf had learned of their presence and now six children seemed to ruin their illusion of secrecy. But kids did have an element of unpredictability, and Rayla wasn’t looking forward to being caught off guard. She just didn’t trust them. It might have seemed hypocritical, but she didn’t want to leave anything to chance, especially when it seemed the kids were giving them an out.“Ray,” Callum grabbed her hand, “we set out to make a change in the world. That includes helping anyone along the way. And they,” he nodded over to the kids, “clearly need help!”Rayla sighed as she pulled her hand back and crossed her arms, wearing a thoughtful look. Of course, Callum smiled his classic pleading smile, and she dropped her facade of anger. He was right, of course he was. She nodded. “Fine,” she relented.Callum excitedly pumped his fist as he turned to the kids. “Just you wait!” he told them, “we’ll get your ball!” He knelt down to Zym and urged him forward, “Meantime, you guys can hang out with Zym!”“ Callum—”“Or not,” he corrected himself. He pointed at the dragon.“Zym just… chill,” he ordered. Zym tilted his head in confusion before turning back to the kids. Eagerness in his eyes, he rushed over to the kids and began barking in excitement, much to Rayla’s protests. He ran around them with a burst of energy, too fast for any of them to really stop and grab him, leaving them to exclaim gasps of wonder and awe. Rayla shot Callum a deadly stare, to which he shrugged once more.“Sooner we get this done, the sooner we’re out?” he suggested. “Fine,” she sighed once more. “How are ya getting it out then?” Rayla asked, glancing up the large tree. “I thought you’d… y’know…” Callum wordlessly gestured his hand about, “Assassin-y yourself up there!”She laughed. “No, no, no, your idea, your solution. I’m just here to make sure ya don’t fall on your ars—tsy behind,” she dragged out with a nervous smile, eyes flashing over to the collection of kids eyeing them up with suspicion. Callum scoffed. “Nice save,” he mused. Her turned up to the tree and frowned. He supposed it was fair he solved this himself.This tree, as it turned out, was enormously large. Callum quickly learned that the average tree life in Xadia measured to ridiculous heights. Not even the tallest trees in the human lands could compare. While it did tower high above, it also had a vast array of branches stemming throughout, each branch extending meters out and clustered together. The brown ball in question remained what looked to be the halfway point of the tree, which was still high up.“Yeesh, which kid kicked that?” Callum mused, turning back to the group. One of the girls, with long roughed up white hair, raised her hand. “I… I didn’t mean to! It just came so fast!”“Oh relax,” Callum waved off, “from where you guys were, that’s a pretty impressive distance!” He winked at her with a big smile. “You’re pretty tough!” Leaning over, he nudged Rayla’s elbow. “Right Ray?”“Ri-Right!” she agreed. Her gaze nervously flew down to the kids as she plastered on an encouraging smile. “I’d say ya’d make a cool Assassin.”Her little blue eyes lit up with wonder. “Really!” Rayla nodded. “Whoa!”The other kids hopped on that praise and began whispering toward her, offering words of encouragement and compliments. “Wow! That’s so cool!” a little boy whispered.“I wanna kick high like that!” shouted another.“I wish I could be that cool,” another girl added.Simultaneously, they turned to Rayla. “Could ya teach us?” one of the boys with a dirted up brown hair asked, excitement pouring from his eyes. They all stepped forward eagerly, hands shaking with joy.Rayla’s face drained. “Uhhh… ha… I don’t think—”“C’mon, Ray,” Callum pushed her forward, “Might as well do something while I’m working on that!”She shot him a conflicted look of worry. “But what if ya fall?”“I won’t climb, relax,” Callum waved off. “I’ll just use the wind spell to get it out!”Her face scrunched up as she looked at the kids’ expectant looks of excitement. She offered a half energetic wave as they all stepped closer once more, causing her to back away in retaliation. Instinct, that was what it was. “Ya’re a Moonshadow Elf right?” one of the boys shouted.“Can ya show us your blades? I hear ya make your own!”“Do a flip! Do a flip!”“I wanna kick high! How can I do that!”The bombardment of ridiculous questions overwhelmed Rayla so quickly she motioned them to halt, realizing that they were also ganging up on her with their presence. They were a lot closer than before. “Eh heh…” she nervously laughed, “I-uh, I better make sure he doesn’t hurt himself.” She pointed over to him as she walked back to Callum, this time with a hurried pace.He had taken a few steps back, eyeing up the ball and placing himself at a decent angle from below. When he noticed her return he shot her a brow. “What’s wrong?”“I don’t do kids,” she whispered fiercely, “Now hurry up and get it out!”Callum had no time to even ask her to elaborate about the former half of her sentence, so he turned up at the tree and cocked his head ever so slightly. The ball was just hooked between two branches, lodged right in the dead centre. It was stuck like a wedge, so a good amount of force should be able to push it out. Callum’s deduction came to a close as he took a deep breath. He brought his finger up and pushing out his air, he drew the spell above his head.“ Aspiro ,” he whispered, the blue light illuminated, and he blew into it. A sudden gust of wind emerged and blew straight up the tree, shaking the branches and leaves to the very bark. The ball began shaking, but remained in its place. Callum kept his eyes narrowed as he maintaining his form, focusing on blowing as much air as he could. Control and aim, he learned this. He tightened his lips and watched as the tunnel of wind lessened to a smaller funnel. As the pressure died down, the ball began to loosen up, evidently falling straight out of its trap and down to the ground.Callum smirked as he released his breath, proud of his accomplishment. But his pride quickly faded as he realized the ball was flying off the branch in the other direction. He rushed after it, trying to guess its arc but stopped as he noticed it fall with less grace and more withered like. He caught it, and frowned as he realized why.“Whoa!” the kids shouted, rushing over to him. Quickly, he hid the ball behind his back, startled at the sudden rush of joy and happiness. “Ya’re a Mage!”“I didn’t know there were Human Mages!” “How did ya do that!”“I wanna learn!”“Silly, we’re Earthblood Elves, we can’t do that!”“Can ya show us again!”Callum’s face swelled up in pride. He knew they were kids. He knew that meant their expectations were always dialed to the highest degree and quite frankly, he didn’t care. It felt so nice, just for him to hear a collective praise for his efforts for once. Rayla had done so time and time again, but this felt different. The acclaim of a collection of young strangers made him feel proud.“Th-Thank you!” he smiled, “I uh, yeah, I learned how to do it a just a month ago.”“Wow…” was the collective response.Rayla giggled as she rushed over. She too enjoyed seeing Callum flustered in pride, as it was always a rarity. Even though she always jokingly shot him down, she always strived to build her confidence up. “Yup!” she spoke up. “He learned all on his own!”“Whoa…”Callum chuckled. “Nah, nah, I had help!” he brushed off.“Well, thanks Mister!” one of the boys shouted.“Yeah, thanks for getting our ball back!”His face dropped to a frown. “Oh…” he sighed. “About that,” slowly, he revealed the ball showing off the sudden tear that creased at the centre, deflating it of its bounce and turning it into a mush of leather, “I’m so sorry.” He hung his head low. “It must’ve snagged on the branch when I blew it out. I…”“But that was still so cool!” the little girl from before shouted. “Ya looked like a real Mage!”His face lit up. He never thought he’d ever hear such words from the mouth of a little kid. But there she was, watching them in awe. “But your ball…”“Oh it’s fine Mister,” the boy chirped up, “We have to head home soon anyways. It’s getting dark out.”“But thanks for trying!”“And for letting us play with your pet dragon!”“And for showing us that cool spell!”One by one, they started to disperse. The little girl with roughed up white hair lingered for a moment, staring at him. “It was still really cool,” she smiled, “but it was an old ball anyways.” She shrugged. “Thanks for making me feel better,” she glanced between him and Rayla, eyes full of youthful wonder. “Good luck on your mission!” she waved and turned around, ready to run.“Wait!” Callum shouted, startling her to a halt. He walked over and knelt down before her, digging into his pocket. “I’m not sure if this is enough,” he pulled out the five coins, the very last of their money and held it out to her, “but maybe you could buy yourself a new one?”Her eyes opened wide with shock. “Really?”Callum turned back to Rayla, who smiled and offered a light nod. In turn, he turned back and nodded. “Yeah. Really.”“Whoa!” she gasped. “Thanks Mister Mage!” she shouted, as she held her hand out, watching him drop the coins into her hands. “I’ll make sure to tell everyone how cool you are!” And with that, she ran off, hurrying after her friends as they made it over a hill just up the way.Callum sighed. “I’m sorry—”“Don’t be,” Rayla laughed. She walked over and placed her hand on his shoulder. “That was really sweet of ya. And… I think that was the smartest spending we’ve done yet.”He smiled. “I think so too.” He turned back and whistled, calling Zym away from his recent target of a Moonfly. The small Dragon rushed over and hopped into his arms, licking at his chin with joy. “Yup, thanks buddy,” he chuckled, “Appreciate your help too.”“Now,” Rayla spoke up, “shall we get a move on?”“Absolutely!” Callum agreed. “And on the way, you can tell me what’s the deal with you and kids…”She laughed, shaking her head as she turned around. “Maybe another time.”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Honeymoon
“So it’s a dessert?” a young Callum asked, wearing a hesitant look as he observed the liquid pour onto his pancake.
Rayla nodded, excitedly bouncing in her seat as she set the cup of syrup down beside their plates. “Yup! It’s collected off saps in my village! The Moonbees stick around the bark, and leave their sap behind!”
Callum’s face contorted into disgust. “And you thought moldy cheese was disgusting?”
Rayla whipped her head back in shock. “What’s wrong with honeymoon?”
Callum frowned. “It comes off tree bark?”
“We clean it obviously,” Rayla pointed out. “Trust me,” she said with a smile, “Runaan
loves
this! He buys this so much and rarely lets me have it sometimes. It’s his favourite syrup!”
The young prince remained skeptical. “I don’t know… looks…” he poked at the liquid with his fork. It was very thick, it turned out, as it latched onto the prongs as soon as he pulled his utensil away. “Eww.” He dropped his fork onto the plate. “I think I’ll just ask the chef for another stack of pancakes—” he moved to hop off his chair, but was pulled back by his elven friend.
“Don’t be such a baby,” Rayla chastised. “Try it!”
Callum pouted as he sunk down into this chair. With reluctance driving him, he moved his fork around the syrup. “Last time we did this, it was with your disgusting Moonberry juice.”
Rayla frowned. “It’s not disgustin’!” she shouted, pointing her fork at him. “Ya’re just weird!”
“No, you are!”
“No, ya are!”
“No you!”
“No ya!”
The two stopped at their standstill, leaning close with their eyes burrowing hard into each other. Narrowing their brows, they both remained unmoved. It wasn’t uncommon for the two to have disagreements like these. Often enough, their difference in tastes and opinions were what actually connected them. Slowly, with interest, did they learn about one another’s culture. It was one of their favourite things to do, exposing each other to their own interests and understanding about their homes. And like always, even with their disagreements, their compromises came through just as easily.
“Fine,” Rayla sighed. “If ya don’t like it, I’ll ask the chef to make us another stack and ya can have it all by yourself!”
Callum’s eyes lit up in awe. “Really?”
“Really,” she nodded.
“But what if I like it?”
She tilted her head, confused. “Then ya get to eat it?”
“Oh, right, right,” Callum nodded, lightly smacking his head. “Silly me.”
Rayla giggled. “Deal?” she held out her pinky.
The young prince nodded with an eager smile, wrapping his own pinky finger around hers. “Deal.”
::::
Runaan loved visiting Katolis. Ever since the treaty between their peoples began, he enjoyed coming to human festivals and most especially during the celebration of the war’s end. The day it all began. The annual celebration came around, and the town was bustling with travelers and excitement. It was the very first time Rayla had ever been in the Human Kingdoms. It was the day she met Callum. He had lost her in the crowd, and soon enough, found her in the company of a little boy, laughing and running amok. It was then he realized she hadn’t spent much time playing with other kids, as she devoted her determination to training and studying the ways of the Assassin.
It was then Runaan knew, how much of an importance, would a child like Callum be in her life.
Shortly after, he noticed the young boy was accompanied by the Queen and King themselves. After a short round of formalities, they evidently agreed their children should meet again. And so, Runaan visits in Katolis changed from staying at inns to staying at the castle. The tourism and usual sightseeing became replaced with afternoon chit chat with the royal family and watching their children run around and play. And he loved every second of it. Their chance encounter all those years ago, led to this beautiful bond between children.
Runaan knew Rayla wasn’t his. He knew that she was merely his ward as her parents were off, guarding the King with their important missions and such. But he loved seeing her smile. And soon, he loved how much the King and Queen felt the same way. Treating her like their own daughter, like he did Callum as his own son. They were a nice family. Runaan was happy, regardless of how their years together would play out, that Callum and Rayla found each other. Even though a small part of him was on the rooting side.
“—good idea!”
a faint, young voice echoed throughout the halls.
Runaan glanced up from his recollection, realizing he was nearing the dining hall. He had caught from a guard, that the two kids decided to have breakfast together without the adults. He was personally hurt by their deception, but still remarked at their chosen time spent together. He smiled as he neared the door, his hand on the handle. How sweet—
“I think I like this honeymoon!”
His hand froze as his eyes widened. He turned to the two guards stood outside, looking at their faces for an explanation. Simply enough they shrugged with wide eyes. They clearly weren’t paying attention until now either. Curious, Runaan pressed his ear up against the door, whilst the guards leaned back, turning their ears toward the door as well.
“—right? It’s so good!”
Runaan’s eyes widened more, glancing back and forth between the two guards, who remained simply in shock.
“I wanna have one of my own!”
Runaa’s mouth dropped to the floor, the guard to his left had let go of his spear and held his head in bewilderment, while the one to his right simply froze like a statue. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. He knew Harrow had suggested arranging a marriage, but had he influenced them
that
much? This was absurd. Runaan held his forehead as he balanced his footing, not even realized how close he was to fainting. Surely, he was just imagining things.
“ —rents don’t have any?”
Rayla’s voice lightly inquired.
“No, I don’t think so at least.”
Runaan’s brows coiled up in confusion.
“Hmm, I’ll ask Runaan if we can have a honeymoon of our own!”
Enough was enough. Stepping back, the Moonshadow Elf kicked the door open with a fury, launching himself into the room, he shouted, “You’re
far too
young!”
“Prince Callum wait!”
“At least consult your mother!”
The guards too had rushed in, equally as concerned as the Elf between them. Runaan scanned the scene before them. They were simply sat at the dining table, with a plate of pancakes set before them and what looked to be a jar of syrup beside them. They shot them looks of confusion.
“Consult my mom about getting syrup?” Callum asked, blinking with innocence. “I mean, I was gonna.”
“Yeah,” Rayla nodded. “Don’t worry, we weren’t just gonna take your syrup Runaan,” she laughed, shaking her head in amusement.
“Wow, you weren’t kidding when he said he really loves honeymoon,” Callum mused, giggling alongside Rayla.
“Right?” she laughed.
Runaan’s face flushed as he felt the appalled stares of the guards shoot his way. He had
never
said that before. “
Wh-What
!” he exclaimed. “I never—” his words stopped short as he noticed the jar before the plate of pancakes. Or rather, realized the colour of the liquid inside. It looked like… “Rayla…” he softly spoke, walking over to their table. “Are you talking about this?” he inquired, picking up the jar in question.
She nodded. “Yeah! I told Callum how much ya love honeymoon, and got him to try some!”
Relief washed over his body as he released his breath. “Oh thank Thunder,” he whispered. With an amused smile, he shook his head. “Rayla, this is called Moonhoney syrup.” The relieved sighs escaped from the guards behind him, much to his amusement.
“Ohh,” she slowly nodded. “But, how’s that different from what I was calling it?”
“Yeah, I think honeymoon sounds better!” Callum cheered, stabbing his fork into his food.
Runaan coughed, clearing his throat as he nervously laughed. “W-Well, uh, Moonhoney comes from Moonbees and well… a honeymoon is…” he turned back to the guards, who simultaneously shook their heads with vigor. “Something you’ll have to ask King Harrow about,” he finished, wearing a smug smile, “He’s much more knowledgeable about that sorta of thing. He can explain it
far
better than I!”
Rayla and Callum shared a look then shrugged. “Okay Runaan!” Rayla chirped.
“We’ll ask him after breakfast!” Callum decided.
Runaan laughed. “Please do. In the meantime, I shall be in the library if you need me.” Another bonus with being friends of the Queen and King, a vast endless room of reading and a decent spot to hide. He turned back and nodded at the guard, signalling them to leave. They exited the room, and shut the doors behind them. “Good day,” he departed to the two.
They nodded and straightened themselves up, ignoring the nervous sweat they had accumulated over the last minute. Runaan quietly chuckled to himself as he walked away.
Perhaps in the future.
Way, way, way,
way
into the future.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Pregnant Thoughts
“ Callum !”With a wince and a tired look, the man in question shot up from his recent sketching, arcing his head back as he shouted, “Yes my Dear?” “ I need ya!” He sighed as he pushed himself out of his chair, walking over to the door. “Are you sure it’s a need me, need me? Or more like, need me because you don’t wanna get up to get another book?”“ Shut up and come help me! ” she shouted back.Callum sighed as he wandered down the hall. He found his wife, his beautiful, amazing wife, lying down on the couch, book rested on her bloated belly, and blanket stopping just short over her waist. “I need ya to tuck me in,” she stated. Because pregnant Rayla didn’t ask, no, demands were more her speed.Callum chuckled as he rubbed the back of his head. “Ray, I would, but it’s a couch, wouldn’t you prefer being tucked in bed—”“I like being on the couch!” she shouted. “It’s comfy, it’s nice, and I wanna be near the campfire in case!”“But it’s July—” he stopped himself, knowing that at this point he was merely holding a shovel in his hand and practically setting himself up. With a sigh, he walked over to his love, and began fitting the blanket around her, tucking her in as best he could.And Callum swore, for the briefest of moments, he caught a smile elicit from her face. He instantly smiled out of joy. He rarely got those nowadays. “What’re ya smiling ‘bout?” she scowled, narrowing her brows. “Thinkin’ how funny it is to tuck a turkey?” she barked, rising up from her spot.His eyes widened as he vigorously shook his head. “No, no, no, no, no, no!” he held his hands up. “I was just, I-I, saw you—smile! It looked nice!”“What? Ya saying I don’t smile?” her narrowed eyes turned to slits.He gulped. He needed to act fast. “Of course you do! You… smile all the time, it… it’s what inspires me to draw,” he said with a warm smile. Rayla seemed satisfied with his answer, easing into the couch more, leaving Callum to retuck her. Clearing his throat, Callum knelt down and smiled at her. “So, uh, need anything else?” he asked.She shook her head. “Ya can go, I wanna read.”Callum nodded, jerking his thumb over to the room down the hall. “I’ll be in the study if you need me,” he whispered. He leaned in and pecked her forehead, then departed from the living room. Not even a second down the hall, he heard an annoyed groan echo throughout their home. If he was feeling lucky, Callum was attempt to play it off like he hadn’t heard her at first and try to return to his sketching, and hopefully it would either play out that nothing came out of it. But of course, knowing how his luck played out for the past few weeks, Callum decided to respond instantaneously and whipped his body around, rushing back into the living room. “Yes? Need something?” he hastily asked.Rayla was adjusting herself—even though she had asked him to tuck her in—and wore a discomforted look as she did so. “No, I’m good,” she muttered.Callum sighed. If there was one thing he knew about Pregnant Rayla, it was that whenever she had cravings, she needed to be prompted to reveal what they were. And it took a lot of prompting to do so. “You sure?” he asked.“Yes,” she flatly replied.“Positive?”“Oh my goodness, just go,” she groaned, throwing her head back.Callum sighed once more, anticipating that he might be doing a lot more of that today. “If you say so!” he shouted. He started stomping in place, trying to give the illusion that he had walked off, hoping it would help egg her on.“I know ya’re still there! I have super ears!” she shouted, not even caring how silly her words sounded. Callum groaned as he walked away. This was baiting. He was walking into the study, and as he sat down in his chair, pencil in hand, it happened again. “ Callum !”He held back his sighs, irritation, pain, and gritted his teeth with a forced smile. Running down the hall, he shouted, “Yes my Dear!”“I have cravings!”He tried to muster as much shock as he could. “Whaaaat? Really?”“Don’t do that,” she venomously spat, “Or I’ll shoot this baby in your face!”Callum’s face dropped into horror. Another fun thing with Pregnant Rayla: everyday she managed to come up with new graphically vulgar and horrific insults. Somedays if he was lucky, he’d get two of them. “Right, right,” he apologized, “sorry. Uhh, what’re you craving?”He begged it was Sunberry bread. He could get that at the market in the square. Or Moonberry juice, they sold that there too.Or maybe Moonhoney, they still had some in their shelves.“Moldy cheese.”His face dropped. “What?”“I want moldy cheese,” she repeated. “But… you hate dairy… anything…” Callum pointed out, utterly confused by her request.“Yeah? And I hate being bloated and having to lie here! But look where we are!” she yelled gesturing all around them. “For the love of Thunder, I just want some cheese, so I can read my book, eat in peace, and be tucked in for a nap!”Callum sighed once again, nodding. “Yes, of course my Dear,” he replied, walking over to her. He leaned in for a peck on the lips, but stopped as she raised her finger to intercept.“Ya’re wastin’ time.”And with that, Callum’s mission began.::::“So let me get this straight,” Soren began, “You went to the market in town, searched all the strips of food shops, and even went to your neighbours’ houses, and still got no cheese?”“Yes and—”“And since you knew the town nearby had none, and the town after that, you decided to run all the way over here, to the castle, for this?” Soren held up the moldy cheese in his hand, completely shocked by the younger man’s actions.Panting heavily, Callum breathed out, “ Yes .”“Callum, this is why you should’ve taken Ez’s offer and just stay here whenever you two visit!” Soren pointed out. “Look how much—”“Soren, we’ve been over this, Ray and I prefer staying in town whenever we’re only here for a few days,” Callum quickly reminded him, “and besides, I would love to stay at the castle but Rayla’s decided that she prefers staying at a small house in town instead, apparently it’s more cosy.”The head guard scoffed with confusion. “What?”“Listen, I’d love to debate or agree and talk about this, but if you have issues or anything you want to talk about, tell my wife the next time you see her,” Callum hurriedly said, “right now, I need that block of bleu cheese.”Soren glanced down at the block, then back up at Callum. “Dude, just go to the kitchen. The chef will give you another.”“Soren, that’s all the way inside! Like, the lowest level too! I was lucky to even run into you in the courtyard with your little afternoon snack!”“I know Callum, but like, I just started eating this.”“You sliced off a piece with your sword and placed it on a jelly tart,” Callum deadpanned. “Yeah, that’s how I eat my cheese?”Callum took a deep breath. He still had inspiration in his veins, and he was determined to finish his sketch today. He took five steps back and dropped into a steady stance, spreading his legs out as he lifted his finger. He was not letting down his wife today. “Soren… don’t make me do this,” he lightly pleaded, drawing the blue symbol before him.Soren’s eyes narrowed as his free hand flew down to the handle of his sword, gripping tightly as he slowly crouched into a tight stance. “You wouldn’t dare…” he replied, attempting to call his bluff.Callum shook his head. “With a pregnant wife with cravings? Of course I would— aspiro !” he suddenly shouted, blowing a large gust of wind against the crownsguard. He flew back a few feet, leaving the object of his eye to fly out of his hand. Callum adjusted his bottom lip, arcing the wind funnel somewhat upward, sending the block of cheese straight into the air. He seized his spell and rushed toward the moldy cheese, reaching out to catch it. As soon as it landed in his hand, he pumped his fist victory. “Yes!”“Guards!” Soren’s voice rung out, dragging Callum’s attention back in front of him. His face dropped as he saw a very mad looking Soren and a couple guards rounding the corner, appearing behind his back. Callum turned back and noticed another few turning up at the other entrance to the courtyard. The sound of Soren’s sword unsheathing, slicing through the air reverberated through the wind around them. He narrowed his eyes at Callum, pointing his hilt at the Archmage. “Get the cheese!”::::A sudden mist of sparkles and cloud emerged within the living room, startling Rayla out of her almost nap. “Ah Callum!” she shouted as the man formed before her. “How many times have I told ya not to teleport inside the house!”“I…” he huffed, “I… I did it.” he limped over to his wife, kneeling before her as he bestowed a wrapped item in front of her face. “My love… here… enjoy… live…” he panted collapsing onto the floor as soon as Rayla picked it up.“Finally! I was wondering what took ya!” She eagerly unwrapped the block of cheese and took an unceremonious bite out of it, chunking off a large section. She munched on the cheese with excitement, swaying in her spot like a child. Not even a minute had passed, and she was already licking her fingers, cleaning herself of any residue of the moldy cheese. “Ahhh, that was great.Callum’s head shot up from the floor. “You finished it!” he incredulously asked.“Aye,” she looked down at Callum, letting her hand fall down to the floor to grace his fingers. “And thank ya. I know I’m being difficult.”“More than usual?” Callum mused. His finger suddenly felt tighter as a vice grip ensnared onto them. “Ow! Ow! Ow! Kidding ! I’m kidding!” he shouted. Rayla released his fingers and chuckled. “Rayla, you know I wouldn’t trade this,” he placed his hand on her stomach as he sat up, “for anything. Not for a craving, not for my art, and especially not for some luxurious stay at the castle with… countless… armed hungry guards.”“What?”“Nothing,” Callum shook off. “By the way, Soren might visit tomorrow.”Rayla threw her head back and groaned. “Ugh, does that mean we’re leaving tomorrow?”Her husband laughed as he leaned down, pecking her forehead. “Whatever you want my Dear,” he smiled against her skin. As he parted from her, he shot her a brow, “Now, speaking of wants, do you have anything else you require of me?”Rayla opened her mouth, then silenced herself, settlin on shaking her head. “You sure?“Yup.”“Nothing at all?”“Nope.”“Okay, then… I’ll get back to my sketching,” Callum announced, making a break down the hall. A sense of relief finally overcame him as he sat down. His pencil in hand, he grazed his led against the outline of his recent sketch. It was a child. Hair was mid-length, bone and facial structure was average enough for the gender of the character to be determined. Of course he had no idea what their baby would look like, what they would set out to be, who they were, but he was inspired.After all, it was his reminder: what all these cravings really were for at the end of the day.
“Callum! I need you!”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Attention
Callum didn’t regret much in life.
He’d make plenty of bad choices, dozens of rash decisions, and several dumb ideas before. But, at the end, Callum wouldn’t change any of them for anything because of what it turned out to be. He could only regret all the guilt he’s accumulated. Him leaving his home with a stranger who he had just meant, who nearly killed him during their first encounter, with a half baked plan and the endangerment of his younger brother were clear tell tale signs not to even consider the choice. But yet, he accepted the task and left nearly without hesitation. And it led into the greatest adventure of his life.
So yeah, the first human Archmage found himself quite proud of the choices he’d made over the years.
Accept his most recent one.
“Da, ya see that!” Isha excitedly chirped.
“Of course Issy!” Callum plastered on a fake smile as he looked up from his sketchbook, directing over to his children in the yard. They were currently surrounding Zeusia, their newly adopted Sky Dragon, and overwhelming her with limitless joy. She hopped around the kids, showing off her wings as she had just recently learned how to fly. Another hop into the air, Zeusia twirled into a loop, landing back in front of the children.
Gasps of awe escaped them. “Da, did ya see
that
?” Lian shouted.
Callum nodded. “Yup!” he glanced down at his book, frowning at its emptiness. He hadn’t intended to start sketching this afternoon, but distractions arose and the kids went off agenda. He would’ve pressed more, but he knew they were enjoying themselves so he bit his tongue. His frown shrunk more as he noticed the shadow growing onto his book. He turned his attention over to the treeline, where he realized the now setting sun was fast approaching. They burned the entire afternoon. He sighed. “Hey, uh, you wanna get started on training anytime soon?” he shouted at his daughter. “We’re losing sun!”
“That’s fine, we can practice Moon spells tonight too!” Isha laughed.
Sure, it was a full moon for the next three days, but Callum wasn’t satisfied with such an easy workaround. Especially since they’ve already went over Moon spells last week. “But, I thought you wanted to practice Sky Magic?” he recalled with a pout. Yes, he was aware how pathetic and sad he sounded, but he didn’t care.
“That’s right!” his daughter’s eyes lit up, rekindling the fire of excitement within him. “Da, can ya use some wind magic and make Zeusia do some cool tricks?” she asked with an eager smile.
Lian’s head shot up from all the head patting he was giving Zeusia. “Yeah!” he exclaimed in joy. “Let’s do it!”
“No!” Callum shouted, startling the two kids out of their joy. They stared at him in bewilderment, causing him to awkwardly clear his throat. “I mean, erm, it’s… it’s getting letting late. It’s either we pack it in the evening after some practice, or you guys can keep playing with Zeusia. It’s up to you.”
The kids exchanged a glance, nodded with enthusiastic smiles. “We’ll play with Zeusia!”
“Thanks Da!”
“Yeah, thanks Da!”
The children resumed in their playing, laughing as they ran around with the baby dragon, running in circles like there was no tomorrow. It was ridiculous. Callum’s jaw dropped as he sunk back into his lounging chair. Was this what his afternoons at the winter lodge were going to be like?
“What happened?” Rayla asked upon exiting the lodge, book in hand with an apron wrapped around her waist.
“Oh, uh, nothing.”
“I heard ya shout.”
“Oh…” he seethed. “The uh, kids wanted to play with Zeusia for a bit. I just thought I’d remind Isha that we only have so much time before the day’s over,” he casually explained, easing himself into his seat. He attempted to assert as much comfortability as he could, but Rayla merely chuckled.
“Oh, well if all they’re doing is playing with Zeusia they can stay out late!” she grinned as she looked at the three. “Just make sure to keep an eye on them while I cook dinner.”
Callum’s eyes went wide. For two reasons really. First off, she was really going to let a curfew slide like that just because of
Zeusa
? He understood they were only staying at the winter lodge, and there was next to no wildlife nearby, but really? And second of all… “You’re cooking!” he said in alarm. He just realized the book in her hand was his recipe book. His eyes shot wide open as he noticed her glare. “I mean—”
“I can handle stew!” she argued, crossing her arms.
Callum nodded agreeingly. “Of course of course! But uh… why don’t I just handle it?” he offered, rising up out of his seat as he reached for the book, slowly taking it out of her hand as her glare softened.
Rayla pouted as sighed. “Fine…” she relented, releasing her hold. “But only because that means I can play with Zeusia too!” she eagerly smiled as she began untying her arpon. Callum’s face dropped into a frown as he watched her throw the apron in his face. “Can ya prep Zeusia’s food too? There’s a bowl of dried insects in the kitchen.”
Callum sighed. “But… I…” his words died within the silence as he watched Rayla walk off. There was no sense in arguing, he had a dinner to unspoil.
::::
“Don’t you think that’s enough?”
The question had brought confusion to Rayla’s face as she turned to face Callum. Stood in the living room, holding Zeusia in her arms, Rayla questioned with a laugh. “What?”
“It’s late, the kids are already in bed,” he gestured around them, “she clearly wants to sleep, so let her!”
Rayla’s brows raised as she hoisted up Zeusia a smidge, adjusting her grip on the dragon. “Yeah, but she’s also a baby, she needs to be coddled still.”
Callum frowned. “But she’s also a Sky Dragon. I think she can handle going to sleep on the bed
I
got her all by herself.” Rayla’s face contorted into a look of realization; a smug grin grew on her lips as her eyes shrunk down into slits. Callum looked at her in annoyance. “What? What is it now?”
“Ya’re jealous.”
The appalled reaction that came after was priceless. “Wh-What! Jealous?” He scoffed. “Of what?”
Rayla laughed, startling the baby dragon in her arms and eliciting a confused smile out of her. “Ha! Ya are
so
jealous! That’s adorable!”
Callum’s face flushed. He was not believing this. He was the first human Archmage, one of the heroes who helped end the war between nations, but yet he was still blushing like a little boy at the mere tease of jealousy. He was not jealous.
“Aww, so that’s why ya were upset with Isha, ya wanted her to spend time with ya, and have Lian watch in the back?” she asked, “no doubt so ya could show off your ‘cool’ and ‘wizardly’ skills off to the kids?”
He opened his mouth to object but Rayla went on. “I was wondering why ya were so sour ever since we started staying here at the lodge! The kids have more space and time with Zeusia,” her grin was ever growing, “But
ya
want them to yourself!”
“No I—”
“And me too,
of course
,” Rayla quickly added, nodding her head over to him, “because the kids are in bed, it’s late, but not
too
late, and we’re all alone in the living room.” She laughed, swaying back and forth in her spot, smiling at Zeusia’s warmful purring. “But of course, speculation, right?” she mused, “because ya’re not—”
“Jealous? Of course not!” Callum dismissed, finally finding the words. “Why would I be jealous? It was my idea to adopt Zeusia! Give her a home! And I’m glad all the kids and even you are liking her! It’s great!” He smiled, walking over to the two. He brought his hand up and started to pet Zeusia’s head, erupting a low purr out of her. “She’s a great addition to the family,” he softly said.
Rayla smiled at him, turning her body a smidge just to nudge him with her elbow. “Hey, ya do know we love ya too right?”
He sighed, shoulders slumping. “Rayla, I was not jealous.”
She backed off, shrugging her shoulders in innocence as she said, “Okay! Okay! If ya say so!” She started to hum a tune, attempting the baby Storm Dragon in her arms to a peaceful slumber. Callum joined in with her, placing himself behind her, her wrapped his arms around her waist and placed his chin on her shoulder. He hummed, following her rhythm, he let the vibrations of his throat tickle Rayla’s skin. Soon enough, the dragon was asleep.
“Now, to bed?” her husband suggested.
“Of course,” she whispered, turning over to kiss his cheek. “And by the way? Jealous Callum is still cute.” She spun herself out of his arms, before he could even retort she lightly chuckled, careful not to wake the baby. She set Zeusia down in her small pillow-like bed beside the armchair, and turned back to Callum. “But who would’ve thought it,
another
master plan by the great Archmage Callum, backfiring against him?” she teased.
Callum frowned at her. “I had no
plan
. And nothing backfired. You love her, the kids love her, and I love her! It’s a win win!”
Rayla nodded. “Of course it is darling,” she winked, “but maybe next time try not to adopt somethin’ cuter than ya?” She wandered off, strolling down the hall with a smug smile.
Callum rolled his eyes. “Har har. I know you married me for my looks!” he shouted. A low yawn purred out and Callum’s face dropped. He turned to his left and saw, right in the little bed, Zeusia was back up, eyes slowly blinking open from the sudden startle. “Wait, wait, wait,” he softly said, “go back to sleep!” His pleading fell on deaf ears, especially for a pair of highly tuned ones, as two doors from upstairs suddenly opened. Then out emerged the kids.
“Da?” Isha groggily called out, “why ya shouting?”
“Oh? Are ya playing with Zeusia by yourself?” Lian asked, pointing at his father’s feet, where suddenly the Sky Dragon had appeared and began rubbing herself against his shins. “No fair! Ya told us to go to bed so ya can hog her all to yourself!”
“Yeah, time to share Da!”
Callum shook his head as he looked down the hall, watching Rayla bid him a farewell kiss as she disappeared into their bedroom, shutting the door behind her. He laughed to himself. She could tease all she wanted. But he knew she was waiting for him.
It was her turn to be little spoon after all.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Dinner
“Just so you know, for the record of course, I am totally getting you back for this.”Rayla laughed, hooking her thumbs into the pockets of her dark grey jeans. “And for the actual record? This is happenin’ ‘cause ya forgot to tell me a very important detail about your father,” she fired back, dropping her amusement into a serious stare.Callum sighed as he led her up the sidewalk. “I didn’t forget! I just…”“Forgot.”“Okay maybe, but… it didn’t seem important at all!” Callum argued in his defence, looking back at Rayla with a shrug.She scoffed. “Oh yeah, definitely not,” she sarcastically replied, following him into the walkway leading up to the house. It was a two story suburban house, not exactly far away from Katolis, just a train ride away. A nice spacey front yard, with a tended field of grass, and pretty standard complexion of warm toned colours all around. “Not like it’s important knowing that your newest friend’s da is your football coach,” she deadpanned, shooting his back an unamused stare.Callum winced as he stopped in his tracks, turning back at her with an apologetic smile. “Okay, but like, when should’ve I mentioned it?”“How ‘bout when we first met?” Rayla suggested. She shifted to her right, facing nowhere in particular, she said as she held her hand out, “‘Rayla. Quarterback,’” she shifted to the left, facing where she just was and sticking out her other hand, “‘Callum. Artist. Oh and, that’s cool, ya’re in my Da’s football team!’” she said in a mock American accent, heavily enunciating with a Texan style as she shook her hands with the air.Callum snorted. “Oh sure, because that was my main concern the first time we met.” He shook his head. “Not, ‘Oh great, socializing!’” His smile dropped as he shot her curious look. “Wait, you remember word for word how we met?”Rayla’s face flushed as she narrowed her brows. “How would ya know if remembered word for word? Last I checked photographic memory didn’t include audio.”He laughed. “Sorry, didn’t know my diagnosis had rules.”“Aye, like selectively forgetting to tell someone who literally spends over three hours a practice with their da, that they’re spending three hours a practice with their da,” she dropped into loud emphasis.The door whipped open, revealing a copper skinned man dressed in a pair of beige khaki shorts, a gray Katolis sweatshirt with the school emblem plastered on the front. He crossed his arms and leaned against the doorframe, letting his dreadlocks fall down to his shoulders. With a smug smile, he raised a brow at the two. “So… are you coming in?” he inquired, nodding his head inside. “Or would you prefer to have your shouting match out in the open for the whole neighborhood to see?”Their faces flushed, Callum whipped his head around to shoot Rayla a glare, before taking her hand and leading her up to the steps. “Fine, fine, we’re coming in.”“Good to see you too son,” Harrow laughed, patting his shoulder as he walked inside.Rayla stopped as she reached inside, turning back at Harrow with a smile. “Evenin’ Coach,” she offered a two fingered salute. “Evening Rayla,” he greeted with an amused smile. “I’m happy say Callum’s finally decided to introduce you to us.” He glanced over at his son. “Because lord knows how long he’s kept us in the dark.”“Feeling’s mutual,” Rayla agreed, shooting the boy a glare.Callum sighed. “Dad, where’s Mum?” he asked, hoping to change the subject.“Kitchen, just finishing up dessert,” his father answered. “Ez is in there with her, helping.”Callum grinned. “Helping? Or,” he raised his fingers, “‘helping’?”Harrow laughed. “If you’re asking whether or not he’s finished the desserts? Last I saw there was a full plate.”Callum breathed a feigned sigh of relief. “Oh great, I wanted Ray to try Mum’s famous jelly tarts!” He took Rayla’s hand and nodded over to the kitchen area. “We’ll be back.”“I’ll be in the living room if you need me!” Harrow’s voice rung out.“We won’t!” Callum shouted back.Rayla laughed as she let Callum lead her down the hall. “Oh relax, we weren’t gonna tease ya for that long.”He shook his head. “You just demonstrated one of the perfect reasons as to why I was dreading this meeting.”She laughed again. “Oof, no need to be so dramatic.”They came to a stop just outside a white door. Rayla noticed a sweet aroma in the air and began sniffing. It was really sweet, and fresh. It must’ve been the dessert Callum was talking about. The door pushed open, revealing a large beautiful kitchen. It was small, very quaint and crowded, but it looked amazing. The island in the centre was a light grey marble covered in plates of what she assumed was the jelly tart. Sat at the stool, was a young boy. He had a large brown fro of hair, and wore an unzipped red hoodie with a pair of camo joggers. He had his hand on the top pile reaching for the highest and most fresh treat.“Ez, save it for dinner,” came a voice from beyond the island. Right at the stove, stood a beautiful woman dressed in a simple white sunflower dress, with a maroon apron tied around her waist. She turned around and smiled. “And speaking of dinner,” she rushed over to Callum, embracing him in bear hug, “oh my boy, I missed you so much!”“Mom, I visit like, every other week.” Callum laughed, attempting to pull himself free of his mother’s hold.Rayla was smiling at their joyful reunion, but immediately lost all warmth as she soaked in Callum’s words. “So that’s why ya go missing every other Sunday?” Rayla questioned. “It never once crossed your mind during all those times that, ‘Hey, I should probably tell Rayla ‘bout my da’?”Callum seethed, shrugging at the girl as his mother finally released him. “Oooh, you must be Rayla!” she held out her hand. “Katolis’ star Quarterback!”Rayla’s brow went up as she shook her hand. “Uhh, yeah. Ya watch our games?”“Oh of course! Gotta support my husband somehow,” she exclaimed. She leaned in and whispered, “He gets all grumpy when I don’t show.”Rayla laughed. “That would explain a lot of games,” she smiled, “I just always assumed he wasn’t satisfied.”“Hardly ever is,” the woman teased.The two erupted into a fit of soft laughter, before a timer went off. “Oh, the last batch is done. Ezran, why don’t you help me move these onto the table?”Ezran groaned as he moved off his stool. “Why can’t Callum do it?”“Because he’s going to be too busy showing his guest around the house!”Callum’s eyes went wide. “I am?”“You are.”He released a tired sigh as he took Rayla’s hand. “C’mon Ray, I guess I’m… showing you around.” He led her out of the room, and down the hall. Rayla’s attention flew down to his hand. He was holding her hand a lot more recently. And she wasn’t objecting at all. She liked it in fact. Callum’s hands felt… nice. She could feel the calloused and strain within his hands, the hours spent sketching and fine tuning his work. But she also felt warm. It was a strange feeling. She had held his hand before, in fact, she was usually the one who initiated their contact. But she hadn’t really considered how it felt until Callum started doing it. It was—“Ray?”Her gaze flew up. They were still inside the hall, just near the base of the stairs. “Uh, yeah?” “I was saying, I’m not taking you to my room,” he released her hand—much to her disappointment—and crossed his arms.She pouted. “Why not?”“Because I already agreed to introduce you to my parents, I don’t need you seeing anymore ammo to use against me.” He narrowed a brow, challenging her. She laughed, waving her hand. “Oh relax! I just really wanted to meet your family!”“You see my dad nearly everyday.”“Your entire family,” Rayla added. “C’mon, no harm in that!” she leaned back, placing her weight against a small wooden table up against the wall. Her head rose in confusion, realizing there was a random piece of furniture nearby. She turned around and her face widened in joy. Atop the table, sat a display of photos. Family photos and all the usual cliches, but her attention flew to Callum’s photo. A picture of him, probably ten or nine years old, wearing a Ravenclaw robe and holding a very detailed wand in his hands. He had the biggest grin a child could ever muster as he held up a large bag in his other hand. “Oh… my… goodness.”Callum rushed over to snatch the picture frame, but Rayla beat him to it. Picking it up as she looked at it for closer inspection. “Did ya make the wand yourself?”“Yes, I did,” Callum muttered. “Are ya actually Ravenclaw? I’m a Gryffindor!” Rayla looked back at him with an excited smile. “Can ya make me a wand?” He chuckled. “As long as we stay here.”Rayla snorted. “Deal,” she set the picture frame back down. “Ya should totally dress up again for the Halloween party this year.”“That’s months away.”“So? We can plan in advance!” Rayla declared. He shot her a brow. “What happened to Cowboy Jock?”“I’ll do that some other time,” she waved off. “Besides, I want an excuse to flash a wand around. C’mon!”Callum rolled his eyes. “I’ll think about it.”“Congrats Rayla,” Harrow’s voice chimed in. The two flew their attention down the hall, where they found the man leaning up against the wall and smiling down at them. “You’ve convinced him to dress up again! Poor Ez never managed to get him to dress up when he goes trick or treating.”Rayla gasped. “Callum, not even for your little brother.”“I grew out of it—”Another gasp. “Ya’ve disappointed me,” she shook her head.Harrow laughed. “Hopefully you can convince him to stop by more often.”Callum groaned. “I visit on a bi-weekly basis! What more do you people want from me!”“For now? Your butts at the table,” Harrow grinned, “Dinner’s ready. C’mon.”With a smug smirk, Rayla walked passed Callum, satisfied with his annoyed face. The three made their way into the dining room, and Rayla’s mouth dropped. Their table was littered with food. Steaks, chicken, piles of bacon, a side assortment of mashed potatoes, and four plates of jelly tarts. It was crowded. “Uhh, wow,” she nervously chuckled, making her way to a free seat. “Is this all for me? Because um,” her gaze flew over to Harrow, “Ya usually want us in good shape Coach.” She pulled out her chair and sat down. “And I have a feeling I won’t be able to move after this.”Harrow laughed as he moved to the head of the table. “Oh relax Rayla! This is how we eat on a regular basis!”Her eyes went wide. “Really?” she looked to Callum, who was moving to sit beside her. Rayla sputtered at his casual nod. This was an insane array of meals. She looked up, noticing across from her, sat Callum’s mother and his little brother. “Alright! Let’s dig in!” Harrow announced as he sat down. Rayla hadn’t remembered a time when she had such a large amount of home cooked food available. She watched on as Callum’s family began filling up their plates. She noticed Ezran seemed like the biggest eater out of everyone, having at least one of everything stacked atop his plate. “Is everything okay Rayla?” Callum’s mother spoke up. “Nothing you like here?”“Oh uhh, it’s not that ma’am—”“Please, call me Sarai,” she quickly suggested.“Right,” she nervously grinned, “I just don’t know where to start.” Harrow and Sarai laughed, leaving her to chuckle alongside them. She settled on a two steaks and some mashed potatoes. “Do you not cook?” Sarai questioned.Rayla laughed. “I wish,” she quickly sliced up a piece of steak and popped it into her mouth.Callum leaned forward. “Rayla’s on scholarship, so she can spend as much as she wants,” he teased.She retorted with a swift elbow to his side. “I do not!”He laughed. “She practically orders food every other day,” Callum explained.Sarai grinned. “Well, if you ever want a home cooked meal or a few lessons, stop on by!” she suggested.Callum seized chewing as Rayla’s eyes went wide. “Seriously?”“Aye! It’d be fun!” she nodded.“I’ll… I might take ya up on that some time,” Rayla grinned.A comfortable silence dwelled as the five continued eating. Rayla was amazed at how quickly Ezran finished half his plate, and still looked hungry for more. Harrow seemed to take things slow and simple, but he was enjoying his pace and his plate nonetheless. She noticed similarities with Callum and Sarai, they both took large portions but selectively ate at a casual pace.“Ez, don’t eat like that, you’ll scare off Rayla,” Harrow jested, noting how quickly his youngest scarfed down his last steak.“If she can handle tackles from dudes two times her size,” he swallowed his mouthful, “then she can watch me eat.”Rayla laughed. “It’s fine,” she assured Coach Harrow. “I’m impressed actually. I don’t think I’ve seen someone eat faster than ya.” Ezran smiled with his stuffed cheeks. She laughed again. “How do ya keep a small frame? I’d be bloated after daily meals like these.”“Oh, I dance!” Ezran cheered, lifting his knife high. “You ever see one of those online dance choreography classes?” Rayla nodded. “Yeah I take classes like those.”Rayla’s jaw dropped as she turned to Callum. “For real?”Callum laughed. “I never denied he didn’t have a YouTube channel. Because he technically doesn’t. It’s the studio’s, but he just participates sometimes.”Rayla pointed her fork at him and smiled, “Remind me to get your Instagram and channel name. I’m following ya.”Ezran laughed. “Thanks! Now if you could convince someone else to do so,” his gaze flew over to Callum, who was currently enjoying his mashed potatoes.Rayla gasped as she leaned over. “Ya don’t follow your brother?”“On YouTube I do!” Callum argued.“Ya just said that’s not his, ya should follow him on Instagram!”“You know I don’t use instagram.”“Your whole anti-social media shtick makes no sense,” Rayla rolled her eyes, “How can ya spread your art if ya don’t let people see it?”“I have a Tumblr.”“Get Twitter and Insta too! Ya’ll double your followers!”“I already have a following,” Callum dismissed.Rayla scoffed. “Uhh yeah, on one platform.”“I meant real life,” he corrected, shooting her a raised brow. “Or did you think I forget you’re my number one fan?” he teased.She scowled at him, bumping her shoulder in retaliation. “Oh shut up,” she laughed. “Your words, not mine.”“I said fan , not number one,” she corrected. She flicked his forehead. “Ya must be dreaming.”“If I was dreaming I’d be in my art studio,” Callum mused.Rayla feigned a pout. “Aww, ya mean dinner with me and your family isn’t nice?” She turned back and smiled at Harrow. “Uh oh Coach, sounds like this one might be a problem child,” she whispered, jerking her thumb over to Callum. Her smile faded as she noticed Callum’s parents both staring at her, wearing big grins. Or rather, the “Dumb Callum Grin” as she deemed it. “What?” she reached for a napkin and began wiping her mouth. “Somethin’ on my face?”“Oh, no, no, nothing,” Harrow dismissed.“Yeah, it’s just, you two are good for each other,” Sarai smiled, “I’m glad to see Callum’s branched out of his social bubble for once.”Rayla threw a smug look at the aforementioned son, watching his head lean back as he groaned, “Moooom.”“Sorry Sweetie but it is true.” Sarai giggled. “You used to hang around Soren and Claudia like they were your only life support system.”“More like they used to follow me around,” Callum muttered.Rayla chuckled. “I believe both sides of that story,” she mused, earning some laughs from Callum’s family.“Yeah, he only hung out with me or them,” Ezran chirped up. He cupped his hand over his mouth and whispered to Rayla, “But I could tell he liked hanging out with me more!”Rayla laughed, shooting him a wink. “Of course he would, little dude,” she acknowledged. Turning back to Harrow, she decided to run with this conversation. “Soren told me ya were friends with his father?”“Viren? Oh yeah,” Harrow nodded. “He’s a family friend. Good one to us.” He lifted his glass of water up to his lips. “His kids went to the same high school as Callum, and we were new in the community so he suggested a barbeque,” he said before sipping.“He wanted to show off his mansion,” Sarai explained, “and Harrow wanted an excuse to eat at a rich person’s house.” Harrow choked on his drink, earning a smug smile from his wife.“Not true!” he hastily argued.“It’s fine Coach, I’m not judging!” Rayla assured him. She turned to Callum. “So does that mean ya were stuck with those two for four years?”Callum frowned. “Now you understand my pain,” he tiredly said.She laughed, bumping her shoulder against his. “Good thing I came along when I did, eh?” The two shared a warm smile at each other.Unnoticed by them, Harrow and Sarai exchanged a knowing look at each other whilst Ezran faked a gag. Sarai cleared her throat, removing their trance in one another. “So, when did this happen?” she asked, gesturing between the two.Rayla tilted her head, confused by her question. Was it a typical thing for parents to ask when you made a new friend? “At a party,” Callum explained, leaving her to assume it was normal after all.Harrow’s eyes went wide. “A party? Callum? At a party?”“I was taken against my will,” he monotonously corrected. His parents laughed. “I was on my way out but Rayla stopped me. She claimed, I needed a bodyguard if I was gonna walk to my studio all by myself.”Rayla shrugged as she saw her coach’s smile flying toward her. It made her blush. “Had to keep an eye on him.”“Because you’re a fan,” he hurriedly said, masking it under a cough.She shot him a glare. “Oi, knock it off.”“You’re a fan?” Sarai inquired. “Of what?”“Umm…” her cheeks suddenly felt hotter for some reason. “Of his art.” His parent’s faces shifted into surprise, but it looked like a pleasant surprise. “Yeah I uh… I go to our campus’ art galleries. I like lookin’ at all the showcases.” She proudly smiled, because she wasn’t exactly ashamed to admit liking art, especially Callum’s no less. She turned to Callum and added, “I got hooked onto his greatest works! He’s real talented.”Sarai seemed proud at her words, looking onto her son with a warm smile. “I know. I’m glad he’s found someone who appreciates his work too.” Rayla’s smile slowly started dying down as she considered Sarai’s words. The way his parents were speaking, their excited tones and looks, did they think… “I think you’re a good match for our son.”Rayla’s eyes went wide. They totally did think that. Her face flushed as she looked to Callum, who startled himself into a coughing fit, spitting out a chunk of chicken. Rayla nervously laughed as she shook her head, sputtering out, “W-Wait, we’re not, he and I are… we’re—”“Just friends,” Callum hoarsely stated, gasping for air as he reached for his glass of water.Sarai and Harrow glanced at each other in shock, whilst Ezran scoffed. “Suuuuure,” he sarcastically quipped as he piled some jelly tarts onto his plate.“Really?” Harrow asked.“But I thought you said you got together at that party?” Sarai recalled.“We met at the party Mom,” Callum corrected. “And we’ve been friends since then. Friends ,” he heavily stressed.Rayla rapidly nodded in agreement. “Yeah! He and I are… not together no way,” she shook her head. “Not that I think your son isn’t a catch! I do, he’s great!” She glanced over to him, noticing he was suddenly red too. Oh she wasn’t helping, was she? “I mean, obviously but like, we’re just good friends is all.” “Yeah,” Callum coughed. “Friends.”“Exactly,” she nodded. “Friends.”Sarai and Harrow exchanged one more look before shrugging. “I see,” Sarai stated. “Well, sorry I assumed!” She chuckled. “It’s just that, my son doesn’t have friends over and never introduces anyone, so imagine our surprise when he randomly suggests having a girl over for dinner!”Callum raised a brow. “But… what if it was a guy?”Sarai shot him a knowing look. “Would’ve thought the same either way,” she winked.Rayla’s gaze flew between Callum and Sarai, searching for answers within their conversation. All she found was a small smile coming from Callum whilst Sarai looked back to Rayla.“Either way, sorry for jumping to conclusions,” Sarai apologized.“Oh, don’t worry ‘bout it,” Rayla quickly assured. “It… it’s not a big deal.”“I just assumed judging from the way you and Soren were talking in the field that day,” Harow pointed out. “Your conversation seemed to be about Callum. I wasn’t exactly paying attention, but it sounded like he was—”“Oh right, right,” Rayla cut him off, looking over at Callum’s confusion. “Nah, Soren just had the same conclusion as ya two.” She coughed. “But um, yeah, the main reason I wanted to come over is just,” she looked to Harrow, “Callum never told me ya were his dad. It wasn’t until that day on the field when ya shouted it that I learned.”Harrow laughed as he looked to his son. “Seriously? You didn’t think to fill in your new friend that her coach was your dad?”“Thank ya!” Rayla exclaimed.Callum sighed. “It slipped my mind.”“Important detail regardless,” Sarai scolded. He rolled his eyes. “This was what I was worried about. All of you ganging up on me, working against me!”“So you only just learned recently I’m his step-father?” Harrow asked.Rayla nodded. “He’s failed to mention it anytime before.”“We’re studying why would I distract us?”“Ya know for a fact we barely study,” she quipped back. “I forgot too, remember, it just never came up!”“And what about all those times ya visit before practice?”Callum waved his hand. “You’re psyching yourself up, I try focusing on not distracting you.”“Ya always distract me,” Rayla teased.“Wait, wait,” Harrow spoke up. “You came to a football practice?”“He watched a few games too,” Rayla chimed in.Shock overwhelmed the man as he looked to Callum. “Well I’ll be… never thought I’d see the day!” He laughed. “Someone managed to convince Callum to not only come to our football games, but our practices too?”“Hey, she goes to my art galleries,” Callum defended, jerking a thumb over to her, “might as well return the sentiment.”“Oh of course, of course,” Harrow agreed, nodding dramatically. Sarai slapped his shoulder, signalling him to knock it off. He rolled his eyes. “Well regardless, I’m happy to hear it.”Callum shook his head, leaning over to Rayla as he whispered, “Now look at what you’ve done.”“Payback,” she winked at him. “Next time, share important details.”He turned his attention over to the stack of jelly tarts. “Fine, here’s an important detail,” he picked up a tart and placed it on Rayla’s finished plate, “These, are the best desserts you’ll ever have. Guaranteed.”Rayla raised a brow as she picked it up. She scanned the table, noticing everyone staring at her in anticipation, waiting for her to take a bite. It must’ve been really good then. But then again, this was also coming from a man who liked Coffee Crisp, so Rayla braced herself regardless. She took a big bite, and her eyes widened. This… was really good. Her reaction must have been big as she heard the family chuckling at her. She chewed the piece with excitement, savouring the food. She noticed the rest of the family began taking their own jelly tarts, regardless of whether or not they were finished their meals. As they ate in a collective silence, Rayla smiled. This was really nice. All of it.She swallowed her food and wore a sheepish smile, glancing at Sarai. “Uhh, Sarai?” she spoke up, gathering the woman’s attention. “Can I get… like a dozen to go?”She could get used to this.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Takes Two to Tango
Music. The entire town was echoing with music. When Callum told Rayla that they should hold off on returning to Xadia just for a few days, she was skeptical. She knew he wanted to celebrate, to relax and enjoy the atmosphere before they returned to Zym and his mother, but she was still anxious to go. Maybe it was because she still felt uneasy. Maybe it was because she still wasn’t exactly comfortable in human kingdoms. Or maybe it was because she couldn’t believe they ended a war. She was still on edge. Callum could tell. She could tell he could tell. He had repeatedly tried to tell her that everything was fine, everything was okay. He told her that he was going to be by her side all the time. Regardless of the stares or how strange it would seem—she knew he would be by her side. So when they finally reached town, after taking a carriage ride from the castle—an experience Rayla had never gotten the luxury of—she was met with a town’s full of music.An elegant, whistling tune sung throughout the town as drums and horns sounded off as the base. Rayla smiled. Nerves be damned, this was amazing.“Told you,” Callum smugly smiled, nudging her with his elbow. He was wearing a dark blue coat, it was fitted around his form, buttoned up to his collarbone. He still wore his red scarf and gloves, but also had a pair of dark blue pants to match his look, with a pair of black boots. He looked beautiful. They had barely aged in their travels, but he had grown in many ways. “It’s nice right?”She smiled. “It is,” she nodded. “Ya look amazing by the way. I know I forgot to say it back at the castle—”“It’s fine,” he waved off. “And you, are… stunning,” he smiled.She felt her face flush at his words, causing her to glance down at her dress. It was a royal blue dress, with a violet highlighted frills that ended at her shins. The dress hugged her waist and exposed her backside, with her sleeves running down with a light violet coat, ending at her wrists, with her ring fingers caught in the hem of her sleeves. She did a small twirl, just to show off her design. It was amazing what the Katolis seamstresses were capable of. “Thank ya,” she smiled, coming to a stop.“Now,” he held out his arm, “shall we?”Rayla smiled at him as she looped her arm through his, “We shall.”The two began walking through town, taking in the scenery. It was amazing. Everywhere they looked, everyone was wearing warm colours and were illuminated by the bright lantern lights hung across the town. There were stares like they expected. None of real disgust, but rather shock and surprise. The prince of Katolis strolling through the Celebration Festival with not just an elf, but a Moonshadow Elf as his date? It was hilarious to see their faces. The bewilderment and shock simply elicited smiles out of the two. “See? Not so bad,” Callum told her.“With ya? Nothin’s too bad,” she smiled.They continued their walk, soaking up the scenery as they walked by. Soon enough, the music grew louder as lights blew up in colour. They were approaching on the town square. It was a heavily crowded. But not in a bad way. There was still enough room to walk about, to stop at the food stalls, and even a space in the dead centre for dancing. There was a stage, right near the statue of what Callum had informed her to be Sarai. She couldn’t help but smile at the sight. It was beautiful.“Care for a dance?” Callum offered, removing his arm from her hold to hold out his hand.Rayla grinned. “I’d love to,” she answered. Delicately placing her fingers in his grasp, he led her down the square, gently pushing through the crowd. Soon enough, people realized who he was and were gobsmacked to see him, here, in the town square, rather than the castle. Nonetheless, they all stepped aside and made way for the couple. Awes of wonder and curiosity echoed about as they complimented the two.“What a lovely dress.”“What a dashing young man.”“She’s beautiful.”“He looks so handsome.”“An amazing couple!”“They’re the ones who ended the war, right?”The two laughed to themselves as they suddenly found the centre. Clearing his throat, Callum stepped back and took a bow, holding his hand out once more. Rayla giggled, she hadn’t felt so ladylike in a long time. She did a courtesy, elegant and poised, and took his hand. Callum stepped forward as he placed his right hand on her back, and held her right with his left. Rayla smiled into his gaze, firmly placing her right hand on his shoulder, the two began to dance.Two steps forward, Callum smiled at her as he led her through. They stepped to the side, matching the pacing of the elegant tune and freeing sounds. They were more relaxed about their movements, swaying their bodies as they cycled back into repetition. Callum was smiling at her like an idiot. A big dumb idiot.She couldn’t fight off her blush or her grin, and she didn’t really care. Rayla noticed she was smiling a lot more now. Not that she wasn’t before. But now? It was more easy. It was more refreshing. And it was because of Callum, that she could do it. She soaked in his gaze, mesmerized by his grassy green eyes and the way they burrowed into her heart. They sold the story without words. He loved being with her. He loved being in her presence. He loved her company. He loved her.She giggled once again, smiling at how clearly smitten he was with her. “What’s so funny?” he asked as they maneuvered themselves throughout the dance floor. The other dancers began making way for them, opening the floor for the onlookers to watch in awe. She knew he wanted to show off. And she wasn’t going to stop him.“Nothin’,” she shrugged, still smiling.He chuckled as he rolled his eyes. “You were thinking about something cheesy, weren’t you?”She laughed. “Shut up and spin me, I know ya’re dyin’ to,” she teased.He obliged with ease. Dropping his right hand down to her hip, he lifted his left hand, guiding her into a twirl. She followed through, spinning under his hand and unravelling herself outward, letting her dress’ frills twirl like a flower pattern. She smiled at the starstruck gazes fallen upon them, and eased herself back into Callum’s arms. Her back against his chest, Callum’s hands found hers as they casually swayed about, his breath breathing down her cheek. She smiled at him, finding his eyes over her shoulder, they continued to sway. It was a hilarious sight. Considering how she practically taller than him even without the horns, having him hold her in his arms probably looked amusing to everyone else. But it must’ve been the spectacle of the sight that made them bite back their laughter. Callum knew how to dance. That much was certain. Rayla had learned before, but having a partner like him really made things feel more natural. It felt smooth, flawless and clean, the way they moved. Like every step and sway was rhythmically matched to the music’s tune. It was perfect.“Ya never told me ya could dance,” Rayla teased.“I’m a prince, ballroom dancing was practically something I learned after table manners,” he joked. “But you on the other hand?” he inquired, lifted up his left hand again and twirled her around, two rotations this time, just to show off a little bit more. “Since when?” he asked as she returned, her left hand back on his shoulder whilst her right fell into its soft grasp.She grinned. “Runaan.”His brow went up. “I caught him and his boyfriend dancing once and my curious lil’ self wanted to know how do it.” She shrugged. “My village’s had festivals before… but I never went…”Callum’s curiosity persisted. “No one to go with or… too busy?”Rayla shrugged once more as they swayed around; two steps back, two steps to her right. “Too busy… and really, not interested.” She laughed. “It looked fun when Runaan was doing it, the music and the movement, the synchornization between two partners? It felt… right. Like fighting, but more choreographed, and relaxed.” He looked at her, eyes still curious and ears still open. He always looked so passionate and attentive whenever she talked about herself. “But when I tried it I…” she made an unsure frown as she thoughtfully looked up, “thought it was kinda… meh.” Her grin returned as she met Callum’s eyes. “But now? I’m thinking it’s just cause I never had the right partner.”Callum’s smile grew at that. Yeah, she knew she was boosting his ego but she loved doing it. He always got so giddy and excited about things when his confidence was through the roof. Who knew dancing would be on that list? She should’ve figured, in all honesty. “Well, I’m glad you enjoy this dance then.”She giggled for what felt like the billionth time that night. He made her feel so free, so comforted. “I’d enjoy anythin’ as long as it’s with ya.”Callum beamed at her words. “Good to hear. Because after this, it sounds like we’ve got a lot of business to do.”“Aye, wars over, but the peace’s gotta be maintained,” Rayla pointed out.“Together though.”She nodded. “Of course. Together.” Her right hand slowly slid out his grasp, trickling down his arm and onto his shoulder. She held his shoulders with firm but soft embrace, resting her head into his chest as she did so. She could feel Callum smile against her hair, relaxing his arms down to her hips as he held her close. He hummed along with the music, bringing them to a near halt. They stood there, dancing softly and slowly. It was nice.A nice moment after all the pain and hardship they’d overcome in the past year. It was a nice feeling to have after all the sorrowful scars that plagued their bodies as time went on. It was a nice breath of fresh air after all the near death experiences. After all the dead silence and nature filled background, with only themselves and baby Dragon to talk to, hearing and feeling an entire town’s presence was amazing.Rayla sighed in content, closing her eyes and letting herself succumb to the soft spoken elegance of the subtle flute playing in the background. The violins that chirped around the square, carefully and meticulously strung around through her highly trained ears. And the soft beating of the drums, bold and boisterous but fitting. It was hardly a song for ballroom dancing. Hardly a song for two people to cosy up with.But they didn’t care.Not for the stares.Not for the world.Not for the moment.But only for each other.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Love is in the Air
“So, wanna tell me why exactly we’re taking such a long stroll outta town?” Rayla inquired with a teasing tone, “especially through some dark and mysterious forest?”
“I told you, it’s a surprise,” Callum informed, happily swinging their intertwined hands as they walked. “Besides, if I recall, ‘dark and mysterious forest’ isn’t exactly something that strikes fear into your heart.”
“That one was illusions,” she reminded him, “And that weird worm monster was hardly frightening as was disgusting.”
“If I recall, you were the one screaming for help when all those bugs started crawling up all over you.”
“Ya try having thousands of creepy crawlies up your skin, then see if ya don’t scream for help!” she shot back.
“Fair point, fair point,” Callum agreed, nodding his head.
“Was this surprise just an excuse for another one of your annoying teasing onslaughts? Because I’d rather do paperwork.” Callum laughed as they walked on. Rayla was starting to notice that they were meeting a small incline, and that it was getting a bit brighter, most likely because wherever they were, the trees had enough parting to allow the streams of moonlight to glisten through.
“No, no, no,” Callum denied, “This… is for us.” His voice dripped into a deep tone of dramatic pause, entailing something else was at play.
Rayla wanted to ask, but she stopped as she noticed his gazes shining up the hill before them. Her eyes blew up as her mouth dropped to the ground. She couldn’t believe what she was seeing. A large sky blue dragon perched at the edge of the cliff. His scales were fully armoured and rough, like the tests of time had done battle with its skin. His tail swung slowly and gracefully, letting the flow of the soft spoken wind graze past its hair. Hair of which that gleamed like a milky white sheet, reflecting the gaze of the moon of its blankness, he had a mane of white fur ruffled throughout his head with two sets of sharp horns sprouting out from his head. Callum whistled, collecting the creature’s attention over to the two. He turned to face the two, staring at them with a pair of large, pearly blue eyes and revealing his small flowing white beard under his chin.
Callum chuckled as he released her hand, walking up to the dragon, he waved. “Hey Zym! Long time no see!”
Rayla’s eyes began to water. It was him. It had been
years
since she had last seen the creature. Time had flown by, important missions and business had arose, and Zym was off maintaining peace throughout Xadia—she just hadn’t had the time to make her way out to him. But he was here. Right in front of her. And he looked… amazing.
“Wow…” Rayla spoke. “Ya… ya look like a king!”
Callum laughed, as Zym released a low growl of laughter, smiling at her. “That’s what I said!” Callum chirped up.
“Wow…” she rushed over to the large dragon’s paw. Running her hands through it she felt his scaly paw, the roughness and age was all there. He felt so different. But his eyes, it was very him. He looked down at her, letting his beard trickle down to the grass at her feet, he met her eyes and smiled. She laughed as she smiled back. That smile… it was him. “Look at ya… ya’re all grown up.” He released a low purr as he lowered his head, allowing her to caress his face. She giggled. “Ohh, ya’re still the same. Still begging for headpats and grooming eh?” Zym ignored her teasing and left himself up for her grooming, her hands felt so comforted and warm with all the hair he had in his beard, it was nice. The realization hit her as she stopped petting him. She turned to Callum, noticing his smug grin, “How did ya do this?”
“The second last time we were Xadia I had a messenger go out to send a letter to Zym. Just asking to meet up is all,” he shrugged as he continued, “The last time we were in Xadia, I arranged a meetup just after our meeting with that town’s council!”
Rayla’s face shifted into confusion. “Why?”
“Because I knew how much you missed him, and well,” he glanced up at the dragon. Zym nodded his head and began to turn his body. Callum grabbed Rayla’s hand and led her back a few paces, leaving her to watch Zym drop his wing down at their feet. “I thought we could have a little romantic flight.”
Rayla chuckled at the sight. Zym had lowered his wing, prompting the two to climb aboard. The King of the Dragons was practically letting them treat him like a pet still, and he didn’t mind.
Callum walked up Zym’s wing, stopping just after the base, before turning around and extending his hand out to Rayla. “Shall we?”
She grinned. Of course he would do this. Wordlessly, she took his hand and climbed the wing, walking up Zym’s side and coming to a stop on his back. Callum sat down, placing himself just a feet or a two away from Zym’s head, and Rayla sat down behind him. Patting his back, Callum announced, “Yip, yip, buddy!”
A low growl erupted as Zym’s wings rose high. Rayla firmly held onto Zym’s back, unsure of how this was going to play out. He took two steps forward and they fell. Rayla and Callum roared in fearful screams, until Zym’s wings extended out and they shifted into a glide, barely kissing the tree tops he had nearly crashed them into. Soon enough, they began ascending into the sky.
Rayla could not find the words to even describe such a beauty. It was a breathless sight, and not because they were high in the air. Zym had flown them above the clouds, leaving the night sky expose to their curious eyes—countless stars and a full moon, it was a once in a lifetime view.
“Wow…” she muttered. “It’s beautiful.”
“I know right?” Callum looked on, scanning their surroundings like her. She noticed he didn’t have his sketchbook with him, only his backpack.
She frowned. “Are ya not going to sketch it?”
He chuckled. “Kinda too windy to do that,” he gestured all around them. “And besides,” he turned around, switching his body over to face her, “I wanna spend the moment with you.”
She smiled at him. “Ya’re still a sap, ya know that?”
“Of course I do,” he rolled his eyes. “But, I also know that as
your
sap, you still love it when I do things like these.”
She chuckled, finding her hands intertwined with his, she pulled his hands close to her. “Never said I didn’t love sappy things,” she cleverly shot back. “After all, I
do
like Moonberry juice.”
Callum snickered. “Indeed you do, though I’m not sure why…” he leaned in and pecked her cheek, “but I guess I shouldn’t complain, considering that it basically got me on your good graces.”
Rayla giggled. “Oh yes. Let it be known that my love for ya was only solidified because of my taste in good sappiness.”
Callum bursted out into a fit of laughter, leaving the windy air around them to pick up his elated spirit. Rayla laughed too, entranced by how adorable and freeing his laugh felt. His presence, his touch, his words, all of it felt perfect. Nothing but him and her, and of course the King of Dragons, flying high above the clouds. All their words, only for them and them alone.
“Speaking of sappiness,” he spoke up, retracting his hands from hers, much to her reluctance, “I also decided to bring you something.” He dug his hands into his bag, and pulled out a pair of two Moonberry juice jars. “How about a toast?”
Her eyes went wide. “Why?”
He frowned. “Uhh, why not?” he shrugged. “Kinda wanted to make a sweet moment here?”
She chuckled, shaking her head. “No, no, I meant, why would ya do that to yourself?” she inquired, staring at him in confusion. “Ya
hate
Moonberry juice. Ya don’t have to do this.”
Callum rolled his eyes. “I don’t
hate
Moonberry juice, I just don’t
like
it. Big difference. Hate’s a strong word. There’s not a lot of things I hate!” he clarified, holding the drink out to her. She accepted it and he pulled off the cap of his drink. “Besides, it’s only a toast?”
She smiled, pulling off her cap as she lifted her drink with him. “What for?”
“To being together, through thick and thin,” he joked, shaking the drink, “But also just for all the sweet moments we’ve had in life. For all the moments that were hard to swallow. For all the times we were parched for a refresher. And all those times we just wanted to treat ourselves.” Rayla was in a fit of giggles, of course he had a whole speech based off Moonberry juice. Lifting his drink higher, Callum added, “To us. And your weird tastes.”
Rayla smiled, “To us, and my weird tastes.” They clinked their drinks and downed them within seconds. Rayla released a content sigh as she wiped her lips, closing her eyes and letting the taste trickle down her tongue. She looked at Callum, and laughed as he launched himself into a barrage of coughs, aggressively attempting to clear his throat as he wiped his mouth with the sleeve of his shirt. She patted his back encouragingly. “There, there, you’ll be fine,” she reassured him, “good on ya champ.”
Callum chuckled, clearing his throat one more time. He glanced up at her with watery eyes. “Sorry, still a little rough on my tastebuds,” he explained. “Now, with that out of the way—”
“Callum,” she interrupted, because at this point she was too curious. “What brought this on? Or, any of this on really?”
He smiled. “Ray, I just wanted to do this. I know these days have been kinda stressful with our ambassador work, but I’m glad we can finally have a moment to ourselves like this. Because I think we earned it. That you earned it.” He shook his head and with his free hand, took hers. “I think you deserve a lot of things Rayla. I know that your childhood was always so serious and rough, and I’m amazed that in spite of it all, you still became a great person. Everything about you has amazed me since we met.
“From the get go, seeing you sweep-the-leg was amazing. Seeing you prance around with elegance but also with ferocity? That’s something only you could do. It’s always amazed me how beautiful everything is about you. Your looks, your hair, your smile, it’s hard not to want to sketch you every
single
day. Your laughter, your teasing, your presence, you make me feel better, to want to be better. And… I love you. I love that you embrace my dorkiness and constantly want me to draw, to get better as an artist. I love that you enjoy my interest in magic, and supported me through all my desires to become an Archmage. And I love that you’ve been my rock, despite how
annoying
I’ve been.”
He took a deep breath, maneuvering his other hand into his backpack, to place his empty jar back inside. “Rayla, sweep-the-leg’s not just a thing in sword fighting, but in romance, because, you swept me off my feet from the very beginning—”
“Callum,” she laughed.
“And I want to be there for you. To be your rock, your muse, your protector, like you’ve been for me.” He smiled at her, “So… Rayla…” his pulled out from his bag, “Will you marry me?”
Her eyes widened as she saw him unfold a necklace. It had a large violet gem held in a stone casing, with an array of white stone pearls looped nearby. The stone had the Draconic word,
Unitatis
, inscribed into the case. She laughed. She couldn’t help but laugh. Her eyes were teary eyed, watering up as the realization sunk in. She laughed because of course he would propose with such a
stupid
line. She cried because of course he would ask the King of the Dragons to help him out with a proposal. She laughed because he forced himself to drink and make a toast with her favourite drink. She cried because she knew he was trying to show the lengths he go to, for her.
“Callum…” she tearily laughed, “ya’re such an idiot…” she reached out for the necklace, completely forgetting the empty jar in her hands and dropping it into the air. She didn’t care about that now. She held her necklace, holding it in her hands as she stared at him, smiling as much as she could with her tears. “Ya…
know
ya never needed to ask.”
“But, as
your
idiot, I had to,” he grinned, “because I want to make the big gestures.” He grabbed her hands and lifted the necklace up to her face. “So what do you say?”
She looked at the betrothal necklace and sniffled. “
Uinatis
,” she read, “Unity…” She chuckled. “Of course ya’d propose with Moonshadow culture… ya made this yourself, didn’t ya?”
“I did.” He proudly nodded. “Rayla? Your answer.”
“And ya even got the darn King of the Dragons to help ya.”
“I did indeed, now your response?”
“And the whole thing with your Moonberry toast? Seriously Callum?”
“
Rayla
.”
“I honestly can’t think of how to make this moment… any better.”
Callum sighed. “Say yes?” he tiredly suggested.
She rolled her eyes. “Of course,” she chuckled, sniffing through her tears. Even if she was an emotional teary eyed mess, she still had to tease him. “Callum, I’d
love
to marry ya.”
He smiled, with that big dumb grin of his, he smiled like he had won the treasures of the world. But in actuality, all he won was a woman he already had. Rayla knew he knew that. She knew he understood how much she loved him, that none of this was ever necessary. But she also knew he wanted to. That this was just another show of how much he loved her. And like always, she enjoyed it. He was so smitten with her, and that was okay.
He leaned in, kissing her lips as he wrapped the necklace around her. She soaked in his lips, enjoying his Moonberry taste laced within him. He pulled away and grinned.
“I love ya…”
“And I love you.”
It was okay, because she was smitten on him.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Effort & Time
Rayla didn’t hate her birthday.But boy did today suck. She understood that being on scholarship entailed a lot of sacrifices for her and her family. She couldn’t afford to slip up, slacking off was never an option. She devoted her extra time and skills to practicing; to perfecting her accuracy and strength, to keep up her stamina, and to maintain her physique. Of course, her studies played into it as well. She focused on preserving her grades as best as she could. She gave it her all and supplied her genuine interest wherever possible. Philosophy was her best course and easily took her attention and time. Literature was fun in its own right, but not without challenges. And history was… well, history. The other courses weren’t much of a bother at all.While Rayla had a rough time balancing her workload and football, practically juggling it all at once, she still did it because shew knew failing wasn’t an option. She didn’t have options. She had no cop out, no failsafe, no backup career—she had to stay here. Katolis was now a new home to her. Because it had to be. Which essentially meant that she had to leave behind her old one. She couldn’t bring all the memories and mementos like she wanted, all she had to settle on was just her ability to remember them. That’s all that she could have. She wanted to have her parents there, but they couldn’t afford to take time off and she couldn’t exactly afford two plane tickets for a visit to Scotland. So basically, no parents this birthday. But they promised to make time in September. Because that’s all they could manage. She sighed, shaking her head at her phone. What a stupid day. “Rayla,” she heard, “c’mon, look at me.” She looked down at her phone, and frowned at Runaan’s face. He was frowning too. But she could tell he was mainly upset with himself more. He did not look proud of himself for telling her this. She could see the self annoyance plaguing his mind. “Please.” She frowned. She wasn’t being fair. “I know… I know it’s not your fault—” “It is,” Runaan disagreed, “I’m so sorry I couldn’t book time off—” “Da, it’s fine,” she dismissed. “Ya don’t have to, I’ll be fine.” “I sent a package!” she heard Ethari's voice echo in the back. “Something I made.” Runaan rolled his eyes and sighed. “Honey, I told you she doesn’t want your silly inventions.”
“What I make in my workshop is art! Ya just don’t understand it!”
“It’s fine Da,” Rayla assured him, “I love anythin’ Da makes me.”
“Told ya!”
“Eth, stop tinkering for God’s sake and say goodbye to your daughter!” Runaan shouted. Rayla laughed, smiling at both her fathers’ exchanges. Her smile grew as soon as she watched Ethari walk into frame. He had a pair of safety goggles hanging down from his neck with a few splotches of dirt and oil all over his cheeks. He beamed his classic toothy smile as he flashed a peace sign at her. “Happy birthday Ray-Ray, sorry we couldn’t make it! But if ya want we can do a facetime to sing happy birthday, just bring out a cake or somethin’.” Rayla giggled. “Nah, it’s fine Da. Thanks.”Ethari shrugged. “If ya say so, Sweetheart!” Runaan sighed as he offered a warm smile. “Happy birthday,” he softly said, “if you need us we’re always a call away.” “I know Da,” she rolled her eyes with a soft smile. “Thanks. For… callin’.” She looked at her fathers and maintained her smile. “I’ll call ya soon okay? Bye!” she waved at the camera. “Bye!” Ethari shouted. “Bye Sweetheart!” Runaan waved.The called ended and Rayla sighed. Her warm smile fell within seconds. It wasn’t as nice or as long as she wanted, but she was glad she was able to get one out of today. She banged the back of her head against her locker and closed her eyes. “Happy birthday to me,” she muttered under her breath. There was a stinging in her eyes, a sudden pain she was desperate to fight back. A knock on the change room door disrupted her from her self pity. “Hello?” she tiredly called out. “Ray?” Soren’s voice came through. “You good in there? The other girls said you kinda just… stayed back… just wondering… if you’re okay… is all.” he awkwardly filled in. She knew Soren wasn’t exactly a feelings type of guy, so she was not in the mood to deal with his around the bush beating behaviour.Rayla sighed. “I’m fine Soren,” she gritted out.Soren chuckled. “No, yeah, sure, definitely! But uh…” he cleared his throat, “a certain someone is here to see you!” Rayla’s face dropped. That was exactly the last person she needed to see today. She was too deep in the pits of bad mood she couldn’t just do that to Callum. Her usual spunk and happiness couldn’t be on display for him this time, she just couldn’t muster up the strength to do that. She groaned as she stood up from her spot. “I’m on my way, just finishing up.” She sniffed. She hadn’t even realized how close she had come to crying. This was pathetic. It was just a birthday. She’d have more.Rushing out of the locker room, she immediately came face to face with Callum’s natural eager smile. “Hey Ray,” he greeted. “That was a great game!”She managed a small smile, as she rubbed the back of her head. “Right, thanks,” she awkwardly muttered. “I, uh, ya need somethin’?” She mentally slapped herself. Of course he didn’t need something. He just wanted to hang out with her. Like usual. “I mean, um, what’s… what’s up?”He stared at her in bewilderment. “I um… no-nothing?” he replied. “I just wanted to know if you’re down for a studying session tonight.”Rayla couldn’t hold back her frown as she shrugged. “Sorry, I uh… don’t think I’m in the mood. Tonight. I might hold off on studying…” she began walking forward, past Callum and down the hall, “I’ll call ya, ‘kay?”Callum placed his hand on her shoulder, shooting her a concerned look as she halted in her place. “Rayla… you okay?”“Yeah, yeah,” she nodded, completely ignoring the hurt she felt from lying to him. That was genuine, heartfelt concern. But she just didn’t have it in her to tell him. She was just too sad. She backed away, jerking her thumb over her shoulder. “I’m serious.” He pursed his lips as he retracted his hand, seeming unconvinced by her reassurance.She mustered up her best smile and flashed him a beam. “I’ll call ya. I swear.”::::She should’ve called him.But she was not in the mood. She was sitting in her dorm room, all by her lonesome in the late evening. Just cross legged atop her bed hugging her pillow close to her chest. She wasn’t crying. Her eyes just stung with tears, she was on the brink of crying. But she wasn’t crying. Her cheeks felt damp and her nose felt hot, but she wasn’t crying. She was just being selfish. She was stupid for even being so selfish. How could she ask so much of her parents when they barely managed to even afford her high school enrollments? How could she ask her parents to make a trek across the world when they couldn’t even manage a week off? How could she expect them to send endless gifts and presents when practically all of their income went toward rent?How could she?Rayla closed her eyes, fighting back her tears. She had been dealing with this from a young age. She’s had to get used to it. She was old enough now to understand that she couldn’t expect things to change. Not like she wanted. Ever since she was a young girl all she had going for her was income issues. Judgement for how poorly she dressed and how boyish she looked. Snarks and sneers for her how cheap her lunches and bare her allowance was. Looks and loathing for how rundown and rough her home looked. She was cheap, and she knew it.She lived the cheap life for ages . Her childhood has always been the bare minimum of expectations. And she was okay with it. She really was.She had to be.She just couldn’t ever expect—
You would not believe your eyes
Her head shot straight up from her sulking. She was hearing things.
If ten million fireflies
Lit up the world as I fell asleep
Her eyes widened as they flew to her phone resting on her nightstand. She clicked the power button and found nothing playing on her screen. Where was it coming from?
Lit up the world as I fell asleep
Her eyes grew wider as they glanced over to the door. She rushed out of her bed and stared at the door. It was coming from there. Her attention flew over to her desk, grabbing a pair of scissors with a fierce grip. If movies had taught her anything, random music playing from a locked door—but not just any music, but her favourite song? It was the bait for a trap. Stab City was the most logical destination. She slowly approached the door, hand reaching over to the handle, with her new fashioned weapon arched up and ready. If she was going to die on her birthday, very fitting she’d die hearing her favourite song too. “Ray,” Callum’s voice came through, “open the door please!” A breath of relief escaped her. Then immediate shock. Why was he here? She tossed the scissors back onto her desk and whipped open the door. “Callum what the hell are ya—” she stopped herself as she took in what Callum was doing.He was holding his phone out, blasting Owl City on full volume, with a wide grin on his face. In his other hand, he held out a single Hershey’s kiss chocolate in his palm. “Kiss?” he suggested.Her eyes widened even more. “Wh-What?” she stammered out. Did he just—“Chocolate?” he rephrased, staring at her in confusion. “Hershey’s kisses right? Or did I get it wrong again?” he pouted.She laughed. Right, that was what she was thinking too. “Right, right,” she nodded, “I erm, sure, thanks.” She grabbed the piece and unwrapped it, tossing it into her mouth. She stared at him with a smile as she chewed on her sweet.
'Cause they'd fill the open air
And leave teardrops everywhere
You'd think me rude, but I would just stand and stare
Callum cleared his throat. “I um, are you going to let me in?”“Right, right!” Rayla shouted. She stepped aside. “C’mon in.”Callum beamed a smile as he walked inside. He rushed over to her bed, throwing his bag and phone on top it. “So! I come bearing gifts,” he announced, flipping open her messenger bag, he turned it over and dropped an entire pile of Hershey’s Kisses chocolates and his sketchbook, onto her bed. “Kisses to last you the entire night, or rather, hour, considering how quickly you devour these,” he jested. “And, while you do that, I was thinking I could show you my recent sketches? I dunno, if you want to that is.”Rayla shut the door, causing him to shoot his attention over to her. She was staring at him with a wordless smile. There was no way… “How… why are ya here?”Callum grinned. “Because I want to spend time with you.”She felt her cheeks flush as she rolled her eyes. “I’m being serious.”“Let’s just say it pays to be Facebook friends,” he winked at her, picking up a piece of chocolate. He flicked it over to her with a laugh, she caught it with ease but maintained her confusion. She stared at him as he sat down on her bed.
'Cause I'd get a thousand hugs
From ten thousand lightning bugs
As they try to teach me how to dance
She chuckled to herself as she walked over to Callum and sat beside him, scooting herself up the bed to cross her legs. She unwrapped her chocolate and smiled, “Are ya gonna elaborate on that?”“‘It’s Rayla’s birthday! Say something on their timeline!’” he said in a mock elated tone. He chuckled as he raised a brow. “Next time you’re upset no one remembered your birthday, try telling them.”Rayla scoffed. “Like ya did?” She had found out from Soren so last minute she practically jetted over to his dorm straight from practice. She was sweating like crazy and exhausted, but she instantly took him out to celebrate. Even though he argued, he went along very willingly. Callum snorted. “I always forget my birthday.” He smacked his head. “Photographic memory isn’t exactly flawless long-term memory.” She laughed at his weak defence, because out of context that made no sense. “I’d forget if it weren’t for Clauds and Soren always reminding me and my folks greeting me.”Rayla rolled her eyes. “Still, I would’ve appreciated a better heads up.”“Hey, we celebrated,” Callum pointed out, “It was just delayed. And I loved that art gallery, best gift ever.” He narrowed his brows as he smirked, “And what about your heads up? It’s already eight.” Rayla sighed. “I… it’s not a big deal.”Callum bumped her shoulder with his. “Hey… whatever the reason, I know you deserve a nice day.” He smiled at her. “I get that… you might feel lonely because your parents aren’t here but…” he grabbed his sketchbook and easily flipped through the pages. He stopped and showed her. “I hope I’m enough for now.”This was the greatest sketch she’d ever seen from him.For countless times, she had been the muse of his focus. Her features he had done to a perfection. Her expressions captured with realism and beauty. She had always been created with the most ease and effortless time. His landscapes sketches were done with the most detail and attention, focused on every piece of shading, every outline, everything. They were always lined to a perfection. Because that was what he was as an artist. A perfectionist. But this… was different.A boy, with a hesitant and scared half-smile. The creases in his face clearly selling his forced attempt to look happy. He looked so insecure. His mophead hair flopping down, covering his forehead, it was unkempt and ruffled. But the genuine happiness in his eyes, it was the story of a man trying outside his comfort zone. It was cute.Because it was Callum.“Ya… ya did a self-portrait?” she asked. “It looks… beautiful.”He chuckled. “You’ve always told me to do it. But, I dunno. It felt very weird, just looking at an old photo or something.” He rubbed the back of his head as he held the book out to her. “It’s… it’s something, right? I just… I know it’s a weird gift, but I-I thought you’d like it. Something sketched from me—”“Which is literally ya?” she teased.He flushed, laughing. “Yeah, sorta, maybe—”“I’m kidding,” she smiled. “I liked it,” she thumbed her fingers over the details, smiling at the effort and time told within them. “It’s… very ya. A Callum special.” She grinned. He smiled at her, lifting up a piece of chocolate. She happily accepted his offering and quickly unwrapped it, popping it into her mouth.
To ten million fireflies
I'm weird 'cause I hate goodbyes
I got misty eyes as they said farewell
She took a deep breath after finishing her chocolate. “Thanks…” she said. “I… I know I was kinda distant earlier but… thanks…”He waved her off, “Don’t worry about it.”“No, I want to worry ‘bout it,” Rayla shot down, shaking her head. “Because… because ya’re my friend.” She took a deep breath. “It did hurt. Knowing that they wouldn’t be able to make it. But… I can’t be mad at them. It’s not fair to them.” She shrugged, looking down at her empty wrapper. “I can’t be selfish. It’s not right—”“Ray,” Callum spoke up, placing his hand on hers, “it’s not selfish to want to have your parents for your birthday.” He smiled at her, “It’s what any kid would want. It’s fair for somebody to want to spend their birthday with family. Nearly everyone in the world wants that. It’s not selfish.”“But…” she bit her lip. “I… I’m here because I have to be.”“I know. And I’m sure they know you’re working your hardest to keep this scholarship but that doesn’t mean they expect you to shoulder the burden all on your own,” Callum explained. He chuckled. “Rayla, family’s all about sharing. You… you owe it to them to talk about this more. And you owe it to yourself to get this off your chest. That doesn’t have to be today, or tomorrow, or anytime soon.” He made sure she was looking at his eyes, and she was. She was giving him her whole hearted attention. “And that said, you also deserve a birthday. A happy birthday.”She rolled her eyes at his dumb grin.“And I… hope that this is okay… for now.”
I'd like to make myself believe
That planet Earth turns slowly
She scoffed. “Are ya serious?” she rhetorically asked. “Ya come into my dorm, playing my favourite song,” she gestured to his phone, “then ya bring some of my favourite chocolates and willingly show me your latest art?” She laughed. “From ya? This is the best birthday gift ya can ever give me.”Callum snorted as he pulled his hand away from her. She had no idea he had been holding it for that long anyways. “Good to know our contrasts,” he joked, “I enjoyed the art gallery you took me too, and you like, modern electronic pop songs and small chocolates are what do it for you.”“ And your art,” she heavily stressed. It was probably her favourite part of his gesture.“And my art,” he repeated with a chuckle. “Well, I’m glad you liked… this… uh, feel free to skim through the rest of what I’ve got. I’ve been doing more landscape, especially at the football field.”She smiled as she began flipping through his pages. He never really let her look through his stuff. The only exceptions had been when he had shown her himself or when he just flipped through a couple pages, leaving to barely catch a glimpse of their details. They were beautiful. She looked at each one, took in each image. “These are amazing…” Her thumb grazed the lines of shading he had done over the bleachers of the stadium. “Thanks… I’m… I’m glad you like them,” he told her with a nervous smile, “That, uh, that this is enough…”She smiled as she continued looking through his art. Her smile growing brighter as she came across a page of him and her. The two were sitting down, back pressed up against each other. He had a book in his hand and as did she, both were reading. It was a very rough sketch, the attention to shading and outlines were barely worked over, and the detail in their hands and hair were basic. But… she noticed how great the features were in their smiles. The genuine, passion drawn into their faces. She felt that. It was very them. This moment, was very them.She chuckled to herself, taking another piece of Kisses chocolate and popping it into her mouth. He had no idea what this meant to her. With a simple smile, like the very same he had drawn, she looked at him and giggled. “Cal, this is more than enough.”He smiled at her, seeming satisfied with her reassurance. The two sat in a peaceful silence, casually eating the sweet treats as Rayla flipped through his art, with Callum occasionally pitching in his commentary. Rayla couldn’t help but smile the rest of the night.
It's hard to say that I'd rather stay awake when I'm asleep
She looked at Callum, and was happy to see him smiling too. She was happy to have him as a friend. Happy that tonight, on her birthday, he was with her.
Because my dreams are bursting at the seams
Because that’s all she really needed, she supposed.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
The Birthday Cake
“ Psst .”The soft whisper graced across Callum’s ears, but his attention remained on his sketchbook. He sat slouched over on the bench out in the courtyard, using his head as shade to shield his work from the bright sun. “ Psst, Callum ,” came another whisper. He ignored the voice as he stuck out his tongue, bringing his attention over to the bright spots of his drawing. As he began to shade them, he felt something prod at his spine. “ Callum!” He rolled his eyes as he continued shading. Another prod. “ Hey Cal— ““What!” he whined, throwing his head up out of agony. He turned around and glared at the young Moonshadow elf stood before him. “I’m trying to draw!” He waved his sketchbook at her as he added, “You can’t see my drawings if you won’t let me finish!”“Draw later!” Rayla dismissed with a casual wave of her four-fingered hand. “I found somethin’!” she eagerly shouted as she bounced in place, clenching her fists as she shook them with excitement. Of course, because it was Rayla, her mood was easily infectious and swayed Callum to forget his sketch. His brows raised in interest as he titled his head at her. “What kinda something? Something that feels like a magical artifact? Or a mystery?” he inquired, curiosity obviously peaked. Rayla smiled as she leaned over, cupping her hand over her mouth as she glanced around the courtyard, wary of any eavesdroppers. “ Both ,” she whispered. Callum’s eyes exploded in shock as his mouth fell to the ground. “ No way …” he whispered back. His friend merely nodded in pride as she straightened her posture, tucking her hands on her hips as she held her eager smile. “That’s right! It’s somethin’ special, and crazy ! I don’t know what it’s doing in the castle! I was—““Rayla, talk later,” Callum interjected, hastily tucking his pens into his backpack. He slung his sketchbook’s strap over his shoulder and stared at Rayla seriously. “If whatever you found was as magical and mysterious as you made it to be, someone else might find it!”Rayla’s mouth dropped. “Ya’re right!” she gasped in shock. Shaking herself out of her shock, the young Assassin found her resolve and shot her finger into the air. “Quick! Follow!”“ Shhhhh !” Callum chatised her, bringing a finger to his lips. “Quietly!”Rayla nodded once more. “Right, of course. Stealthy-sneaky,” she waved her palm in front of her face, morphing her expression into what looked like an attempted shot of seriousness, “Assassin mode activated.” She narrowed her eyes and dropped down to a crouch. “Now follow!” she loudly barked, releasing her voice to the walls of the courtyard. Callum grinned as watched his friend whip her body around and dash off, flinging her arms behind her back as she ran, a running technique she claimed to make her run faster. “Yeah!” the artist shouted after her, mimicking her running technique as he dashed right after her. ::::“Runaan?”The moonshadow elf in question raised a brow as he kept his gaze transfixed on his book. “Yes Sarai?” “Why does Rayla run like she’s got something tying her arms behind her back?” the Queen inquired, maintaining her confused gaze out onto the courtyard below them. Harrow perked his head up from his meal, glancing his confusion between his wife and friend, before making his way over to the windowsill to steal a glance for himself. Amusement crept upon his lips as he watched his son follow after the Assassin-in-training, both running whilst crouching down to a low centre of mass with their arms dragging against the wind behind them. “What in all the lands—““It makes her run faster,” Runaan simply answered, eyes still on his book. The royal couple blinked at each other as a silence supplied the air. They simultaneously glanced over to their elven friend, noting how casual he seemed. “I’m… sorry? What?” Harrow spoke up. “It… it makes her run… faster?” Sarai slowly clarified. Runaan made an affirmative noise as he lazily flipped onto the next page of his novel. “How…”“It just does,” he stated.Harrow blinked once more, then asked, “But how—”“It just… does.”The royal couple once more exchanged a set of confused stares, then settled on returning their attention out and into the courtyard, where they still saw their children running about. They decided not to question the professional Assassin on his methods.::::A raised fist brought Callum’s running to a halt. Rayla had her body pressed up against a wall and her ears on the prowl. She glanced back at Callum, and motioned him to move over to the wall. The boy quickly obeyed and threw his back up against the wall with haste, panic reaching his eyes. He watched as Rayla carefully poked her head around the corner, the immediately retracted herself with a startle. “What? What is it?” Callum quietly asked. “A couple of guards,” Rayla answered. Callum’s face contorted into worry. “Are they guarding the thing you found?”“Uh-huh,” Rayla answered, peeking her head out once more. “Ugh, they’re right outside the door I found it in!”Callum made his way over to the corner, peeking his head out under Rayla. The two narrowed their eyes at the sight. Two crownsguard were stood outside a set of double doors. Callum quickly recognized the room to be the dining hall. He had just realized wit all the surroundings they’ve been walking through that Rayla was leading him there. Rayla sighed. “They must’ve been on break when I found it,” she muttered under her breath.“Well how do we get rid of them?” Callum asked. “Man if we knew some sort of spell, we could totally solve this!”Rayla furrowed a brow at her friend. “How would that help?” she questioned.The boy shrugged. “I dunno, I just think it’s cool. Y’know, using magic?”“Hey, I can do magic,” Rayla shot back.“You only turn invisible. During a full moon.”“That’s still magic!”“Hmm, I guess so,” Callum agreed.“Prince Callum?” a feminine voice echoed out. The two froze in their spot, realizing that they had not only been bickering quite loudly, they were also completely out of the way from the corner they were hiding from. The guard smiled at the two as she waved. “Oh, and Lady Rayla!” she cheerfully greeted the two, waving at them, “What’re you up to this afternoon?”Callum innocently waved back, whilst Rayla smiled. She then leaned over to Callum and whispered ever so quietly, “ We gotta get them away from the door .”“ Yeah, I know ,” Callum said back, matching her pitch.“ But how ?”“ I dunno .”“Guys?” the other guard called out. “You okay?” He wore a look of concern as he stepped forward. “Do you need anything Prince Callum?” the female guard asked. “Ooh, I know!” Callum cheered, looking as if an idea had just struck his face. “My mother requested your presence.”Both guards’ brows shot up in surprise. “Really?”“Yes!” Rayla jumped in. “King Harrow was with her too!”“Oh, uh—”“And it was urgent!” Callum hastily added. The guards shut their mouths as hesitance washed over them. “Uhh…”“Like desperate urgent!” Rayla chimed in.Their eyes flashed with worry. “Of course! Right away!” the first one shouted, darting off.The second lagged behind, stammering, “W-Wait for me!”Soon enough, the hallway was cleared, and the two were free to make their move. Rayla pushed open the double doors and eagerly led Callum by the hand, rushing over to the other end of the long table. With a show of pizazz, Rayla hopped up from her spot and gestured to the end of the table with jazzy hands. “Ta-da!” she exclaimed.The young prince really had no idea what he was expecting. His mind flew from mystical things like a magic orb or enchanted sword, to mysterious and ominous items like an old map, or random letter with their names addressed on it. But, for all his imagination, Callum didn’t expect to find a fat, creamy chocolate birthday cake set on the table. It was obviously chocolate, with the icing of its outermost layer oozing down onto the silver platter. With three layers, it was clear that a multitude of different chocolates went into the design, ranging from what looked to be mousse, dark chocolate, and white chocolate. The top had an array of melted cheese, circling around the edge of the cake, with a set of four sliced strawberries plopped on one side of each cake.The most notable feature had been the white candle stuck in the dead centre. Just beneath it, a written text in white icing stating, “Celebration!” “Whoa…” Callum muttered in awe. “You just found this?”Rayla excitedly nodded as she stepped closer to the cake. “Yeah! I don’t know where this came from, but it doesn’t seem like anyone else knows it’s here!”Callum stepped forward, hands reaching toward the cake in temptation. Suddenly, common sense overwhelmed him as he shook his head to snap himself out of his thoughts. “Wait, wait, wait, we don’t know who’s cake this is! We can’t eat it!”“Callum, I brought ya here so we can eat it! Together!” Rayla shouted, grabbing two plates from the table that had been set prior.He frowned as he glanced. The fact that there were so many utensils and plates set up, he got the vibe this was met for something. “Hmm, I dunno.”“In the time I went to go get ya, no one even came by!”“Then why were there guards outside?” “There’s always guards outside the dining hall.”“Hmmm…” Callum’s skepticism was shrinking ever so quickly with each retort Rayla shot back. She did make convincing arguments. “Well, I think our only issue is following the rules!”Rayla’s head cocked to the right as she furrowed a brow. “Rules?”“Yeah!” Callum rushed over to the table and pointed at the cake’s icing. “It says ‘celebration’! We need to be celebrating something in order to eat it!”Rayla shrugged. “Why not just eat it?”“My mum always said, ‘You’re not allowed to eat a birthday cake if whatever’s written on it isn’t addressed for you!’” Callum recalled in a deep voice, attempting to sound sophisticated.Rayla giggled. “Well, if it’s a celebration, can it be us celebratin’ that we found a cake!”Callum smiled in delight. “That might work!” he eagerly agreed. Quickly, Rayla handed him a plate and the two rushed over to either side of the cake. With eager forks, the two began to advance on the sweet celebratory dessert. Callum’s hand halted as he shouted, “Wait! What if we’re celebrating our friendship!”Rayla’s face of brief confusion immediately subsided into excitement. “Yeah! We can say that this is a celebration to our friendship!” “Or me celebrating how cool of a friend you are!”“Or me celebratin’ how cool of an artist ya are!”Callum’s face suddenly felt hot, but he laughed it away. “Or maybe it’s us celebrating your epic Assassin training!”Rayla grinned. “Or maybe we’re celebratin’ how ya’re my best friend in all of the world!”The prince giggled as he shook his head. “How about we just agree with celebrating our friendship?”The Assassin-in-training nodded. She jabbed her fork into the cake and pulled out a big chunk. “To my bestest friend in the all the lands!”Matching her smile, Callum dug his fork into the cake and nearly pulled out a size that matched her chunk. “To my most awesomest friend in all of the known kingdoms!”With passionate smiles, the two bit into their chunks, and were immediately sold. It tasted like the sweetest, most chocolatey dessert they had ever sunk their teeth into. It was like heaven had taken the form of food, and graced their taste buds with its presence. Their eyes lit up with excitement as they found each other’s stare. Both knew what the other was thinking in that exact moment.“It’s mine !”::::“I swear my Queen, your son and Lady Rayla informed us of your desperate need of assistance!” the guard pleaded, following after the royal couple and their elven friend. She glanced to her partner, prompting him to chime in.“It’s true!” he swore, “They said it was urgent!”Without any consideration for their desperate pleas, Sarai rolled her eyes. “Relax, you’re not in trouble.” The group arrived at the double doors. With a push, Harrow and Runaan entered the room, with Sarai and the guards tailing right after. And they had no idea what they were looking at.Passed out on the far end of the table, Callum and Rayla had a fork in their hands, and buckets of chocolate stains all over their clothes and face. As they approached the two, Sarai quickly gathered they were sleeping soundly out of content, with what looked to be cake crumbs left in their wake. She had no words for what she was looking at.She glanced up from the scene and stared at her husband and friend. “So… who’s cake is this?”
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
A Work in Progress
"Deep breaths," was the mantra Rayla had established for herself by late afternoon of that fateful football game.She had rushed off from the locker room, bidding the team a quick goodbye and shouting to Soren to finish a pizza pie in her name. Before anyone could say anything, or before Claudia could even catch her, she dashed out the stadium and rushed over to Callum's art studio. She was beyond eager. To finally see Callum's artwork upfront and personal, and even his work in progresses would be amazing. But… she was also nervous.Rayla never posed for anyone before. She had never been a model for sketching and she certainly didn't think she was outfitted well enough for this. Her eyes shot wide as she realized her current attire. It was so plain [nah I'm too lazy for this one, y'all just re-read what she was wearing from the second College AU oneshot] and boring she couldn't believe that she just rushed over without a second thought. Her only thankful cover was her varsity jacket that he returned, but did she really want to look like a textbook football player for her first—and quite possibly last—sketch?Shaking off her doubts, Rayla recalled her newfound mantra and proceeded to take a series of deep breaths. With a perky smile, she knocked her fist against the steel door three times, then shoved her hand into her jacket pocket. This was it, the moment she'd been waiting for.And it didn't happen.Rayla blinked at the door. She quickly pulled out her phone, noticing that a good minute had passed after her knock. She cocked her head in confusion then tried again, another consecutive three knocks, this time slightly louder than before. Another pregnant silence stirred. Rayla leaned her ear up against the cold door, listening for anything. There was no music, so there wasn't anything drowning out her knocks. Could it be…He cancelled plans?"Rayla?"Her worrisome thoughts faded immediately as soon as she heard his voice… from down the hall. She blinked once more in confusion as she watched I'm walk toward her. "Uhh… Callum? Ya're not inside?" She perplexedly pointed at the door.Callum cocked his head and laughed. "No? I said we're going to sketch after the game right? So I thought we'd meet up and go together? I was uh, kinda surprised when Soren said you rushed ahead."Rayla's cheeks flushed instantaneously. Did she really just do that? With a mental facepalm and an audible awkward chuckle, she sidestepped from the door. "Whoops!" She winced. "Guess, I kinda got excited." Again, she cursed herself for saying something so stupid.Thankfully for her, Callum merely smiled, with a faint blush of his own. "That's good! That'll make this more fun!" As soon as he arrived in front of the door, he pulled out a set of keys and began undoing the lock that she hadn't even noticed was there. With a simple smile, he turned her way and said, "Shall we?"She instinctively beamed back, and watched him push the sliding door aside. He stepped in and twirled around, watching her face in anticipation as she wandered in. And she wished she was him just so she could see what her reaction was, because what she saw was breathtaking.It was like a scene setting out of a movie. Nothing too fancy, it wasn't like a huge room overfilled with art pieces hanging from every corner, or a gallery spread throughout with dozens of finished pieces waiting to be seen. It was just a studio. Like any other she had seen before when she passed through the art building. A few pieces hung up on the walls, and since she had familiarized herself with his works she knew they were more dated than his recent stuff. A few blotches of paint stains here and there, on the floor, carpet, and tables. There were also scattered themes of personal attachment like The Beatles album records, anime posters, and sci fi posters too. It was plastered with his personality. It just felt genuine.He had a few easels set up near the centre, all arranged in a circle. They were unfinished works it seemed, majority only sketched, the rest half painted. There was a table just beside the door that had dozens of plastic shelves plastered atop it. They were no doubt filled with paint brushes, paints, and the other tools alike. She smiled at the sight of the stained furniture. It felt like passion. Her gaze easily scanned across the room and latched onto nearly every item with an admiration that must've seemed like an exaggeration to others. It wasn't much, but it was enough to keep Rayla amazed and entertained."Like it?" She turned her head back to the centre. Callum had dragged a stool to an empty canvas and smiled at her. His expression looked pensive, as if a sense of worry had been aching at him. Boy, he had no idea how excited she was.She eagerly nodded, beaming the brightest smile she could muster. "It's amazing…" she walked over to where he was prepping. "Can ya tell me about these?" she asked, gesturing around the unfinished pieces.He chuckled. "Don't worry, we can talk and sketch at the same time."She furrowed a brow. "Really? That won't be too distractin' for ya?"He shook his head as he moved away to grab another stool. "Not really. I've done it before in my art classes. Sometimes my seatmates try to get the model to laugh and break her pose," he casually explained, "Plus it can be kinda dull just me drawing here in silence. Talking's a nice change of pace." He dragged the stool and placed it a few feet away from the canvas he had prepped. "Sit here," he patted gently.She wordlessly followed and sat down at the vacant stool. She watched him rush to his table, gathering a collection of supplies and fumbling about throughout the drawers."So uh… wh-what type of… pose? Should I be doin'?" she asked.He paused for a moment and turned around. Tilting his head to the left, he thoughtfully stared at her with a squint. "Ummm, not sure. You do you," he replied as he turned his back to her.Rayla's brows furrowed in confusion. "What?""Try anything," Callum shouted, "just do whatever feels comfortable!"Rayla glanced down at her legs and sighed. That sounded easier said than done. Comfortability wise, Rayla defaulted to whatever would make her legs feel okay. She assumed this would consist of her being sat still for a long period of time, and figured being relaxed would help her too. She turned her body away from the canvas circle and over to the wall, because staring at his artwork would be a nice pastime. She rested her left leg on the bottom stretcher and her right casually dangled just above the floor. She slouched her back—she couldn't be bothered to be strict with herself—and tucked her hands into her pockets. And she was satisfied with what she had.A pose otherwise known as the "cool person" pose.Did that come off as trying too much?Was she being a bit extra?Rayla's face slumped into a frown. She had no idea what she was doing. "That's perfect!" Callum shouted upon his return. Rayla turned back and noticed him setting up his supplies at his easel. "Are you comfortable with that pose? Because you're gonna be stuck like that for a while," he warned with a polite smile.She nodded back. "Mhmm. No problem!" She turned her head back to where she was facing and smiled at the wall of art. This was going to be okay.::::This was not okay.Rayla has no idea what to make of Callum. His face was currently bunched up in a tight fit, he looked angry at his canvas, but the light brushes with his pencil left her wondering if he was just hiding how frustrated he was. Several minutes had passed and they fell into silence. A long, quiet silence. If she listened hard enough Rayla could hear the sound of his pencil dragging along the canvas, but aside from her deep breathing, nothing. Callum made no comment ever since they started, but Rayla couldn't help but feel like she was already messing up.Maybe he said her pose was okay to spare her feelings?Her lips fell at the thought. This was ridiculous. She wasn't a model. She didn't even understand why she was so eager to try this. She knew next to nothing about how to do this sort of stuff. She felt awkward even though she chose a pose that was comfortable for her. She felt stiff under his observant eyes and felt like her posture was unsatisfactory or something. He merely set upon her a calculating stare, as if he were scanning her like a barcode.She felt weird.Most especially since there hadn't been any discussion between the two. After all that banter in the stadium, it all cultivated to an anticlimactic silence. He did say he usually worked in silence, but he also said talking was a welcomed change. Was she suppose to start conversation? Was that his invitation for her to do so?Deciding to be bold, she cleared her throat as she slightly adjusted shoulders. "So—""Oh my gosh I'm sorry!" he randomly spoke, startling her. "I totally forgot that like, you might want to talk and just went into silent spell!" He nervously rubbed the back of his head as he shot an apologetic smile. "Sorry about that. Slipped my mind."Rayla's face softened at his smile. "Nah, don't ya worry 'bout it.""It's just, your hair is beautiful," he casually added.Her face swelled with red as she stammered, "Wh-What?"Callum went on, his attention returned to the canvas. "Like, I'm still sketching you out, but working out the outlines of your hair is so interesting. It's very smooth and like, well do you watch anime?" he excitedly chirped.Rayla's eyes shot wide open. He watched—of course he did! She eagerly nodded as she exclaimed, "Yes! Of course!" She watched him startle at her pitch, causing her to clear her throat and settle down. "I-I mean, yeah… I do…""Well, you've got a very anime-esque hairstyle." He laughed. "Like seriously, girls must be jealous trying to copy it because it's so picturistic and like, very animated—like an artist's fine touch but brought to life," he nonchalantly explained, "It's amazing, and I could get lost in drawing it all day!"Now Rayla's face had been flushed ever since Callum started his casual compliments, but that last sentence really sent her from cherry red to full blown tomato. Did he really just say all that? "I-I, um… th-thank ya," she managed to reply. "I… I like your hair too…" what was she saying? "It's very… chocolatey. Nice." She winced as she watched him poke his head around the easel. His face looked as flushed as she felt. "I mean—""Thanks," he beamed, "I-I appreciate it?" It seemed like a question, but he hastily shook his head and added, "I just realized I sort of went into another spell there. Kinda rambled. S-Sorry about that. If it uh… weirded you out y'know?" He sheepishly shrugged before returning to the covers of his canvas.Rayla shook her head. This was amazing. He was feeling the exact same way. He was…Nervous too!A sigh of relief blossomed over her as she smiled at Callum. "Don't worry 'bout it. All these lil' spells of yours are actually pretty fun." She giggled, silently relishing in the visual relief that took up in his expression before sliding behind his canvas. "Member, I came here because I also wanted to see your artwork." She could do this.Callum poked his head out again and smiled with a raised brow. "Oh yeah, about that! You said you're a fan of my work?" A broad throwaway topic, but she gathered he was prompting her to talk more about it.Rayla nodded. "Yup. I started going to the art showcases my first month at Katolis, because I've always had a love for the arts," she proudly stated. "The second I heard about it I had to go. And I was so glad I did!" A content sigh escaped as she reminisced all her attendances. "I just wandered around the floor talking to artists about their pieces—""You see Rashan's?""You mean him and his beautiful contrasting landscapes?"Callum grinned as he snapped his fingers. "That'd be the one."She nodded. "Aye, I did. I really do love his attention to detail and his theme of distorted community in nearly every one. It's beautiful." She smiled as she stared at Callum's wall of artwork. "But, one caught my eye that garnered some confusion. It was a beautiful painting of an empty park bench, ol' gray and cold, but yet there's a centred field of view on it for some reason. Then there's a bunch of other people, in black silhouettes, just staring at this vacant spot—surrounding all around this bench. Now I thought it was a piece on society's way of idolizing cultural figureheads not because they're good or influential, but because they have a position or platform of power—hence why it's empty, to show the hive minded perceptions we all have—""It was! Glad you could see that!""—But there wasn't a single artist around to stand by it and agree or disagree! Not a one!" Callum's excitement shot down a few pegs as he winced. "I waited, because I figured he or she went to the restroom but after twenty to thirty minutes of hoverin' I asked an attendant and they said that this particular artist doesn't show up to his showcases very often!" She watched as the artist in teasing shrink at her taunt. "Imagine that! Somethin' so beautiful and not a single soul around to talk about it."Callum sheepishly laughed at her gaze. "I uh, don't really have the courage to stand up to a couple of lingering eyes.""Pfft, Callum, whenever I visit your showcase at those galleries yours has more than a couple," she easily countered. It was true. There was always a good amount of people gathered around his artwork, and like she had, waiting around for an artist to claim it and speak about it.He sighed. "Not exactly encouraging me, Rayla."She rolled her eyes. "Callum, if ya can talk pretty about an empty football arena ya can do the same for your art." Her eyes shot up as she began looking around the room, realizing something very important."Hey, can you try not to move so much?""Sorry, sorry," she winced as she kept her gaze back on the wall. "I uh, was looking for that finished piece ya were blocked on awhile ago?" She smiled. "Ya said ya'd show it to me?"She glanced over and noticed his face light up. "Oh right!" He walked away from his easel and over to an adjacent easel, carefully bringing it over for her to see. "It's another piece about spotlights!"Rayla's jaw dropped at the sight of the painting. The lime green grass, the yellow glinted gleam of the spotlight, the shadowy atmosphere of the seats, and the exclusive focus on the emptiness—it was exactly like she always saw it. Every single time before a big game, every single time she sat in those stands and looked on to the empty arena that was her turf. It was nearly a picture perfect replica. The only exception was the shadowy figure stood in the centre of the field, all by their lonesome, like a mere speck. She couldn't make out if it was anyone of significance, but it was clear that they weren't exactly a centred focus, just someone lurking within the spotlight. It was…"Beautiful," she muttered. "Cal… that's… that's amazing!" She exclaimed. "Seriously! Like, ya managed to perfectly capture the entire stadium! An-And after seeing it once? How did ya… how even?"He shrugged as he rubbed the back of his head. "Uhh, we all have our talents I guess," he joked.Rayla laughed. "Yeah, and yours seems to clearly shine." He seriously was talented. It was ridiculous how reminiscent the entire piece looked, and she only felt that from a distance. If she were even closer where she could notice the finer details? She groaned as she threw back her head. "Now I really want ya to finish this sketch so I can look at that up close!"Callum chuckled as he returned to his easel, picking up on his sketch. "Relax, relax, I promise I'd show you stuff and I will!" he lightly assured her. "Besides, you make it sound like a sketch of yourself isn't anything to glance at."Rayla snorted. "Please, with what else ya've been creating? I'm the least interesting muse ya ever could've had.""Is that a fact? Because," he smirked as he grabbed his easel and turned it around for Rayla, "I think it's coming along nicely."It was her.A very rough, unfinished sketch of her. Her hair, her face, her smile, her physique—it was just her. She couldn't describe it as anything else. Yet, what stood out to her the most was the level of detail. It didn't feel like his other pieces, ones that told stories of personal opinions and past sufferings. This told her something different. Of course it was merely just a rough sketch, but there was a vibe to it. Something about it spoke out to her. And she wasn't sure what it was."I like your smile," he suddenly said.She blinked out of her trance and met his sincere eyes. "What?"His face flushed slightly as he chuckled. "I-I mean, like… it looks nice. Very… genuine? I dunno it was my favourite feature to draw…"Rayla's lips upturned at his words as she felt her shoulders relax. She had felt so stiff and awkward this entire time, but something about Callum just eases her down. She nodded at him. "Thanks. Ya… Ya're doing great so far."He beamed up at her praise. "Really? Oh my god thank goodness, I was worried for a second." He turned the easel back to his face and returned to sketching. "I-I always get nervous about doing hands so I was so glad you put them in your pockets!" he mused.Rayla laughed. "Well maybe next time ya sketch me I'll be sure to show 'em off more."His head popped around the easel. "Next time?"She smiled at him. There was something going on here. Whether it was obvious or not wasn't exactly something Rayla concerned herself with. It went beyond that. Her attention was more deliberate on what they were doing. They were talking, laughing, and learning about each other. Something about that touched Rayla. It was nice. It was a kind of nice she didn't want to let go of yet. All these feelings she had, and whatever one's he had, were all out on the floor, just there. It felt like it was a moment, the moment, to finally do something. To say something. But when she found his grassy green eyes, the excitement laced behind them, she thought against it."Yeah, next time, if ya'd like."He smiled back. "Yeah, I would…"Because none of that mattered. For now, they were a work in progress.
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Meeting The Parents (Technically)
"Ya ready?"Rayla's voice startled Callum from his sketchbook, nearly causing him to fall off the Shadowpaw. She had reached out and grabbed his shoulder, stabilizing him as he situated himself. He met her eyes with a thankful stare as she sheepishly shrugged. "Sorry, I kinda scared ya huh?"He laughed, "Something like that, yeah." He closed his book with his pencil inside and smiled at her. "And, to answer your question, I'm not sure."She furrowed a brow. "Why not?"He shrugged. "I dunno, last time it felt different. There was a lot of stress, and no one could even see me! Now it's…""Better," Rayla grabbed his hand, interlocking their fingers as she held them up, "It's better because they can see ya now." Her smile easily reflected into his, leaving the two the grin like a bunch of children.Callum's eyes lit up as he noticed the familiar landmark. "Oh, we're here!" he pointed at the flat lands.Rayla turned her body around and chuckled. "Wow, your memory serves as a nice navigator." She brought their ride to a stop before they hopped off. "I lived here my whole life and didn't start memorizing my way back until I was nine!"Callum chuckled as he walked alongside Rayla. "Yeah, well, my parents did always say it was something special. Claudia actually suspected I had some magical abilities or something because of how descriptive my memory can be." A frown fell on his face as the thought of his friend flashed through his mind.Claudia left.She was missing now.He shouldn't look back on memories like that—"Hey," a sudden hand on his shoulder brought him out of his trance. He glanced up and smiled at Rayla's violet eyes. "It's okay to think about her. To… talk about it ya know?" She smiled at him, a look that practically told him she understood. She knew it wasn't exactly something they could gloss over."I know." He nodded. "But, that's not important right now." He plucked Rayla's hand off his shoulder, slowly dragging his fingers through hers as he parted ways from her. He assumed the stance, beginning the ritual to enter the village. He smiled at her, waiting for her to join in."Right," she agreed.::::When Callum first heard of Moonshadow Elves, he conjured up a demonic elf with scary horns and dangerous blades covered in blood. He imagined intimidating creatures with violent and fierce gestures of practical everyday movements. He imagined monsters, to simply put it. But he never imagined the very first Moonshadow elf he'd ever see, was the prettiest person he would ever encounter. And never would he imagine that said person would become his girlfriend. Needless to say his image of Moonshadow Elves changed like clockwork. So Callum would have never imagined that the very first time he'd ever see a village of Moonshadow Elves (the first time didn't exactly count since they had no faces), he would be met with a round of cheering and roaring applause.But lo and behold, that was what exactly he and Rayla met upon entering after their ritual.And it wasn't any mere illusion.He had never seen such a literal display of the term "open arms" until today. People welcomed them with smiles and occasional embraces of greatly wide open arms. Even Callum received some thankful hugs of his own, along with some hearty handshakes of approval. It was very real. Just like the bashful smile on Rayla's face with each and every Elf that passed her way. They were making her know that her banishment was null and void. They were reinstilling her faith in their village. They were affirming that she was, in fact, a hero. And she deserved it. Callum had no doubt about that either."Th-Thank ya, thank ya so much," she smiled as she shook the last set of hands before reaching the stairs. She turned around and met Callum's eyes with a shy look. "W-Wow, I never thought—""Get used to it Ray," Callum grinned as he approached her, taking her hand. "Because you're a hero. And, you deserve this."She mirrored his smile. "So do ya," she tightened her grip on his hand, intertwining their fingers as she nodded her head upward. "Now c'mon. Let's go see Ethari." The eagerness in her tone slightly eased Callum's nerves as she led him up the steps. The last time they walked up these steps, he recalled feeling anxious and worried, wondering about the possibilities of Rayla's curse being removed, stressing about the likely scenario of him not even liking Callum at all. And now? He felt the same amount of worry and anxiety as before. The only change was that his focus was strictly on him now. Could he really meet the expectations of this amazing engineer? Someone Rayla had praised to be the village's greatest craftself? The odds felt nowhere near Callum's favour.Before he could even allow the regrets and doubts to change his mind, he and Rayla found themselves at the foot of Ethari's workshop, right before the door. He expected Rayla to push open the doors like last time, but instead, she excitedly brought out her index finger and pushed a small button on the frame of the door. After a moment, a rhythmic chime echoed from what sounded like the interior of the building, keying to a tune of that a nice jingle. Callum's eyes lit up in wonder, and judging by his girlfriend's reaction, she had been waiting for his reaction to that."Coming!" Ethari's voice shouted from within.The human mage couldn't help but ask, "Okay, what was that?" He gestured cluelessly toward the door, obviously unsure of what and where that came from.Rayla grinned. "It's called a doorbell. Ethari came up with this design a while ago for our village, and then went onto to spread his design to the rest of the kingdoms. It's a lil' jingle that plays whenever someone pushes the button so it lets residents know there's someone at their door. They're still being produced so some houses have them in the main settlements of Xadia, but our village is the only one that has a doorbell in every household," she proudly informed him."Wow… that's amazing…" Callum said in awe. "Think we can steal that idea? I'd love to see the Katolis gates play a tune every time we had a visitor."Rayla chuckled. "Ya'd have to ask Ethari, his invention afterall."The doors swung open and right before them stood the craftself himself. He had a wide smile on his lips as a teasing look fell upon him. He crossed his arms at Rayla as he leaned up against the doorframe. "I'm afraid Rayla gives me far too much credit Prince Callum, it was just my prototype I made—the actual idea came from my workshop group as a whole.""Which he leads," Rayla not-so-quietly whispered behind her hand.Callum chuckled as Ethari rolled his eyes. He watched the two drop their hands and stare at each other with happy faces. The next second, they lunged at each other with open arms, wrapping them around in a tight embrace. He watched as the two elves swelled up in their moment, soaking in every breath. Tears practically fell from Ethari's eyes like waterfalls. He quietly uttered, "Ya're home…" he sniffed away a tear and pulled away from Rayla, still holding onto her shoulders. "I'm… I'm so glad ya came back. I'm… sorry—""It's fine," Rayla quickly dismissed, shaking her head. "It's fine.""Rayla, I—""Ethari," she reached up and held his shoulders, smiling at him with that warming smile that made Callum giddy, "We're good. We're fine."He laughed, as if in amazement, as he nodded at her. "Yeah ya are. Ya're beyond fine. Ya did it. Ya saved the Queen. The Prince. All of Xadia and the human kingdoms!"Rayla chuckled as she nodded her head over something Callum, shooting him a knowing look as she said, "Well, I had some help…"Ethari's eyes lit up as he rushed over to Callum, who had stuck out his hand expecting a firm shake, but instead met him with a thankful embrace. He tightened his hold as he whispered to the boy, "Thank ya for bringing her back safe and sound. For watchin' over her."Callum awkwardly laughed, slowly bringing his arms up to return the hug, patting the elf's back with hesitance. "Hah, well, um don't give me all the credit. Trust me, she probably could've done it on her own if I wasn't such an important piece to the whole plan." His eyes shot wide as he backed away from the craftself. "N-Not that I think I'm like, a big shot or anything. I'm not! R-Really! I meant that I was needed for the plan, her plan, R-Rayla's plan! She could've done it without—""Callum," Ethari chuckled. He placed a firm hand on his shoulder and smirked. "It's fine. I get what ya're trying to say. But that needn't matter. Because I'm thankful that ya were there for her. Especially when I…"Wasn't.Both Callum and Rayla knew what was hanging on the edge of his lips. It was unspoken but the air hung just enough silence for them to grasp at what he was going to say. It was no secret that the guilt must have been eating at him ever since the Queen sent out messengers to all the villages about the two of them did. They had heard the rumours spewing all over Xaida, the Step-Prince of Kaolis and daughter of the Moonshadow Dragon Guard, returned the Dragon Prince to the Dragon Queen. Hearing such news brought a pleasant rise to the Moonshadow Village, and Rayla was immediately asked to return—bringing Callum as well of course.Throughout all of that time however, Ethari has been waiting. Most likely rattled with guilt for how he acted when he first saw Rayla, for doing the spell. He had helped them of course, and arguably without his help they would've never been to the Dragon Queen's nest in time. But he must've been so ashamed of himself the entire time. And then to learn they succeeded? Callum didn't even want to think about the amount of guilt the elder elf had right now. From what he had heard from Rayla, Ethari was the missing mother figure in her life after her parents disappeared. Both Runaan and Ethari seemed to fill that void for her. And the Step Prince was willing to bet that connection went both ways.He felt like he betrayed her trust, their bond.Callum reached for Ethari's hand and softly pulled it off his shoulder. "You were," he replied clasping the four fingered hand with both of his own, sandwiching it with a soft embrace. "I don't just mean because of the rides you gave us—which by the way, we lost one, sorry—but I mean…" Callum dug into his pocket, pulling out the thread that once held the moon opal pendant Ethari gifted to Rayla. The symbol of Ethari's faith in Runaan, in Rayla. "We… she did carry you with us. And you did give us strength. You helped us solve a really big mystery."As confusion struck Ethari's face as he held the thread with a firm grasp, Callum smiled knowingly at Rayla. "You wanna tell him?"She happily nodded. "Ethari… my parents…" his brows shot up at the sudden mention, "they're innocent. Callum used Historia viventem and found out what happened that day. They didn't abandon the egg. They defended it…" her proud smile slightly fell as she looked downcast. "Till their last breath. They managed to convince the dark mage to spare the egg instead of destroyin' it. Viren did somethin' to them, that's why their bodies were never found."Ethari's eyes shot wide open as he stared at Rayla. "They… they're innocent?" He looked to Callum, who confidently nodded. "I… I can't believe it…" he held his head in his hands, falling to his knees as he chuckled. "That… that does sound like your parents. I never pegged them to be cowards." He laughed as he looked up at Rayla, smiling at her proudly. "Children reflect the best parts of their parents. Ya have your father's drive, and your mother's wit. Ya don't get that from just anywhere.""But I also have your heart," Rayla quipped, "I am who I am today because of your guidance too." She held out her hand to Ethari, helping him up to his feet as she smirked. "I'm not an assassin. Ya're right. It's not somethin' I'm capable of." She looked back at Callum before continuing. "And I'm fine with that. I'm a Dragonguard. Like my parents."The elder elf stared at the young girl before him with a look of wonder. There seemed to be a mixture of emotions from what Callum gathered, but what the one jarring out at them was obvious. It was the same smile he'd seen on his mother's face each time he showed her a new drawing. It was pride. Ethari released what sounded like a pained laugh, riddled with hurt but also love. He smiled down at the thread, shaking his head as he sighed. "Runaan, he'd… he'd be proud," Ethari spoke with a sad smile, assuring her as he placed his hand on her shoulder."I hope so…" Rayla sniffed, holding back her tears, "I do have his stubbornness after all…"The two laughed as they shared one more hug, embracing each other as they revelled in the news they just shared. They were fine. Things were fine. Ethari's eyes opened as he looked to Callum, smiling at him. Thank ya, he mouthed. Callum simply shrugged, causing Ethari to roll his eyes. "Get in here ya fool," he demanded, reaching out and pulling the young mage into their heartfelt hug. He held the boy with a firm passion, and Callum's mind—for the briefest of moments—felt something familiar.A warmth that had once comforted him through the rough nights.A soft touch that once grounded his anxieties in reality.A sense of family, of security.It reminded him of his mom's hugs.Tears swelled up in Callum's eyes as he returned the hug with a fierce conviction of passion. "Thank you…" He sniffed. "For trusting me with her," he whispered. He wasn't sure how those words slipped out, or where they came from. But Callum felt like they needed to be said.After what felt like an hour's worth of warmth, the three pulled away. This time Callum and Rayla were noticeably holding hands smiling at each other. Ethari obviously noticed the gesture and smirked. "So… ya casted a Moon spell?" he cheekily inquired. A faint blush rose in Callum's cheeks as Rayla nodded for him and began to praise his abilities as the first ever Human Mage. He laughed. "Please, tell me all about your journey," he politely suggested, stepping aside to let the two in. "I'd love to know more about Rayla's boyfriend's achievements!""Ethari!" Rayla hissed as she hastily shoved said boyfriend inside."Relax, I'll be sure to trade childhood photos in return!" he replied, smug as he watched Rayla's face redden. "Would ya like to see the first time Rayla held a knife?""Would I!" Callum gasped in wonder."That's it, I'm making ya drink Moonberry juice." Rayla sneered as she led him toward the kitchen.Ethari laughed as he watched the two tease each other back and forth whilst going further into his workshop. He stopped and stared down at the thread in his hand, gently thumbing the texture of the rope as he looked away from inside his house and down at the fountain. "We'll save ya a glass, my love." He brightly smiled as he turned back and shut the door behind them. Later that day, Ethari claimed to finally have a son.
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Of Hidden Hearts & Heroes
Callum knew walking down alleyways late in the evening was dangerous, but he also knew Aunt Amaya was home tonight and quite frankly feared her punishments more than muggers. His house was a mere half an hour walk, fifteen if one ran (well, if Rayla ran), so he chanced it. Besides, his community had a fairly low crime rate and next to no action going on. The most dangerous thing he expected to run into on his way from school was a stray cat. Of course, he still carried himself with an err of caution as he maneuvered between buildings and dumpsters. Though he would never have had to do this if he just went home with Rayla as soon as school ended, but he was confident in his priorities and that the biggest issue he'd come across would be a stray cat.He stayed behind at school to work on his art project, perfecting the final touches. He didn't want to bother bringing the whole canvas home and set up all his supplies again, and so decided to power through the afternoon. Naturally Rayla warned him not to stay too late—he'd make sure not to tell her he stayed till half past six—and he affirmed her concerns. Nevertheless, he thought it was worth it considering how quickly he finished it and how well it turned out. Plus, he would still be in time for dinner. A win across three boards.If only that was how that played out.Within the first minute of Callum rushing through the alleys, it happened. Out of nowhere, a hand came out from the corner of the other alley intersecting his path and tossed him to the ground. He groaned in pain, rubbing his aching head before realizing a large hooded man in front of him—with a gun. His eyes shot wide as he held his hands up, still bruised from falling onto the pavement. "H-Hey I—""Empty your pockets," the mugger commanded.Callum froze. What was he supposed to do? "Uh, I-I um—" a hand picked him up from behind, pulling him off his rear and up to his feet. He turned his head to find another hooded figure, severely larger than the other mugger. He was so close that Callum managed to see his grimace and rough jaw he was nearly gonna faint in the spot."You heard him. Empty your pockets." He shoved him forward, nearly causing Callum to trip on his feet. "Now," he barked.The young boy flinched at his words, stuttering out a collection of, "I-I don't have much," and "you can have all my bus tokens too," and "just p-please don't hurt me." Or at least that's what he felt like he was saying. His mouth was suddenly dry and quivering. After fiddling around with his pockets, his eyes widened as he realized nothing was in them except his phone. "I-I-I don't have it," he stammered out, "My-My wallet. I don't have it."The two guys glanced at each other. "Bullshit," the man with the gun spat out, stepping forward as he placed the gun against Callum's temple. Was this seriously about to happen? "Either you give it to me. Or we take it off your corpse."He closed his eyes. What was he supposed to do? He didn't have—"Oi laddies, how 'bout ya pick on someone slightly closer to your size, aye?"Callum opened his eyes and noticed the gun was removed from his face and now aimed up at the sky. The mugger was staring up at the rooftop of the building nearby, shakily pointing his gun. "Who're you?"Callum blinked in realization. The mysterious hooded figure laughed as she stomped her boot on the edge of the roof, resting her arm on her knee. "I'm the gal who's gonna kick your asses."Without hesitation, a shot was fired. Callum flinched, stumbling backwards and right into the bigger man's arms. He held him in a firm bear hug, backing away as his accomplice fired at the woman above. She hopped off the roof to dodge his first shot, and rapidly bounced back and forth between the walls, dodging each bullet as she descended toward them. Finally, the man's gun clicked empty, and the hooded woman leapt at him, knocking him out with a punch so fast that Callum couldn't even see where it connected. All he knew was that the shooter was lying on the ground in front of them and she was suddenly behind the two. The large man whipped around and increased his tight hold on Callum as he took a few steps back. With her fists drawn and her arms positioned in a tight stance, guarding both sides of her face, she narrowed her eyes at the man.It was then Callum noticed her black eye mask perfectly situated on her face. It brought out her venomous violet eyes. "One last chance. Let him—" her eyes widened for a moment, with her mouth hanging on a word it seemed. Clearing her throat, she clenched her fists and narrowed her eyes once again. "Let him go 'fore I make yer regret it, fella," her voice suddenly went an octave higher and more masculine. It almost sounded country."I'd like to see ya try, girlie," the large man challenged.The hooded figure scoffed as she shook her head. "It's yer trip to the hospital buddy." With that, she lunged at them. The man lifted Callum up to protect his face and so all Callum could see fast approaching him was a very angry masked woman about to punch him. But instead she came to an abrupt stop, twisting her body around to the right, hooking her left leg around the mugger's leg and pulling it with her. At the same time, she pushed Callum out of the man's grip, separating the two with ease. As he tumbled out of harm's way, he glanced back in awe to witness the fight continue.Or rather, measly end.The man had fallen to the ground and rolled over on his face. He hurriedly attempted to push himself up but was too late as the masked woman rushed at him and threw a kick to his midsection, sending him a few feet back. Callum dropped his jaw, he had never seen a human fly so far from a kick before! He nearly went down the rest of the alleyway. "If yer know what's gud fer yer, yer'd be stayin' down!" The large man laid there, groaning in pain as he rolled around the ground. She turned back to Callum and randomly stiffened on the spot. What was up with her all of a sudden?That was when he realized he was finally seeing her in a closer lighting. She was clad in a navy full body suit with a black trench coat overtop, accessorized with dark teal boots and arm braces to match her palette. And her face; the hood obscured a good portion of her upper half, shadowing down to her exposed mouth. But her cheeks were styled with purple streaks of face paint that dripped down from her eyes, almost as if she was making a mask out of makeup. It was actually an intimidating blend of colour matching, one he was quite fascinated by. He took a step forward, gazing into her violet eyes… they looked like—"Oh, er, howdy there! Fellow citizen! Citizen fella! Yep! Just me…" she awkwardly spoke, placing her hands on her hips as she jut out her hip, "Yer everyday Moonshadow… friend. Not friend! Because I don't know yer! Or, I mean, we could be—" she shook her head. "Actually, yer know what? Ig-Ignore me.""So wait, it's actually you?" her eyes shot wide for a moment, "You're real?" Callum gasped in shock.She let out a small chuckle as she waved her hand. "Y-Yup! Real as can be… fella…?""Wh-What are you even doing here? You're usually so far downtown!" Callum randomly asked. He had no idea why, of all things, he was bothering asking questions."Oh, uhh, just… expandin' my field is all! I'm all over the place," she grabbed her cape and tossed it over her body, "I am the Moonshadow. I am everywhere! Where the Moon shines, and where a shadow… darks?" She smiled awkwardly as she shrugged.He stared blankly at her.Her reports were something of another story. A hooded vigilante appearing during an attempted assault and battery, murder, mugging, B and E—you name it. The small, petty crimes that would've been long done before a cop arrived, she was there. On the scene of action and calling cut. The people called her a hero, some in the police called her a questionable individual, the mayor pleaded for a meeting with her. Outright, no one in the mass public seemed afraid of her. She was welcomed. She lessened crime rates gradually and made everyone feel safe. It was the main reason Callum's parents trusted him to go downtown more—she put everyone at ease, subtly so. The hero who struck at the peak of the Moon's highest; amongst the shadowiest of places filled with lowlifes and crooked creeps, the Moonshadow roamed.And here she was, in front of him. Being… as awkward as he was. Not once did anyone report her speaking with a country accent, some had said she sounded English or Irish, of course no one heard her long enough to know. But Callum was nearly convinced this woman was his age by the way she was acting. In fact, by her height she looked a lot younger than he assumed. Her voice, height, mannerisms, it was almost like she was—"W-Whelp!" she suddenly spoke, startling Callum out of his thoughts, "I better go on an' tie up them ne'er-do-wells!" She jerked her thumb back. "Yer best run along now—" that awkward smile on her face suddenly faded as she turned her head to the right. She immediately shoved Callum back, throwing him on his rear as another large man rushed at her, body checking her against the dumpster.There was a third guy? That much for a mugging?"Seriously?" she coughed, pushing herself up off the dumpster, "this many fellas to rob one kid?" Callum mentally thanked Moonshadow for her shared sentiment. "If yer all tried an ATM, yer'd at least get 'way a bit before I'd catch yer."The third man said nothing as he cracked his neck and fingers."Ahh, tough fella eh?" Moonshadow found her footing and assumed a hardened stance. Bringing her fists up, she slightly elevated her right shin. "Makes the hits more fun," she smugly quipped.As the man rushed forward with a left hook, Moonshadow brought up her right arm to the side of her head, shielding her face from the attack. She pushed off his hand and using her left, sent a jab directly to the man's midsection, forcing him back a few feet with a loud groan. The mugger stumbled on his footing but managed to stay standing, all while Moonshadow rushed at him again. She took one step forward before twisting her torso around, extending her left leg high up as she did so, delivering a powerful kick to her opponent's head. He flew toward the wall, face first, and collapsed right against it.As his groans trailed off into silence, Moonshadow turned around and rushed over to Callum, who was still sat on the ground. "Sorry 'bout that, yer alright?" she asked as she extended a hand to help him up.Callum accepted the gesture and felt as she easily lifted up from the pavement with one pull. He had just realized she was wearing fingerless gloves, and that they seemed to give off a sort of MMA style. He smiled at her gloves. He remembered when he and Rayla talked about hero outfits before, and their exhaustive discussion about the usefulness of gloves in a costume. Callum had said the aesthetic of what went on a hero's hands or wrists could really sell an outfit, whilst Rayla argued that functionality had to count for something and so flare wouldn't really matter.He mentally laughed as he had living proof from a superhero that managed to do both."Errr, hello?" Moonshadow concernedly asked, waving her hand in front of his face. "Yer weren't concussed were yer?""N-No!" Callum blinked in response. "Sorry, I-I was just… man, my best friend would kill to be in my position right now."Her eyes lit up. "O-Oh? Would she? Or he? Or-or them?"Callum's face contorted into confusion at the heroine's stumbles. "Umm, yeah. She and I are like, really into comic book heroes."She chuckled spontaneously, heartily placing her hands on her hips. "Well, if yer well aware of them comics, yer should be more careful not to go runnin' through dark alleys, yer hear?"Callum's face flushed. "R-Right.""I even bet that friend of yers would be kickin' yer fer it!" she angrily spat.He flinched at her sudden aggression and sighed. "Yeah, she really would.""Then she's pretty smart too! Yer should listen to 'er more often!"Callum sheepishly rubbed his arm at that. "Yeah… I already do take her advice for granted…"Moonshadow's shoulders suddenly stiffened as her head tilted. "Yer… do?" He nodded shyly, this was kinda weird to talk about with a superhero. "Well, sounds like yer got yerself a real nice friend. Who really cares about yer. Probably worries non-stop about yer, pullin' off stuff like this." She cleared her throat as she confidently nodded, "Yer best make it known that yer appreciate her. Even if she already knows it—which she might, I'm guessin'."He shrugged with a laugh. It was true. Rayla really wouldn't expect anything less in return and neither did he, for they didn't exactly fill out favours. But, she genuinely was there for him through the thick and thin. Her, a football jock, constantly sticking her neck out for an art nerd like him. They had known each other since first grade and had been inseparable since. Part of their nature was just the fact that Rayla would always pick him up after falling down. Always watching over him. He mentally laughed at the idea, because it was exactly what Moonshadow had done for him.Rayla was like his own superhero. And she always made sure to be there to save him from his burning buildings of burnt out projects and muggings of mass mathematical tests. Like his own guardian angel, leaping from tall buildings and watching over him. She cared. The heart of hero…He stopped his train of thought and stared at Moonshadow's eyes. Realizing how lost in thought he was, he felt the piercing stare chase after him. It wasn't as threatening as it was when she glared at the muggers, this was different. The concern laced within them, as she suddenly placed her hand on his shoulder. She was so… familiar. So comforting.So caring."Ca—n yer hear me? Are yer okay?"Her question bounced him right back to reality. As in, the reality that he had almost just been mugged by three dudes and was saved by a superhero. He stammered out a series of sentences that not even he was sure of what they entailed. Eventually, Moonshadow calmed him down with a laugh as she placed both her hands on his shoulders and eased him gently."Listen, these fellas will be wakin' up soon. Yer best mosey yerself on home while I take care of these folk." She proceeded to gently push Callum away from the scene of the crime, walking past the unconscious men as if they weren't worth paying a second thought to. "Stick to the open streets and paths with bright lights this time."Callum shot one more glance back at the heroine just before she shoved him onto the sidewalk, witnessing her last second smile as she turned back to the alleyway and rushed towards the muggers. The mysterious nighttime vigilante, disappearing back into the shadows once again, like a figment of his imagination.He walked home that night with a muse in mind, and a scolding awaiting for him at home. But also, with a lot more questions than answers.::::Rayla walked into Katolis High feeling very sore that morning. And exhausted. And tired.But most of all, she was pissed.That dumb, idiotiotic, best friend of hers, didn't hear a word she said yesterday and did the exact one thing she told him not to do. "Don't sweat it Rayla, these final touches will barely take half an hour!" And then she runs into him in the middle of the damn evening, surrounded by three muggers in a dark alley. Rayla always began her patrols at six o'clock, but wasn't against early starts depending on when the Moon was out and visible. Unfortunately—or rather, fortunately—she caught a gang drug deal in an abandoned warehouse in the middle of downtown, just a few blocks down from the art district and broke it up before anything went anywhere.Over twenty armed men with AR-15s and only one her. Odds were practically even. Except for the random grenade launcher one of the goons had whipped out, as the one and only shot they had fired sent a support beam straight to her back, causing her to go flying across the warehouse and into a cushion of wooden crates. Rayla thanked the Moon that she could heal fast. But it still hurt like hell. The apparent downsides of having powers strengthened by Moonlight was that daytime meant everything slowed. Meaning, healing was at a natural pace during the day. And so, the pain of being thrashed around by explosives and giant muggers started to catch up on her back.So Rayla was sore, exhausted, and tired."Hey Ray!"Oh yes, and pissed.The secret heroine in question didn't even acknowledge the voice behind her as she stomped off to her locker. As she spun through her combo lock, Callum's hand tapped her shoulder—right on the spot she landed against when she was body checked into a dumpster. She seethed in pain as she barked out, "What Callum!"Right as she met his eyes, she immediately regretted her tone. The concern in his eyes as he tilted his head, gently asking if she was okay, made her recall how annoying her situation was. She couldn't be mad because she wasn't even supposed to know he was mugged! Now she had to feign ignorance under the pretense that he would tell her, or blissfully act like she didn't know anything if he chose not to tell her."Sorry, I—er, hurt my arm throwin' yesterday," she quickly amended. She slowly rotated her left shoulder to demonstrate, but elicited a small groan because it really hurt more than she was selling.Callum's brows contorted into confusion as he said, "But I thought your practice ended early yesterday? 'Member? You tried to get me to go home with you before you left?"Rayla almost face palmed as she rolled her eyes. Why was she so bad at this? Callum's hand touching her shoulder, again, startled her out of her thoughts once more. But not painfully… very comfortingly. He seemed more aware of his touch on her this time. Because of course he would be careful like that."Ray?""Oh, er, well it was fine, but I guess I pulled somethin' and didn't realize ya know?" she casually shrugged, regrettably causing Callum to retract his hand. "Just woke up today feelin' sore is all." Her eyes lit up as she jumped on the segue, "Speaking of yesterday, how did your project go? Finished it all in one go? On time? No, uh, late night runs through dark alleys?" She had hoped the on-the-nose joke would offer incentive for him to fuss up.Callum's face fell into a contortion of forced smiles but mixed with embarrassed panic. Suffice it to say, she could tell he felt stupid about not taking her advice. Which was good."Umm… I uh, kinda…" he sheepishly rubbed the back of his head as he cleared his throat. "Tripped on my home, in an alley."Her face nearly dropped. He was gonna lie about it? Why?"Then I got all turned around, a bit lost but…" a smile glistened his face, the same smile that managed to brighten her day without fail. She easily forgot about her momentary frustrations, now in awe of his sudden elated expression. "I was uh, I was saved."Her brows raised, trying to follow his narrative, she recited, "Ya were saved, after tripping and gettin' lost in an alley? How?""Yeah just some… angel dropped by. Picked me up on my feet and helped me find my way home— safely," he hastily added, throwing her a smirk.Her brows remained confused as she desperately tried to trace his tracks of an off the rails story. What was he trying to sell? Even if Rayla didn't already know what happened, what Callum was saying made less sense. "An angel?" she scoffed, staring at him curiously.He shrugged as he turned to his locker, now unlocking it and sorting out his textbooks. "Yup. Gave me some good advice too." He slammed his locker shut, snapping Rayla out of her focused trance as he met her eyes with his.This felt different.He was suddenly so close, almost as if he was a breath away. And he was—she realized, as her breathing bounced off his face and toward hers. Why was he...so close all of a sudden? Part of Rayla wanted to close her eyes, and just pucker her lips, hoping that what was about to happen was actually going to happen. But another part of her held onto her backpack straps with a vice grip, fear screaming into her instincts that something was amiss. But she knew Callum.She knew there was nothing to be afraid of."I know I don't always say it, but I'm glad I have you, Ray," he quietly spoke, flashing a modest amount of pearly whites. She couldn't even stutter back a response as he continued, "I know you're always there for me… in any way possible. And I'm thankful to know you'll always be there for me."He slowly drifted back, as if he had finished soaking up her air and was satisfied with leaving her breathless for no damn reason. She managed to stammer out, "A-Aye…" as he backed away."Just remember it's a two way street, you can tell me anything," he flashed a wink and chuckled, "and I mean it." And with that, the darn bell shot Rayla out of her spell, reminding her that her stupid school days always began with the one class she and Callum didn't share together. Physics wasn't fun without him, but now it would be impossible as she was still watching him as he rushed down the halls.Slowly, she made her way over to science labs, thinking about how random Callum was. But she knew it wasn't random. His words, had he taken Moonshadow's—her—advice to heart last night? Was a mugger scare all he needed to confess to her?Or… did he know that she had a crush on him? And did he want her to admit it?She shook her head, forcing herself to focus on her path toward class before she got anymore distracted thinking—"...In any way possible…"Her body froze as it all suddenly clicked.Or did he… know that?Rayla turned back at the near empty alls, staring down the hallway, where Callum once was. She was sore, exhausted, tired, and now? Extremely confused.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Anniversary
"Mum, what should I get Rayla?"Callum's mother shot her head up from out of her papers as she raised a curious brow over to her son, who was sketching by the windowsill. "For what, dear?" she asked, returning her attention to her papers."For our anniversary!"Sarai dropped her pen as she stared at her son with wide eyes. His casual demeanor left her spirling with dozens of questions. If he wanted to get her a present, for an anniversary, did that mean… they were already together? When did that even happen? Were they just hiding it this entire time? How did this even happen? How far did it go, could it have gone toward betrothal—would they even know such a thing?The Queen rose up from her seat in a haste, startling her son with the sound of her chair scraping against the floor. The frightened expression on his face bore a reminder into her mind: why wasn't she more concerned with the fact that they were still children and were far too young to be betrothed. Despite what Harrow, Runaan, and Tiadrin thought, both Lain and Sarai were aware that their kids were not mature enough to be romantically involved, yet. But all were obviously still rooting for them.Carefully, she decided to question Callum about this. "Umm, Callum, when did you both uh, settle on this anniversary?"His brief shock immediately subsided with a smile as he answered, "You know when Mum! The beginning of this coming month!" Sarai stared at her son in confusion. Picking up on this, Callum chuckled. "You're so silly Mum! Remember? End of the War Festival? When I met Rayla?"Her eyes lit up as she gasped, "Ohhh! You mean when you and Rayla became friends? That type of anniversary!"Her son tilted his head in confusion. "What else would I be thinking of?"Sarai sweetly smiled as she shook her head. "Nothing, dear." She walked over to her child and sat beside him grooming his hair as he returned to his sketches—which were of Rayla of course. She chuckled at the thought. Of course they would want to celebrate their friendship anniversary, they once dedicated a random cake to it! "So, you want to get Rayla a present?"Callum nodded with a hum as he began shading in Rayla's outfit. Saria swore he could practically sketch her in his sleep at this point. "It's been five years, already! What means five years in gift form?"Sarai laughed at the question. "Sweetie, you don't have to specifically get her something related to the five years. She'll know. Just get her something to show your appreciation for her.""Like a sword?"She smirked. "She might have enough of those, but if you want to—""What about a whole bucket of Moonberry juice?"Sarai laughed. "I'm sure she already has barrels full of them.""What about another cake?""We'll have one at the dinner."Callum quirked a brow as his mother rose up from her spot. "Dinner?""Yes! After all, this celebration is not just you and Rayla's friendship, but also Runaan's! We should have a big dinner together!" She clasped her hands together and excitedly as she hurried over to her desk. "Oh I must ask if Rayla's parents will be able to join us this time! Maybe Runaan will finally bring that husband of his!" She quickly began conjuring up a letter for Runaan, leaving her son to pout annoyedly."Mum, what about my gift for Rayla!" he whined.She chuckled as she continued to write. "Sweetheart, as long as it comes from your heart and shows your genuine appreciation for Rayla's relationship with you, you'll be fine."Although Callum smiled, he had no idea what his mother was on about. At all…::::"Hello! Anyone home?" Lain called out as he and his wife entered their home. He retrieved Tiadrin's sword and placed it on a stand along with his polearm. "Wonder where they are…" he muttered as his wife sauntered into the living room, diving onto the sofa."Ahh, they'll be fine, love." She relaxably kicked her feet up on their table—a very expensive table both Lain and Ethari told her was an antique—and released a content sigh as she relaxed into the chair. "Thunder knows those bastards ain't gettin' into any trouble soon."A small gasp erupted from above, startling the couple onto their feet in alarm. They saw in their rafters two familiar individuals: their daughter and her mentor, one fiercely gripping onto the support beams while the other lounged like it was a bed. Rayla pointed her finger at mother, still maintaining her balance as she shouted, "Mummy cursed again!"She rolled her eyes as she crossed her arms, whilst her spouse shook his head. "Why in the bloody Moon are ya up in the ceiling?""She wanted to surprise ya," Runaan supplied, now finding a sudden interest in a book he pulled out."And ya went along with it?" Tiadrin accused with a smirk. "Since when did ya get so soft Runaan?""I made him do it," Ethari's voice chimed in from the kitchen. He turned into the living room with a tray of Moonberry juice, smiling at the two. He set the tray down on the table and extended his arms. "Welcome back ya two!" he embraced them with warm hugs, leaving Tiadrin to look up at her daughter smugly."Now that is how ya welcome your parents!"Rayla pouted then proceeded to drop down to the floor, startling Ethari and Lain's hearts for a moment, while Runaan and Tiadrin smiled proudly at her textbook landing. "Sorry Mum," she mumbled as she ran to her mother, hugging her tightly.She laughed at her daughter's firm hug and lifted her up to peck her cheek. "It's aight darlin'." She winked. "Ya know Da and I aren't going nowhere.""Now can I get my hug too?" Lain asked, holding his arms out with a smile."Better," Tiadrin replied as she walked over to her husband, hugging him with Rayla in between them."Fair enough."As the three's hug came to an end, Rayla asked, "Da, did ya get the thing I asked for?"He nodded as he pulled out a small bag, handing it to Rayla for her to inspect. Her eyes shined as the bag illuminated once she opened it, but after seeming satisfied she tucked it into her belt. "Why'd want that for a souvenir Ray?" Tiadrin asked."Secret!" she giggled.Runaan dropped down and stood beside his beloved, holding his hand as he smiled at the sight of the happy family. The three began a round of whispers as her parents tried to pry the secret out of her. Watching over Rayla was a welcomed gift in their lives, but Runaan was glad Avizandum allowed his guards to holiday every now and then. Rayla deserved to have her parents in her life. And whilst they could try living vicariously through the letters both he and Rayla sent them, he knew they appreciated being her life to see and hear her tell the stories.He smiled back at his husband, lifting their interlaced hands and kissing Ethari's, gently. He internally patted himself on the back for causing his spouse to blush, but outwardly beamed a brighter smile."Wow, Runaan showin' affection? War may long be over but seems like it's still the end times," Tiadrin jested, putting her daughter down as she smirked.Runaan rolled his eyes. "Excuse me for enjoyin' the moment, Tia," her face contorted into a scowl, "but I like relishing in moments like these.""True, I may be the softie but Runaan's a sentimental Elf," Ethari teased, chuckling alongside the rest of the adults."What does that mean, Da?" Rayla asked, looking up at him."It means Runaan has big feelings for personal things, things that make him happy," he happily answered."Like King Harrow and Queen Sarai?" she tilted her head.Lain smiled as she rubbed his daughter's head. "Yes, I have no doubt they are a part of that."Runaan rolled his eyes, "Speaking of, since ya are in town, we'll be heading back to Katolis again, for the End of the War celebration. Might be a nice time for ya to join us?"They had already met the royal couple and their son before, on a delegation with Avizandum. The Dragon Guard were assigned there and met them, immediately becoming fast friends with the two. Also throwing their chips into their children's relationship—Tiadrin practically became their bard, she almost set up a date right on the spot but Lain reminded her they were on duty. It was a moment, but Runaan knew they wanted to meet again. Of course that was the only way the four would ever interact, was through delegation meetings only and only ever in Xadia. And Rayla, most especially, wanted them to meet again in the Human Kingdoms.Which was no doubt obvious as at current, the assassin-in-training was bouncing in place, smiling at her parents. "Ma, Da, are ya comin'! Please, please, please, please come! Callum can show ya his drawings! He has some really cool ones of me," at that her parents' brows rose in interest, "and maybe he'll draw ya too!"Tiadrin turned to her husband, beaming. "Well, ya always did say ya wanted to see the Human Kingdoms. And Katolis is known for throwin' the best celebration parties.""Yeah! People from all over the Human Kingdoms visit for the festival!" Rayla chimed in.Lain chuckled, "Relax darlin', we're going, we're going. We already planned on—"The rest of the sentence was shortened by their daughter's loud cheer. "Yes! Yaaaay!" She hugged both her parents and pulled away in excitement, beaming brightly at them. "This is perfect! Ya can help me prep for my anniversary with Callum!" she announced as she ran off to her room.All four adults froze on the spot, simultaneously shouting, "Anniversary?"::::"Ohh, thank Thunder, ya thought so too?" Lain asked, holding his heart as Sarai chuckled into her tea."Yes, I nearly thought they were playing us from the start!" she laughed.Runaan rolled his eyes. "Ya should've seen her mother, Tiadrin was ready to starting collecting coins thinkin' she won the bet." He scoffed into his tea, rolling his eyes at the memory.Harrow stopped eating as he shot a look at the Elf of topic. "What, no, I said before they're of marrying age!"Tiadrin snorted, swallowing her massive bite of a baguette. "Aye, and I said before they're of marryin' age, but one year under yours. I don't know if ya every gambled, my king, but that renders all years under me under my belt, not yours!" she smirked, teasingly pointing her baguette at the man.He gasped. "That's not how that works! If anything we should split the pool!""Are ya naff? Not on my life!" Tiadrin chuckled."Spar?" Harrow tempted, extending his hand out, "Winner can claim the pool, loser has to change their bidding.""Deal," Tiadrin agreed, firmly clasping onto the King of Katolis' hand."Harrow," Sarai scolded."Tiadrin," Lain chided."If ya're forgetting," Runaan spoke up, "first of, they aren't dating. So no one even won. And second, we already agreed no one can change their bid."Tiadrin scoffed. "Nah ya numpty, this is for later. We'll have to settle this eventually!""Can ya at least watch your language?" Lain sighed. "The children'll be back soon. And I already caught Rayla teachin' Callum how to say bastard."Sarai and Runaan palmed at their faces whilst Tiadrin laughed, all while Harrow and Lain shook their heads. If there was ever someone who took Harrow and Sarai's advice of, "No formalities, please! We're all friends!" it would be Tiadrin. When she was Dragon Guard, she was serious—as serious as she could be—and respectful. But off the job, she was the most foul mouthed and irritable Elf one could encounter. Perhaps a good drinking buddy (yes there is rum at the table), but definitely not one to mince her words."Ahh relax, Ethari's with the kids. His virgin ears'll probably purify those darn kids more than I can corrupt them." she waved her hand casually, reaching for the cup of rum. Harrow hurriedly removed the beverage from her vicinity, causing a whine to erupt."I think we should cut you off tonight.""Pfft, fine, I was giving ya the advantage for our spar later. Ya could use the edge."Harrow narrowed his brows."Sarai rolled her eyes again. "Harro—" he chugged the remainder of Tiadrin's drink, slamming the empty mug onto the table"I don't need a handicap!"The rest of the adults sighed as the two began a drinking competition.Soon enough, the hall doors opened and only Ethari came strolling through. Lain was the first to acknowledge their children's absence. The tinkerer merely shrugged in response. "Callum said he wa getting his gift from his room and Rayla was getting hers from the guest room but when I went to the spot they said they'd meet me they didn't show." Runaan and Sarai exchanged a smile. Whilst Harrow howled in laughter Tiadrin followed suit, clearly not getting it but just enjoying the moment nonetheless. "What, what is it?" Ethari questioned.Runaan sighed. "Ahh, beloved, ya've been played.""So they were planning to exchange gifts in secret?" Lain deduced. Sarai nodded. "See it's things like that, that make me think they're already together!""Might as well be!" Tiadrin chirped. "Now pay me!""No no, no… no," Harrow slurred, "Must… fight first. Money later."She nodded back. "Yes yes. Duels…"Lain held his head as he sighed. "I'm gonna get a headache tomorrow.""So will she," Runaan jested.Sarai took the moment to step from out of her seat and sauntered over to the window sill, looking down into the courtyard. "Sarai?" Ethari called out as he moved back toward his seat at the table, near Runaan."You all think it's in secret, but come now, we all know where they like to play and meet." Without hesitation, the window sill was filled with all six adults, cramming the spot as they all looked down below.Surely enough, at a lone bench underneath the tree, Rayla and Callum were sat together, holding their presents behind their backs as they smiled.Callum had never felt so nervous before. Well, there was the time Rayla saw his drawings for the first time… and the time she saw his drawings of her for the first time, but this was definitely up there. After advice from his mother, he decided to stop asking people for help with Rayla's gift—his father suggested a ring, he wasn't sure why—and get her gift himself. He knew it had to be special, as his mother said, and hoped this would be something she liked."Here Ray," he meekly offered, extending the wrapped gift toward her. She put aside her gift and accepted the package.She slowly unwrapped the present, her hands shaking with excitement at each pull of paper. And it was revealed: a book. It had a leather bound cover, black, and had a strap attached to its spine. She flipped through the pages, finding each one to be blank. She blinked up at him in confusion."It's a sketchbook. Like the one my dad got me, it has a strap too. You can wear it and take it with you." He sheepishly rubbed the back of his head he continued, "I-I, know you like my sketches and I thought you might want to try drawing too. So, I thought I'd get you something you can draw in too! I-I could teach you how to… draw, too. So we both can draw together?"Rayla's look of confusion subsided instantaneously as she embraced her best friend with a tight hug. She really didn't know what to say. She wasn't much of an artist, but it was only because she never really had time to draw or try to. That was why when she met Callum she always wanted to see his drawings. She wanted to try herself, but she didnt' want to bother Callum with it. She started to understand his sketchbook meant a lot to him, which is why she handled it with more care as she held it when he let her see, but she didn't want to invade that space.Her book. Her sketchbook, was practically similar to his. She smiled as she pulled away, whispering, "Thank ya Callum. I'll take good care of it." She whipped her body around and shoved her gift toward Callum, muttering a quick, "Here ya go!"Callum managed to catch it, and carefully observed the container. It was a small, rectangular box. Elven wood obviously, but it seemed so… personal. Delicate for a wooden box, he felt like he needed to be careful opening it. Slowly, he unclasped the lock and pulled open the box. His eyes widened at the sight. It was a bracelet. A silver chained band that circled around a small glowing orb. It had a pulsating energy to it, it felt… alive."It's a Primal Stone."His eyes grew wider at Rayla's elaboration."I… I asked Da if he could get one from Avizandum, and then I had Ethari make me a bracelet." She shyly shrugged as she hugged her new sketchbook close to her chest. "I put it together myself.""Wh… Why?" Callum asked, "Aren't these super rare?""Aye," she nodded. "It's because... ya said ya didn't want to learn sword fighting. And that ya couldn't learn Magic. But, that's not true!" she pointed at the bracelet. "With that, ya can make spells like a Sky Mage!"His fascination grew as he heard the words. He… could be a Mage? That was possible?"I… I don't know much Sky spells but I can help ya! And then we can be a party! Like ya said—""The ones I drew about. Our adventures.""Aye."With an excited smile, Callum clasped the bracelet around his right wrist, feeling elated at its perfect fit. He turned to Rayla and gave her a big hug, whispering, "Thanks Ray. I'll learn as much as I can.""Happy anniversary Cal.""Happy anniversary Ray."The two pulled away, taking a second to admire their gifts. Up above, their watchers were struggling as Tiadrin slipped and was now dangling outside of the window. "Lift with your back, ya bloody babies!""I can drop you, you know!" Harrow barked, as he fiercely pulled on her right hand. Lain had her left, whilst Sarari and Runaan attempted to pull by holding onto Lain and Harrow. Ethari had no room to help and found himself worriedly waiting aside."Good, ya could use the advantage for later!" she laughed."That's it!" Harrow released her hand and hopped out the window attempting to attack her in some way but slipping instead. Immediately, he found himself dangling alongside Tiadrin, bickering with her as Ethari rushed to pick him up, with support from Runaan, whilst Lain and Sarai focused on Tiadrin. Both spouses shouting at their respective significant others to stop swinging hands at each other."What are they doin'?" Rayla asked, staring up at the six in the window.Callum shrugged. "You think they'll be okay?""Aye, your Da and my Ma can survive that." The two hopped onto their feet and began making their way out of the courtyard, on their way to join the dinner they ditched. "Do ya think they're having fun though?""TRY ME YOU ELF!"Callum giggled. "I think so."After all, they were all together. That was what mattered in the end.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Atonement
Rayla kept her hood up high as she walked down the stone path. The scarce droplets of rain weren't exactly the motivators for why she kept her face covered, as she felt that respectfully, it was more appropriate. Her descending steps splashed with each puddle, filling the null sounds of pattering rain with her heavy footsteps. A part of her wished it was deafening silence, just so she could suffer in some sort of agony but she's outright grateful that there's any noise to begin with. It was easier for her to collect her thoughts with something to ground her.Usually, it'd be Callum doing that for her, but she needed to do this alone. She owed it to him to do this alone.She finally reached the bottom of the stair path, and followed the stone path down and into the depths of the canyon. The small illuminated torches, revealing the way forward. Hesitance held her back as she marched on, eyes darted low, with her head hanging. She felt… like a trespasser. She had already debated with herself long beforehand, wondering if she had any right to do this. If she earned this at all. Just because she—they, saved the world a month ago, didn't mean she had been forgiven. She wasn't some hero. She didn't deserve to be here.Familiar thoughts of guilt crept up in her mind once again, and her pace slowed immensely. Maybe this was a bad idea. As her boots stomped she felt like the path behind was lighter, and that perhaps turning back would be easier than trudging forward. She couldn't wait for Callum to get to bed. She couldn't socialize during dinner with everyone else. She couldn't do anything. It was bothering her all day. But with each second she neared, she felt more conflicted. So what if it was bothering her? That didn't justify this invasiveness.Suddenly she found the stone path before her lit up. She raised her head and swallowed her nerves at the sight of her goal in front of her. A large, stone pedestal stood right before her. A large stone statue of a man stood tall and firm, with a broadsword placed in front of him, embedded into the pedestal with his hands folded atop its pommel. His head hung low, as if meant to stare down those before him, with his crown perfectly sculpted on his head. The inscription on the pedestal read, For Our King Who Stood Until the End.Rayla gulped. It was as all the paintings and sketches Callum had shown her. It was King Harrow. The man she was sent to kill, the man Runaan, her mentor, murdered. The man whose death changed so much. Her target. Their King.Her boyfriend's father.Callum had told her before of his complicated history with his father, step-father. He had been far too young to even remember his blood father, but he had told her he came to terms with that early on, as he had passed not long after. Harrow was a special case, as he was the king. Callum always perceived himself as someone distant from him. He wasn't ever his father, or step-father, he was King. He placed him on a pedestal no different from the one before her right now, and imagined he wasn't worthy of being his son; Callum thought himself to be someone outside of the family."He never even heard me call him, Dad," he told her. Tears had fallen so much that night she held him as he spoke. "I was… I was right outside that door."Her heart ached. Outside, right in the middle of all the fighting caused by her people—by her comrades. She would've been one of them too. Slashing through guards and breaking down that door. She probably would've been there to see it happen. To see Runaan—She instinctively lowered her head, guilt rising up within her as her knees gave out. She dropped to the ground, kneeling before the statue with a stiffness in her back she wished would break. She knew who did it. Runaan had the arrow, he wouldn't have shot it unless he knew the job was done. He wasn't one to shy away from his duties. He would be the one leading the charge, no doubt sacrificing everything he could to accomplish the mission. Her mentor… killed Callum's father.Tears began swelling up in her eyes as she recalled her and Callum's moment together, during that one rainy day, discussing their deaths. Callum wasn't stupid, he knew Runaan might've been the one to do it. She had apologized, and Callum had done so too, for everything his father had done to Xadia before. Both sides wronged, but this was different. Rayla's mouth felt so dry, yet, she managed to gaze up at Harrow. Staring into his soulless eyes as she sighed."I'm sorry that I never got to meet ya. And that even if I did, it still wouldn't have been under the best circumstances." Her voice was hoarse and quiet. She didn't earn this right… but Callum, Ezran… Harrow, deserved it. "I-I know that that day changed a lot for ya. And… I-I wish I wasn't apart of that." She took a deep breath as she shook her head. "I… I'm sorry I carried a-a sense of anger, of vengeance when I entered your home. I…"She had no idea what would have happened if Ezran didn't find Zym. Or if the egg was never real in the first place. She…"I-I think I would've done it. K… Killed him…" she whispered. "Or-Or maybe not… I'm not sure… part of me wants to believe I'd never do that to him, that I could never but—" she glanced up once more, feeling the droplets of rain bounce off her tear streamed face.He was a good man. Flawed, no doubt. But he was a good man. And a great father. She almost took that from him. And… she made Callum lose that. The what if's were a conversation she had plagued over time and time again. It didn't happen. It didn't. But if it did. And for the short time she had been fighting against them, she did it earnestly. That was what scared her.A second sooner, and things would've been different."I'm sorry… your Highness…" she pleaded, lowering her head once more with her eyes shut tight. "I'm… I'm sorry that I played a hand in your death. And that I'm now here, with your son… actin' like any of this is okay… Because I know it's not. Ya.. Ya deserved to see him as he is now. Ya deserved to see him become the person he is today… to-to, be proud, in person. Not as a memory…" she sniffed, as she shook her head, "But as a father. An actual, living, breathin', happy dad."She brought her hands up to her chest, clenching them fiercely over her heart as she sobbed. "I… I swore, 'My heart for Xadia,' but I just—I can't help but think about how misplaced it was. How… what I would've done would've just, continue the cycle. That, nothing would've changed… except more violence and conflict. And-And that was what happened. What had driven your kingdom well past the brink of war."Right now, all I can think about is how my heart is in between. I'd gladly fight for Xadia, and for Katolis… because that was what our stand was about. Unity. But…" she could do this. She had to. She found her footing and stood up from her spot, staring up at Harrow once more. She clenched her fists as she let her arms drop to her sides. She felt like shaking, like turning away and shutting her mouth, but she wanted to go on, even if it was a ramble. "I don't know where I belong. I… I don't know what it is I'm supposed to be. I just, I'm sorry this revelation wasn't one that came before I came here to—y'know. But... I want ya to know…"She took one more deep breath, and smiled a proud smile up at him. "My heart? It will always lie with him. I know it. Be it for his kingdom, or my people, I know I will stand with him no matter what. I-I know I can be conflicted… and confused… and… misguided. I know I have a lot of what if's that… that could've made me a worse Elf. But he helped me. He guided me. And I-I want ya to know… I promise… this isn't a mistake."She brought her right hand up to her chest, "My heart for him… because I know he's worth it. Just like… just like ya knew too."It felt like a weight was lifted, just ever so slightly. As she turned around and walked, she carried herself with more confidence this time. Maybe because it was easier to walk away. Or, perhaps it was because it was the right thing to do.She wasn't sure exactly.Rayla made her way back into the castle, strolling through the corridors with a sense of clearness she had not had the last time she wandered through. Her footsteps weren't as heavy or dreadful. She felt… comfortable. To be able to walk through the halls of the same place she had once set out to infiltrate. She found her way back to her room—their room. She opened their door and stepped inside, not at all surprised to find Callum in bed, sketching.He glanced up and smiled. "What happened to you? After dinner you said you'd wait here while I finished up with everyone else but…" She wordlessly walked over to the bed, watching as he worriedly put aside his book and pencil on the nightstand. "You okay, Ray?"She slid herself in right beside him, and hugged Callum. Nothing too firm, too meaningful, just enough. "Yeah… I am. I was just… sortin' some stuff out is all."She felt him nod against her shoulder as he slowly rubbed her back. "And?"She pulled away, smiling into his grassy green eyes as she brought her hands up to his cheeks. "I love ya. And I'm glad we met. That's all."He smiled immediately, obviously a part of him had questions, but her declaration seemed to satisfy him for now because he brought his hands up to hers and pulled them down. He intertwined their fingers together, like she always liked: his five for her four. He held her firmly as he pecked each hand with a soft touch. "I know."With that, the two slowly tucked themselves in, holding onto each other as they stared into each other's eyes, waiting for sleep to overtake them.She was sure about this. She knew that for certain.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Sweet Treats
The echoing ring of the doorbell caused Sarai to put down her book and sigh. It was near noon, and no doubt one of those girl scout troops or whatever, were banging at her door hoping to catch her husband instead. Of course, they learned who was the weaker willed of the household and decided to capitalize on that. With a smug smirk, Sarai marched up their front door and began shouting, “We don’t want your darn butterscotches,” as she opened the door, she added, “And stop pestering my husband with caramel—” her rant stopped short as she realized who was stood outside.
She took a moment to observe her guest as she had not expected her to ever show up. A young woman donned in plain beige joggers fitted into some brown combat boots, accompanied with a sleeveless black shirt that had the written graphic,
Food First & Later
. Loosely hanging off her shoulders, was none other than the familiar Katolis Football Team varsity jacket. She stood at a slant, with both hands tucked into her jacket’s pockets in an obvious attempt at hiding her nerves, whilst also bearing a small, polite smile.
“R-Rayla!” Sarai spoke, “What a surprise! What brings you by?”
From her own reaction, Rayla seemed to seeth. “I’m not intruding am I? I-I don’t want to be a bother but—”
“Nonsense!” Sarai dismissed, waving off the young woman’s concerns. “Come on in! Come on in!” she gestured inside, opening the door for her.
“Thank ya,” she replied as she shuffled in.
Sarai held her smile as she led the young woman to the living room. “Come! Sit!” she offered as she situated herself on the brown loveseat. Rayla opted for the brown couch and sat with a somewhat rigidness to her. It was very noticeable to Sarai, and left her wondering what this was all about. “So,” she began, “what brings you by?”
Rayla let out a small chuckle as she managed a smile. “Well… ya see… ma’am, I—”
“Sarai,” she corrected with a proud smile. The confusion struck the younger girl and she couldn’t help but laugh. “I said you could call me Sarai last time. We’re all adults here!”
Rayla nodded at that. After a few seconds, she spoke up again. “Well, speaking of the last time I was here,” she recalled, gathering her composure, “Ya offered to… teach me some lessons in, er, cookin’?” She shot a hesitant look at her, looking as if she was observing her reaction.
Sarai’s face instantly beamed. This was happening. She clasped her hands together as she squealed, startling the football player. “Yes! Yes! Yes! I remember! Ooooh does this mean you want me to teach you?” she practically shouted.
Her soon-to-be apprentice let out a laugh as she awkwardly gestured for Sarai to calm down. “Umm yeah? Sorta?” Sarai’s confusion must’ve been obvious as Rayla suddenly backpedaled on her words, “No! I
do
! It’s just…” she trailed off into silence as she bit her lip.
Sarai couldn’t help but frown at the sight. Obviously, she was nervous—no,
embarrassed
—about coming here with this request. The fact that Callum hadn’t mentioned anything of a visit from Rayla meant he had no idea she was here. So she did not want his judgement or his knowing to be involved at all, or rather, at the moment it seemed. Whatever she wanted, she was definitely shy about bringing it up because it no doubt involved her son. It seemed like the most logical thing Sarai could jump to. Which only prompted her further to help this young woman.
She moved from her seat and crouched over to the girl, placing a hand on her knee. That instantly gained her attention from her silent spell, leaving Sarai to proceed with a reassuring smile. “Honey,
whatever
it is, I assure you, you’ll receive no judgement from me.” She winked as she patted her knee before retracting her hand. “I promise.”
Relief looked as if it had washed over the jock and she grinned back at her. “I want to learn how to bake cookies,” she finally spoke.
Sarai’s brows raised. “Cookies?” she echoed.
Rayla nodded, clenching her hands in excitement as she went on, “Callum recently got offered to have his piece shown on display in the
main
lobby of the campus.” Before Sarai could express her joy for her son’s achievement, Rayla continued, “He was so nervous about the whole thing and he’s been mullin’ it over like it’s either not a big deal or worth anythin’. I want to make him
somethin’
to celebrate the occasion! Because, I swear, his modesty’ll kill me someday.”
Sarai snorted at that as she shook her head. “Oh believe me, I know the feeling.” Still, the idea of making him celebratory cookies
specifically
for the notion that he was too embarrassed to celebrate was something Sarai loved. Oh, this girl was perfect for her son. But the thought of them
just
being friends had suddenly plagued her mind and left the mother to internally sigh. If she was going to be doing Rayla a favor, she might as well extend it further and help her son too.
She shot up to her feet as she placed her hands on her hips, heroically smiling as she announced, “It’s time to bake!” The excitement reached her new apprentice immediately, and soon enough Sarai was leading her to the kitchen.
Besides, what was that saying again? Fastest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?
Well Momma was about to make sure her son was well fed and served by a nice young lady.
::::
“So, what type of cookies did you have in mind?” Sarai asked.
She had donned her regular apron and stood by the kitchen counter, patiently awaiting for her apprentice—and soon-to-be daughter in-law—to
very
poorly tie her apron on. She had made sure to give Rayla Callum’s old red one of which he used to use before he moved into the dorms. He had really gotten his growth spurt by the end of high school, and shot out of that apron immediately. But, Sarai was a sentimentalist at heart and thought it’d be nice to have Rayla wear it.
She finally managed to tighten her apron and shot Sarai an awkward smile, now moving her hands back to her hair to tie it up in a ponytail. “Uhh, I was also kinda hoping ya’d have some ideas? Callum’s never really mentioned his favourite cookies.”
Sarai’s brows raised in shock. “Really? He hasn’t brought it up yet?” That was disappointing. Maybe she needed to have a word with her son about being open with his (potential) partners.
Rayla chuckled as she shook her hands dismissively. “It’s not a big deal Sarai,” she reasoned, “Cal’s shared stuff with me. Plenty. Actually, Soren’ll probably wager more than he knows! Honestly, I think I’ve shared more about my sweet tooth than him.” She offered a smirk and shrugged.
Sarai had many things to unpack at that moment. She must’ve been noticeably upset which prompted Rayla to say all of those things.
But
, she also just called her by her name
and
mentioned that those two have had intimate conversations already. The main thing however, was that she sensed Rayla must’ve felt obligated to defend Callum and
that
was what made her say all of that.
Of course, Harrow would say she’s just over analyzing, but she wasn’t.
“Uhhh, Sarai?”
She blinked out of her deep thoughts and turned to Rayla with a bright smile. “Right! Sorry, just thinking about Callum’s favourite cookies. He likes oatmeal—“
“Really? Doesn’t surprise me.” Rayla snorted. “Plain and simple like usual.” She rolled her eyes.
“Store bought,” Sarai finished with a chuckle. “He likes store bought oatmeal cookies. But homemade is a bit of a weird story.” When Rayla’s interest rose she continued, “He’s willing to try new flavours and such but he’s a
big
chocolate chip fan. Huge chunks!”
“Of course,” Rayla commented, “Lord knows how much he’ll sift through my bloody chocolates…”
Sarai smiled. “Well, he wouldn’t mind some chunky chocolate chips—“
“Especially because of that alliteration!”
“But making them
soft
cookies is what’ll win him over. Not too soft, like mushy, but soft enough where they’ll be chewy,” she explained further, turning toward the pantry.
“Wait, what do ya mean by ‘win him over?’” She heard Rayla question as she opened the pantry.
“Oh, nothing!” Sarai dismissed. “Now, ingredients time!” she chirped as she began rummaging through the shelves. “So, we’ll need some flour, baking powder, chocolate, of course—” she turned back to the island and placed her current haul before turning to the fridge, “some eggs, and butter.” She swiftly moved the items to the island then moved back to the pantry, “
And
, vanilla extract, sugar—both brown and white—and salt, oh and baking sheets!” As she spun around and shut the cabinet door, she was met with a wide eyed Rayla. She laughed at her shock as she brought the remaining ingredients to the counter. “Overwhelmed?” she prompted.
That managed to shake the young woman out of her trance, causing what sounded like a nervous laugh to erupt. “Uhhh, sorry, it’s just, I didn’t expect there to be so…
much
.”
Sarai couldn’t help but chuckle. “Relax, it’s a very simple recipe. Baking just tends to require a lot to mix together.” She waved her to come over as she walked to the sink. “Step one, wash your hands. A clean meal, is a tasty meal!” she sang as she turned on the sink and proceeded to wash her hands.
Her apprentice wordlessly followed in her steps as soon as she finished, then turned to her with an attentive face. “Now what?”
“Now,” Sarai moved to her kitchen cabinets and pulled out two baking pans, “we prep the pans. Help me lay out the baking sheets over them!”
It took Rayla a few tries to properly cut a good sheet
and
place it on the pan. Throughout the first three attempts Sarai had been very patient and polite with her. By the fourth she couldn’t hold back her laughter. By the seventh she decided enough sheets were wasted and finally helped her. She could sense the football player’s gratitude and embarrassment as she helped along.
“Ugh, Callum would have no problem with that,” Rayla muttered as she slid her pan beside Sarai’s.
Sarai couldn’t help but raise a brow at that as she unwrapped the butter. “What do you mean?” she asked whilst opening both sugar bags.
Rayla scoffed. “He’s always so good at lil’ details like that. Have ya ever seen him draw a straight line? Doesn’t even need a ruler!” she stated incredulously as she shook her head. A small smile developed on her face as she leaned onto the counter. “The way he draws my hair is so neat too. It’s like every single strand is identical!”
She must’ve realized her small tangent as light flush appeared on her cheeks whilst her gaze shot up to meet Sarai’s. “No, no,” Sarai grinned, “We can keep talking about that if you want?”
Her lips fell to a tight line as she silently shook her head.
“Okay then,” Sarai was biting back a laugh, “it’s time to mix the butter and sugars.” She nodded her head over to where the measuring cups were gathered. “Go ahead and get the half and quarter measuring cups.”
Rayla nodded as she followed her direction and brought forth the cups. “Now what?”
“We need half a cup of butter,” she instructed as she portioned the proper amount into the cup, “and a quarter of white sugar. And three quarters of brown sugar.” As Rayla tossed a quarter of white sugar into the bowl, Sarai reached out a hand as she watched her nearly reach into the brown sugar bag. “Wait! Um, it’s best
not
to mix the sugars.”
A small blush brightened on her cheeks as Rayla’s eyes shot wide. “Oh, sorry I—”
“It’s okay, just rinse it real quick then go do the brown sugar,” Sarai quickly said. As she watched her apprentice move around the island and toward the sink, she smiled. Rayla really carried herself with a stiff move set and was definitely being driven by nerves. It was sort of strange to see, since out on the football field she had a sense of elegance and drive whenever she played. She really was out of her element here.
It was adorable.
“Now, it’s time to mix!” she announced as she returned to their bowl. “My hand mixer isn’t working so we’ll just do it with the old whisk and wrist!” A giggle came from the younger woman that instantly warmed Sarai’s heart.
“Sorry, it’s just, I can see where Callum gets his excitement from. Ya two have the same kinda smile.”
Sarai beamed at that. “Well, you can keep this smile going, because
you
are going to mix this!” she instructed as she handed the bowl and whisk to Rayla.
Her eyes went wide. “M-Me?” she stuttered.
“Yup, just mix it around until it looks all fluffy. I’ll prep the vanilla extract and get the egg!” she declared as she grabbed a teaspoon and the bottle of vanilla extract.
“I-I-I dunno if I’m doing this right,” Rayla spoke, with an apparent strain in her voice.
Sarai scoffed. “Sweetie, it’s barely anything at this point. There’s not much you can do wrong here. Just keep going until it’s fluffy!”
Rayla panickly replied, “I dunno what fluffy
looks
like! Like,
actual
floof? Or fluffy like Callum’s hair when he gets outta bed?”
Sarai snorted. “Fluffy! It’ll be a bit clumped and—wait, you’ve seen my son’s bed head?” Her question came last minute, but her inquiring stare was very much on time.
Rayla shot her head up from the bowl and went wide eyed. “Wait! N-Not like
that
! Sometimes he naps in my dorm, or when I’m in his room or on my lap when we’re on the quad—
b-but
, we’re fully clothed! I—” she shut her lips as she shoved the bowl forward, “Is this fluffy!” she asked.
Amusement instantly swelled up on Sarai as she leaned over to inspect the bowl. It was indeed, very fluffy. “Yes. It is,” she answered as she dropped the teaspoon of vanilla extract into the bowl. “Now, a teaspoon of vanilla extract
and
,” she grabbed an egg from the carton and cracked it on the island counter, quickly bringing it over the bowl, “an egg!” As the egg seamlessly dripped into the bowl, Sarai gave the shells a few shakes before discarding them into her waste bin underneath the island.
She dusted off her hands as she grabbed the bowl and whisk. “Now we mix this until it’s combined.”
“What does that mean?”
“Like, properly merged. You’ll see. The colour gets a bit orangey-beige and everything gets a bit more viscous,” Sarai answered as she whisked. A silence reigned over as she felt Rayla awkwardly swaying back and forth. “So… you two nap together.”
“Y-Yes—
no
!” Rayla’s hands shot up as she waved them dismissively and shook her head. “W-Wait, I-I mean, no! We, yes, sometimes, but not in the way
ya’re
thinkin’!” Her eyes went even wider than before. “Not to say ya’re
implying
anythin’, I just mean—”
“Rayla?”
“Yes ma’am?”
“Take a breath.”
She inhaled deeply then released a sigh which sounded quite relieving.
“Also, call me Sarai remember?”
“R-Right,” Rayla nodded. “I… we don’t do anythin’. Sometimes we’re just too tired because of our classes or my games, and our dorms are
completely
far from each other so we stay over. Trust me, it’s super PG. Like hand holding!”
Sarai’s mixing stopped. “You hold hands?”
This time, confusion seemed to strike Rayla. “Yeah? Why? Is that… is that weird?”
How were they
still
friends?
“Umm, if you don’t think so I guess not…” she answered as she continued mixing. “Go ahead and get half a teaspoon of baking powder and salt. There should be two teaspoons there,” she directed. Sarai decided to spare the conversation for now. “And also, get a cup of flour. We’ll need two of that so be ready to get another.”
Rayla managed to gather all the ingredients and carefully laid them out.
“Good, so now that it’s all mixed we’re going to add the rest.” She grabbed the flour first and poured it, giving it back to Rayla to refill as she poured the rest in. After adding the last cup of flour, she began mixing the entire bowl. “We’re gonna wanna keep doing this until the dough gets all crumbly.” After a few stirs, she handed the bowl over to Rayla, who took it with a very visible reluctance. “You can do it.”
Rayla shrugged as she continued mixing. “Alright. But don’t blame me if they turn out all weird.”
Sarai chuckled. “Don’t worry, this batch only makes six, so we’ll make another one as soon as we get this one molded. Next one you can have a go again if you’re up for it.” She seemed to take relief in those words as she visibly relaxed. Sarai took note of her now fluid motions, she was far less fluid rigid than before. Taking advantage of this comfort, she asked, “So what
do
you two talk about? If not cookies?”
Rayla’s intense focus on her current task left her to answer without looking. “Oh um, well, lots of stuff. Sometimes we chat ‘bout school but not like, the boring way people usually do ya know? Because Cal and I actually
like
what we learn.” She chuckled to herself at that. “I share my notes on my current Philosophy lectures and talk ‘bout how interesting all the theories are and we go into tangents nonstop. Claudia once said we derailed a conversation ‘bout Utilitarianism to modern day Fairy Tales, and had no idea how we did it. But honestly, I dunno how she can’t see the connections ‘cause we drew ‘em pretty clearly.”
Sarai didn’t understand much about either but her focus was mainly on the way Rayla was acting.
“Honestly though, whether it’s English, Philosophy, art, my football games, we just talk. We ramble sometimes—he says I’m worse but I think he is honestly,” she shrugged at the thought but smiled, “Though I’d say passion is passion, just enjoy what ya love. He’d probably be shy ‘bout it. I always tell him to be expressive ‘bout what he likes! I wish he could be more expressive about things like that in general. Whenever I’m not near him Claud says he’s more timid. Dunno why that is ya know? Of course ya know, ya’re his mum—“ her eyes shot wide as she shut her mouth. She slowly turned her head and finally noticed Sarai’s growing grin.
“By the way,” she pointed out, “the dough’s crumbly. In case you were wondering.” She flashed a wink and Rayla’s face flushed bright.
The young woman shyly gestured the bowl toward her as she slightly hung her head. “I guess Callum was right ‘bout that ramblin’ point, huh?” Sarai laughed at that, leaving Rayla to softly laugh along, slowly relaxing once more. “Sorry ‘bout that. Ya asked a simple question and I just went off.”
Sarai shook her head as she placed the bowl on the island. “Hey, I asked and I definitely feel answered,” she joked whilst reaching for the baking pan. To her surprise a snort came from Rayla, causing her to arch a brow.
“Sorry,” Rayla quickly said. “It’s just, I guess Cal gets his humour from ya as well.”
She laughed. “He gets a lot of things from me,” Sarai mused. “Including my baking skills.”
Rayla’s interest raised at that. “Really?”
“Oh really!” Sarai happily confirmed. “In fact,” she leaned over and whispered, “maybe hint that you want some baked goods from time-to-time, I know for certain he’d
love
any satiate that sweet tooth of yours!”
Rayla beamed at that. “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind.”
“Good. Now, how would you like to mold some cookie balls?” she suggested as she took a spoon and dug it into the mixed batter.
“Does that mean I get to touch the mix?”
Sarai chuckled. “Typically, yes, that is a requirement when making cookies.” She handed Rayla a spoon and gestured for her to follow her movements.
“Ahh, well hopefully I’m
batter
at this,” Rayla mused, “Dough I wouldn’t put it past me yet!”
Sarai stopped and smiled at the younger woman, catching the playful grin on her face. “Hmm,” she thoughtfully hummed. When Rayla shot a brow at her, she shrugged. “Oh, I guess you’ve picked up on his sense of humour too.”
Rayla didn’t seem to think anything else was needed to be said. She simply laughed and smiled back at Sarai, leaving the two to mold cookie dough in comfortable silence. Despite the fact that she took in Rayla to teach her about baking, Sarai seemed to learn some things as well. Her son was in good hands.
She let Rayla make the second batch by herself.
::::
“Mum? I’m home!” Callum shouted as he entered the house.
Almost immediately, he heard the sounds of footsteps racing toward the door. Imagine his surprise to find that they didn’t belong to his eager young half-brother like he expected, but instead his mother. She was bouncing in her spot, beaming an excited smile that Callum recognized as purely mischievous. He did not like that smile. It usually meant she knew something he didn’t and most likely ended up with Callum embarrassed somehow. He was almost afraid to ask.
“Alright, what happened now?” He bit the bullet and stared.
She still kept smiling. “Soooo?”
“‘Soooo’ what?” he echoed.
His mother asked, “How were they?” Callum just stared, leaving her to sigh. “The cookies!”
His face lit up as he pieced together what his mother was asking. “Ohhh! Rayla’s cookies? They’re
amazing
!” He dug into his messenger bag and pulled out a small tupperware full of cookies. “I couldn’t finish all of them because I figured you and Ez would like some and—“ He paused as he looked up at his mother questioningly. “Wait, how did
you
know about the cookies?” he asked as he gestured said baked goods at her.
She snorted. “Who do you think helped bake them?”
Callum’s eyes widened as a small grin came to form on his lips. “Oh wow!” His face suddenly contorted into horror as he realized what that meant. “It was
you
. You taught her. Why!”
Sarai gasped. “Don’t make it sound so mischievous!”
“You offered her lessons last time she was here. How’d you get her? Did you kidnap her?”
She rolled her eyes as she snatched the cookies from Callum’s accusatory gesturing. “You think the worst of my intentions, honestly!” She shook her head as she walked toward the kitchen.
“It’s
you
,” her son replied, as if that was a good enough response—which it was in certain circumstances.
“She came of her own free will, of you must know!” Sarai shouted back.
Callum stared in surprise as he followed his mother a bit down the hallway. “Really?”
“Yup! Said she wanted to learn for you.”
A small smile found itself on his lips as he recalled yesterday. He had seen the tupperware laid out on his bed after a long day of classes, with a note that said,
Because You Earned it :).
He hadn’t had a chance to ask her about it because Friday’s were also a busy time for her as well and he didn’t want to bother her. But he knew it was her writing. He also knew, given the current timing of everything, it was directly referring to his recent milestone of getting his painting shown in the main lobby. A feat that Rayla accused him of being “stupidly modest about” apparently.
They tasted nice. His favourite type of homemade cookies. They reminded him of his mom’s—which of course was because she helped apparently—but they still tasted different. He could feel the care and effort that went into them. That was why he loved homemade baking, or cooking of anything kind really. Passion was like its own secret ingredient.
“You better bake something for her too!”
he heard his mother shout from the kitchen, disrupting his joyful thoughts.
“Mom!” he groaned.
“Just saying! A nice young lady comes by and does something sweet—literally—and only expects that you enjoy it just for your stubbornness, you repay that kindness!”
she continued shouting as she began shuffling about in the kitchen.
Callum simply rolled his eyes as he made his way into the living room and tossed his bag onto the couch, along with himself too. He pulled out his phone and began texting.
Cal [12:04 PM]: You learned from my mum…
Ray <3 [12:05 PM]: Did ya like ‘em?
He laughed at that.
Cal [12:05 PM]: Of course! Made by the two most amazing women I know!
Ray <3 [12:05 PM]: I’m telling Clauds you said that!
Cal [12:05 PM]: Please, I can’t handle
another
person lecturing me about being appreciative of nice girls.
Ray <3 [12:05 PM]: ?
Ca [12:05 PM]l: Mum’s lecturing me about you.
Ray <3 [12:06 PM]: IM SORRY. I DIDNT MEAN TO TELL HER ALL THAT.
Cal [12:06 PM]: ...tell her what…
Cal [12:06 PM]: Ray?
Ray <3 [12:07 PM]: what?
Callum’s eyes went wide at that. “Moooom! What did she tell you!”
“Nothing of consequence!”
she shouted back, laughing to herself like a supervillain who had just won the lottery. He palmed at his face as he sighed. That didn’t sound too good at all. His phone dinged, and he looked.
Ray <3 [12:08 PM]: ...would now be a bad time to ask you to bake for me…?
He chuckled as he shook his head. After shooting a quick text back, he headed toward the kitchen.
Cal [12:08 PM]: Double chocolate, right?
Ray <3 [12:08 PM]: You know me best :)
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
A Party & a Pastry
"A Christmas party?" Rayla echoed, closing her locker shut as she stared at her childhood best friend.Callum nodded as he continued to rifle through both his locker and messenger bag, looking for his books and notes. "Yup! Aunt Amaya's girlfriend is flying in with her family, so it'll be a whole celebration!" he cheerfully explained. "And, Mom's gonna be making her famous jelly tarts! She's even setting aside a whole batch for Ez so we can all have some!"Rayla's eyes lit up at that. She only ever had a couple, and it was because Callum would split his with her since he knew she loved sweets so much. Ezran was notorious for devouring Sarai's jelly tarts within seconds, so Rayla could count the amount of times she's eaten one on a single hand—ones she's had to share with Callum of course. Sarai only made a small batch at a time and only for special occasions because according to her, "It's not special if you have it everyday!" Which everyone thought was absurd because they would never not be special, but they all understood the principal of tradition. Still, to have the promise of an entire batch saved for Ezran? That meant Rayla would have at least one, whole jelly tart.The Scottish girl practically foamed at the mouth with the idea. But…Rayla seethed. "I dunno Cal. My folks are invitin' Uncle Runaan and his husband over for Christmas dinner outing and ya know it's been awhile since I saw them!"His eyes shot wide. "Runaan and Ethari are visiting? Why am I just finding out about this the week before we go on break!"Because she just made it up. Rayla sheepishly shrugged. "I-I just found out today! They're only flyin' in for Christmas and leavin' on the twenty-sixth!" That wasn't too far fetched, right? Holiday flights were a pain to book sure, but quick visits were still a thing during holidays.He frowned at that. "Dammit, if I had known I would've gotten them a present!" Rayla really felt bad about Callum's frustration. Uncle Ethari really liked Callum, and loved to hang out with him, and here she was making him feel sad about something that wasn't even happening."It's a busy few days. Sorry. I-I won't be able to make it." She sighed. "I wish there was some way but—"Callum rolled his eyes and snorted. "Ray, it's you. My parents would love to have you all over as well! The more the merrier! 'Sides, you know Ethari is equally as excited to see me as much as you!" he teased. "My parents love chatting with Runaan too, it'll be a classic reunion!" His offer sung with high hopes and a smile.That smile she loved so much.The one she had to constantly lie to.She frowned. "We already made plans. Sorry Cal." She shrugged. When his smile fell and his face look downcast, she kicked herself in the mental groin for being so damn believable with her lies. She did want a pastry. And she had been to their Christmas parties before—they were always a blast. "But," his eyes shot up, "I can probably slip out of our dinner early to join your party! Only for a bit, of course, but my folks and Uncles won't mind!"Callum's face lit up at that. "Great! I'll hold you to it!" He held his fist out and shook it, "Props Promise?"An uneasy, unnerving filling flooded within her gut as soon as he said that. But, they had never backed out on a Props Promise before. Not even in their childhood. She grinned, nodding as she bumped her fist with his, knocking them together three times before locking pinkies. "Props Promise," she whispered."And it's a lock," Callum winked.They parted ways, again Physics being no fun without her best friend. But Rayla sighed to herself. Hoping she could keep her promise.::::It wasn't like she wanted to lie.But Christmas was full of other plans. And no, not dinner with her parents and uncles. Despite what Callum thought, her folks were actually going out for a Christmas getaway courteous of Rayla! She had told them she was going to spend her night with Callum's family anyways, and pushed them to go out and have fun for the holidays, enjoying a Thursday to Sunday long weekend of spa fun. Of course, neither were true because what Rayla really needed, was reasons to avoid being held up.Because Moonshadow needed her Christmas plans wide open.It had taken months of preparations. Busting gang deals, interrogating criminal informants, and spying/surveilling routes. But she found it. A splinter mercenary gang illegally purchasing Viren Industries products on the black market. Products that weren't like the usual Viren Vignette Coffee or Viren Viper Car. No, Viren Industries was mass producing countless illegal weapons and drugs to gangs and criminal organizations all over the city. And the night of Christmas Day, a big black market showcase was going down and Viren Industries was rumoured to make an auctioning.Whether it be the seller themselves or just the actual product with actual traceable information, Moonshadow would bust them.But that meant abandoning all plans with family and friends, and Christmas karaoke, and jelly tarts, and Callum. She took a deep breath as she pulled her hood over her head, feeling the brisque chill of the cold night. She had to do this. As much as she wanted to be hanging out beside Callum's fireplace, wrapped up in a blanket with him, munching on jelly tarts and drinking hot chocolate—she had a job to do. Perched atop the corner of an apartment building rooftop, Moonshadow set her eyes upon the docks a couple blocks over.Like all good black market deals, the current one of Moonshadow's interest was also set in the warehouse in the harbour. From the collection of intel she gathered from thugs and dealers, the last Friday of every other month was when they all met up. She had accumulated all of this back in October, narrowly missing the last black market showcasing in time, so she had to wait and prepare for the next one. And it was going down now.She hopped from roof to roof, carefully keeping her body low as she maneuvered through the apartment building rooftops. She picked up from the first two vans that the gangs were arriving at twenty minutes intervals, and the last black SUV pulled into the dock's parking garage thirty-five minutes ago. This was everyone. This was her chance.Scaling down the building using the fire escape, she hurriedly rushed across the street and over to the warehouse. No guards anywhere—her intel was good. Nights like these would look more suspicious if people were loitering around an abandoned warehouse all evening, but that didn't mean they were completely unguarded. Moonshadow glanced up at the top of the building, noticing a small ledge from the window halfway up.She took a deep breath. And let herself immerse into her surroundings.Shadows.Darkness.The Moon.She could feel her body's muscles strengthen. It was a full moon—faster power up for her. Crouching down into a squat, Moonshadow felt the surge of power shock into her calves and jumped. In a single bound, she managed to reach the window ledge, gripping onto it fiercely. Peeking her head over the window, she could see it.Dozens and dozens of them. From mobster suits to the urban gang outfits; it was everyone. Every gang she had been tracking ever since—And her eyes found it.Right in the centre of the room, on a stage, on a cart were a black collection of barrels. She had no doubt that they were filled to the brim with dark purple ooze. Moonshadow glared at the labels. Medically Altered Gene Irradiated Construction: M.A.G.I.C.. The very same substance that was responsible for supposedly changing the future of medicine. Capable of killing dangerous genes and altering them into healthier cells for the body, Viren Industries' latest medical marvel. And, coupled with a Katolis High field trip to the aforementioned science centre?You create a superhero Hell bent on shutting this operation down.Moonshadow's eyes scanned the interiors more. No one seemed to be on the catwalks, the majority do the guards weren't even carrying anything like an assault rifle, so that possibly meant they were all concealing their handguns. It was still an auctioning she supposed, and most of these gangs were notorious for having conflict with each other—seeing so many armed guards might've resulted in some itchy trigger fingers. Still, a small part of her worried she was in over her head. She hadn't expected this many.Nonetheless, she had her plan.Digging into her belt's pouch, she pulled out her burner phone and dialed 911.Step one: get back up.Putting on her patented American accent, she said "Howdy? I'd like ta report a crime?"::::Step two: infiltrate and discombobulate.The police wouldn't be able to handle these guys. Especially since the first responders coming were expecting thugs breaking into the thrift shop across the street. But by the time shots fired—and she knew they would—she had to make sure they weren't dangerous. She counted around thirty-three baddies, and each gang were respectively gathered into groupings in an audience. And no doubt they were all armed.Moonshadow crept around through the catwalk, quietly moving as she watched a pale, well dressed man literally take the stage. He had a galaxy-like coloured three piece suit, and white hair longer than Moonshadow's. On either side of him stood two black suits, dressed in a sort of secret service ensemble."Now, I understand everyone's concerns regarding the rumoured Vigilante," his voice was deep, soothing, and captured the attention of the audience immediately, "but my employer and I can assure you—there have been no leaks on our end. However, I cannot control the extension of your underlings and to whom they mouth off to—""You sayin' it's our fault?" a voice shouted, causing an uproar of murmurs to spread."Ladies and gentlemen please, I would never imply such a thing!" His sardonic tone implied otherwise, but judging from the crowd's died down whispers it either went over their heads or they didn't care. I'm merely assuring you that we have done what we can to secure the necessary safety of our auction. But we cannot speak for certain."So they were onto her. It seemed like she still remained a rumour to the streets, but not enough to the point where Viren Industries was investigating her. Luckily for her, that also meant they still had no idea how her powers worked. She made her way over to the far end of the building and quickly began her search. Sure enough, she found it: a circuit breaker. She pulled out her burner phone and took a deep breath—it was time.She threw her phone at full force right at the circuit breaker, smashing it into bits as the panel itself sparked like fireworks. She then turned and dashed back toward her perch above the stage as the lights began flickering. Gasps and startled whispers spurred as she watched the galaxy suited man made a break for the barrels. The lights finally went out and the entire building was pitch black, with the exception of moonlight streaming through the high windowsills.She closed her eyes and activated her camouflage. Feeling her skin tingle with a chill sensation, she opened her eyes and it worked: her body was shimmering like a glassy window. She wasn't completely invisible, but with her night vision and shadow-like presence, she would be a blur. Her concentration held as she cleared her throat announced herself, "Now, shall we begin the bid for our product of interest tonight?"The crowd sporadically looked around, with several pulling out their guns in alarm.Moonshadow smirked. "I'll start!" she shouted, gaining their attention to the rafters as she hopped down to the stage, "How 'bout an ass kicking for thirty-three?" The guards on the stage reached into their coats but she moved fast, punching one square in the jaw and kicking the other in the gut, sending them both off stage. "And sold! To the two henchmen in secret service suits!"The auctioneer immediately dove off the stage, and soon enough the crowd started scattering. Half the crowd fumbled for their guns while the other half ran for the exits, or at least, where they thought the exits were."It's her!""I knew she was real!""Take her out!"Bullets began launching at her but she hopped out of the way long before they fired. Out of the stage and into the crowd, their shooting ceased, in fear of crossfire. With that moment of hesitation Moonshadow acted. "How 'bout a bid for who gets the worse bruises?" she jumped forward and clocked two guys out instantly. Suddenly, a large burly man charged at her with a pocket knife. Thrusting forward at her, Moonshadow deflected his attack with her forearm, then sent her other elbow straight to his face, knocking him out cold.Another rushed at her from behind, taking a swing at her head but she blocked it with her bicep and carried her momentum with her other hand as she struck the man's gut. He folded on the spot and she grabbed his body, twirling him around and launching him at a group behind her ready to take aim, successfully knocking them all out. Ten down, twenty-three more to go. And then the rest went like clockwork.She darted around the entire floor, knocking out anyone who pulled out their gun and disarming those who dared to pull a knife on her. Bullets fired but she dashed aside before they even landed at her spot. Fists flew but she was faster, blocking their blows and clocking them out within seconds. She was thinning out the herd quick.A bullet zipped by her head, and she instantly whipped around to find a thug aiming a gun at her. She ducked out of his line of fire and rolled over the stage for cover, barely dodging his shots. Time had passed enough for some of them to adjust their eyes on the dark, even with her camouflage. It was times like these where she really wished she had a long ranged option. As she peaked over the stage, she realized the barrels of M.A.G.I.C were gone. Her eyes darted around to find the galaxy suited man hauling them away with a guard all on a cart.She dashed over and sent a flying kick to the guard pushing the cart. He fell face first into the ground as the auctioneer paused in his steps. She watched as a smug smirk fell upon his lips."So the rumours are true. Moonshadow exists. Never thought the name to be so literal," his velvety voice spoke.She scoffed. "Ya're pretty confident for a guy's whose eyes are 'bout the same colour as his suit!"He merely scoffed. "Your interest in chasing me tells me two things: you are aware of what these are capable of," his gaze shifted to the barrels, "and that you've dug far too deep into this." His hands slowly maneuvered into his jacket."No sense in playin' around pal," she leapt forward and grabbed his arm, "Viren Industries is busted."Her grip suddenly shook as she met his eyes. They were yellow but glowing like hers did in the dark. His body shimmered and before she could react, she was flung across the room. Her back colliding with the stage and she groaned in pain. Her accelerated healing would take care of that later, but in the morning that would be sore. She glanced up and watched as the man smiled and walked away, looking normal as he did before.But, she swore he—Moonshadow shook her thoughts out as she ran after him. Questions were for later, catching was now. But as she arrived at the barrels, he stopped and turned. He was holding a detonator. And for a split second, she heard the beeping come from the barrels.Without hesitation, Moonshadow jumped to the side, but a massive explosion followed after her and sent her toward a stack of crates in the corner. She was definitely feeling that one in the morning. Moonashadow barely registered the noises around her as she smelt the sizzling fire burn. Her eyes blinked open. The warehouse was a mess of unconscious bodies and a bonfire of barrels set ablaze in the pitch dark.And then the sirens came.::::Tonight was a fail.Sure, at least two-thirds of the mobs were apprehended, but a handful of the auctioned items were missing. And so were destroyed because she landed on them. The police narrowly missed her before she slipped out of the warehouse, but even then she still had no certainty everything was in order. It was a good job. She knew that. She did her part and stopped the auction. At the very least, an investigation would spark from the police and it would crack down on their bi-monthly market deals.But no.Her main gripe was her run in with Galaxy Man. And yes, that was what she was calling him for now until she learned his name. Rayla realized how much she had to learn after only doing this for barely just half a year. For starters, she needed some sort of throwing weapon, one that didn't cause her to use a costly burner phone that would take a while to replace. Her second problem was that she didn't exactly confirm any intel. She didn't record or document anything. She should've realized it was a set up.Nothing there was really credited with Viren Industries on its label aside from word of mouth. And though it might've been obvious Galaxy Man worked for said company, he certainly didn't tip his hand much. In fact, the only thing he did tip was that they were onto her. Everything she prepped for the last few months, was all a setup for Viren Industries to confirm her existence.She was terrible at this.A sniff escaped her and she hadn't even realized she was crying. She had found a small alleyway to duck and change before making her way home, but that meant having to walk the rest of the way. It was her routine, as she couldn't risk being seen entering her neighbourhood in her hero outfit. Another sniffle released as she shook her head. And after all that lying, all of that preparation and tireless work, for what?She lifted her head up and watched as the house next to hers had no lights on inside. With the exception of the colour changing porch Christmas lights, it was dark. They were asleep. Callum's Christmas party was done and she missed everything. She spent her entire Christmas planning and prepping for a fail, and here she had another. Rayla choked back another sob as she shouldered her duffel bag strap on more comfortably, attempting to muster the courage to walk by his house. She was pathetic."Ahhh, there she is!"She froze in her spot as she turned, surprised to find Callum sitting at the steps of his porch, layered in a winter jacket and his signature red scarf. It wasn't too chilly out for him to warrant wearing fingerless gloves, but he always was more easy going with cold, especially when he was sketching out late. He tucked his book into his messenger bag as he flashed a smile at her. Call it dumb nerves or her emotional state, but she instantly felt better just by looking at that smile of his."Ca… Cal?" her voice was a bit shaky from all the silent crying, so she kept her distance because she knew he could tell if she got closer. "What… what're ya doin' up?""Waiting for you."Her heart melted. They made a Props Promise and she failed him and it was already like half past ten and he was waiting all night. He said it so simply as he just scooted his spot over and patted the empty space. Like they had sat down here so many times when they were kids; whenever she was feeling sad they sat at his front porch, and if he was feeling down they would do the same at hers. Their parents never really got it, but the two of them explained something about how where you have your shoulder to cry on helped immensely. And he already knew she was sad.She wordlessly walked over as she hung her head low. "Cal… I-I'm so sorry. It was a Props Promise and I-I-I broke it! I thought I could make it in time but…" she couldn't even think of anything to say, to lie with. She didn't have it in her.He patted the empty space again and she obeyed, sitting beside him as she rested her head on his shoulder. He wrapped a comforting arm around her as he squeezed her tight. So easy, so simple."Why are ya always so forgiving?" she found herself asking."Ray? What was our Props Promise this time?"She sighed. "That I would make it to your party.""No," she made a noise of confusion as he corrected, "it was that you that you could probably make it to our party and stick around for a bit. You know? Probably? Like, as in, not likely but there is a chance?" She lifted her head and watched as he smiled at her so easily. "And I figured there was a chance you wouldn't."A sniff escaped her. Dammit. "So why did ya wait out so long?""Because I figured there was a chance you wouldn't," he smugly replied. Rayla chuckled as she rested her head against his shoulder again. He was too nice for her. Too forgiving. "And besides, Props Promises are two ways aren't they?" And much to her silent dismay, he retracted his arm to dig into his messenger bag, revealing a small thermal lunch bag. He opened the bag as he gestured it to her.Rayla's world stopped once more. "A jelly tart!" she nearly shouted. "Ya saved me one?""Yup!" he laughed. "I even bought a small thermal bag for this just in case. It was a week's worth of cautionary planning. But getting the opening to take one before my pig of a family wolfed them all down was the real challenge."Rayla's mouth salivated at the sight as she dug her hand in. It was really warm, it made her frozen hands feel better. "Lemme guess, Ez stayed up last night so he could get first crack at your mum's tarts."Callum rolled his eyes in that adorable way that expressed his irritation but also had so much affection. "I swear, I think he's more excited about the jelly tarts rather than his presents.""Did he like yours this year?" Callum nodded. "Good. I figure he would. He's always complainin' 'bout his controller. I told ya he'd like it."Callum chuckled. "Yup. You did."Just as Rayla was about to take a bite out of her pastry delight, she watched Callum's eyes flicker with a look she knew to be jealousy. A wanting. He had that look whenever bought chips from the cafeteria. He had it whenever she ordered a burger meal with fries. She stopped herself and stared at him but he quickly turned his head. "Cal… there was none left this time… was there?"He sighed. Just as he knew her well enough to do all of this, she knew him too. "My mom didn't have enough ingredients this year, she forgot to prep for two batches."Rayla closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She knew the answer anyways, but still asked, "Did ya have any?"He shook his head.He was also too giving sometimes.Rayla scoffed as she broke apart her tart and quickly handed it to him, mindfully watching for the dripping jelly. He wordlessly accepted and sighed before biting into it. "Thanks Ray."She laughed. "Ya know I'm not much of a gift giver for this time of year so count that as my present," she mused before taking her bite. Her heart warmed at the sensation within her mouth. Sarai's jelly tarts were heaven upon heaven.He chuckled. "Only if you count your half as mine."It was true though. Rayla wasn't really a fan of gift giving. She liked the concept, thought it was sweet, but she could never obligate herself to it. She gave gifts to Callum on his birthdays of course, but more often than not she thought the gesture in quality time together was enough. Callum understood that about her. It's why he waited. It was why he always waited. Even when right now, he could easily ask any question and poke a hole in her lies, he didn't. He just understood her."Merry Christmas Callum."As if it was possible, his smile grew."Merry Christmas Rayla."They clicked their halved pastries before taking another bite. And they ate the rest of their delicious baked good in silence. A comfortable silence they were used to. Like every Christmas before, a shared tart and hope that there was always next Christmas… that just maybe Ezran wouldn't eat them all. They both knew it would be too good to be true regardless. And, speaking of next times, a thought occurred in Rayla's mind."My folks are planning a New Years party," Rayla chirped up, watching as an amused smile slowly form on her best friend's lips, "Think ya can make it?"He laughed, extending a fist out to her. "Props Promise?""Props Promise," she agreed, bumping their fists three times before locking pinkies, "and it's a lock."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Turtled Love
"Yoo! Cal?" Rayla called as she knocked on his dorm's door. "Clauds and I were wondering if ya're up for some pizza? Her treat!"Claudia gasped. "What? I didn't agree to—""Cal?" the jock ignored, rapping another knock on his door. "Ya up?"Claudia rolled her eyes. She had no idea why they were even here. She just had a craving for some Hawaiian pizza and bumped into Rayla in the quad. She saw it as an opportunity to get to know the English Lass more, one-on-one. Yet, the second she offered, the girl extended her invitation to Callum, wondering if he would like to join them. Claudia wasn't sure if that meant Rayla wasn't comfortable being alone with her or if she was just that inseparable with him—or if she just figured he would've liked some pizza. Regardless, Claudia felt as if they could've at least made their order by now instead of having to drop by the boy's dorms.She even suggested just texting or calling, but according to Rayla, she "hadn't seen him today yet" and so she wanted to make it an in-person conversation. But by the third knocking, Claudia had enough."Rayla, I'm pretty sure he's not there. Maybe he's in his art studio," she suggested.Rayla shook her head. "Nah, he's gotta be passed out. He doesn't drop by his studio on Tuesday afternoons anymore, his neighbour blasts MarianasTrench in his studio all afternoon and it echoes non-stop, he can't focus," she explained as she dug into her letterman jacket pockets.Claudia raised a brow at that. "Is Marianas Trench that bad? I thought I've heard him listen to it before?"Rayla shrugged as she pulled out a set of keys. "Probably. Cal's not good at rememberin' artists' names sometimes. Or rather, can't be bothered to search 'em up. It's just that Beatles is his mood music and if somethin' playing over it it messes his flow and he can't get into the zone as much, least for his school projects that is."Claudia blinked at the new information. She hadn't really noticed that about Callum. The times where she and Soren did stop by his studio she recalled Beatles playing in the background, but she hadn't really noticed how focused he was because of that. She blinked out of her thoughts once again as she realized what Rayla was doing. "Wait. Why do you have a key to Callum's dorm?"Rayla shrugged the door unlocked. "He lost it once and asked me to search my dorm for it. Couldn't find it at all 'til I shook it outta my jacket by accident. Dunno how it ended up there but he already got a new one by then, so he said I can keep it." She opened the door and stepped in, and much to Claudia's surprise, a look of disappointment overtook her face. His room was empty. A half made bed, some scattered pants and shirts, and a cluttered desk of art supplies and papers. "Darn, he isn't here. Hmm, maybe he had to visit home real quick.""Hang on, back up," Claudia quickly said. "Does he have a spare key to your dorm?" she inquired.Rayla nodded. "Yeah? Seemed only fair." Claudia couldn't believe it. Callum didn't even let her and Soren into his bedroom when they all went to high school together. He was always private about his things, it took a long time for them to wear him down just to let them into his dorm room. Heck, she didn't even have time to process the fact that she was planning on entering his room while he was sleeping to ask him if he wanted pizza! Claudia's thoughts couldn't even keep up as Rayla continued to shock her with her next action: she walked over to Callum's bed and began making his bed."Rayla…""Yeah?""What are you doing…"She stopped herself mid fold, blinking out of her trance and smiling sheepishly. "Oh sorry right! Pizza! Uhh, ya go on ahead. I'll catch up! I'm just gonna clean up real quick!" Claudia blinked once again in disbelief as she watched Rayla fold Callum's blankets."Clean up… Callum's bed…?""Uhh well, his room too obviously," Rayla answered as she folded the blanket once more and neatly placed it at the end of his bed. Before Claudia could even inquire anything else, Rayla crouched down and began picking up his scattered shirts and pants. She folded his sweaters neatly, and tucked his pants into nice piles onto his bed."Do… you often clean up after him?"She snorted at that. "Pfft, he's not a slob Clauds. Sometimes he just gets so wrapped up in his art he forgets! No biggie," she shrugged as she walked over to his desk. "I help when I can."Claudia watched as Rayla neatly placed Callum's art supplies in their respective places. His pencils in empty mugs, erasers in another, his pens tucked away in small neat cases. She was even more amazed with what happened next. His desk had a couple of papers laid out, all filled with sketches, and Rayla picked them up. Claudia would've warned anyone else—herself included—that Callum was protective of his sketches. He let Soren and her see them, sure, but he rarely ever let them touch any.But Rayla carried it with care, holding the edges like it was a fragile bird as she smiled fondly at the drawing. Claudia stepped forward and of course, it was Rayla. Her in her football uniform, with a hardened face and her helmet in her hands. Like, it was really her. It looked so vivid and real, it kind amazed Claudia. Rayla chuckled to herself as she shook her head, gently putting the paper away into some folder that was on his shelf. "What a dork.""He really likes drawing you, huh?""Drawin' me wrong, if ya mean," she laughed as she pulled the paper out and showed it to Claudia, "He drew me with four fingers again."Claudia stared and was surprised to see, that for the amount of detail he went through with drawing her hair and it's purple streaks and even her lashes, he messed that up."He's been doing that ever since he messed up that one time. Now it's sorta his inside joke." She tucked it back in before placing the folder back on the shelf. "Got him in trouble once too! He handed in a model sketch for class and his prof left a note sayin', 'Humans have five fingers.'" She burst into a fit of giggles that honestly shocked Claudia.Rayla always acted more tough jock-like around her, she rarely ever sounded so bubbly.She knew Callum and her were close. But, from the general teasing and obliviousness they had, Claudia never thought they would just… suddenly click. It seemed like an endless hopeless case. The way Rayla acted about him, it was so personable and sweet, she understood him and was comfortable with him. It was domestic. The perfect word for the two's relationship. The way they just did things that seemed too intimate or flirty or just downright personal—they just felt that comfortable with each other. It was pure and genuine and just made sense. They just get one another.Claudia smiled at her, fondly staring before asking, "You really care about him, don't you?"Rayla scoffed like it was the easiest answer in the world. "Duh. 'Course I care." She raised her head and looked as if she finally clicked out of her maid mode. "What is it?"She shook her head. "Nothing. Now you done cleaning his room or you wanna get a pizza?"The football player laughed as she pushed Callum's office chair into the desk. "Yeah, yeah, c'mon," she pulled out her keys and tossed them up and down, "I'll just get my own pizza and we'll split it later."Claudia shook her head once again, as she followed the woman out the room, because of course she would think about saving him some. She smiled to herself, knowing that a certain bet with her brother would be won this coming Christmas party this Friday.::::Christmas Eve was a particularly stressful affair for Harrow. As preparations of baked goods to gifts and relative residency were what had him running ragged all day. His youngest son, Ezran preferred to be extra persistent in finding his presents so he could unwrap them early. Even the threats of no jelly tarts was not enough to stop his determination. Why he wanted to find them the day before? Harrow had no clue, but his wife tasked him with keeping him in check as she prepped the food. And while most Christmases the big meal prep was for the morning breakfast, a good portion was being saved for their dinner party later that night at Viren's place, as they all had been invited to celebrate together.Sarai suspected Viren made another purchase to his mansion and wanted to show off to Harrow, but he wasn't complaining.Still, that meant Christmas Eve this time of year was even more exhausting than most. His sister in-law and her girlfriend preferred to sit and eat in the living room together, occasionally helping Ezran with hints in finding his present's hiding spot. Ezran's pet toad had now joined, released from his habitat, and now Harrow had to be mindful of where he stepped. Then there was the taste testing for Sarai's food and helping her in the kitchen, of course Amaya would've liked to help, but she enjoyed his suffering far more. And of course, Callum was holed up in his old bedroom, claiming to have been, "struck with inspiration" and hadn't come down all morning."It's under the bathroom sink in your bedroom again, isn't it?" Ezran's voice echoed as Harrow collapsed onto the sofa, much to the amusement of Amaya and her girlfriend, Janai.Before he could even deny it, their doorbell went off. He immediately shot up to his feet. "I'll get it! Dibs!" he rushed over the door, "Please, be Santa here to give me the gift of a moment to breathe!""I don't believe in him anymore!" Ezran shouted as Harrow opened the door.Much to his surprise, it was his star Quarterback of Katolis College, standing out on his front porch with a bright smile. Even more surprisingly, she wasn't wearing her trademark letterman jacket, but instead the Katolis sweater hoodie, which was sort of tight on her and not at all warm from what he knew of its material. Sure, it wasn't snowing and there were only a few mounds of snow on their green grass, but it was fairly breezy out."Um, hiya Coach?" she threw up a two finger salute."R-Rayla!" he greeted, "Sorry, I was just—it's chilly out, are you not cold?"She laughed as she offered a very shivered shrug. "That's actually why I'm here.""Oh? Why, what can we do for you on this fine Christmas Eve?""Is Cal down yet?" she shot back.Harrow blinked. "Oh um, sorry he's busy—come in! Come in!" He motioned her inside and she accepted, stomping her boots out on the porch first to rid herself of tracking in any snow beforehand.He then heard his wife's voice call from the kitchen, "Harrow, honey? Who is it!"He smiled. "It's Rayla, sweetheart!""Really?" A clattering sounded off and a sink began running. Harrow laughed at that."I-I really won't be stayin' long, I'm afraid," Rayla spoke up. She looked as if she was about to elaborate further, but her attention drew to the living room, where she noticed Amaya, Janai, and Ezran staring at her. She waved. "Uhhh, hi!"The three waved. It must've been the way Amaya waved, but Rayla's eyes lit up at that as she took a step forward, motioning her hands as she spoke, "You're Amaya?" Harrow recognized—from his severely limited knowledge of the language—that she was fingerspelling his sister in-law's name. When she nodded, Rayla continued signing, My name's Rayla. Callum's friend.Amaya threw her head back in understanding as she nodded. She signed back as Janai translated, "So I've heard. He talks a lot about you when we FaceTime."A flush appeared on the Quarterback's face. I hope so, she signed back.The two looked amused at that. "My wife does not mind if you speak and sign at the same time," Janai chimed in, also signing, "She's not particular about that sort of thing." Amaya nodded in agreement.Rayla nodded as she replied, "Aye, Cal told me. But he's been teachin' me sign and said it's bad habits to learn while speakin'."Amaya grinned at that. "Good advice. Good teacher," Janai commented."Best there is," Rayla smirked."Oh and speaking of," Harrow remembered, "He's currently in the zone, so I have no faith he'll be coming down anytime soon Rayla. He's been at it since breakfast—didn't even finish.""Is Rayla still there!" Sarai shouted as another clang echoed."Yes!" he shouted back.Rayla laughed and shook her head. "No worries Coach, I'm all aware of his 'zone.' He must've been inspired for his next art showcase project," she explained, "But I texted him when I arrived outside, so he'll be down soon."Before Harrow could argue the likelihood of that happening, Sarai entered the room and rushed to hug Rayla. "Rayla! We weren't expecting to see you until tomorrow night! At Viren's party!"Rayla embraced the older woman as she replied, "That's why I'm here actually. I needed—""Sorry!" Callum's voice suddenly appeared as he came rushing down the steps. His hair was a mess still—he hadn't brushed it even for breakfast—and his eyes were baggy. "I got caught up."Harrow was amazed that someone actually managed to get his son out of the art zone for once. He never came out of it, not even with the threat of punishment for his evasion of chores on the line. But he was also amazed he greeted his friend looking like a slob… and she didn't care. She beamed, "Do ya have it?"Callum nodded as he pulled out Rayla's letterman jacket, shaking it with excitement. "Lemony fresh."She grinned at that. "Aww, thanks!" She then proceeded to pull off her Katolis sweater, revealing her black tank top, Food, No Business, and traded it with Callum. She slipped the jacket on and looked as if she melted inside it. "Ahhh, much better." She sniffed it as she hugged herself.Harrow was tempted to argue how the sweater—which was apparently Callum's—was actually warmer to wear outside, but he had to ask, "What just happened?"Rayla's face flushed once again as she realized everyone was staring at her. "Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry! Th-That was inappropriate—I just, I really wanted to wear it right away and—""Ray wanted her jacket so she could wear it for tomorrow's party," Callum casually explained.A smug smirk appeared on Sarai as she inquired, "But why did you have it?""Oh, right, because I did her laundry here," he casually answered. Again, casually, like that wasn't strange.Even his wife had no clever retort to that because that clearly wasn't a response one would expect. "You… did her laundry here?""Yeah! The campus washing machines and laundromat near campus are kinda expensive when you total it up over the months so I offered. We've been doing it for like a month now, I just do it with my load." He shrugged like it was no big deal. Then proceeded to throw on his sweater, which Rayla had just been wearing, like that was no big deal. "You're getting the rest Monday right?"Rayla nodded as she turned to the door."Wait!" Sarai eagerly shouted, far too excited about the revelations brought forward. "Can-Can you not stay for a bit?"Rayla winced, looking apologetic. "Sorry Sarai," Harrow rolled his eyes as he felt his wife happily vibrate that she called her by her first name, "but my folks and I are FaceTiming all afternoon. Like a holiday dinner. With the time difference in Scotland I gotta hurry before it gets too late for 'em.""Give Runaan and Ethari my wishes!" Callum waved as she moved to the door."I will, see ya tomorrow!" she said as she opened the door."See you!"She stopped and turned, narrowing her eyes at him. "Finish your breakfast too. And bring a snack up for later. Then get back into your zone. Or ya're toast, aye?"Callum saluted her as he firmly nodded. "Yes ma'am," he said with a wink.A wink.Harrow's son was winking at a girl.She snorted and closed the door behind her.Callum released a fond sigh as he walked passed the living room and into the dining room, picking up his unfinished plate of waffles. It was astounding. His son actually, finally managed it. He scored himself a girl and was doing right by her. He had heard from Soren during their practices that Rayla and Callum had been dancing around for a while, but it was too good to be true. Someone who finally understood him too: his quirks, his art, his passion, his humour. Rayla got all of that. And he knew her too. He covered for her to save the embarrassment and knew what scent she'd like in her clothes coming out of a dryer?He chuckled to himself."Why are you laughing?" Sarai whispered, "I won the bet! Tomorrow we're cashing in the spoils."Harrow rolled his eyes as Callum walked by, heading up the stairs with his plate of food. He couldn't help but notice he also had an apple, a snack no doubt he would be saving for later.::::"Look at them," Claudia swooned."I'm looking," Soren dryly replied as he busied himself with the plate of jelly tarts on the food table."Look how happy they are.""They are happy indeed." Claudia smacked her brother's arm, instigating a gasp. "You almost made me drop my tarts! What do you want?""Take this seriously!" she spat out. "You're just being mopey because you guys lost the bet." She stuck her tongue out at him, and he rolled his eyes."Real mature—""Oh you're mature—""That doesn't even make sense!""You don't make sense.""Both of you, enough," their father's voice appeared as he approached them, walking cane in hand as he dusted off his coattails. "We have guests, and making a fool of ourselves is not what I asked of you," he tiredly spoke.Soren snorted. "Dad, you just wanted to impress Coach Harrow with your new surround system." Their father turned his attention to the balcony, choosing not to answer that, though both his children knew the answer. They watched as their father smiled at the sight out on the balcony.Right outside, in the brisque cold, lying on a long wicker chair was none other than the couple of the hour. The two were sharing the seat, soaking up in each other's body warmth, though Rayla was shivering more on account of her stubbornly taking her letterman jacket instead of an actual winter jacket. They couldn't see their faces, or anything really except the backs of their heads, but Claudia figured they were holding hands. They couldn't hear anything either, but the cold mist emitting from their mouths each time they spoke told her they were whispering, intimately and quietly."It's adorable, isn't it?" Harrow addressed as he and his wife joined the conversation.Viren chuckled. "Indeed. I'm happy for him, I figured he was a lost cause when he hopelessly crushed on Claudia," he mused as he turned away, moving toward Ezran and their cousin Gren, who were attempting to change the music to Christmas songs.Claudia chuckled at that. "No way," she dismissed, "when did that happen?""Grade 9, when we all first met. It was only for a few months but it felt like ages," Soren casually explained before wolfing down a jelly tart."Nevermind that," Sarai spoke, "can we just be proud of him? I'm getting a daughter!"Claudia gasped. "And what am I to you?""Ehh, a packaged deal," Sarai joked. The group laughed.It was just perfect. None of them could care less about how Christmas went because this was the biggest anticipated highlight of the evening. Ever since the two met and everyone learned about their interactions, synergies, shared interests—they waited with baited breath after realizing prompting them together meant pushing an immovable object in line of an unstoppable force. But, the fact that they did it all on their own? His son finally found his love."Who do you think made the first move?" Soren said through his mouthful."Callum," his parents answered together, confidently.Claudia shrugged, seeming more skeptical. "I dunno, seeing how Rayla acts about him, I feel like it was her."Soren grinned, "Wanna wager again?"Before any of them could pool in on that, they watched as the two rose from their seat, stretching in their place before reentering the building. Sarai instantly shushed everyone and pointed at the. Rayla was wearing Callum's red scarf. The one he never took off even during the summer. Soren had to physically stop Claudia from vibrating with excitement on the spot as Callum approached them while Rayla made her way over to Amaya and Viren. They shot happy smiles as Callum walked over with a sheepish look."Hey guys, sorry 'bout this, but Rayla's kinda feeling drained so she's gonna head home." He shrugged, seeming to make no fuss of it. "I'm gonna walk her back to campus. I'll probably crash at the dorms too.""Hers or yours," Soren coughed, though was quickly met with an elbow from Claudia.Harrow decided to take the initiative. "That's fine son. You take good care of her." He turned to Rayla and watched as she walked by, waving at the group and bidding quick farewells and holiday greetings before heading out to the foyer. Once she was out of the room, Harrow stepped forward and placed his hand on his son's shoulder, startling him with his stern face. "Callum… I'm proud you finally took action."He stared at him, confused as he laughed. "Of course Dad! What kind of best friend would I be if I let her walk home alone right?" He gave his father a quick hug then kissed his mother on the cheek before making his way out of the room shouting a goodbye to a passed out Ezran on the sofa.The group watched the two in the foyer, laughing as Callum wrapped his scarf more firmly around Rayla, whispering something that elicited a louder laugh from her. She gave him a playful punch to the shoulder before following him out the door, taking their joy and laughter with them."Did… did I hear that right…?" Harrow asked aloud."That he said he was her best friend?" Soren said."Yeah?""Yup," Soren confirmed."They… they could still be best friends and dating!" Sarai weakly offered.Claudia sighed, shaking her head. "No… it was too good to be true… those two idiots are still just friends."Harrow palmed at his face as he groaned in disappointment. It was too good to be true.Soren chuckled. "Does this mean Coach and I get our money back?"
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Drenched Plans
"And there's ya new laminated, custom ID!" Nyx excitedly announced as she pushed the card forward. Rayla eagerly rushed up to the desk and watched as her new custom identification shimmered in the light of the room's fluorescents. "Congrats, Rayla, you are now officially a Hitwoman of the Moonshadow Agency."Her jaw dropped at the sight.
Rayla
Codename: MoonHeart
Level 2 Hunter
She practically bounced in her place, shaking the card in her hands as she squealed. Nyx cleared her throat, erupting her moment as she whispered, "Uhh, might wanna reel it in." She nodded behind her.Rayla slowly turned around and found not only every agent in the lobby staring at her, but her bloody mentor of all people at the elevator looking at her in disappointment. She mentally slapped her face as she stronger herself out and calmly and confidently walked over to Runaan. She was barely into her first day and she already messed it up. Runaan didn't even meet her eyes as he waited for her to arrive. "Runaan I—""Save it," he dismissed, "follow me." He stepped into the elevator.And she obeyed.He pressed the top floor and Rayla felt chills grave down her spine. They were going to see the boss? Had she already messed up that badly? After the doors closed and the elevator music filled the silence, Runaan finally spoke. "I am proud of ya, ya know that right?"She… was not expecting that. "Aye, Sir.""Then understand that I'm gonna have to be harder on ya now. Because your license is a controversial topic in this agency now," he nonchalantly informed her.Rayla's eyes widened. "What?""Many feel, even given with your training and exceptional skill, promotin' ya to Level 2 was too soon," he explained, regret laced within his voice, "Especially considerin' how ya've never taken before." She froze at that. "Many are callin' my judgment askew and that is why I ask ya maintain professionalism at all times. Do not give them a reason to doubt ya Rayla."She nodded as she straightened her back more. "Aye."The silence returned, and Rayla noticed they were only halfway there. "So… why don't ya demote me then? Ya have the credentials and I don't mind working up to Level 2."Her mentor sighed. "Doing so would only confirm the worst of the rumours and make my credibility as a teacher a failure. Besides, I wouldn't have promoted ya if I don't think ya couldn't do it." He turned and smiled at her. "Ya have to believe in yourself, prove that ya can do it not only to ya, but also," the doors chimed opened and Runaan turned, "to our boss."Rayla gulped. "What!" She followed after Runaan as he walked down the long, dimly lit hallway. "Runaan, I can't face the boss like—""Rayla!" She winced at the call and sighed. She looked on ahead and sure enough, the Star's personal Watchers: her parents. They stood outside the door, armed in full bulletproof armour, helmets, and night vision goggles. Goggles, of which, her mom instantly removed to wave excitedly and blow a kiss. "Proud of ya sweetheart! Or should I say, MoonHeart!" She winked. "Ya like it? The name was my idea, I pitched it in the system.""Nevermind that, Tia dear," her father laughed, "Show us Ray! Show us the card!"She reluctantly dug into her pocket but thankfully, Runaan spoke up. "Tiadrin, Lain, that can wait. Aavaros awaits us." Rayla blew a sigh of relief as her parents straightened up."'Course Sir," Lain nodded as Tiadrin tucker her goggles back on.The two turned around and flicked out their pocket knifes, inserting them into the slots either side of the door before twisting and unlocking it. It cracked open, and the two pushed it the rest of the way, heads low as Runaan led Rayla inside.Contrastingly his hallway, Aavaros' office was pastel blue. It was bright and cool-warm coloured, it was neat and tidy. But the man himself? He say at his excessively large galaxy coloured chair and smiled as Runaan approached the centre of the room. "Ahh," his velvety voice began, "Agent Twilight, is this your star pupil?"He nodded as he stepped to the side, displaying Rayla way more than she would've liked. She glanced down and felt self-conscious of her outfit all of sudden. It wasn't too different from the standard uniform. She had navy green slacks and vest with a white dress shirt underneath which she rolled up to her elbows. But now she was regretting not wearing a coat, or rolling down her sleeves, or tucking in her collar—why didn't Runaan say anything about his popped collar? Surely Aavaros had a uniform in place strictly so his employees would follow it.But he smiled. "Impressive. She's younger than you were, is she not?"Runaan proudly nodded. "Yes Sir.""Is that why you saw fit to promote her two ranks after her graduation?" the smugness layered with an accusatory tone made Runaan sigh."Sir, she scored the highest on every test for the applications and I've been training her—""The highest in long range accuracy was 83% Runaan. That's the lowest accuracy we've ever had from a graduating class and if that is all your prized pupil has to offer?" Aavaros' dipped into disappointment as he shook his head and clicked his teeth, "Then I'm afraid I hardly see the issue within MoonHeart, but rather you as a teacher, whose duty is to train the next generation! Their terrible scores are a result of your negligence and favouritism! All you have to show for you 'dedicated' teaching is a Hitwoman who excels in CQC and parkour? Pathetic," he venomously spat.Runaan's frame winced at every word, his head hanging low."Make no mistake, my dear Agent MoonHeart, I mean no disrespect to you," Aavaros gently clarified as he rose from his chair. "I am a firm believer that the fault of a students capabilities is the result of a poor teacher."Rayla gasped. Was he gonna fire him? "W-Wait, Runnan's great—""Was, my dear, he was a great teacher," he corrected. "And I'm afraid if you are all he has to show for his evaluation for a test as of now? Then there is only one thing left to do." He walked in front of his desk, back turned to the two.Runaan's face was sweating. Rayla didn't know what to think of that. He was her example of determination and casting aside emotions, he taught her everything she knew on how to be stone cold serious. And he was sweating like a rainfall. She wasn't even sure what her face looked like right now but she doubt it had any composure. He stepped aside as a TV screen appeared from his desk, turning on."The job is to take out the step-son and heir to the one and only Katolis Enterprises," a boy's face flickered onto the screen, he had messy chestnut brown hair and grassy green eyes of innocence, "you have until the end of the week to kill him." Rayla froze as she watched Aavaros lift his wrist and stare at his watch. "And I do believe your timer has begun, Agent MoonHeart."Rayla glanced down to her watch, three days.She had three days?Aavaros turned and made his way back into his chair as he announced, "Nyx will provide everything we have on his current location at the lobby. Good luck on your first mission, Agent MoonHeart." As he settled in, folding his fingers together, he smirked at Runaan. "Now let us see what your pupil is capable of, Agent Twilight."Rayla barely even heard the rest of the deal before she rushed out the room and to the elevator. Her first mission, and her job was already on the line. Lucky her…::::This sucked.The target was staying at the resort for exactly three days from Wednesday to Christmas Day, it was all she had. The very vague intel her file revealed was that his father had him here for safety reasons, in essence a safe house but not really on the account of the numerous guests and party events. But the real issue? He was guarded 24/7 and always on the move. She followed him around, posing as a guest as she analyzed his first day's routine. And while he did have a hearty breakfast at the complimentary buffet, he was also shadowed by his two security guards over his shoulders. The rest of his day transferred with him laying by the pool.She quickly consulted her inventory: a silenced pistol tucked in behind her back and hidden with her vest, a couple of pocket knives in her slacks, and a few magazines tucked into her vest's hidden pockets. Since she was a newly enlisted agent, her access to the armoury was limited. If she wanted better gear she would have to complete more missions and earn credits for her to spend on tweaking her loadout, but in order to do that she had to finish this one.Which was impossible without better gear.Closed loops were fun.She internally sighed as she pressed herself up against a wall, scanning the surrounding scenery. The pool wasn't too vacant, but there weren't enough people to crowd around and cover her approach—she would be wide open. She surveyed the scenery more, trying to find her path of approach, her fastest route to and from him. The complications of their work as hitmen were not exactly hiding their identity, but maintaining the illusion of having an identity. They were ghosts and had to remain so, but it also meant impersonation and undercover work was part of the job.Rayla's gaze turned to the lady's washroom. If she could incapacitate and take another guest's outfit, she could approach like any other guest and if her attempt failed, she had an identity to fall back on. She frowned at the thought, watching as her target sat up from his lounge chair and said something to his guards, who nodded in response. Panic filled within her: she needed to kill him as quickly as possible. Worrying and overthinking was a problem she would worry about after—she could handle the guards. She was skilled enough to take them out before they even drew their guns, screw the crowd reaction, she would just walk by him and slit his throat at the last minute.She took a deep breath and left her hiding spot as she walked over. Calm, reserved, like Runaan taught her. Hiding her intent with casualness, with a blanket of humanity, appearing regular. She stuffed her hands into her pockets, feeling her switchblades in each palm, calculating the possible outcomes. If her first strike missed, she needed to be prepared for the follow up, and if that missed she would need to focus on the guards. If it at all got dicey, she still had her silenced glock tucked behind her.Rayla smiled as she slowly began approaching. She could do this. Eyes on her target, she observed him as he started taking off his shirt and pants? Rayla's face flushed as her target's slim body revealed itself in his aqua colour board shorts. Focus, she calmed herself, focus focus focus focus focus, her suddenly new mantra repeated through her head as she neared him. Just a few more steps and—"Cannonball!" he shouted, hopping from his spot and straight into the pool, creating a massive splash that sent water everywhere. Rayla yelped as she stumbled out of the splash zone, nearly tripping over herself in the process. She turned and watched the guards as they were drenched but remained stoic and unmoved. "Sorry about that!" she heard her target shout.She turned back and he was staring at her. She already failed on every possible level. Rayla contemplated the chances of her being able to whip out her gun and shoot him in the head before either the guards caught on or he swam away. She grimaced at the thought, knowing a better tactic would be to pursue him in the pool, appearing as though she were going for a swim and concealing her knife in the process. There were several ideas, actually, that were helpful here because he was in the water and his movements were slowed. But…He wasn't in just any water.He was in the deep end."Uhhh, you okay?" she blinked out of her thoughts and noticed his grassy green eyes stared at her with concern.She nodded as she wordlessy walked off, retreating to her own room at the resort to collect herself. It was too soon to kill him anyway. That was what she told herself.::::Her second attempt seemed the most promising.At least, on paper.It was day two and her target had holed mostly in his suite for the remainder of yesterday, with his guards constantly watching his door. At first, Rayla registered sneaking into his room as a no go after that. While she could take out the guards and rush into his room, the mess might cause an uproar, and she wasn't certain that he didn't have another bodyguard inside. She lacked that critical thinking yesterday. If she did manage to pull off her attempt, it would've been absurd if she got away. But most notably, Aavaros was evaluating the outcomes too. There was no way killing him in three days was the done deal: she had to impress him.But like berated her for, her only skills were CQC and parkour, she was hardly decent with firearms, especially at long ranges. But she realized two things when she was walking around the resort grounds. First off, the guards never entered the room. If she managed to get in, she could kill him without them realizing. And second, scaling it would be easy. The back of the resort led off to a cliff face that hung above the ocean. The ledges from balconies to each floor were fairly simple to reach. Her skills in free running guaranteed she could ascend into his balcony, sneak in, then kill him.It was genius.She waited for nightfall then made her move. She hopped from balcony to balcony, mindfully watching out for rooms that had lights on and carefully gripping onto ledges instead of pipes in fear of them giving out. After hefting herself up to what she mentally counted as the seventh floor, Rayla glanced up to the top. He was at the twentieth, the last one. She barely even broke a sweat this point, and she was riveting with confidence. She could do this."I'm gonna show ya," she quietly muttered to herself, "I'm gonna show ya. I," she hopped to the eighth balcony, "am," pulled herself up, "a Hitwoman!" she exclaimed as she pulled her legs up. They banged on the ledge of the balcony, not making much noise, but definitely stinging her left kneecap. She winced as she rubbed it, ignoring the small pain.That was what did it.Rayla was so proficient in parkour she could actually scale buildings in her sleep. It was all thanks to her early mindset from a young age: don't look down. She still did from time to time, only when necessary of course, but had no problem for when she looked. It was only ground. If she fell, then she fell and it was splat. No big deal. But when she turned around to ready herself for another leap, positioning herself on the balcony ledge, she looked down and noticed—it was definitelynot ground, but water. She froze at the sight of the aggressive tides abusing the bottom of the cliff's rocks, and realized she was on a ledge. She hurriedly hopped down and sighed."I'm not being irrational," she assured herself, "The higher I get, the more likely that water's gonna be something' I fall in." She peaked over the edge and gulped at the freezing ocean.She climbed back down after a minute, this time much slower than her scaling. She wasn't particularly fond of having to look down as she did so too. Sure, on paper the idea was sound and made sense. And yes, she was good at free running. But the thought of landing in the water terrified her more than the impact of the ground.Rayla smacked her head several times that night before heading back to the drawing board. She washed had an entire day… and she only had one shot left.::::Her target was apparently attending a party near the resort, and his attendance was a seeing off party of sorts mixed with a Christmas celebration. She hadn't gotten all the details, just enough from the pamphlet invites and rumours of resort staff—who apparently have the juiciest gossip. She was too busy rethinking her last attempt. All she knew was that she had to go to follow him to the party. She had the same outfit as day one, outfitted with the same arsenal. She had to take every precaution going forward because she had no idea what to expect. Apparently the event was a somewhat reserved affair, and those who signed up for attendance were only allowed in. Though she had managed to make it into time she still had no clue what the setting would be like for this party. But she couldn't afford excuses not anymore.And of course, the party was on a damn yacht…Rayla wasn't even sure why a yacht was the preferred venue for a party at a resort. She couldn't linger on that thought any longer as she took a deep breath and sighed. Hopefully the boat wasn't going ashore or anything. She looked around and noticed several rope stanchions blocking off hallways and doorways, leading the partygoers to the deck, which most likely meant that they were limiting the size of the party. That threw out any plans of slipping around utilizing the small corridors and halls to her advantage. It was just one thing after another.Five minutes had passed since she arrived and she had yet to run into her target. The music was booming loud enough that a well placed silenced gunshot would be drowned out, the tightness and grouping of everyone dancing and standing by the food tables would allow a drive-by-stab with ease, and even the food itself: vacant with barely any staff, she could set up some sort of trap with it—maybe not poison, since she had none— but an incident that resulted in food everywhere and caused a distraction. Point was, she had plans in motion but her target wasn't here.She checked her wristwatch, now seven minutes, and worry crept in her. Maybe… maybe he left the resort early? She decided to make her way casually over to the exit in hopes of seeing him arrive, but also because she might have needed to make a quick exit on the account of him being a no show. She really hoped that wasn't the case—A loud horn sounded off, startling Rayla and nearly causing her to draw her gun. She took a deep breath as she held her heart, it was beating fast. She was far too nervous. Then the realization clicked…The yacht was leaving.She was about to be stranded in the middle of the ocean. Screwing patience, she rushed through the crowd and down the deck, making her way over to the exit as fast as possible. She managed to make it in the hallway leading to the boarding ramp and sure enough, she ran right into her target, literally. Colliding head first, she fell atop him, breaking her fall with his body."Ouuuch," she heard him wince as she blinked her eyes open, "Was that payback for the pool?"She froze. His eyes weren't grassy green. They actually looked emerald green.She shook herself physically and mentally.Why did she think that?"Umm, you okay?" he asked.She frowned. "I crashed into ya and ya're asking me if I'm okay?" She chuckled at that.He laughed. "I'm fine too if you were wondering." He smiled and… he was, like, looking into her eyes. Rayla didn't know what to do. Should she stab him? She felt like she could get it over with. Who cared if the boat was filled with partygoers and about to strand her in the water? "Umm, can you—""Ma'am," a voice spoke up and Rayla glanced up to find his two security guards rushing at her. She instantly shot up, hands in the air and instincts creaming to react. "Step back!" he shouted at her, cleary motioning his hand into his jacket, ready to draw if need be.The other helped up her target, checking him over as he brushed off his hands. "Stop, Corvus, stop, I'm good! It's fine, Soren, relax, we just bumped into each other, no big deal," he assured assured as he stepped in front of his other guard.So his guards made it too.He turned and sheepishly shrugged, "Sorry about them. My uh, father is particular about protection and—""A-Aye, don't worry 'bout it," she dismissed, smiling at him. Genuinely, much to her surprise. She was prepared to fake it but found it slipping so casually.He stuck out his hand, "I'm Callum."She watched his open palm. She could yank him forward and use him as a human shield, drawing her gun and popping "Soren" and "Corvus" before they could get a clear shot. She shook her head. "I know—I-I mean I'm Rayla!" she accepted the hand and shook it.His hand was very warm, soft.Why did she say her real name?Was she shaking his hand for too long?Their shake eventually departed as he flashed his grin once more. "So, um, what brings you to the Nexus Resort?" he asked.It was a simple question but it made her nearly forget her cover story. "U-Uh, Holiday. I'm just stayin' for a week. It's about to end tomorrow actually."His brows raised in interest. "Really? Same here! You flying in from Scotland or—""Err, no," yes, that was her cover story, "I-I mean, I am from Scotland, but I live in America." What. Was. She. Saying.He chuckled, "Well, good to know.""Callum," Corvus spoke up, "the party's already began, I think it'd best if you make an appearance?"He rolled his eyes. "C'mon Cor, don't be a stick in the mud. Just because my step-dad wanted me to go doesn't mean anything," he replied, "Tell the party people I'll show up later!"Corvus sighed. "Sir—"Callum shot Soren a look that she read as, Throw me a bone, and the guard side. "How about I go? Cor, stay here." The dirty blond walked off, looking regretful but she didn't sense him giving her any stares."Cor, can you just…" he motioned the man to step back, "loose follow? I-I wanna show her around."Corvus frowned at that."Show me around?" Rayla prompted. He was purposefully isolating himself with her. This was her chance to kis—kill him. To kill him and find a way off the death boat surfing death water and go home."Yeah, this is our family yacht and this whole party is sort of my step-dad's tradition for Christmas but he couldn't make it again," he frowned, "not a big shocker but he also ended up in a work emergency—""Callum," Corvus spoke up, "we're not to disclose company info—""Relax, I wasn't going to say anything," he muttered. A mischievous grin appeared as he said, "But, if I were to say something, you can't exactly stop me can you?" Corvus stared at him in shock. "Maybe if I dunno. You—"He sighed as turned and walked down the hall. "Don't stray far," he grumbled."I just wanna show her the entertainment room!" Callum shouted as he grabbed her hand and pulled her along, slipping past the stanchion ropes.Rayla giggled—the heck—as she held on. His grip secured her to follow, but it still felt warm and soft. "Ya often dodge your bodyguards like that?"He turned and smiled at her as their pace slowed. "Only when it's for stuff I care about."Her brain broke at that…This was flirting.Her target was flirting with her.She was beginning to feel light headed.As he opened the door, he announced, "Behold! Our entertainment roo—aahh!" she shoved him inside and closed the door behind her. As he tumbled to the centre of the floor, she whipped out her glock and cocked it, aiming it right at his head. He rose up, muttering, "Is this a thing with you or," and his eyes meet the barrel, "oh."She gulped. "Shuttup."He held up his hands, letting his leg drop and his body on his knees. "Okay… um, Rayla—if that's your real name—you don't have to do this."She nodded. "I do, I-I have to," she told herself, "I will." Her finger on the trigger and barrel down his face, his emerald green eyes of innocence and hurt pout. This was her best chance. No one would know until it was too late! But instead? She was hesitating and hesitating and hesitating. Her hand was shaking now.."You… you've never done this… have you," it wasn't a question, but it came out like pity.She steeled herself for one shake of her gun, threatening him as she shouted, "Like ya have?" He flinched, and it worked, but she still felt sick.He chuckled. He was chuckling at a girl holding a gun to his head. "No of course not! I just… I think this means you really don't have to do this. You're like, my age.""A year older."Why was she still sharing!"Exactly.""No," she shook her head, "I… I…" taking a deep breath, it all clicked. She dropped her gun as she turned and headed toward the window, shoving it open and hurling out her lunch into the sea. Her legs felt numb, her mouth felt disgusting, and her stomach was begging to be killed—her entire body hated this.She heard Callum laugh as he approached her, holding back her hair as she continued to retch out the entertainment room window for about six minutes.The two found themselves seated at the couch. Her gun tucked away, him on the other end, and she had a trash bin at her feet. They sat there for at least five minutes, before she bit the bullet. "What kinda person holds back the hair of someone vomitin' after they just tried to kill 'em?"He snorted. "I dunno. What kinda assassin drops her gun as she's about to kill someone just to vomit?"She laughed. "Not an assassin. I'm a hitwoman.""It's an occupation where you kill people, same thing," he dismissed."Smartass," she shot back."If I really was, I would've bolted and called my guards.""So why didn't ya?""Why didn't you kill me?"She stared at him, frustration building as she sighed. "What kinda—do ya have a death wish?""No, but it doesn't look like you have a kill wish.""Ohh I wish ya just shut—" she groaned, another wave of barfing was inbound. She began her waves (heh) of vomit, she heard Callum shuffle over and hold back her hair once again."You could literally shut me up yourself with that gun of yours." She tensed at that. Her bending over and him holding her hair, he could see it. She was exposed and open and going back on everything Runaan taught her. "Or maybe a knife, I'm assuming you have some, when you crashed into me your chest felt hard—" his face flushed, "not like that or anything, but I-I mean—"She rolled her eyes then released her last ounce of vomit into the bin. She took a deep breath, resting her head against the couch as she closed her eyes. Screw her teaching, screw the mission, she just needed a minute. She failed on every possible level but also was suffering under the worst types of Hell with all this damn water. It was as if Poseidon decided to tip the Fates and demand only water be her hindrance this trip. She was pathetic."L-Listen, I don't know if this'll make you stab or shoot me—by the way, if you kill me, please be bullet, quick and painless—but yeah, I… I don't wanna pretend to know your life," he softly spoke, "and I'm assuming you know a bit of mine from like, a contract file or whatever—"She knew nothing. She didn't even understand why the job was to kill this sweet cinnamon roll and not his step-father. She didn't get it."—but, I can tell you're not up for this. Whatever any of this is, you don't seem like a killer to me Rayla.""I'm carrying four magazines of 9mm rounds and six switchblade knives.""Okay you're a badass, but I don't think you're a killer."She sighed. "Ru… my mentor, he always told me the first was the hardest," she dug into her pocket and pulled out her knife, flicking the blade exposed as she stared hard at the steel. "But… he was talking about after. He never said anythin' about before…"Callum's phone buzzed. He pulled it out and sighed. "I…I'm sorry. They're looking for me, I gotta go." She wasn't even going to bother asking why he wasn't selling her out. She was exhausted. "Just stay here and… you'll be unbothered the whole party. O-Or if you want to leave, there's a small lifeboat near the back, you can follow the signs to the boiler room and when it leads you to the room you can just look around down below and you'll find it." He walked up and over to the door, but paused as he opened it. "And if you do make up your mind about killing me?" he smirked at her, "at least bump into me again so I get to see your face one last time." He flashed a wink and closed the door behind him.Rayla's face felt hot once again, but this time she knew it wasn't because of sea sickness.So yeah, she failed her first big mission.Her plans literally washed away at every turn. Maybe it was some big sign. Or maybe it wasn't. She returned to headquarters with a demotion and smug Aavaros, addressing that he had seen this coming and hadn't really expected her to do anything. Regardless, she picked up on that eerie feeling with whatever confusion she had, she had to sort it out soon.News headline: CEO of Katolis Enterprise Murdered
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Stalling Words
Callum was used to getting cancellations. With his line of work, it was to be expected. Owning a tattoo shop near the middle of the suburbs was the prime real estate for driving in customers who might've wanted to spruce up their lives. But whenever he received emails for appointments late in the evening or in the middle of the night, he assumed a sober customer was responding the next day to cancel. Those who did know what they wanted however? They did their research. They set up consultations, some even in person, and they have references or examples or notes—it's all thought out.Sure, he would get the occasional, "It was just a spur of the moment!" kind of person, and he would end up having to help them brainstorm an idea. But even then, those types still weren't so bad, least not all the time. He hated walk-in appointments, that was for certain. He had regulars, difficult customers who were specific and difficult customers who weren't specific enough. Needless to say, he had seen just about everything he had come to expect from owning a tattoo parlour.Until he met his latest client, Rayla McCloud.They scheduled for a consultation at 11:30 in the morning, which told Callum this was either going to be difficult drawing because they needed most of the afternoon to explain, or it would be a quick meeting as they had many errands to take care of. He liked forming speculations like these, it made him feel invested in his clients.And then she walked in, right on the dot. A young woman who looked about his age, his height, with medium length white and black faded hair, and purple mascara. She hugged her variety jacket tight as she scanned the shop, looking as if she walked into a dentist. He chuckled—wouldn't have been the first time he'd seen that look before.He stood up from the counter and waved. "Hiya!" She nearly jumped at this voice."O-Oh, hi," she shyly waved back.So it was gonna be another one of those customers. He kept his polite smile up as he asked, "Rayla, right? Rayla McCloud?"She nodded.Callum grinned happily at that, "Perfect! Right on time! Now, we can have our consultation in my office if you don't mind." He moved out of his chair and motioned to the back of the shop. "Did you have an references or anything in mind you wanted to go off of first or—""I-I'm sorry," she suddenly spoke.He stopped and turned, confused. "I beg your pardon?"She shook her head as she slowly backed away. "I-I can't. I changed my mind!" And then she bolted out of his shop.Callum stared in bewilderment for the next few minutes before deciding to call his next appointment and letting him know he was now suddenly available.That was new.::::Weirdly enough, Thursdays were his busiest booked days. Every appointment, consultation, even walk-ins, decided Thursday was the opportune moment for them to get a tattoo. Callum wasn't complaining, of course, he loved the business! But he still didn't get why Thursdays of all days. He had just finished up his lunch break and he heard the door chime. He internally groaned as he realized Claudia was at the counter and that meant—"Welcome to Inked, where we take what you're inking and make it a reality!"Callum stuck his head out of his office and shouted, "I told you, not our slogan!"Claudia stuck her tongue out at him. "It's catchy and clever.""I will fire you if you say it one more time," he joked, staring at her with a smile."I dunno, I think it's clever," his head perked at the familiar voice behind Claudia's head. And, sure enough, Rayla McCloud was stood right at the counter, this time a whole foot away from her last spot.He smiled at her. "Well I'll be, Miss McCloud!" he stepped out of his office and waved, "I was surprised to see your name pop again in my appointments, especially from our last meeting nearly a month ago."She let out a nervous chuckle. "Aye. My bad. Sorry 'bout that," she hurriedly said, "I was just, it wasn't a good idea—I mean, I wasn't feeling a wee bit sick an-and I, well, I had errands. To do. As well." She stood stiff still as she shut her mouth.Callum held back his laughter, deciding to spare the poor woman from any more embarrassment. "Well," he stepped to the side and gestured into his office, "shall we begin this time?"She took a step. One whole step. Then rushed out the door."See if you had a catchier catchphrase, she might've stayed," Claudia loudly whispered.Callum rolled his eyes and went on with his day, with a now free afternoon slot.He later received an email with a four paragraph apology that, in summary, was, "My cousin's pet labrador got sick and died, and no one was around to help bury it."::::The third time she showed up in his emails, he reluctantly accepted. Winter was a slow time for his business sometimes. Claudia was still in college and so her winter season was more exams on art theory, rather than examining a client's strange birthmark that they wished to use in their tattoo (it actually came out really well). Essentially, he had to take a lighter load and the only consistent business he would usually get were regulars or customers purchasing discount deals for gifts for their loved ones.So yeah, he accepted.But this time, he was eating his second helping of lunch. He had his favourite fantasy comic book, Xadian Adventures, in his lap behind the counter as he ate his burger and fries he got from the McDonald's down the street. Sure, maybe he would get a walk-in at this time but they were rare during the winter and he could probably reason with them to wait. He had finished the burger and was sipping on the last ounces of his diet coke when he heard the door chime open, and the Scottish lass had appeared.He spat out his drink into his bag of half finished fries.As he tried to work through his coughing fit, attempting to word out an apology between his air gasps, she crossed her arms across her chest and pouted. "Yeah yeah, I know, ya didn't expect me to show," she said with an irritated tone.He frantically waved his hand as he shook his head. "No, no, no, I-I mean, yes—wait no, but I—" he cleared his throat and took a breath. "Sorry, I-I'm not making fun of you." He quickly put away his comic book and put aside his meal. "This is on me, I'm sorry," he admitted.She sighed. "It's… it's okay." She awkwardly kept her gaze away as she kicked some snow off her boot.The silence continued for at least a minute.Callum would've offered to begin the consultation again, but his experience told her the second he asked she would bolt faster than lighting. Maybe he needed a different approach? "I um, I'm sorry about your cousin's dog," he tried.She blinked, and as if realization struck and a wave of red flushed her face as she now seemed fixated on looking anywhere but at him. Great, so that was a random excuse. Claudia managed to convince him it was a legitimate thing for a while there. "Right… the dog… which was real. Ob-Obviously I'm sayin' was, because like, he was real once. For a time. But now… isn't…"He nodded. So she was sticking with it, huh? She must have been really embarrassed. "Uhh what breed was it?" he inquired, throwing a small smirk her way.She froze. "Umm, a golden retriever?" she tried, and it was then Callum let his smug smirk take full affect— even she realized she was caught. Rayla let out a sigh. "I said somethin' different in the email.""Labrador."She furrowed a brow, "Ya still remember it?""Yuuup," he nodded. "Claudia and I were going over the plausibility of the story. She was convinced. Or, maybe she was acting convinced to make me doubt myself?" he pondered aloud, realizing that was exactly something Claudia would do. "Either way, it was a memorable email," he smiled. His face dropped for a moment unsure if he had offended her.He really had no idea what would set her off.She still looked hesitant, her arms crossed once again as she gripped into her forearms like it was her life support. Was that where she wanted it? Was she worried it would hurt? Or maybe she had a fear of needles? He had customers like those too, but they usually came in with friends or family to help them get through it."I-If you want, you're allowed to bring a friend or family member or whatever," he suggested.Her eyes finally met his, but they were laced with confusion and shock. "Pardon?""I mean like, if you're nervous or need help getting talked down, I don't mind clients having partners or friends sit with them," he explained.Rayla stared at him. He could not, for the life of him, read her face at all. It was like fear, anxiety, confusion, and curiosity had a baby and made it her expression at that very moment. But, if there was one thing to be proud of, it was that he deduced what all those conflicting emotions meant."You're gonna walk out aren't you—""I'm just gonna go—" she mumbled out at the same time, pulled the door open as she walked out into the breezy cusp of evening.At least he knew one thing she would do.::::Slow days happened every now and then. Maybe someone cancelled, or an appointment was delayed due to traffic—it happened. Claudia usually took up the counter on days like these because she wanted to use her catchphrase at any chance she could. He didn't mind because at least she was willingly working the register, but he made sure to chime in and declare that it wasn't their motto. It still didn't stop her from trying.And speaking of not stopping (or trying)..."Welcome to Inked, where we oh!" Claudia stopped mid sentence. "Hey Cal, it's for you," she said in sing song.He stepped out of his office and there she was.Rayla McCloud."Hi," she waved. "I um, do—can ya take a walk-in right now?"He rolled his eyes. This was a waste of his time. "Can you?" he shot back.She sighed. "I'd like to meet in your office."He blinked at that. He looked to Claudia, who shrugged, just as surprised as him. The look on her face was pleading, at least he hoped it was. He couldn't read her at all. But still, "C'mon in," he nodded to her to follow as he moved back to his desk and sat down. His desk was a clutter, but at this point, he gathered nothing formal was happening with this client anytime soon.As soon as she walked, she closed the door behind her, taking the seat with a newfound confidence—no, assurance. She knew what she wanted to say. "I'm sorry I ditched all our appointments," she began, "That was a rude and disrespectful thing to do to your business and I'm sorry for. I-I am willing to pay extra as well, for compensation for being a bother."While that was tempting… "You make it sound like you know what you want this time," he shot her a brow.She sighed. "I alway knew what tattoo I wanted. Even where. An-And I do have a reference!" she hurriedly added.He stared at her, confused. "I've had people be nervous before, it's nothing new. But you're the first I've seen act this way for a consultation. I haven't even done anything yet!""And ya're right, ya haven't!" she agreed, nodding fiercely as though she wanted to stress how important that was, "It wasn't ya. It was me. I just…" she took a deep breath. "I want it on my forearm," she rolled up her sleeve and pointed near where her wrist began, "Four words. It's sorta cursive, but not really."He shrugged, deciding that maybe she just dropped all conversation pieces and wanted to get to brass tacks. He grabbed his pen and moved his comic book off his notepad, and started taking notes."Well, where it's from it's written like that because it's sorta its own language? It-It's a quote from my favourite fantasy… comic… series…" Callum glanced up, worried that her trailing off was going to result in another ditch, but he found her staring at his desk—no, his comic book.He looked at her in amazement. "Xadian Adventures?" he clarified. When she nodded he beamed a smile like a kid on Christmas morning. "No way!""Ya read it too?"Callum scoffed. "Read it? I live it! I practically became a tattoo artist because the Archmage Calidum, uses tattoo conjuring!"Her face lit up with a smile Callum had never seen before. "Is he your favourite too?" Without even giving him time to answer she added, "I love how the recent issues are him taking on an apprentice! It's like, a direct parallel to his training with his mentor but instead their relationship is—""More parent-child," he filled in."Less teacher-student," she agreed. Her face flushed with an adorable sense of regret as she looked away. "S-Sorry. I just get carried away."He snorted. "So? That's awesome! Passion is passion, it just comes out of people in different ways." He gestured all around his office, referring to the photographs of all his favourite tattoos. "This is mine. And I love to do it."Rayla nodded, but looked hesitant to continue.He thought about that look, and took a shot in the dark. "You were embarrassed weren't you?"She nodded, sighing in shame."Why?"Another shrug. "I… no one I know likes Xadian Adventures. It's… hard to talk about something like that when no one around ya wants to read a twenty-nine year old comic series." She stared at his comic book, sadness writhing within her words, "With the thirty year old anniversary happening this January, at the Comic Con in our city for once—I…" she held back there, "I just wanted to rep that I was—am a fan." Rayla shook her head and scoffed. "But who am I kiddin'? Ya're out here being proud and I'm stalling because I'm not a big enough of a fan to represent just having it on my bloody arm."He stared at her in wonder. This was… an entirely different story than the ones he had in his head. There was more to it of course. Maybe some bullying, maybe even within her family. Something traumatic that made her feel the need to closet this passion of hers. He wouldn't pry, not because it wasn't his place and they hardly knew each other. But, as a fan to another?Callum rolled up the sleeves of his sweater all the way up to his shoulders to reveal the canvas hat was his arms. Rayla's jaw dropped in awe at the sight of his tattoo sleeves. Of course she caught it right away."Are those—""—various quotes from the series?" he finished, then nodded. "Yup. I like having them all together, muddled even if it doesn't make much sense because, well, it makes sense to me." He leaned forward and grabbed the comic book, holding it out as he pointed at the name, Xadian Adventures. "It's my appreciation for this work and what it means to me. But I'm not hiding them, even if they're not shown. Heck, I love wearing sweaters! But I'm not hiding them. They're part of me, and I know that even if I can't see it."She smiled at that.He mirrored her expression. "And by the way, there's a difference between stalling and delaying the inevitable. I don't think this counts as stalling since you still kept coming back." He winked at her and she chuckled."Thanks… Callum," she sniffed, wiping off a tear that had strolled down her cheek. "That was really nice."Something about her genuine appreciation made him feel warm inside. "Umm, no problem!" He put the comic book aside and prepared to jot down more notes. "What uh, what would you like again? The quote?"Her smile grew into its pride. "'My heart for Xadia,'" she answered.He grinned fondly as he wrote it down. "Issue 17, the beginning of the war between elves and humans.""Which also led to the greatest ships of all time," she pointed out."Ugh, you're one of those shippers?""C'mon, don't tell me ya don't love seeing the two be together. Their moments are so cute!"He rolled his eyes and patted his pad with his pen. "You want it the same way I had mine done? Matching Calidum's ancient text writing style?" She eagerly nodded. He glanced at the clock, noticing it was still only 1:18 PM. "Now, if you're sure and ready, we can do it today too," he suggested, "it will be quick and simple.""Yes. Please," she answered.::::"I can't believe you didn't take her up on her offer to compensate for being such an indecisive brat," Claudia addressed as they started closing up shop. "You were complaining about her for soooo long, and what, that's it?"Callum shrugged. "Hey, she knew what she wanted and we got it done." Claudia, of course, had no issue with Rayla. It was more so that she knew something happened during their consultation and liked to play conspiracy theorist. He decided to let the moment pass before speaking up again. "Do you think you can handle the shop for a day?"She turned at him with eyes of hope and gratitude. "Yes! Yes yes yes—wait, where will you be? Oh and when?"He laughed. "January 22nd. I'm going to Comic Con.""Oh, for your comic book thingy?"He stopped the door, ready to turn off the lights but he felt his phone buzz. He checked and saw the message:
Unknown [7:06 PM]: HI!
Unknown [7:06 PM]: oops didnt mean to caps. Just wanted to check this was ur number.
Unknown [7:07 PM]: Not that I doubted u
Unknown [7:07 PM]: oh and wanted to double check if we're still on for coffee this weekend?
Unknown [7:07 PM]: im spamming u arent i?
Unknown [7:07 PM]: shit.
He laughed, shaking his head at his phone. "Ooooh, what's got boss man all smiley?" Claudia teased as she moved over to him.He shielded his phone from her. "Knock if off, Clauds."
Callum [7:07 PM]: we're still good for coffee.
Callum [7:07 PM]: and dw, ur cool.
"Wait," Claudda gasped, "is it Comic Con or… 'Comic Con'?" she said with finger quotes.He stared."I mean, are you really going to Comic Con or is it a date?" she insinuated it like a middle schooler.
Rayla [7:08 PM]: thank god.
Rayla [7:08 PM]: for the cool not the coffee
Rayla [7:08 PM]: acc wait…
Callum tooked his phone away and flicked off the lights, laughing as he answered Claudia's question."Yes."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Golden Things
Isha knocked on her father's study with a hesitant beat. "Come in!" came the instant reply. She poked her head through and found her father at his easel placing a blank canvas. He turned around, grabbing his brushes, and he met her face. "Ah, Isha—my little Mage Apprentice, do you need help with your recent lessons?"She stepped as she closed the door behind her. "Err, no Da. I'm good."He raised a brow at her as he sat down at his stool, thumbing over his brush's bristles. "You sure? I understand that after learning the Water Arcanum, spell casting was an entirely new breed of difficulty for me." He laughed to himself. "I remember, your mother was so mad I ruined our date because I soaked her in lake water! Ever since we've had a rule: no Water Magic during dates."Isha snickered at that. Her mother was a representative of the Dragonguard and a highly skilled warrior, and she had just begun to double down on her younger brother, Lian, and his combat training. While she thought fighting was cool and all, she knew—much to her mother's disappointment—being a Mage was her path. And despite the tough exterior she tries to hold out, her mother was a softie through and through. She was an understanding lady who had a high tolerance for shenanigans."How many times did ya mess with her with Water Magic?"Her father's infamous mischievous grin grew. "Oh far too often. Enough to land me on the couch sometimes!" He shook his head as he fondly chuckled. "But, of course," he leaned over as he cupped a hand over his hand, "your old man knows how to cheer your mother up!"Isha smiled. "So… would ya say ya're an expert on romance?"He snorted. "I try, but your mother would definitely love to argue…" his smile dropped as he stared at his daughter with a curious look, "otherwise…" His face was replaced with a familiar smugness she had come to get used to growing up. "Issy, are you here for… love advice?" his brows waggled at the inquiry.She groaned. She was going to regret this."I am so honoured you decided to come to your father for such wisdom!" He laughed. "Oh, I may be the Archmage, but I know as much about romance as I do the Sky Arcanum!""Da," she spoke up, "don't make this more difficult than it needs to be?" He shut his mouth and grinned. "Okay so… as ya may know, I have a lil' crush on Farha—""Little?" Callum snorted. "Oh Issy, even Ellis is aware of your crush on her daughter.""I'm fourteen Da," she said, stone faced, "I've outgrown 'Issy' and I am well aware that Farha's mum knows. She keeps teasin' me whenever I come over her house."Callum smiled. "Isha, my little mage, you'll never outgrow being my daughter," he said with a soft pitch, "and I mean never."And just like that, her frustration and annoyance melted instantly. It was stuff like that that made Rayla believe she was on the right track going to her father for advice. Her mother did sweet things too of course, but more times than not she flopped on the flirty, confident front. Her father on the other hand? "How do ya do that?"He blinked. "Pardon?""It's just… don't tell Mum this but, ya're so good at this romance thing, better than she is sometimes!" He laughed at that, but Isha recognized it not to be his usual proudful laughter, but the kind of you-don't-know-the-half-of-it sort. Weird. "I-I mean… I came to ya because… I wanna know… how did ya and Mum know?""'Know'?" he echoed."Aye. How did ya know when… to just ask?"His face lit up at that. "You're going to ask out Farha?""Da.""I'm kidding, I'm just teasing Issy, you know me," he sighed, "I hate to tell you this but… it just sort of happened." Her dissatisfaction must've been expressive because he sheepishly shrugged at her. "Well, she kissed me first but it was a misunderstanding and then I kissed her because I really did like and she just, I felt like it was the right moment? But that wasn't even the crazy thing, we said how love each other pretty soon too, like a sorta 'life is short' moment but also it just felt right? It's hard to really say…" he settled with a half smile and nervous eyes."That… was severely unhelpful." Isha palmed at her face and sighed. "So ya're telling me ya two are just so meant to be ya just… clicked?" she looked at him with a tired face. "That's the best advice ever!"Her father's face shifted into his affectionate teacher mode as he grabbed the empty stool nearby and dragged it beside him. As he patted it, he said, "Let's chat?"She wordlessly walked over and sat down. Her father hugged her close to his chest as he rubbed her shoulder comfortingly. There was a time when she was younger where she actually preferred him touching her hair, but an incident with braids resulted in her mother banning him from ever touching her hair again. But… this was nice too."So what's really the issue? I get coming to me for advice but, there's something specific buggin you huh?"She took a deep breath. "I wanna ask out Farha but… it's not that I'm not ready or anything. I have a plan too! I wanna go to the park where we met and tell her how I feel it's just… it's…" she released a frustrated sigh as she crossed her arms.Her father shook her as he whispered, "It's okay, it's okay." He continued, "You're not sure if she feels the same way?"Isha nodded. "I just… I don't know if how she's acted around me is actually because she's flirting, like because she likes me likes me. Or if it's her being platonically nice? I-I-I know Ellis living up in the mountains and all by herself and that she and Farha don't have many people to be around, so like… what if she just doesn't know the difference between romantic and platonic?" She felt terrible for evening voicing out such a thought, as if bad mouthing her best friend was a sin. "I… am I reading things right?"A silence stirred for a moment, her father comforting her as she voiced her frustrations. He knew how to do that. To let her ramble and rant and get it all out. She had seen him do it with her younger brother, to their mother, to even Uncle Ezran whenever he came over. He was good at that. He waited, listened, and then spoke."Isha, are you aware of love languages?"She blinked, confused with where this was going but wise enough to be patient. She quietly shook her head."Well… it's not a proven fact, not yet, your mother's taken to reading about romance books like them in her free time. But, the basic idea is that we all have a certain love language we respond to—five, that is—," he explained, "and how we respond to the people we like and how they respond to us? It's essentially just the way we all interact. Now to me? I find that everyone has a mixture of everything but… sometimes, there's just instances where the person you like does something that clicks with your love language and… it's often because they know it does."She shot her head up and stared at her father. "Da, what're ya gettin' at?"He chuckled. "Well, similar to how you are worrying about misinterpreting Farha's messages, you think she might be as well?" Her shock must've been obvious as her father continued, "And since we all joke about how obvious you are—you think she's also debating whether you're being romantic or not?"That blew her mind. Could it really be true? But that still didn't confirm any of her own worries. "I… how can I know? That doesn't really confirm anythin'!""Isha," came her father's affectionate tone, "that's the idea." He quickly explained, "I'm saying sometimes we often do things for the people we care about that not even we are aware of it! But we still do them because we care."It… sounded like it made sense. Like he was onto something. But still… "How?"He smiled. "Well, take one of the languages perhaps? Words of Affirmation…" She nodded, expressing her attention, "Like, small acts of encouragement, actively voicing out one's genuine appreciation for affection for their partner…"::::"Da, I thought ya and Mum were headin' out today?""Oh we are! But a change in plans has me going to the castle to just do some quick busywork and your mother has to head to the market herself," he explained as he laid out her and Lian's breakfast. Some porridge, her favourite! "So your mom will be heading out earlier than me."
She nodded as she sat down and began eating.
"What's this 'bout me?" her mother's voice leaked in as she filled the dining room with her presence.
Her father beamed. "Nothing dear, just me explaining to Issy our plans for the day."
She smiled in response, "Ahh, well I thought I'd say thanks for lovely note on the shoppin' list." She shook said paper as her smile somehow grew.
Her father feigned ignorance. "What note?"
Her mother, however, decided to play along. "Ah, I guess nevermind! I guess I'll have to find the author of such a poetic profession of love!" she dramatically sighed, "Where will I ever find such a clever man?"
"Oh I'm sure you keen eyes and intellectual inquisitiveness will guide you well."
Isha, on the other four-fingered-hand, darted back and forth between the two's banter. A short moment passed and her mother released a tender sigh.
"Thanks, love.""Anytime, my dear."She hung off the door frame before entirely stepping out. "Good luck at the castle! I know it's nothing but I know ya'll stomp it out quick!"He smiled at that. "And I'll try to hurry so I can make it in time to help you at that market, but, knowing you, you'll be done long before I even get to the castle!"
Another exchange of fond looks, and she shot him a wink before departing. "Love ya, and love ya too Issy!"
"Love you most!""And love ya always!" was her mother's final response before the door closing shut behind her.
Isha stared at her father in disgust and curiosity as he started to eat his porridge. "Why are you two always saying that?"
Her father shrugged. "Because it's true?
::::Isha smiled at the memory, realising the importance of how much they reminded each other. It was true, what was the harm in proclaiming it? Encouragement, verbal profession, the littlest things… Like her and Farha. "Isha, you're the best Mage I've ever seen!" "I honestly think your hair is Godly levels of beautiful." "You are amazing, Is."A faint blush danced across her cheeks as she realized all the small instances her famed crush spoke like her parents did to each other. Not the exact words of course, but the inflection, the fondness in looks, the casual reminders—she did it so often."—of course, physical touch as well," her father continued, "that one is more clear sometimes, but there are other subtleties as well!"Her attention raised at that. "How so?""Well, sometimes physical affection isn't just kisses, but casual, more intimate things too…"::::
Isha walked into the room to ask her parents about dinner, but she instead found the two sitting at the couch together. Her father had his sketchpad out, drawing away on his lap while her mother was leaning up against him, head rested on his shoulder as she flipped away at her novel. The two sat there, completely quiet, save for her father's brushing pen and mother's casual turn of a page. Isha was mesmerized by the sight.
Suddenly, her father turned his mouth mid-sketch and pecked her mother's forehead, eliciting a giggle from her. She responded by freeing her page turning hand and patting her father's cheek, like she would do for their pet Sky dragon Zeusia. He beamed at that and the two returned to their tasks.
"What're ya doin'?" Isha asked, surprisingly not startling either of them.
Her mother moved her head from her comfort spot, much to her father's disappointment, and bookmarked her page as she gave Isha her full attention. "Oh, just lounging around," her mother simply said. "Do ya need something?"
She blinked. A better explanation than that. But she settled for, "Um, when's dinner?"
Her father's face finally shot up from his sketch as he announced, "Right! I'll get on it!"
But as he moved himself from the couch, her mother stopped him with her hand, interlacing her fingers with his seamlessly. "Wait, don't ya wanna finish your sketch?" He chuckled as he put down his pad and used his free hand to pat her hold. It seemed like an affectionate pat? Her mother responded by taking his hand up and kissing it. The two shared an interlocked gaze, and then her mother released him. "Fine, go, go."
Her father laughed as he walked toward the kitchen, patting Isha on the shoulder with a comforting squeeze as he passed her.
::::Casual, subtle, intimate—but physical. It was all there. It reminded her of how she often walked with Farha. Slight brushes of hands and fingertips as they walked side by side. Shoulder touches, from assuring squeezes to gentle, playful bumps. Hugs? Before now Isha had been convinced she was smitten with them, but looking at it again it was always Farha who embraced her, as if she was squeezing the life out of her with each one. It was always her who started it… Isha just followed suit."—receiving gifts is a big thing too. It's obvious as well, but piled up with so many instances you never realize how much someone gives you!" Her father laughed. "Honestly, things like…"::::"Oh family!" her father's voice echoed throughout the house.Isha looked up from her book, A Human Archmage's Guide to Magic, and let out a breath of relief. An excuse from her studying? Finally. As she stepped up from her seat on the couch, her mother entered the room at the kitchen at the same time her father arrived in the room."I come bearing tonight's dinner!" he announced as he hefted up a bag. "An entire turkey! Courtesy of the staff at the council meeting today!"
Isha didn't really have anything to comment on that: turkey was nice, and that was good fortune for her dad. She turned and watched her mother look at him with a mixture of warmth and annoyance.
"Cal, I thought I say I was cookin' tonight?"He rolled his eyes as he made his way over. "We both know you hate cooking. I'll take care of it!""Fine, but I'm still making ya your favourite pie."
Her father pouted. "Aw, did I ruin a surprise?"
"By being sweet? Oh no my dear," she walked over and pecked his cheek, pulling the bag from his hands as she departed, "I could never fault ya for that."
He smiled at her as she walked away. "By the way there's some Moonberry juice in there too! I got it on my way home!"
She popped her head back into the room, grinning ear to ear. "Thanks. And I got Isha to start on her studying." She blew a kiss and ducked away.
Isha sighed at the sudden attention as her father looked pleased. "That's great Ray, thank you!" He walked over to Isha, revealing a jelly tart from his hand. Her favourite treat! "And thank you for studying."::::Farha did that. She did that so often! Cute little bracelets she would make because it "reminded it of her," or baking her jelly tarts because she knew she liked them so much, or making her scrunchies that could double as braids because "they looked good on her regardless if she wore it as a braid or bracelet." Small reasons that were essentially… "Just cause."Maybe she was just not seeing things before…"You know, I think it also pairs well with Quality Time," her father rambled on, "just small instances of one-on-one time that's just you guys. It's private, it's personal, it's attentive, it's…"::::"Lian, where's Da and Mum?" Isha shouted as she barged into his room.
Her younger brother absentmindedly hummed a tune as he sharpened his dagger. "They went out!" he simply said, minding his own business.
She blinked at that. "Out? But Da said he'd start teaching me Ocean Magic today?"
Her brother shrugged. "They wanted to go out on a walk. Said it'd only be like ten minutes."
Isha pouted. She really wanted to train with her father today. Thankfully, the sound of the door alerted her ears and she rushed over immediately.
She found her parents walking in, smiling and giggling like those teenagers she occasionally saw at the market. "—be later," came her mother's whisper. Her attention shifted over and met Isha's eyes. "Oh, hi Issy! Ya're father and I just went out for a stroll."
Her father beamed proudly. "And a little bit of sunset watching!"
Isha gaped. "Sun's almost down? But Da, ya promised to teach me Ocean Magic today!"
Her father seemed unphased as he shook his head. "Relax my Mage Apprentice, it's crucial we work at night today!" He nodded confidently. "Water has temperature, tonight we'll be playing with the lakeside freezing water!" Her mother elbowed his stomach, "Argh—I mean learning. Not playing. Of course." He winked at her as he turned and pecked her mother.
Isha felt a surge of relief and joy. "That's great Da. Thanks!" She left the room to prep her things, but not before hearing:
"So? Sketch you later? After the lesson and dinner?""Can't wait!"
It wasn't until the two were wrapping up their lesson, Isha decided to ask, "Da, why're ya spending so much time with Mum? Ya're married, haven't ya done it enough?"
He chuckled, shaking his head with an adoring smile. "It's like you said Issy," he winked at her smugly as he walked back to their cottage, "It's because we're married."
::::It's because they love each other. It's because they just wanted to do things together because they liked each other that much. Like reading/sketching together—or studying together, like her and Farha. Like going on long walks and watching sunsets—or strolls into forests, looking for adventures. And even just sitting together face to face, talking about anything and everything—exactly like her and Farha."Da, tell me the last one!" she eagerly said.He blinked in alarm. "Ah, what?""C'mon! C'mon! Tell me!"He chuckled as he replied, "Alright, alright!" Clearing his throat, he continued, "Acts of service is, I think, the definition of romance. But also what you mean to another…"::::
Isha walked into her father's study and was surprised to find her mother there instead. She caught her in the act of cleaning up her father's supplies; putting his brushes away in their proper holders, adjusting his easel's size to his preferred starting height, and throwing his dirty brushes and mixing paints into one bin. She stopped mid clean as she noticed her daughter's presence.
"Oh, hey Is. Need somethin'?"She stared, confused. "Uhhh, yeah… from Da… where—why are ya cleanin' his study?"
Her mother laughed. "Oh, ya're father went to go run out and buy Zeusia some treats for me, and he left in a hurry so," she shrugged like it was a normal thing to do and went about with her task, "Should be back soon I believe!"
Isha decided she could wait for her father's return. Evidently that resulted in her passing out in her bedroom before she could ask him about her Mage homework. A light rap on her door startled her from her slumber. She turned to her door to find the culprit and found her mother, smiling at her.
"Mum?""Ya're father's home. But I thought I'd wait until ya got some good sleep in before I woke ya," she spoke with a fondness laced in her voice.
Isha rubbed the sleep out of her eyes as she groaned. "Uhh, how long was I out?"
"Not long, just an hour or so," her mother replied. "Hope that's okay."
Isha glanced at the window and noticed it pretty dark out. "Oh. Yeah it's fine." She hopped out of bed and followed her mother out the room. She led her into the dining room where, of course, her father was setting the table with a brewing pot over the stove.
"Oh!" Rayla walked over and hugged her husband. "Thanks for starting but I just had to use the bathroom!"
He returned the embrace with ease. "It's never a problem," he easily replied, "Just figured I'd do it just 'cause."
::::"Oh my Azymondias," Isha gasped, "She likes me."Callum stared at her, waiting for her to elaborate."She likes me! O-Or, at least, there's a chance she likes me! It-It might not seem that big a deal but before I was convinced I had no chance but—" she released an excited squeal. "I-I-I gotta go!" she announced as shot up from her seat.Her father stared at with a proud smile. "And? Do what?"She stopped before his doorframe and smiled back. "Tell the girl I like I wanna date her!""Yeah you will!"She rushed out of the room."Oh but, be back before sundown!" she heard him shout.Isha smiled confidently as she gathered her things and rushed out of the room, bidding a quick goodbye to Lian before she left the house. Surprisingly, her father was good at romance advice.But he was also a good husband.And a good dad.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Beast A-Slaying
This was it.Callum's first big gig. No more killing pests like raccoons or rodents, this was the real deal. A vampire. An actual, living, confirmed sighting, vampire. He had a couple of wooden stakes ona belt wrapped around his chest, hidden within his brown trench coat. On his thighs were holsters for his daggers, and his boots were thick leather made for crushing heads. Well, they were made for trudging through the mud, but that's what he told anyone who listened what they were for.Regardless of the made up stories, he looked the part. And after his first real monster kill, he would be able to walk the talk too.He finally arrived at the place of interest, the old abandoned manor of Peake Town. The story went that the Moon family who once owned the place were all murdered in the manor: staff, children, the garden keeper—everyone. Strangely enough, the common theme within the rumours was that the wife was responsible, as investigators couldn't find her corpse, but no one could retrieve any of the residents' bodies either. Nonetheless, Callum didn't care for the investigative narrative, he was here for the kill.After hopping over the gate, he calmly marched over to the front door, stake in hand, hood up, and turtleneck up. Pushing open the door, it creaked loud and echoed all around the manor, resonating off the walls for what felt like minutes."Hello?" he pointlessly called out. "Vampire? I am here to kill you!""Aye? That a fact, laddie?" a female voice suddenly appeared from behind him. He whipped around and found nothing. The door closed shut and a cold breeze blew through. He froze in his spot, desperately looking around.A mockful laughter echoed around him. It sounded like it was coming from everywhere. The roof creaked and the dusty, webbed chandelier swung back and forth. The steps squeaked. Callum's eyes darted all over."Boy ya don't look the vampire slayer part," she snorted, "What, they run out?""I-I," he cleared his throat, "I'm here to kill you."She scoffed. "Sure, I'll believe it when I see it."A woosh blew past Callum and she suddenly appeared, standing halfway up the steps, leaning on the broken guard rail. She had long white hair that dropped down to her waist, matching the complexion of her pale skin, but she surprisingly had two horns protruding out from her head, slicking back. She danced down each step, making a show of her fancy dress shoes and navy slacks as she descended. With her hands tucked into her navy coat, but an unbuttoned navy vest exposed her dirty white dress shirt and its blood stains. She had a sickly sweet smile as she reached the last step.Dropping down to the floor, she revealed her hands in showmanship-like manner, shaking them as she chuckled. "Frightenin' aren't I?" she inquired as made a clawing motion with her four fingered hand's nails—or claws?She did not look like a vampire. Maybe the pale skin but this was a demon for sure. She even had pointed ears. "O-Oh wow… you, uh, you have horns," he found himself saying.She glanced up and shrugged. "Aye. Kinda weird devil look eh?""A-And," he blinked, "four fingers?"She frowned. "I can still flip ya off with them." She demonstrated crudely. "Now are ya done or are we doing the whole Red Ridin' bit through and through?"He stammered, "Wh-What?"She sighed. "Fine. Yeah these fangs are all the better to eat ya with," she rolled her eyes, "or suck your blood out with, whatever. Can't make that sound good phonetically.""S-So you do have fangs?"She stared at him, amused and confused. "Duh." She opened her mouth to reveal her red stained teeth and then two fangs popped out of her top front teeth, really sharp fangs. She also had really nice teeth? "Can retract 'em whenever," she explained as they went back in, "makes it hard to talk when ya got the equivalent of an overbite going on."Callum was massively at a lost. "An-And you're Scottish?"Her face contorted into offence. "Aye? What's that got to do with anythin'?""I-I-I, just, you're not what a vampire is supposed to be!" he explained. A frantic worry crawled up in him as he paced back and forth "You're basically a demon incarnate—""Hey!""—A-And I signed up to kill a vampire. I-I mean maybe I could kill you with a crucifix and Holy Water but you don't kill a demon!" He had his head in his hand and was hyperventilating. How was he supposed to do this now?The woman/vampire/demon chuckled. "Wow, ya're surprisingly a whole new reaction than what I've typically seen." Another gust of wind and she was in front of him, grinning with her now protruding fangs. "Kinda makes me wanna have fun first."Callum wasn't sure what it was that made him act.Maybe it was the frustrations building up within him.Maybe it was the fact that he already had everything he needed.Maybe it was her smug, annoying mischievous grin.Without a word, he clenched the stake in his hand and went straight for her heart, stabbing it directly. The woman released a gasp of pain as she clenched onto the stake before stumbling back, breaking the already rickety railing as she collapsed on the stairs. She continued to gasp and wheeze as she reached her hand out for the sky. "Nooo! My… only… weakness: dying!" She coughed and coughed before finally going limp.Callum blinked. "Holy shi—"And she sat up.He released a squeal and the not dead vampire started laughing. "Oh my goodness ya screamed like a lady, Holy Hades!" She snorted as she doubled over, with the stake still in her. "Ahh bloody Hades that'll be a fun one to laugh about again in a decade or so.""How are you still alive! A stake to the heart is—""One of my weaknesses?" the Scottish vampire interjected blankly. She shot up to her feet and shook the stake in her hand, revealing no blood. He looked at her chest and saw penetration of skin at all. "Yeah… vampires don't work like that. I'm glad ya missed the vest though, this is my favourite outfit!"Callum's entire body felt chills. They didn't? Of course not. Their immortality wouldn't just fall to such a Human invention. She started to creep closer and Callum realized he needed to regroup. "Ahh, what's that!" he shouted, pointing up at the second floor."Eh?" she turned and looked, and he made a break for it. Bolting out the door, and through the courtyard, as fast as his legs could take him. She was bound to the manor, if he left, she couldn't get him.He needed a new plan.::::He crept in through a broken window this time, hoping he could surprise her. Admittedly, announcing his presence on this first arrival was cocky and foolish. He slid through the window and found himself in a study. This time he could—"Hah, knew ya'd come back."He jumped. Like, actually jumped. He turned and found the vampire lounging on a sofa, reading a novel. She had her legs sprung up on the armrest and her head rested in the palm of four fingered hand."Ya know, ya left without even exchanging names. It's kinda rude to do that." She folded the page's corner and shut the book with one hand. Then stood up smiling at him. "But I'm a polite Hostess," she took a bow, "welcome back to my humble abode."Callum took a deep breath to calm the red he was starting to see. This was more than just proving himself now. No one. Absolutely no one, should bookmark a page by folding its corners. "You'll crease the pages!" he shouted in fit of rage, pulling his vial of Holy Water from his trench coat and uncorking its cap. He splashed her with it, actually managing to catch her by surprise but—She didn't react.She made a small irritated groan as she looked down at herself. "Awww man, Holy Water? That smell reeks. This is my favourite outfit too—ohh." She growled through her tight lips as she shook her head. "I'm so tempted to kill ya now."Callum's eyes went wide. He bolted out the window, launching himself outside without hesitation.He bruised the next day, sure, but he also had a better plan.::::He had noticed a cellar door on the side from his last entrance. He decided to enter there then make his way up. The cellar was shockingly full and not at all empty, aside from the dust and cobwebs, it still was stocked as if the owners had just abandoned the place. Perhaps that's the true story, the Scottish vampire arrived and kicked them out and stole their clothes to look cool and hot in—Callum shook his head. He was getting off track. As he ascended to the kitchen, he opened the door slightly, peeking through the slit as he slowly opened it and scanned the kitchen.And of course, at the island, she was standing there, munching on an apple?"Rayla."He stared. "What?""Rayla, it's my name ya arsehole," she said with a cold tone. Her eyes met his as she took a massive bite of her apple. "Least ya could do now is tell me yours."He shook his head, reminding himself the foolishness of this whole scenario. "No. You'll be dead before you would even need to know!"Her expression went blank, her unamusement very apparent but not stopping Callum's resolve at all. "Fine, whattya got this time."He chuckled, glad that she said that because he was ready (read: practicing this line for two hours) with a comeback. "Oh me? I have nothing for you," he smugly said as his hand dug into his trench's inner pocket, "but the Lord and Saviour has a Gospel for you!" He whipped out his crucifix, holding it out at her as made a quick sign of the cross. "The power of Christ compels you!""To what?" she dryly shot back.Sweat started to bead down his head as his hand started to shake. Maybe he should've brought a priest."And isn't a crucifix a downgrade from Holy Water?" She crossed her arms. As if in a last ditch attempt, he chucked the cross at her, watching it pointlessly bounce of her chess and cluttered onto the table. "Sorry, I'm not Christian or Catholic," she shrugged, "Dunno if that affects it but also that's not how vampires work."He sighed. "Callum."Her brow raised as she cocked her head."My name's Callum," he said as he walked out, heading toward the front door."Bye Callum!" she shouted as she marched out the door.Back to the drawing board to kill Rayla.::::He's not sure why he wasted ten minutes trying to scale the building just to enter through the rooftop, but his disappointment of meeting her immediately inside, amongst a dusty webbed collection of furniture and boxes definitely didn't make him feel like it was worth it."Why did ya waste ten minutes scalin' the building?" she asked, arms folded across her chest as she had her hip jutted out and a disappointed look on her face.He panted. "I… I… I thought coming from above would be… the last thing… you'd expect…"She laughed. "Well it sorta was? I never expect anyone to do that because the manor's so darn tall. I heard climbing like, as soon as ya started. I definitely didn't expect ya to keep going thought, especially after the third fall."He stared at her, offended. "And you didn't help me? Or at least come outside?"Rayla shrugged, and he was convinced if he couldn't do anything at least her arms would probably fall off from all its shrugging. "Felt like I would've robbed ya a win."He sighed as he shook his head, reaching for plan D. Without warning, he threw the garlic at her. But with not energy left in him at all, it fell at her feet. She glanced down, bent over, and picked it up, holding it between her two fingers as she inspected it."Garlic?""G… Garlic," he panted.She nodded and dug her teeth in. Her small bite very apparent on the vegetable. She winced as she chucked it out the window, spitting out the bite as she shuddered. "Uggh, ew ew ewwww," she rushed out, smacking her tongue as if to remove the taste, "disgusting!"He sighed. "Why… why did you eat it… it's… supposed to…""Never had it before. Heard that it wards us off but I've obviously come by it before," another damn shrug, "but I still haven't tried it. Damn if it tastes like that I can see why vampires wanna stay away."He rolled his eyes, managing to regain his strength as he stood up straight. "Whelp, I'll just see myself out," he declared as he made his way over the stairs."Aight. Bye Callum!""Yeah. Bye Rayla," he said he descended the steps, frustrated and annoyed.::::Broad daylight, beautiful birds chirping, and he decided to knock. He wasn't surprised to find her answering within seconds. She opened the door and smiled, "Ahh, Callum! Another dastardly plot for me today?"He shrugged, taking a page from mannerisms. "Ehh, you feel like going for a walk?"Her face flushed, wish kind of perplexed him—wasn't she dead, or a corpse? How could she even do that? "W-Wait, really?"He nodded. "Yeah, it's a nice day out so…"She beamed back a cute fanged grin as she nodded. "Aye, it is!" She stepped inside, "Gimme a sec to get my parasol!" And she vanished, wind filing her place and nearly blowing him away.He would've been reluctant to step in, as he wasn't invited in by her, but they've already breached regular societal norms so he couldn't be bothered to care. He trailed inside, trying to follow her voice. "Parasol?" So maybe… just maybe…"Yeah! It's my favourite! It goes nice with my outfit too!" she returned in the foyer, a dark blue parasol in her hand as she rested it over her shoulder. "Now shall we?" She giggled as she hurried outside, opening her parasol and smiling as she took in a breath. "Ahh, lovely air."Callum nodded as he held out his arm, waiting for her to interlock. She quickly obliged, and the two began walking. "A stroll around the estate?"She nodded. "Aye, I'd love that. The garden's actually really nice during the day." Everything was decayed or overgrown, but she was right. It had a sort of natural poeticism to its existence. The result of man intervention abandoning its project and letting nature revive it into its own image."So… is this your place?" he decided to ask.She chuckled. "Ahh, curious 'bout the story are ya?"He smiled. "Guilty as charged. Rumours all over Peake Town make this out to be some tragic tale."Her body felt a bit stilled at that, her arm locked for a moment. But a laugh erupting from her dissipated that stilted movement. "Oh yeah? What're the townsfolk sayin' 'bout me?"He shrugged. "Well, it's not necessarily you being discussed but the owners of the manor. Running tale is a rampant murder, but most believe the wife did it," her face—for the briefest of instances—twitched at that, "But that's it. Everyone just thinks you moved in.""Oh, that's the story huh?" she said sardonically.He suddenly felt a chill in atmosphere. "Uhh yeah, yup." She was distracted."Well, I guess it's sorta true," she mumbled. He barely got it, but it sounded childish, bitter."What… is the story?""What's yours?" she shot back, smirking proudly at her deflection. "Ya're not exactly an ideal monster hunter."He sighed, smiling through the unintentional insult. "Yeah well… it's what I wanna do. I wanna kill monsters but no one around these parts takes me seriously so I'm more of an exterminator. Instead of bagging werewolf heads I'm ridding houses of rodents and mice."She snorted. When he made a face she quickly covered her mouth with a whisper of, "I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I-I just, the thought of ya chasin' vermin around is kinda adorable," she teased, bumping her shoulder against his.His stomach sort of buzzed at that, like a strange tingle? Regardless, he steeled himself and frowned. "I'm a monster hunter. I swear. You and everyone else may not take me seriously but I will prove it!"Rayla rolled her eyes at that. "Oh yeah? And whattya call this? Monster Dating?" her cheeks were slightly tinted as she teased, but he ignored it, for it was the perfect setup for his oneliner."No, I call it, a trick!" he announced, removing his arm as he swiped at her parasol launching a few feet away from them.She blinked, staring at him confused as the sunlight illuminated off her skin like a ray of beauty. Her pale complexion was unharmed, rather, it was enhanced? Like the light of the sun highlighted her lovely features and innocent expression. She was cute."Uhh, what the heck was that?"He blinked out of his trance, realizing his plan failed. "I… I thought—'Her face contorted into anger as she pieced it together. "Ya were tryin' to kill me?""I thought sunlight—""No of course it doesn't ya arse!" she spat out."But the parasol—""It looks nice with my outfit, I wanted to bring to impres—to impersonate a lady ya know! I don't get a lot of chances to show off my lady side not with arses like ya tryin' to kill me!"He looked at her with confusion. "Why are you mad? That's what I've been trying to do this entire time!""But I thought this time ya wanted to—" she held back, eyes suddenly welling up with tears? His eyes went wide at that. She acted so human. How was this—she, so human? Her tearful eyes and hurt face was instantly replaced with fury. Her eyes were filled with black and her voice went deep, "Leave.""I—"He blinked.And he was suddenly flat faced on the ground. He stood up, dusting himself off of leaves and dirt as he looked around. He was yards away from the estate. An echoing voice lingered around him."Never return… Hunter."His mind ran with a million thoughts, questions, and contemplations of what to do next. But there was one thing that was at the forefront of his mind. Something he realized in the instant he went face first into the ground. It wasn't that sunlight couldn't kill her. It wasn't that he had no more options left. It was that in the entirety of this strange, weird game they had… she could've killed him within whenever she wanted. Snap his neck, stab him, throw him off the roof—literally anything, not even now, when he clearly pissed her off.And she didn't…::::Rayla sulked herself down the stairs, a tub of sherbert ice cream she had stored in the cellar. She had already wolfed through four tubs in her bedroom and was on her last. She released a sob as she shoved a minty chocolate spoonful into her mouth. She was so stupid. Of course he just wanted to kill her. Heck, even from his mini backstory she gathered he wanted to kill her just to prove something. It was never about her. It was about what she represented.His opportunity.As she reached the foyer, she made her way over to the kitchen, continuing her sobs with no remorse because who cared? And then she caught it. A scent. A nice, food scent. It smelled like steak, mashed potatoes, wineand—her eyes widened. Human. Not just any human. She burst into the kitchen and found Callum stood at the island, startled by her arrival.The counter had two plates of steaks, one was rare, the other medium, some mashed potatoes on the side, all resting next to glasses and a bottle of red wine."What. Are. Ya. Doing. Here," she venomously asked.He obviously looked nervous, but to his credit, he visibly swallowed his nerves and said, "I'm sorry. I-I didn't realize how it all looked to you and I didn't realize what was going on b-but I'm making up for that! Because, okay, maybe I'm a little curious about your story but I can see it hurt you—"She glanced down, remembering her ice cream plastered face and chucked the tub off to the side as she wiped her face."—But also, because I do think you're kinda cool. Like, really pretty and funny, and I…" he laughed, shrugging as he gestured to table. "Give me a shot? No killing. I promise, Rayla," he said it with a genuine smile. Her name off his lips was probably her only weakness.She was at a loss for words. Never had she ever, not in all her years of existence, met anyone who would do this for her. "How did ya get in?He chuckled. "I snuck in."She glared. "Tell me.""Front door." She blinked, amazed at that. "You never did notice me the first time, and it was only because I announced myself. Every other time you caught me you were busy doing something so I figured that meant you were always just doing whatever and you weren't exactly guarding it, so I just walked in and set this up!" He cleared his throat. "Which, I may add, is getting cold."She hated that her cheeks flushed at that. He was smooth and smart. The Gods really didn't want to give her an excuse to hate him huh? Maybe Aphrodite decided to bless her with a gift for once. That realization struck her and she relented, taking a seat across from him, trying not to giggle at his childish celebratory fist pump.As she started to cut into her steak he begam, "H-Hope you like it that. I-I-I didn't want to assume but—""It's fine." She liked it medium. But if he was still running with that theme then she could handle rare for tonight.Her face must've twitched because he sighed, shaking his head. "That's on me," he nervously chuckled as he grabbed her plate and swapped with her, "I prefer rare. You don't mind medium do you?"She blinked. "Umm. It's my favourite," proudly smiled at that, "Thanks." She watched him take a bite and wince. So it was a lie. He was trying at least. "We can split it," she found herself saying. He stared, confused. "I know ya don't like it rare. C'mon let's just split it."He shook his head, "No, no, no!" he took another big bite, despite not finishing his first, and shoved a spoonful of mashed potatoes in. He beamed a mouthful of a tight lipped smile. "See?"She sighed. Darn him being cute too. "So what, ya said ya were curious…"He swallowed. "I… I kinda don't wanna pressure you now. Don't wanna like, make you uncomfortable y'know?"Rayla stared at him, watching his genuine worry hold to her surprised stare. "I'm an Empousa," she began, unsure why she decided this but that was it. She went with it, "Like the Daimon. In Greek Mythology? Yeah, that's me."His eyes went wide as his jaw dropped, spilling his spoonful of mashed potato back onto the played. Despite herself, she giggled at that."L-Like Greek Mythos? For real?"She nodded."Fascinating…" he said under his breath, disbelief and wonder clearly battling his mind.She smiled at that. "Everythin' ya Humans have on monsters and myths comes from us, well, being real."He looked at her, still amazed. "Really?""Werewolves?" He nodded, attention grabbed. "Lycan. Daimon from the Underworld, same powers really—shapeshifters who turn into wolves, but ya Americans discovered 'em 'Werewolf' became the coined term."He shook his head, chuckling in awe. "S-So you're an Empousa? Not a vampire?"She denied, "Nah. Some folktales ya have, do get spun around of course. Lycan don't die to silver, Empousa don't die to well… everythin' ya just tried." She shrugged. "We don't die by any mortal means honestly. None of ya have the right metals for it. Has to be mined from Mount Olympus in order to really hurt us permanently. Or at the hands of a Demigod, so yeah."His face was slack jawed with shock. "Mount Olympus… is real?"Rayla chuckled. "Don't ask me where, us Daimon don't exactly get dinner invites," she mused."An-And how does this relate to you and this manor?"Her smile fell."W-Wait you don't have to tell me." Her heart ached at his immediate backtrack. He was giving her an out. He knew he had no business in any way but to say anything and recognized it from the start. He was true to his word. But at the same time, centuries and centuries and centuries of loneliness and she had yet to met a man to treat her like this."I was adopted," she said. Her eyes pricked, the story was on the tip of her lips but the pain was bound to follow. For an immortal Daimon she still felt the pain of grief and betrayal like a Celestial Bronze dagger to her heart. Lain, Tiadrin, Runaan, Ethari, Janai—all gone. She couldn't handle the sorrow that followed with their stories, so she settled for a rough cut."I was adopted. I-I don't visibly age. When I was, well, created, my physique remained the same throughout time. I-I am immortal, but I just look always this young. I think they, um, they one said I looked like I was a 18? 17? I dunno, but they took me in 'cause the Moons couldn't sire children. Both Lain and Tiadrin Moon—the heads of the house—were infertile. But Peake Town expected them to sire a child soon because well, it was expected!"A-And yeah, so they found me. And I don't exactly carry myself like a clean gal. They offered residence, I had to pretend I was their daughter who was a kept secret until I was of marrying age. I accepted because, well, I may be immortal but ya humans have nice food and its tasty! Like, why does Dionysus need to drink wine if he's a God? It's fun! Any-Anyways I stayed because not only shelter and food, but wealthy shelter and food," he laughed with her at that, which made her feel a bit calm continuing her tale, "And… family. Never really had that living all those centuries so… it was nice. I hit my teeth and kept a hood on the entire time, told 'em not to touch it or give me bathing nurses because personal reasons. They never questioned it 'cause it as an arranged deal, y'know? B-But uh, they caught me. I accidentally bared my fangs once and I got caught and… all Hades broke loose." She took a breath, taking a sip of her red wine, enjoying the taste sliding down her throat."What… what really happened to them?" he quietly asked. "I-I mean, you can stop there—""N-No, no, it's fine," she assured him. He was listening, he was attentive, he meant it. "They uh. We all went out. The entire estate, we were all close. Or at least I was. I hung out with most the help—" Runaan, Ethari," anyways uh, we all went to the lake. I'm, sure ya know the one near town?" He nodded. "Yeah, that's where it happened. And they ran screaming for the Lord's help." She bit her lip, nodding as the tears threatened to form. "Yeah… I went home 'cause I thought they'd eventually come back and… now it's my place!" She let out a humourless laugh.This was dumb. This was stupid. The tears began to spill. This was not worth it—A hand fell atop hers and she looked up to find Callum staring at her. His face, heck even if it was pity, was sincerely staring at her as if to say, I am here. A moment passed, and he released a sigh."When I was 10, my mom and step-dad and little brother, were killed by a monster," his breath was shaky, his hand clenched onto hers and she returned the embrace with ease. "C-Claw marks. Torn limb from limb I—" He slammed his other hand onto the table, his tears already falling. "I was off with friends. Being dumb—" he swallowed the words, another breath, "And yeah… no one believed me. The town was nearly convinced I did because it was such a ludicrous story an-and yeah… I left. To find the monster that did it but also…" he looked up at her with a smile. "To make sure that it never happened again. So…. 9 years later and here I am. Talking with a vam—Empousa, eating dinner."She laughed, sniffling away her tears as he wiped his off with his free hand. "Quite the pair, aren't we, Sir Callum?"He nodded, grinning ear to ear. "Indeed we are Lady Rayla."The moment stayed, with the two staring into each other's tearful ridden eyes. That was a lot to share for a first date. Maybe it was a date? Who knew. But Rayla didn't regret it. There was more to his story too, she knew this. A step-dad implied a lot of things, the reason why he wasn't there, the way the village must've treated him—but tit for tat, she had her own reasons not to share. Maybe not yet."I… I'm sorry one of my kind—" he nodded rapidly, expressing his gratitude but also implying he didn't want to go any further with the story, "but I just wanted to say. I've never done anythin' like that to—" She couldn't ever bring herself to just hurt innocents like that."I know," he smiled. She raised a brow. "I mean, I clearly pissed you off with a misinterpreted date earlier and I'm still alive right?"She laughed, feeling her face flush at the memory. "Ri-Right, 'bout that—""This is a date, by the way," he randomly said, and a surge of relief washed over her, "I… I was caught up with my job and I am still abiding by it. Even with… apparently unkillable Greek Myths roaming around because I swore I would. But… I felt really bad about what I did and how you reacted," embarrassment was swelling within her now, "I'm just… I am sorry, Rayla. I know I was trying to kill you but, I didn't mean to hurt you."She laughed at that, and soon enough her ears were blessed with his joint laughter as well. That line was so strange and such a juxtaposition but she got what he meant by that. It was entirely different, what his mission was. A path of vengeance and justice, maybe, but he didn't seem a fellow who wanted to hurt others excessively. That was how he was with her: no nonsense every time, straight for the kill. He had an honourable heart.She smiled. "Thanks. I… I… ya're the first person I've met that…" it was too soon for that. Too soon for any of the thoughts she was thinking of doing to him. "That's done somethin' like this for me."He chuckled. "Well, I'm glad one of us had our firsts…" his eyes shot wide. "N-Not like that!" Rayla burst into a fit of giggles as Callum sighed, shaking his head.Her thumb caressed his knuckles as he held his smitten smile. She lived long enough to know what a smitten smile was and he had it. Not to say she wasn't probably making a similar face, but she was just amazed it was at her for once. Her, Rayla, the Empousa of Greek Mythology, found a man who smiled at her like she was Human.It was doomed to fail. Him, a human. Her, an immortal Daimon. His literal life goal was to kill her kind. With his determination and resolve? She believed he would one day. But despite it all, their hands were interlaced; nine fingers in a warm embrace. She felt no ill intent. Maybe she was blinded by her emotions but she decided to trust in that for now.That would be enough for now.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Swamped & Sinking
"Oi Rayla," Runaan's voice shook Rayla from her deep seeded trance within her mindless Tumblr scrolling, "break's over. Man the register. And stop sittin' on the bloody supplies."She begrudgingly tucked away her phone and sat up from her seat on the box of coffee ground bags. It was closed of course, and unopened. "Don't get what the big deal is, Runaan," she grumbled, "lunch rush finished a while ago.""Doesn't matter, break's over," he replied.Raya mockingly mouthed her uncle's words as she followed him out and into the cafe."Stop mocking, start working!" he ordered as he kept his back turned, moving over to the brewing station.She rolled her eyes as she situated herself at the register. Sure enough, the cafe was barely full. With a customer sitting at the counter, two pairs at the window booths, and three singles at the middle tables. Xadia even had outdoor dining too, even though Rayla consistently told her parents that it didn't technically count just because they put out tables and benches outside. But she stood corrected as she also noticed some customers outside, filling the spots in spite of the cold weather—perhaps a group of high school friends, they looked the age for it.So maybe they were a little busy. Rayla sighed as she tapped her fingers against the countertop, scanning the shop for anyone to make a move. With Ethari working the drive through, which was considerably always more busy than the actual in-dining, Runaan would be doubled down on watching over her. Which meant no pulling out her phone or leaving her post to sit and wait for a customer.Rayla didn't get the point of Runan's strictness with their business. Silvergrove, while a fairly large town, still had predictable business hours. It had been that way ever since Rayla was a child. She knew this from her parents constantly working at the shop and taking her there after school as she grew up. She knew when a rush hour would come, when certain regulars would arrive, and when random spurts of droves would pile in. Random to others sure, but Rayla picked up on reading Twitter updates on what was going on in town to gather the flow of public events—Xadia was slacked right in the middle of town.They had good business.Which was why Rayla didn't see the point in being so strict with schedules and slow hours, the system was predictable by formula! She allowed her gaze to shift over to the coffee machine, wondering if brewing a small latte would be a crime right now. As her bored contemplation underwent, she felt a strange presence lingering upon her. She turned and nearly startled herself as she realized a customer was standing at the register, bearing quite an unpleased expression.She hurriedly assumed an appropriate posture as she beamed an apologetic smile. "S-Sorry 'bout that sir.""It's whatever. Can I order? Or is this register not open?" came his cold remark.Rayla wasn't usually put off by rude customers, but his accent struck her immediately. An American. Judging from his curious eyes that darted off every so often, he was skeptical of the place. He was either a tourist or just moved here, but Rayla decided to hold back on her hypotheses for now. "Yes it is—what'll ya have sir?" she grinned, holding her patented service-with-a-smile.He glanced up tiredly at their menu above, and rolled his eyes. "Just, whatever you recommend? House special? I don't care," he spoke with an uninterested tone, clearly irritated with something. "Just…" he spared another glance at the menu, "as long as it's hot."Rayla blinked at that. What a strange thing to trust a stranger to do. "Oh, uh, aight then," she said unsuredly, "would a, uh, hot chocolate be okay?"His face shifted into a mixture of disgust and confusion. "I came for a coffee, and you're recommending hot chocolate?" he asked with deadpan.Rayla was taken aback by his response. "Um, ya said 'as long as it's hot.' Last I checked, it was 'bout eight to nine degrees celsius outside, and a hot chocolate is a nice warm drink." She placed her hand on her hip and challenged him, "Now ya want a hot chocolate, or not?"He matched her glare, holding a lock for a moment before releasing a sigh. "Fine. A medium hot chocolate," he nodded his head over to the counter, "I'll just take it there. Do you do tabs?" He barely even registered her nod before he decidedly walked away.Rayla scoffed as she made her way over to the cups and grabbed a medium sized mug. As she began to prepare the hot chocolate brew, she felt a stern presence behind her. She looked over her shoulder and found Runaan judging her with an unamused expression."I heard how ya spoke to that customer," he stated, unimpressed, "Ya can't treat our customers like that Rayla!"She rolled her eyes as she waited for the brew. "Don't care, he was being a twat 'bout it anyways—""Rayla!""Fine, fine. I'll… give him a complimentary jelly tart," she conceded. Throwing a glance over at the counter as she noticed the rude man seated himself on the far end. He dug into his dirty beige messenger bag and pulled out a laptop. It was then she noticed his attire: he was fairly well dressed. A nice navy blue sweater neck, draped with a long red scarf that dropped down to his cleanly kept khakis. A rich tourist, Rayla made a note in her head, to which she immediately scrapped as she realized the state of his MacBook.It looked like a month away from being thrown into the shop and turned up for parts.He had a frustrated look on his face as he began to startup his laptop, no doubt because it was taking forever. Rayla couldn't help but notice his frustrations looked honestly sad, like he was one more push away from throwing his laptop. Suddenly, a million thoughts rushed at Rayla. Maybe he was having a bad day. Maybe he had a spat with some friends or family. Maybe things just weren't working out at all for him this week. A sense of regret crept up within her as she considered:Maybe going easy on him would make his day?With a fresh brew of hot chocolate and a nicely scented jelly tart in hand, she approached the counter. She was met with his gaze instantly. "Order up," she gently announced, sliding the contents across the counter.He immediately noticed the jelly tart and stared at her. "Didn't order this."She shot her patented service-with-a-smile and said, "On the house." His confusion remained, and so she added, "Consider it a complimentary snack."His confusion softened as he picked up the pastry and gave it a once over. "What is it?" he asked. He sounded genuinely curious.She chuckled at his childlike curiosity. "What? They don't have jelly tarts in the States?"His expression shifted into skepticism as he shrugged. "I'm not much of a food connoisseur," he softly replied.He seemed hesitant all of a sudden, like he was being mindful of his words or his mannerisms. Like he was more self-consciously reserved. "Well," she began, "if ya don't like it, feel free to call me down and I'll take it out of your hands. Again, free of charge." She shot him a wink."Does that also apply to the hot chocolate?" his tone sounded smug, like it was meant to be a tease, but his face looked like it was genuinely asking.She playfully sighed. "I promise ya, I wouldn't give ya anything that I wouldn't recommend."He seemed comforted by her words, nodding with a smile. "Okay… thanks." He turned back to his laptop, which looked as if it finally started up. "And…" She stopped in her tracks and turned to him, "…sorry." His gaze was affixed on his laptop, but Rayla smiled to herself as she returned to her station.She decided to chalk that one up as a win.That was the last she spoke with him before returning to register duty. He had remained at the counter since then, keeping to himself. She noted with every occasional glance, that he seemed to be sipping his drink quite enjoyably. Within the hour, the jelly tart was long finished, and Rayla patted herself on the back for that one. But he mainly kept to himself the entirety of Rayla's shift, so much to the point that it was near closing time and she just realized he hadn't even gotten up to go to the washroom, much less ask for a refill.Now having a customer sit for long hours throughout the day wasn't exactly rare, but it was definitely uncommon for non regulars—let alone an obvious foreigner of sorts. She assumed if he was visiting Scotland, it must've been on some freelance business of sorts considering his ample time on his shitty MacBook. But the state of the MacBook either implied he was a big saver, or wasn't exactly doing too well financially. But then again, he was in Scotland, so it could've been a paid for work trip or he actually moved here."Rayla."She broke out of her thoughts and turned to Runaan, "Yeah?""That customer, he hasn't paid his tab yet right?" He nodded over at the man Rayla was just staring at.She shook her head. "Nah." She shrugged. "It's kinda weird though, he didn't ask for refills or anything else since."Runaan raised a brow at that before shrugging himself. "Well, whatever the case, tell him to wrap it up over there. It's closing time," he grabbed a dish cloth and spray bottle and handed it to her, "ya finish up?"She was about to make a retort of being stuck with the annoying job, but she'd already exceeded her sarcastic quips quota for the day and she wasn't looking to upset him anymore. "Roger roger," she deadpanned with a salute. Runaan simply rolled his eyes and retreated to the back. Rayla then made her way over to the stranger and tapped the counter, earning his attention."Uhh, can I help you?" he asked, cocking a brow.Rayla chuckled. "Yes actually! I figured ya were so engrossed in your lil' work there so ya hadn't noticed but—" she proceeded to gesture around the shop "—it's closing time, sorry."His eyes went wide at that. "Oh. Oh shit, my bad," he fumbled for his laptop's power button and proceeded to dig through his brown messenger bag, pulling out a wallet. "Sorry."Rayla shook her head. "It's no big."After a quick exchange, he'd paid for his coffee and began to pack up his things as Rayla started making work on the tables near the window. She'd taken another glance at him, and she noticed a minor frustration on his face once more. Maybe she cut him off during something critical? She wasn't sure what prompted her to say it, but she ended up saying, "I-If ya want, ya can stay there and finish up what ya were doing while I clean up?"He froze, staring at her bewilderedly. "Pardon?"She giggled. "I just mean, I kinda interrupted your work there—it's okay if ya want to finish up. I'm the one closing anyway." The man seemed unsure at that, as he glanced between the counter, the door, and her."No, no," he sighed, "it's not that. It's nothing. Well, quite literally actually." At her confusion he chuckled. "I'm just, upset I kinda got nothing done. I just, I heard from the locals your shop was a nice quiet place to get work done and I needed a change of scenery—so… yeah." He shrugged as he awkwardly kicked his boot against the floor.There was a lot Rayla wanted to ask him after that. But she opted to give him a break. Probably the last thing he wanted to talk about was work. She merely smiled back and said, "Well, if ya enjoyed the atmosphere, I can guarantee it's always like this everyday—'cept during rush hours. Well, also, for Friday evenin's. We do poetry slams, so it's a bit more lively."He chuckled at that. "Thanks. I'll be sure to visit again then."But what did that mean? Visit this shop? Or visiting Silvergrove again? Was this his last day? Instead, Rayla found herself asking, "So did ya enjoy your drink?"He shouldered his messenger back and nodded. "I uh, I am sorry about earlier by the way. It's just work—not that I'm giving an excuse! I—just, sorry if I made you feel like shit." He sheepishly rubbed the back of his head. " I know cafe cashiers get a lot of crap with customers and I feel bad—""Relax," she laughed. "Ya're hardly the worst customer I've had this week! Ya're fine." She smiled at him.He slowly smiled back. "Okay. Well, if I do come head back this way, you mind telling me what you whipped up for me? It was great."She replied, "Toblerone Tower, it's actually this week's special."His smile never faltered. "I'll be sure to remember that." He turned to the door and waved over his shoulder. "See you around Rayla!"She blinked. "H-How do ya know my name?"He pushed open the door and stared at her with a smug smile. "Name tag," he gestured to his chest as he walked out.Rayla was surprised she found herself flushed at that.She was also upset.She didn't get his name.::::Rayla boredom thumped her fingers against the counter as she rested her chin in the palm of her other hand. Monday's were annoying, but slow Monday's were worse. For some reason, the usual lunch rush hadn't buzzed like normal and she found herself even more bored after rush hour finished. Traffic either must have been bad or something had occurred that prevented people from stopping by—even a good portion of regulars hadn't been able to get their caffeine fix. In this sense, it wasn't exactly unheard of as much as it was rare.But it was still irritating. Rayla looked forward to catching up with her regulars for the part of cheering them up or getting them a good start to their week. However, not having anyone stop by frequently made her upset at the lack of entertainment. And since Runaan was also working, she couldn't pull out her phone or talk with the three patrons sitting around the shop since he wanted her at the register focused and attentive. No greater stick in the mud than her uncle."Hey."She lazily blinked at the customer before her. Her eyes then widened as she straightened herself up for two reasons. She just realized there was a customer. And it was the guy from Saturday."Hey!" she excitedly exclaimed. "It's ya!"He smiled back. "It's me," he lamely gestured to himself. "Came by yesterday—you weren't there," he said softly.Rayla cringed. "Ahh, well, Sundays are my days off so," she sheepishly shrugged, "sorry 'bout that."He raised a brow. "You only get one day off a week?"She shook her head. "Nah, not really." She pointed upwards, "My folk's own the shop so I work basically whatever hours." Shifting into a smirk, she added, "Luckily for them, I like working here so Sundays are usually the only day I actually take time off." Her eyes lit up. "Oh! And Fridays are my half days—I like joining the crowd for the Poetry Slams."The man shifted in his spot, crossing his arms as he said, "I appreciate you giving me the rundown of your schedule." He chuckled. "I'll be sure to run into you accordingly then."Rayla laughed. "I'm just glad ya ran into me now. Today's been slow."He sighed, tapping his messenger bag. "I feel the same about my work."She smiled. "Well, maybe a hot beverage will lift your spirits?"He brightened a bit. "Sure. Yesterday I just had some jelly tarts but I'm open to trying other things.""Noted." She slid up to the register. "Then shall we stick with the theme of hot chocolates?"He gestured to her, "You know best.""Well lucky for ya, we happen to have a great variety of hot chocolates here," she proudly stated, sliding her finger over to the menu on the counter. "What are you feeling today?"He blinked at her. "What… am I feeling?" he echoed confusedly.Rayla nodded. "Yeah! Y'know, is it a chill day? Another work day? A busy work day? Or a lax one? Or a—""Okay, okay," he chuckled, "I think I got it." He bit his lip contemplatively as he tapped his fingerless gloves on the counter. "Honestly, I want today to be productive," came his answer. "Hopefully, a good drink might help that process along?"She grinned. "Well, a healthy body makes for a healthy mind," she singsongingly quipped. "On that, I think a claiming scent of vanilla is a great motivator." She tapped on the picture of a hot chocolate with a darker shade of syrup in the centre, forming the shape of a mischievous smile. "Vanilla Vice: sweet, soothing, and satisfyingly nice to sip."That earned her a wider smile from the man. "I guess based on that alliteration alone I gotta try it!"She winked. "That's the spirit." She pointed down at the counter, where he sat last time, "Ya want to do a tab again?" At his nod, she sweetly smirked, "I'll have it ready in a bit." The realization of an opportunity caught her attention as she asked, "Would ya like me to call ya when it's ready?"He tilted his head. "Uhh, there's like, three other people here," he addressed, looking around the shop. "I'm pretty sure there's no need for that," he amusedly shrugged.Rayla flushed a bit as she awkwardly laughed. "R-Right! Then I'll uh, slide it on over soon!" She nodded, backing away from the counter. As she started a brew she quietly bonked her head against the shelf of takeout bags and trays. "That was smooth, Rayla, really smooth," she muttered to herself."Rayla," came Runaan's voice, startling a yelp out of her. "Why are ya beating your head instead of managin' the counter?""Customer came in!" she pointed over at the man of the hour's spot. "Whipping him up a Vanilla Vice." She lit up as she turned over to the pastry display. "Ooh! And some jelly tarts."Her uncle crossed his arms and leaned up against the doorframe leading into the back. "Ya're not gonna get distracted with him just 'cause he's a foreigner and we don't have much customers now, are ya?"Rayla scoffed, waving her free hand dismissively as she carried a small plate with a jelly tart over to the machine. With the drink hot and ready, she began to pour it into a cup as she responded, "What do ya take me for? I know how to do my job, Runaan.""I also know ya like distracting yourself with small-talk," he countered. He released a sigh. "Just make sure to pay attention to other customers."She didn't bother to turn back as she waved a peace sign over her shoulder, "Yeah yeah, ya got it." She then motioned him to leave. "Now can ya buzz off? Making the devil smile on these is hard enough without ya breathin' down my neck." She heard him mumble irritably before disappearing into the back and took that as her cue to start mixing the hot chocolate. Not a lot of their drinks had "latte art" but for the few that did, she had been lectured to a great degree by all her uncles and parents at doing it properly. But that wasn't to say she didn't see the merit in doing said art.In fact, she often saw how many times a customer's face would light up at the sight of such art. She wasn't sure what type of day this man was having, but she knew he was struggling with his work. Consider her a bit invested, but she wanted to make his day a bit.With a jelly tart in hand, and a fresh brew of hot chocolate in the other, she mustered up a smile as she made her way down the counter. The man now had his same old crappy laptop set up and looked as if he was waiting for it to power on. "Somebody order a Vanilla Vice?" she sweetly announced as she slid the contents over to him.He smirked. "Well, is it really an 'order' if it was recommended?"She feigned a frown. "I can also take back the complimentary jelly tart," she teased, moving her hand over to the plate.His eyes widened. "Alright, alright," he protectively wrapped his hand around the plate and pulled it toward him. "Thank you, Rayla."She beamed at him. "Not a problem! It's sorta my job," she mused.He chuckled. "Sure beats mine right now."Curiosity getting the better of her, she found herself leaning over, resting her arms on the countertop. "Oh? And what does a work like yours entail that's got ya all stressed?"A faint tint of red graced his cheeks. "It's nothing interesting."She raised a brow. "Mind if I hazard a guess?" His non-committed shrug told her to continue. "Judging by your American accent, I'd say it involved travel of some sort.""Ehh, close." He explained, "I actually just moved to Silvergrove.""For work or…""Bit of both," he shrugged again. "I've always wanted to live in Scotland and well, there's a lot more opportunities for my line of work here I guess." His gaze flew to his MacBook, flashing with a brief expression of irritation, before he smiled back at her. "Needless to say, I'm just trying to get a sense of routine I guess?""But it's freelance, right?" she guessed.He nodded. "Photography."Her eyes widened with interest. "Ooh, ya happen to have your camera on ya?""Nope," he shook his head. "Don't really bring it with me when I try to edit." His head turned back to his laptop. "Heavy emphasis on the 'try' however."She cringed. "Ahh, well, battling technology aside," she leaned over and tapped near his mug, "I believe a remedy was recommended?"His grin returned. "Remedy?" he echoed. "I thought this was a motivator? You're sending this customer mixed messages," he teased.Rayla chuckled. "Naaah, I think that's just your brain being all mixed up 'cause of the stress." She gestured to the mug again. "Hence…" she prompted him.He rolled his eyes as he picked up the drink. "Alright, alright, hint received." He brought it to his lips and stopped. "What happens if I don't like it?" he challenged.She blinked, shocked by the sudden question. "Uhhh, I'll refund ya?"She could make out the inklings of a smirk just over the mug. "Aaaand throw in another jelly tart?"She rolled her eyes. "Aye, refund and a free jelly tart," she said amusedly. With that, he finally took a sip of the hot beverage. It was a good thing "actor" wasn't one of her guesses for his line of work, considering his poker face was non-existent the second he drank. The way his eyes lit up with surprise and how he hungrily lingered for a longer sip, it was clear as day he enjoyed it. "So…" she teasingly prompted him.He chuckled, setting the drink down as he licked his lips. "Alright, congrats Rayla, you're 2 for 2."She smiled, though it quickly fell as she noticed a couple customers enter and slowly make their way over to the register. "I'll start keeping score," she winked as she backed away."As long as you also keep these coming!"Rayla laughed to herself as she returned to her post and threw herself back into her job.It seemed as though the lunch rush that hadn't come earlier started to buzz now and soon Xadia found itself swamped with orders and patrons. Runaan was doing his best to help and she did her best to keep up, but it was still so much at once. It didn't help that her attention divided every so often toward the end of the counter. The Photographer looked like he was getting increasingly more and more frustrated at each new customer.After every order Rayla took, every meal and drink handed out, she checked on him. A part of her wished each time at each glance that he would still be there and relief would strike when she'd catch him still sitting in irritation. The next hour and a half was brutally upsetting for him, no doubt about it. The most she could do was pass by his seat and try to catch his eyes. Every now and then they'd meet, and a pleading look would be all she saw.But thankfully, the crowd died as quickly as it came, and the number of patrons was dwindling back to the same numbers from when the Photographer first arrived. She didn't even think twice about taking her break and slumping herself into the vacant seat beside the man. Releasing an exhaustive groan, she rested her back up against the counter edge as she looked toward the tiled ceiling. "Well… that was certainly a thing."He scoffed. "That's an understatement," he bitterly replied. He had his head in his arms, rested atop his closed MacBook.His tone was similar to the first time they spoke and she frowned at that. "Oh!" she turned around and reached over the counter, grabbing a steaming mug and sliding it over to him. "I brewed another Vanilla Vice!" she declared.He lifted his head and smiled a bit. "Thanks," he softly said as he brought the mug closer."Uhh, it's still hot, so…" she trailed off, shrugging to herself unsurely. He didn't seem like he wanted to talk, but he also seemed like he was brimming with irritation. Deciding to bite the bullet, she asked, "Did ya get any work done?"His face deadpanned as he straightened up. Without breaking eye contact, he flipped open his laptop, revealing his screen was still turning on.Her jaw dropped. "This whole time?""Nope," he shook his head, "my program just crashed, applications were going crazy, so I just restarted my laptop." He pulled back his blue cardigan's left sleeve. "And I did that about… 27 minutes ago?"She cringed. "Damn. Did… Did your work save at least?"He simply turned his head and sipped his drink silently.A moment of silence passed before he spoke again. "You handled yourself pretty well." She furrowed a brow at him. "I-I mean during that whole kerfuffle," he aimlessly gestured around. "It felt stressful just to see you work in that but I noticed after a while you work automatically—it's impressive." He took another sip of his hot chocolate.Rayla blushed a bit. "Thanks. It's just practice and, well, working here basically my whole life."His brows raised. "Whole life?" he repeated. "Doesn't' Scotland have child labour laws or—"She lightly slapped his arm. "Not like that, ya idiot," she playfully hissed."Ouch, insulting the customer too?" He clicked his teeth as he shook his head. "Not really selling me here."She scoffed, flicking his mug. "The fact that ya've nearly finished your second goes to show I don't have to sell much.""You also just placed it in front of me. Is this on the house?" he innocently asked, pointing at said drink. "Because it wasn't clear in the hand-off and I only paid for one."She raised a finger. "Technically, there was also a jelly tart and ya also didn't pay yet." She crossed her arms smugly. "Ya didn't even mention a tab but ya're lucky I'm smart so I knew to keep one anyways.""Ahh yes, keeping track of my one drink and one jelly tart must've been such a burden."She smirked. "Not as much as a burden as your MacBook it would seem."He frowned. "That's cold. So cold it's ruined the warmth of my perfectly good Vanilla Vice.""Rayla!" her uncle shouted. "I need your help back here!"She sighed, standing up from her seat. "And back at the grind!"Photography guy raised a brow. "Already? Your break barely started."Disappointment was adorably obvious in his expression, which made her giggle. "Eh, I don't mind." She shrugged. "It just means he can't give me shite when I forget to do dishes back home." At his laugh, she smiled. "Catch ya around!" she winked before leaving.Just as she was about to enter the backroom, she heard him shout, "It's Callum!" She stopped and turned, staring in confusion. "Your adorably awkward attempt at trying to learn my name earlier?" She could feel her cheeks burning. "It's Callum," he winked. "And you can put that on my tab."She turned around and retreated into the storeroom."Just ask next time!"::::"Well I'll be," Rayla excitedly exclaimed. "I was wonderin' why ya didn't show up this afternoon. Didn't think ya'd actually catch one of these!" she jerked her thumb over to the display stand that said Poetry Slam Night on it.Callum chuckled. "With how much you kept pitching? I had to shut you up eventually," he teased."And a good evenin' to ya as well, Callum." He merely rolled his eyes as he adjusted his messenger bag's strap. It was then Rayla noticed his attire, while on-brand for his usual look, had a Canon camera strapped around his neck. He must've caught her gaze as he held it up. "Yup. I brought it.""I can see that," she crossed her arms with a smirk. "So ya figure the best way to combat your inability to edit and commit to your deadlines is to add more photos to the pile?"He held his smile. "You saying you don't want a photo?"She tried to bite back her grin but failed. "How 'bout after ya listen to a few poems?"The two quickly settled into their usual spot at the counter, and instantly became engrossed in the atmosphere of the evening. Several great speakers took to the stage and received echoes of finger-snapped applause. Call and responses elicited so much reaction it was humorous to the two of them how elated the crowd was. But in Rayla's eyes, she also liked how happy Callum looked.In the short week and a half he had been frequenting the shop, she noticed each time his struggles with his work, laptop, and focus. Seeing him unwind in the same setting was nice to see. Though he didn't have much luck himself at getting work down, during her work, he made her feel more perky than usual. She wasn't sure why. Just… having him there in his seat made a day less autonomous."Okay," he admitted, "I can also see the appeal of all this." He released a content sigh. "Man, this type of creativity it just…"She leaned over and tapped on his camera. "Makes ya want to work?"He chuckled, nodding slowly. His face suddenly reddened a bit as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Not to like, put a damper on the mood or slow the evening but… do you mind if I…?" he trailed off, digging into his messenger bag and brandishing his MacBook.She laughed. "Relax. After all the shite ya wen through with just turnin' on that potato, ya deserve any stroke of motivation ya can get!"He snorted. "I thought that was what the Vanilla Vice was for?" he asked as he set his laptop on the counter and turned it on."If that's your way of hintin' ya want another one, ya can 'just ask'," she mocked, earning a laugh. "Oi, in all seriousness, if ya want I can brew ya another? Or would ya like something new?"He pondered it for a moment, letting his laptop load his home screen. "Well, how about something that fits the evening poetry mood we have going on right now?" As if on cue, the speaker on stage finished their piece and a round of finger-snaps sounded off, making the two laugh.Rayla rose up to her feet and shot him with a finger gun. "Hot chocolate as per usual?" At his nod she swung around the counter and walked over to the hot chocolate machine. But at her arrival, she ran into Ethari."Whoa, thought ya didn't want to work Poetry Slam evenin's," he noted, glancing between her and the machine."I'm not," she said as she started a brew, "I'm just whipping something up for…" friend was the word that lingered in Rayla's mind, but she found herself hesitating on that declaration. Was that presumptuous to say even in the short time they've hung out? Or was it… something else?"For?" her uncle echoed."Callum." She nodded her head toward his direction. "He's a new regular. Just moved here."Ethari looked over at the American and thoughtfully nodded. "I see." Figuring that was all, Rayla moved over to the mugs and looked at the menu, thinking about what Callum would like. "This wouldn't happen to be the guy Runaan talks 'bout, would he?"She whipped around and blinked. "What?""He says there's this new regular ya're always talking to.""Pfft," she waved her hand dismissively. "'Always' is a bit of an exaggeration. We chat here and there, I do that with practically all our regulars." She figured distracting herself with the menu was smarter. Something sweet. Something simple. Something flavourful."What hot chocolate are ya making him?"She shrugged. "Dunno yet.""Are ya takin' requests?""Just say it already, Ethari.""Dark Devil?" Her eyes lingered on the picture as her uncle went on, "Ya know your uncle and I love sharing that one. Its strong, but feels manageable when ya—""Whoa, whoa, whoa," she spun around. "Who said anythin' 'bout sharing?" Ethari titled his head and blinked at her a couple times. Then laughed. Rayla's face flushed as she noticed Callum looking their way. She shushed her uncle and slapped his arm. "What! What's so funny!""Ahh, my dear." Ethari wiped a tear from his eye. "I merely wish your 'patron'," he said with finger quotes, "the best of luck." Before she could even get him to elaborate, he walked off and into the crowd, ready to take their orders.Rayla just scoffed. She quickly whipped up two cups of Dark Devil before returning to Callum—along with a plate of jelly tart of course. She smiled at the photographer's excitement at the sight of a steaming cup of hot chocolate and its pastry companion. He looked like he got a fair bit of editing done in the time she'd been away."What's on the menu?" he asked, not looking away from his Photoshop Editor."See for yourself," she lifted her mug out to him, ready for a cheer.He noticed this and immediately reached for his. They knocked mugs and sipped their drinks. Rayla wasn't a big dark chocolate fan, but she knew Dark Devil was pretty good regardless. She giggled at how feverishly Callum sipped his drink. He was mindful not to burn his tongue but also wanted to chug it no doubt."Am I 3 for 3?"He chuckled, turning to her with a chocolate mustache. "Perfect scores all around."She could tell him about the mustache but…He blinked at her owlishly, cocking his head to the right. "What's up? Something on my face?" His grassy green eyes stared with such a innocent concern it was…Cute."Nothin', just thought ya burn your tongue."::::Next week, on Wednesday, Callum asked for another surprise. Rayla was picking up this was something of a routine of theirs now, in that every so often he would venture a new flavour. Today wasn't a good day for it, as usually she could get a sense of what Callum would be feeling or in the mood for, but she had a bad streak in the morning. Three orders in a row where she messed up the order, two where she mixed up the wrong drinks, and three where she forgot something.It wasn't like she was going through anything. It was just one of those unlucky days that spiraled. But to make matters worse, today's manager was Runaan and Ethari. Ethari wasn't so bad but Runaan managed to catch nearly all her mistakes and berate her for them at length. It got so bad he ended up taking over the register. Needless to say, when the rush died down and Rayla was finally free, she was in desperate need of a win."And?" she had her chin resting in the palms of her hands, leaning her elbows up on the countertop. "Judges say?"Callum smacked his lips and tongue around as he tilted his head. "Hmmm. I can definitely taste the cream."She rolled her eyes. "That's why it's called the Creamy Cocoa, yes."His face scrunched up as he shook his head. "A little too creamy for my taste."His disappointment made her frown. "Really? Ya don't like it?"Callum's eyes widened. "Whoa, I was kidding," he laughed, setting the drink down, "It's great! I was just messing with you. 4 for 4."Rayla breathed a sigh of relief. "I messed up a couple of orders today and I did not want to mess up yours." She looked over to the register, where Runaan stood. "He was gettin' on my case 'bout all my screw ups." She growled under her breath. "I swear he hovers more than my actual parents."Callum sympathetically smiled at her. "Wanna see my progress?" he pointed at his laptop.She smiled, thankful he was trying to take her mind off work. "Wait, ya mean it actually works today?" He rolled his eyes as he turned his MacBook around, showing her his photo of the street just outside Xadia. It was the very same road she'd grown up with and on, the one she'd seen so many times. But this photo? It looked like a new perspective she hadn't yet walked. "Wow… it looks great Callum."He bashfully smiled. "Thanks, Rayla."She chuckled. "I'm glad one of us has had an efficient day."He balked, "What?" Lifting his mug of Creamy Cocoa, he said, "You made this for me. And in turn? I finished some of my projects today! I'd say that's pretty efficient."Rayla's smile came easily this time. "Well I'll be sure to keep that up then.""Rayla," the two looked over to the source to find Ethari standing in the doorway to the backrooms. "Can ya help me load the new batch of supplies?"She offered a two fingered salute. "Aye, be there in a bit." She made a move to leave but was stopped as Callum's hand came around her wrist. She flushed but looked down and noticed he was handing her a napkin. "Uhhh…""Don't need it," he said with a shrug, then returned to his work with his laptop turned back around.Rayla blinked down at the napkin, noticing it was folded neatly. She unravelled the paper as she walked but immediately stopped in her tracks. There was something written in pen on it. You can do it! I believe! it said."What's got ya so giddy?" Runaan asked as he turned around.She stuffed the napkin into her pocket and grinned. "Nothing!"He raised a brow. "Just go help Ethari.""On it!" she hurriedly rushed into the storeroom and helped her uncle unload the supplies. And later on that day, she would sneakily slip an extra jelly tart onto his plate without him noticing.::::Today was the worst of days. Rayla was glad that for once, her parents picked up a shift with her. It had been a long time since the three of them worked together and she missed their dynamic dearly. But she did not want them near Callum. Rayla was on break and on edge, as her resident photographer regular had yet to show that day. She chose to occupy her usual seat beside his and hoped that it would remain vacant for the rest of the day.Though she really was in need of some of his pick me up napkins, she also didn't want her parents being weird about her and Callum hanging out during work. While her parents were more lax and easygoing, they were also more chaotic. Plus there was the fact that Callum would definitely tease her about her parents. Rayla just groaned at all the possibilities as she faceplanted on the countertop."Excuse me ma'am, is this seat taken?"She froze at the familiar voice, daring to lift her head ever so slowly. Sure enough, Callum with his dopey grin and dumb camera was here. The latter observation made her forget about her plight for a moment. "Ya brought your camera?" she confusedly noted."Yup! Had a shoot in the area and it kinda took up all day." He frowned. "Hope you weren't waiting for me all day."She scoffed, feeling her face heat up a bit. "Ya wish! I happen to like sittin' here ya know?""Good for you!" he said as he sat himself down. HIs hand flew toward the mug before her. "Is this today's menu item?"She flushed a bit more. "Uh, a-actually, not really? That's mine," she sheepishly said as she gently pulled the cup out of his hands.His lips formed an O as he nodded. "What is it?""It's a hot chocolate—""Of course," he smugly chirped."We call Nutmeg Nuke," she explained. "Explosive taste and flavour that'll leave the best type of fallout in your mouth!"He stared at her with deadpan. "I'm assuming 'fallout' refers to 'aftertaste'?" he guessed.She just grinned, supplying him all he needed for an answer."Well, do you mind if I sample yours?" he asked, flicking her mug. "I've never really tried nutmeg and if I try it on something you didn't technically make me it doesn't spoil your count, right?"Rayla lit up at that. "As the co-creator of our made up game: I'd like to think so?""Oooh, games?" that excited voice made her jump. She looked across the counter and sighed at her mother. "I love games. What're ya playin'?"Callum awkwardly smiled at her mother as Rayla facepalmed. "Uhhh, a taste tester of sorts?"Rayla's mom grinned as she leaned onto the counter. "Really now? And whattya testing?"He looked at Rayla. "The… Nutmeg Nuke?""Really!" her mother eagerly leaned over and stage-whispered, "Ya know she came up with that one, eh?"Callum's eyes widened. "Did she now?" he smirked at the poor woman.Rayla just sighed. "Mum, I think Da needs help with the register again." Her mom spared a glance at her husband for a fraction of a second before immersing herself further into their conversation. Rayla gave up at that, decidedly handing her drink to Callum. "Just enjoy."He beamed like a baby as he sipped his mug, eyes lighting up at each second he slurped. "Holy shit this is good!" he exclaimed."Ain't it? Ain't my daughter just the brightest?" her mother swooned. "Ya should see her skills in the kitchen! A true culinary chef!""Mum!" Rayla hissed.Callum chuckled as her mother went on. "Rayla talks 'bout ya here and there, says ya're photographer! I wager ya'd have some real Insta style posts if ya take some of her food!" she gestured her elbow like a playful nudge but was evidently too far from them to even make contact."Don't ya have a job to do?" Rayla muttered."What, like ya don't?""I'm on break!""Well then so am I!""Tiadrin," her father softly urged, "leave Rayla and her bo—friend, alone."Her face flushed bright red as her mother cheekily retreated, bidding the two a polite goodbye before joining her husband at the register. She prayed to God he didn't catch her father's non-subtle mistake. Rayla and Callum sat in silence, the former fuming with embarrassed steam with the latter politely waiting for any opportunity to change topics. After some calming breaths, Rayla stopped up and shot a finger gun over to the hot chocolate machine."I'll whip up another one. Ya can finish mine, since it's already done," she said as she walked around the counter."Wait," Callum said as he reached over and stuck his index and middle fingers out, pressing a folded napkin between them.The speed at which Rayla swiped the paper and darted off was probably embarrassing but she didn't care. It read, Hope you weren't too lonely without me :P.She snorted as she walked over and pulled herself a fresh mug from the cupboard."He's nice," her father said, suddenly over her shoulder.She yelped at his random proximity before smiling. "Uhhh, yeah? He's a great customer.""And ya say he's a photographer too?" She nodded. "Great! We could use a photographer for our Christmas party this year." He winked at her as he smirked and returned to his register.Rayla stared in confusion as she whipped up another Nutmeg Nuke. but it wouldn't be until she returned that it suddenly clicked for her, and her face would be bright red once again.::::Rayla giggled at the note. Nice work! Keep it up! They were so childish and simple but somehow super encouraging. Each and every time Callum came by the shop and sat, he would repeat his barrage of note napkins until she smiled. And she knew this because one literally said, A napkin a minute, makes a smile worth it. They were stupidly cheesy. But they were working.It was working.Whatever this was and whatever it entailed, they both were doing well. Callum was getting more and more edits done and Rayla had better flow during rush hours. They had lively talks and laughs. But it didn't help that the more he frequented, the more her family would catch the two. "Catch" made it sound like an illicit affair but the way her mother and Ethari teased her about it, it definitely felt like one.It got more awkward when they realized how often Rayla said a jelly tart or hot chocolate was "on the house." Or instances like them catching her reading her note napkins and mockingly comparing them to passing notes in class. Their dynamic became so interwoven within Xadia itself that even other regulars came to expect the two sitting together throughout the day. It was a good balance.Which was why she hated how much teasing and prodding her parents had today. For some reason, everyone was working which practically forced her to take the day off and just sit with Callum. The most evident reason she knew this to be was what her father teased last week. She didn't want to entertain her family's shenanigans. She didn't want to be their entertainment either."Hey, is the Peppermint Pint good?" Callum asked, sliding the menu between them.She blinked out of her thoughts. "What?""The Peppermint Pint," he repeated. "It says it's hot chocolate. How?""Pint is just the nickname," she mused. "This just in, the Nutmeg Nuke isn't actually a nuke!"He rolled his eyes. "How did I know that example was going to be your first sarcastic response?""Hey, that was my brain child drink right there, show it some respect with the proper mourning.""Good grief," he muttered."Exactly!"Callum snorted. "Okay that was a bad joke." He raised his hand and waved at her Uncle Ethari. "Can we get a Peppermint Pint?" the man nodded in turn and Callum eagerly awaited for his beverage. "Aren't you proud of me though? First time I recommend my own drink for once without your input!"Rayal laughed. "Well aren't ya daring today?"He shook his head. "No, daring would be like actually asking you out on a date instead of just hanging here all the time."She froze. He. Did. Not. Just do that. When she turned to meet his eyes, he barely averted her gaze as he flushed red. "Are ya serious?"He nervously laughed. "Depends?""No seriously, are ya serious?" She was flipping out."How about we let the drink decide?""What?"As if on cue, Ethari served up a mug of Peppermint Pint and departed, no doubt aware of the current conversation. In fact, it seemed everyone was aware because her typical annoyances of family weren' bothering her at all at the moment. Callum simply lifted the mug and cheered, "If it's a hit then I'm as serious as can be. But if it's a miss then… you ask me."She blushed. "Ask ya what?""I dunno," he smugly shrugged. "I'm sure you can conjure up something." And then he took a sip. A pause. A smack of the lip and slosh around the mouth. And then a gag. Callum winced as he shook his head. "Sorry, I forgot I don't like Peppermint," he sheepishly admitted.Rayla groaned, facepalming as she shook her head."Bright side, it's your turn?"She laughed. "Man ya make it real hard to want to ask ya to be our photographer for our Christmas party.""Is that your way of asking me out on a date?""Is that your way of saying yes?""Uhm… yes?"Rayla giggled. "Then yes for me too."::::The moment was captured and Callum took a second to revel in his work. Rayla's family all gathered around the counter, donning Christmas apparel and smiling ear-to-ear. It was a sweet moment to capture. He was honoured to be invited to record such a moment with his own expertise. There actually were several moments that called for his photography. He made sure to enjoy himself too. But that unfortunately didn't last long."Hey Photographer," Rayla teased, "ya realize ya'll have to edit these ones too, no?"At his groan, his hands were suddenly replaced with a mug of hot chocolate. Just plain old, regular hot chocolate. He looked up and smiled."Just some motivation for ya."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Braids & Bilking
At the bell chime, Rayla halted her sweeping and shouted, "Welcome to Slish & Slash! Just take a seat and I'll be with ya in a moment!" She put the broom aside and looked over to her waiting area. Sat among the row of folding chairs, was a young man with a considerably plain look. A pair of beige slacks and black shoes, a navy blue cardigan that was way too nice to wear for a haircut, and a red scarf wrapped cozily around his neck. All these things weren't too bad for an outfit, but it wasn't exactly a look she would wear to get a haircut of her own.But the head of hair this man had told the story: it was a rough amount of brown hair that was approaching bangs-length. He had a sheepish look as he shook his leg, looking around the salon. Usually those types of customers were the type who'd rarely ever get haircuts, let alone try something new with their hair. Rayla figured that with the new year beginning, he was one of those, "let's shake things up" sorts.She smiled at him as she moved over to an empty chair and patted it. "Alright! Feel free to come on over!"He perked up at that, and awkwardly shot out of his chair. With hesitant pace, he walked over to his seat. "I, um," he cleared his throat, "thanks."Rayla chuckled at his nervousness as she assessed his height, thankful she wouldn't need to kick up his seat any further. She placed a small cloth on his shoulders, wrapping it around the back of his neck. Then she wrapped the barber cape around him and pinched it at his neck with a clip. "So," she chirped, reaching for her spray bottle and comb, "what type of cut are ya lookin' for today?"He cleared his throat once again. "Uh, see, th-that's the thing?" He looked up at her through the mirror. "I'm not really sure?" She raised a brow as she rested her hand on his shoulder and returned his eye contact. He continued, "I'm not really a… hairstyle kinda guy—"She internally smirked, she called it!"—but I guess I'm just… looking to spice up my look?" He shrugged. "It's like, well, I kinda want to start the new year with a new look?" he said with a hopeful tone.She giggled. "Don't ya worry 'bout that. New is what we do here," she winked. She sprayed his hair a bit as she ruffled it around, letting it soak in a bit of moisture. "I'm assuming ya're lookin' for input?"He laughed. "That would be helpful, yes."She nodded with a grin. "Well, what type of look are ya into?" she combed his hair around, playing with it a bit as she explained, "Hairstyles really play into your everyday outfits. A good hair day can make a nice fit, while a certain style might inspire a more flamboyant or formal look." She combed everything back, slicking it like a Bond villain. "So how adventurous are ya feelin'?"The man sheepishly cringed. "Uhhh…""Got it," she chuckled. "So no mohawks or hair dyes." At his laugh, Rayla couldn't help but laugh with him. He had a very eruptus laugh, the kind that was contagious."But seriously," he sighed, "I can handle a bad cut or two. Worse case, if I don't like it I'll just ask you to shave it all down and I'll try it again in a month or so." She giggled as he met her eyes' reflection with a proud stare. "My hair is notoriously known for growing back quick."Rayla rolled her eyes. "Good for ya, I guess?" He impishly smiled. "All I'm hearing is that ya'll have more trips here and back then."He teased, "More profit, eh?"She laughed at that. "My parents will definitely love that." She cleared her throat as she straightened herself up, remembering she was currently playing with his hair. "But, fun aside, I think a nice trim or fade is a fairly adventurous attempt." She scooped up all the hair around his mid scalp and gathered it toward his part. "A high fade'll highlight your part more, but overall most fades do that already. The true eye catcher will be what we do with this," she explained as she ruffled up the wadded hair in her hands. "But we can start simple and just trim it a bit, let the fade do its work." With that, she released his hair and let it all fall back down. "Sound good?"He shrugged with an innocent smile. "It's your expertise."She smiled, "Well my expertise says it's worth a gamble."And thus began the cut. She parted around his hair, figuring out exactly where his part was and how long his hair had grown before wadding up the mid scalp with a clip. The rest was clockwork and a textbook routine: snips with scissors and trims with clippers, rinse and repeat. The true excitement of her work was the exchange. Not the financial one, but the exchange of conversations.Typically, Rayla was mindful not to be too invasive or annoying with chatting with her clients. She often let them dictate the flow of conservation and sensed when she was being a pest or when they just didn't like talking. Then there were some of her rarer customers, the ones that would frequent their shop, where she could chat up like a podcast host. Callum—as he introduced himself—was the kind she would easily get lost talking with."So your parents own this shop?" he asked after a little while.She nodded, looking over toward her mother, who was tending to a woman's hair curlers. "Mum and Da have been into hair their whole lives. They met at a Cosmetology course back when they were my age."She felt his head shift, no doubt attempting to nod, before stopping himself. "How about you? Free haircuts for life?" he teased.She snorted. "Also courtesy of my uncles too. Funnily enough, they also met at a Cosmetology course of their own!" She shrugged as she snipped off the last strand of long hair in her way. "Though they met at the end of it, like, as they graduated. They just learnt they were in the same class."Callum laughed. "What about you? Have you met your destined match in your own course?""Ha, that has yet to happen," she replied. Switching over to her hair clippers, she added, "I was more of a loner in that class anyways.""And is the uh," he brought his hand up and circled his finger around his hair, "white hair dye also part of the family footsteps?"Rayla snickered at that. She was so caught off guard by that comment she had to pull her hand away to avoid making a mistake. Callum seemed to take solace in making her laugh, but after composing herself she leaned over and whispered, "Actually, it's a bit of a family inside joke." His brows raised, interest peaked, as she returned to her trimming. "Yeah, my mum was the first to die her hair white—way before my da and her even started dating. But after they got together, Da started dying his hair to match." She giggled a bit. "She called him a copycat," that earned a snort from Callum, "but after they started Slish & Slash, my uncles joined and they got the incentive to mess with their sister a bit."He smiled up at her amusedly, with a look of pride. "Naturally, you joined in."She nodded with an excited chuckle. "Naturally," she said flamboyantly, turning her head to sway her white hair around.The way his smile lingered on his face, it made Rayla a bit giddy. Callum's smile was very pure and nice, she liked how it looked on him. And she figured it look a lot better with this haircut she was giving him."What 'bout you?" she asked. "Was it really just the New Year syndrome?""New Year syndrome?""Ya know, what ya said!" She locked eyes with his reflected gaze and added, "It's the whole 'new year, new me' thing people wanna try."He laughed. "Ha! I guess you could put it that way." He shrugged. "I guess it was just that during our Christmas party my family and family friends all made fun of my look.""Formal affair?""Yup. Huge party too.""Typical black suit and tie?" she guessed. "Looked like ya were going to a funeral?"He sighed as his ears tinted red a bit. "Maybe…"She scoffed. "Can see why ya'd wanna change it up if ya wore something like that with hair like this."He gasped, clearly feigning hurt across his face. "Woooow, is this how you treat all your customers?" he said with mock indignance.Rayla grinned as she turned off her clipper. "Only for start. 'Cause they all eventually wised up like ya and are in my care." She placed her tools on the table and grabbed the mirror, showing him his back. "And they are always in good hands."And that was it.The look of honest shock and awe across Callum's face made Rayla giddy inside. He turned his head, examining his new look. It was as simple as she said: a high fade with a small trim atop the remaining head of hair he had on his mid scalp. She thought it made him look quite handsome. Not that he wasn't already…"I love it!" Callum exclaimed.Rayla smiled back as she began dusting off his head with her duster. "Well I'm glad ya do!" she said as she removed the barber cape and cloth, dusting them off as well.He dusted off his pants and shirt as he shook his head around, ridding himself of any remains. "You really are an expert."She laughed as she led him over to the register. "I'd hope so, I've been doing this practically my whole life."He smiled as he approached her. "Then you're clearly in the right business," he said, reaching for his wallet, "I'll be sure to come back here then to soak in more of that expertise." He winked.Rayla flushed at that. And in spite of it all: the price all, the time and effort exerted, and her use of technique—she couldn't help the next set of words that left her mouth. "A-Actually, we currently have a special deal going on!" She felt a bead of sweat, no doubt because she had said that too loudly and her mother was within the vicinity. "There's a deal for new customers," she stepped forward and pushed his hand down, motioning him to put it away, "first cut's free!"He blinked, eyes widened in surprise. "Really?"She sheepishly smiled, "Uh-huh!" She held up two thumbs and nodded. "Free for firsts. This week only!"Callum smiled. "Wow! That's amazing!" He tucked away his wallet. "Then I'll be sure to return the next time I have a full head of hair!" he said as he began making his way to the exit."And I'll be looking forward to when that happens!" she shouted, waving goodbye as he exited.Then came the irritable teasing voice that was her mother. "Wow, free first cuts for new customers?" she sardonically said, "that's such a good deal not even I was aware of it!"Rayla laughed awkwardly. "Umm, I-I, was, it—""Ya're lucky he's cute," her mother smirked as she crossed her arms, "but that cut is coming out of your cut." She turned around and added, "And ya better hope he thinks ya're cute enough to return for another!"She groaned, rolling her eyes.She really hoped he wouldn't, actually, because that was one of the fastest decisions she quickly regretted.::::Okay, maybe she was a bit glad he did.At the chime of the bell, Rayla stood up from her seat at the register and grinned. "Welcome to Slish—" her eyes widened. "Hey, Callum, is that you?"In walked the same young man from a month ago. His hair, now near the same length as it was before his cut. "Last I checked!" He chuckled good naturedly as he looked around the shop. No one else was in, no other customers and her mother was currently out getting them lunch. "Are you guys, like, closed or—""No!" she shouted all too hastily. Awkwardly clearing her throat, she said, "My mum's just out getting us lunch, and well, no clients as of late. Actually, ya just missed the last one by like ten minutes." She chuckled. "But we're still open!" she declared, gesturing toward the same seat he had sat last time.He smiled as he walked over. "I'm glad. I think I could use another cut."Rayla raised a brow as he sat down. "Think?" She wrapped him with the cloth and barber cape, clipping it shut. "I can see this mess on the rise," she flicked at his hair, causing him to laugh, "I'm glad ya had the common sense to seek out my counsel."Callum dramatically sighed. "Of course. The second I gazed upon my mirror and saw my horrible head, I knew I had to seek out the beautiful barber that was Rayla of the Slish & Slash."She giggled with tinted cheeks, as she grabbed tools, hiding her lips with her spray bottle. "Ya think I'm beautiful?" she raised a brow, pointing at him with her comb.His face flushed a bit as he nonchalantly shrugged. "I think it's just typical. I mean, you work in a beauty salon, so naturally you yourself would be…" he gestured at her with a smile. "You know?"Rayla bashfully looked away as she rounded behind, hoping to hide her blush. Unfortunately, her reflection betrayed her and he caught her expression with a smug smile of his own. She merely composed herself and began spraying his hair. "So I'm assuming that look worked for ya?"He nodded. "Yup! Family said I looked, 'Rather dashing,' and my friends said I looked like a 'stud'."She snorted, staring at him amusedly through the mirror. "Really?" she said, clearly not believing him.He shrugged. "Well it was my friend Soren, and he's kind of a meathead lug. But he's sweet, so I know it was the thought that counts."She bit her lip impishly as she nodded. "Sounds like a great friend.""He can be." He rolled his eyes. "His sister, Claudia, was the worst with it though. She kept making like, flirty jokes saying that I'd pick up all the girls with hair like mine."Rayla laughed, uproariously at that. Setting down her spray bottle she said, "Oh I'm sure allll the lovely ladies were just melting at the sight of your head."Callum awkwardly laughed. "Yeah, my friends are weird like that." He then straightened himself up a bit. Rayla had her fingers tangled in his hair, but maintained her constant fluffing. "But um, this time I was thinking about something a little more… bold?" he said with a hopeful tone.Rayla's brows raised as she whistled. "Get a load of this Daredevil!" she shouted, pointing at him as though the shop was filled and she was desiring everyone's attention.Callum's tinted ears returned as she saw him roll his eyes in the reflection. "Hardy har har," he deadpanned. "Now does your expertise have more tasteful hairstyles or am I just subject to more of your judgement?"The door chimed and in walked her mother, bearing McDonald's takeout. "What's this I hear 'bout my daughter being judgemental?" She walked over and placed the bags on the register counter. "Rayla, how many times have I told ya not to make fun of customers." She leaned over and stage-whispered, "It's a real problem, I'm sorry."Rayla fisted a handful of Callum's hair as she groaned through her gritted teeth. "Mum," she hissed. Her mother, in turn, raised up her hands innocently as she shrugged. With a nervous chuckle, she leaned down and whispered, "I-I don't actually do that.""Great," Callum squealed, "but could you maybe not pull on my hair?"Her eyes widened in realization as she realized his locks. "O-Oh! Right, s-sorry!" With a more careful touch, she gently kneaded his hair and ruffled it around. "Anyways, Callum, that is my lovely mother.""Tiadrin," she introduced herself with a melodramatic bow. "I am the bountiful, brilliant woman who taught my daughter everythin' she knows.""She lies, Da's the one that taught me everythin'," she said lowly, "she just took joy in giving me bad hair days."Callum snickered, then waved his hand, keeping his wrist still. "Pleased to meet you. I'm Callum. Rayla's told me a bit about you," a teasing smirk grew as he added, "she said you copied her look and dyed your hair because she did."Rayla snorted, loudly. Her eyes flew toward her mother, who's jaw had dropped in shock and indignant anger. "What! No I did not! Rayla, have ya been feeding our customers lies—""I'm kidding, Tiadrin," Callum quickly amended, smirk still plastered on his face. "She made it very clear who the trend setter was in your family."She proudly stood, arms akimbo as she nodded. "That's right! All these darn copycatters," she clicked her teeth disapprovingly."Maybe you would like to recommend a style for me?" He mused, "A trend setter like yourself would know something bold, no?"Tiadrin grinned. "Of course I do!""Hey," Rayla stomped her foot. "My client. First come, first serve." She looked at his reflection and set him with a serious stare. "I know bold looks too! Heck I know more than that fossil."Her mother gasped as Callum laughed."What!""Rayla, relax, I was just kidding." He motioned her to continue. "Please, hit me with your best."She happily grinned. "Gladly."Her mother grumbled as she retreated to the register chair, ruffling through for some chicken nuggets as she said, "Ungrateful lil' shite."The two laughed. "Hope I didn't put you on dish duty tonight for that," he whispered.She leaned down as she replied, "Not if I give ya a sweet cut." She then straightened up and clearly spoke. "So! I'm thinking, for 'bold'," she said as she scooped his hair up, "we try a quiff."His brows raised at that. "A what?"Her mother loudly chewed with a mouthful as she said, "Quiff." Picking up one of their fashion magazines, she flipped open to a page with Ryan Gosling and showed Callum. "It's very slicked back and varies, but it essentially looks like that."Callum looked to Rayla's reflection and smiled. "Quiff me!"The two salon ladies laughed and Rayla got to work.The quiff Rayla wanted to give Callum was a bit more profound than Gosling's, and had more of a fluffy look about it. She also wanted to venture back into a more subtle fade, thinking a low taper fade would suit his look best. They melded back into their last routine, chatting up about how the new year was suiting them. Callmu admitted his new look gave him a small confidence boost while Rayla said she had plenty of wacky hair requests that made her year already."No way, just bangs?" Callum snickered.Rayla nodded with a wide grin. "Yup! They said, 'I want everythin' else gone! Just the bangs!'" She released a content sigh. "Ah man, the shiner that man's scalp was after he left was hilarious with his weird lil' bangs!" The two shared a brief laugh. She then turned and said, "Nugget please!" Then left her mouth ajar.Every so often she would ask her mom to pop her mouth with a fry or nugget, and she'd race on over. As her mother moved to do so, Rayla noticed Callum's hungered look and she bit back her smile as her mother gave her a nugget. "Oi, Mum, ya mind giving Callum one too?"Her mother froze as Callum chuckled. "Uhh, Rayla, that won't be necesary—""It's fine. I have plenty." She brushed off. "Whattya want, nugget? Fry?" He awkwardly glanced between her and her mother, clearly unsure of what to say, so Rayla just decided for him. "Nugget. He's a nugget man. Nugget him Mum!"Tiadrin laughed as she shrugged and stepped forward, holding a nugget out for him.Callum sheepishly bit down and she quickly retreated, not before giving Rayla a teasing look she knew she'd elaborate on later. "Fanks, but uh, you didn't haf to do da," he said as he chewed.Rayla laughed. "Relax, I know how tortuous it is to have nuggets and fries in front of ya and not get a share when ya're right there." She turned to her mother and shouted, "Next shout, pop on me and Callum."Her mother just shrugged with a grin. "Just say the word!"After that, it seemed like Callum's chatter was more reserved. She knew part of it was because at each nugget and fry request, he felt weird her mother was feeding him, but there was also something more. It was like he was aware there was another person in the room with them. Every other sentence or so, she'd catch him glancing at her mom. It wasn't until she was almost done with his cut that when she looked, she realized she was just staring at them fully. No magazine, no phone, no subtly! She was just eating her burger and watching them like a creep.She inaudibly gasped as she shot her a bewildered look, to which her mother returned with a smug wave of her hand and a smirk of lettuce and mayo.Rayla ignored her and reached for the mirror, displaying her work to Callum. His quiff had less hair, but it was still noticeable as the low taper fade accentuated the small amount of rough fluff that was left. His quiff was less parted and more firm and tall, standing up with a bit of slick back. "So, how is it?"His eyes of wonder returned once more and Rayla felt that familiar queasy feeling once again. His eyes were so earnest in their admiration it was the best silent compliment she could ever receive. But the ones with words still made her smitten as he said, "You are truly skilled. I'm just… amazed." He turned his head around and met her eyes. "Thank you."She laughed, fighting off her blush as she removed his barber cape and cloth. "Don't mention it. I figured I'd make your family and friends' compliments more true and highlight the 'dashing'," she teased, wiggling her brows.Callum flushed as he dusted himself off and moved away from his chair. "Well those certainly won't stop anytime soon."She looked at her mom and pointed at the floor. "Mum, ya mind fetchin' me the broom?" Her mother smiled and nodded as she departed, moving all the way to the back. As they approached the register, Rayla saw Callum reach for his pocket and for some dumb reason, hastily shouted, "We have deal!"He jumped a bit, clearly startled by her pitch. "Oh. What kind?" He pulled his wallet out."Uhh," her eyes flew to his hair and she found herself saying (read: lying), "Haircuts with quiffs are half off!"He blinked. "Wow. That's specific? I imagine you guys got a lot of those then, huh?""N-Nah," she shook her head. "We only tell 'em after the cut is done. It's sorta… a… surprise?"Callum raised a brow but shrugged. "Well, I'd still like to pay full for all the McDonald's sharing you did."She laughed. "Ah, nah don't worry 'bout that." She waved her hand dismissively. "I barely finish my burgers and drink, let alone my sides. Ya just saved us a waste of money. So really, this is just extra compensation!"He snorted. "And here I thought this, 'dashing' cut was compensation enough!""How 'bout we'll see how ya fair against the ladies first?" she teased, winking at him. "That'll be seven dollars and fifty cents"Callum produced a bill, two dollar coins, and fifty cents. "Here you go." She happily accepted them and placed them in the register, but before she could wish him goodbye another three dollars was held out for her. "Tip," he explained. She shot him an annoyed look and he sighed. "C'mon. You at least gotta let me—""Nope. No tips," she pushed his hand back. A thought occurred and her annoyance was amended with a smug smile. "How 'bout ya tip me next time?"He grinned. "Deal." With a handshake, a kind smile, and a wave, Callum was once again out of their shop.It was then her mother returned and Rayla released a groan."Argh… I am so on dish duty tonight."::::"Well, well, I thought I heard the sweet sounds of my niece's laughter," Ethari wistfully announced as he rounded the corner from the backroom and into the main floor. He seemed to be just finishing tying his apron around his waist as he approached her and Callum. "And who is this lovely gentleman responsible for elating my sweet niece?"Rayal giggled, "Callum, Ethari." She cleared her throat. "A new regular," she finished that more hopefully than she intended, but judging by his smirk, the feeling was mutual."Regular, huh?" He pretended to ponder for a second as he impishly smirked. "I suppose I am." He then glanced at Ethari with his eyes, as he couldn't turn with the cut Rayla was giving him. "Pleased to meet you Ethari! The fun uncle, so I am told."His face lit up at that. "Ah hah! I knew it!" he exclaimed, pumping his fist into the air. "Ya said that? Ya actually said that?" He desperately dug into his pocket and revealed his phone holding out a recording. "Can I get that on record?"Rayla shrugged with an dramatic sigh. "Sorry. I don't compliment and tell."Callmu pursed his lips as he held out his fist and nodded with it. "It's true. You should stick around and hear all the nice things she says about me, you'd never heard it otherwise."She gasped as she slapped his shoulder. "Shut up! I do compliment ya.""Saying I'm, 'wise for listening to you,' isn't a compliment," he shot back."Ahh that's a Rayla compliment. So few are lucky to receive those," Ethari sorrowfully explained.Rayla rolled her eyes. "Ya guys suck."As Ethari laughed Callum gaped up at her. "I'm letting you mess with my hair! That's the least sucky thing I could be doing!" He clicked his teeth. "Last time I let you try something 'fancy'.""Ah relax. Ya'll look smashin' for your friend Viren's party," she assured him. "An Ivy League cut is the exact stuck up-ness ya're stuck up snob friend will love. I even think he'd let ya dance with his daughter."Callum guffawed. "Claudia? Please." he rolled his eyes. "I swear, I tell you I had a small crush on her growing up and now you're thinking we're betrothed."Rayla frowned a bit as she titled her chin down, pretending to be focused on his mid scalp. "It'd make sense. Ya talk as though she's an angel sent from God and graces the ground she walks on—""She also is my best friend in the whole world. And nothing but that." He shrugged. "I confused it for love, but it was platonic love. And now? We're super cool close friends." He shot her a teasing brow. "'Sides, I talked you up around her, the least you could do is think she's pretty cool too.""Ya talked 'bout me with her?""Yeah, I told all my friends and family about you." He smiled. "Had to give credit to the genius behind these, no?" he gestured at his head.Rayla's smile emerged as she tilted her head up. "Well I'm flattered." She released a small sigh. "And relax, I know she's cool. I mean, she thought your last cut was worthy of Beyoncé's courting."Callum rolled his eyes before glancing toward Ethari. "You see what I have to deal with?"It was that direction that made her flush more. She completely forgot Ethari was there during that whole exchange. She wasn't sure why she was embarrassed he heard their whole exchange, but she laughed it off nonetheless. When she met his eyes, he was shooting her the same knowing look her mother had that was never elaborated on much to her dismay."My heart breaks for ya, Callum," Ethari regretfully replied. "Just give me a shout if ya need savin'. I'll be getting my tools ready." He jerked his thumb over to his station. "I have a client coming in a bit." He backed away and waved at Callum. "Pleasure meeting the infamous Callum—who she also talks about with her family." With that, he left a gaping Rayla and a giggling Callum."Anyways," she hissed, grabbing her mirror and showing him the back of his head, "it's done. Love it? Yay? Neigh?"Callum's amusement dissipated as the awestruck joy returned to his face once more. His eyes got lost in the reflections as he shook his head in disbelief. His Ivy League had a modest trim on his sides, as his swoop carried itself to the right of his head with a small numb of a peak. It was a simple, smooth look that really sold what she thought of Callum. A handsomeness that was nuanced.Not that she thought that or anything."Judging by that look, I assume I still got it?" she said, ignoring her blush.Callum laughed as he stood up, removing his barber cape and using his cloth to dust himself off. "I don't think you could ever lose it. But I'd hate to be the client that you'd lose it on."She giggled as she took the cloth and cape away from him. "Nah, I think ya're my good luck charm."He smiled as he nodded his head over to the register. "Well, this good luck charm would like to make good on that tip he promised last time."As he made a move to walk away, Rayla's eyes darted around the shop and she caught the calendar. April first. "U-Uh, actually, there's—""Another deal?" Callum amusedly guessed, looking back at her. "Whatever it is, I don't care—I'm paying the full price and tipping." He began rifling through his messenger bag for his wallet.Rayla awkwardly laughed. "It's actually an April Fools joke." He blinked up at her confusedly. "If ya point out, 'Oh wow, it's April Fools!' Ya're cut's free!"That… was a terrible lie.He titled his head, clearly bewildered. "How's… that a joke? I mean, anybody would notice it's April Fools!"Her eyes lit up. "Ahh! Ya said the thing! Congrats!" she darted over and grabbed his messenger bag, slinging it over his shoulder as she pushed him toward the door. "Have a nice day, good luck with Viren's party! Wish him happy birthday for me! Bye!" And then she whipped the door open and kicked him out. She released a tired sigh as she palmed at her face.What. Was. She. Doing."Rayla," Ethari's voice startled her. She looked up and found him sitting in his station's chair, leg crossed over the other as he rested his cheek in the palm of his hand. "Just 'cause he pays for the dates, doesn't mean ya have to give him free haircuts.""Shut up!" she muttered as she launched a comb at him, causing him to duck."Ya do know that's coming out of your paycheck right?""Yeah yeah…""And that I'm tellin' your parents about this."Don't ya dare!"::::"Hey Cal—" Rayla gasped as she noticed a small boy with a large afro walk in. "Is this your lil' brother?"The boy sheepishly nodded as he waved. "Hi! You must be Rayla, I'm Ezran." He kindly smiled up at her. "Callum speaks highly of you."Rayla giggled. "Aww, he's so polite." She crouched down and shook his head. "Please to meet ya, Ezran.""So, Ray," Callum spoke up. "Ez has a big history presentation he wants to look good for and since I've been talking up Slish & Slash all the way since January, my mom and step-dad figured I should take him here."Rayla brightened up at that. "Great!" A strange sense of hesitance came over her as she asked, "Are… ya getting one or…"He nodded, looking up at his forehead as he dragged his fingerless gloves through his hair. "It's surprisingly grown a lot in the last two months."She smiled. "Ya did say it grew back quick." She stood up and clasped her hands together. "Unfortunately, I'm the only one here today."He raised a concerned brow. "Oh something happen?""Yeah," she chuckled, "romance." The two brothers cocked their heads in confusion. "My parents' anniversary is tomorrow and they're packing for the weekend getaway trip." She shrugged. "And my uncles are watching The Lighting Thief musical this evening, but not before a nice lunch date." She gestured around her. "So Slish & Slash has been left in my capable hands.""And it hasn't burned down yet?" That earned Callum a swift jab to his shoulder. "Argh, kidding, kidding!"She rolled her eyes. "Sure, tease the gal who's gonna bring sharp tools near your ears and head." Callum gulped as she walked over to her usual station and patted his seat. "So if ya don't mind waiting, who'd like to go first?"Callum, being the sweet big brother that he was, let Ezran go first. Cutting Ezran's hair was fun. His adorable cheerfulness and excitement was infectious and she loved how joyful he was with her and Callum's conversations. Ezran already had his own idea of what he wanted: just a trim of his 'fro and a drop fade to highlight his "fabolous afro" (his words, not hers)."So ya're saying Callum has a jerk face dance?" she impishly smiled. "And I've yet to see it?"Callum groaned. "Thank you, Ez, for sharing that."Ezran giggled as he said, "But it's only for when he's a jerk. It makes it mean less if he does it all the time."Rayla frowned. "He's a jerk to me, does that count?""How!" Callum gasped. "I've done nothing but compliment your work endlessly."Ezra rolled his eyes as he whispered, "It's true. You're all he talks about."Rayla felt her face heat up. Callum, who hadn't heard, blinked at her. "What! What'd he say?""Nothing!" she shouted, making Ezran wince. "Uhhh, so do ya have a reason for your cut. A-Aside from it being long," she amended. "No presentation of your own?"Callum shrugged. "Ehh, I just think I should get one. By the way, everyone love the Ivy League one. Great work."Rayla smiled. "Well, that is what I aim to do." She showed Ezran his new cut and proudly stated, "As evidenced by this."Ezran gasped. "Whoa… I can see why Callum speaks so highly of you. This is amazing!" She giggled at his praise, but flushed at Callum's prideful stare. He looked like he was proud of her, but not surprised either at her results."So, Sir Callum, shall we?"He eagerly sat down and donned his cloth and barber cape himself as Rayla swept away the hair and cleaned her tools. Upon her return, she quickly spritzed his hair and asked, "So, what are we trying today?"He shrugged. "Surprise me."She fondly rolled her eyes. "Again, huh?""No seriously." Callum nodded with a firm stare, meeting her reflected eyes. "Get wild with it. Do whatever you feel like. I've got nothing going and I think I'll manage with whatever you give me.""Oh? Bold words Daredevil," she teased. An idea occurred and she excitedly said, "How about a bet? If I give ya a look ya actually like, I'll let ya tip me this time. But if ya don't like it, and want me to shave it off like ya always say as a safeguard, then your cuts free."Callum laughed. "Seriously? I love every cut you've done. How could I not like one?"She blushed at that as she held her hand out. "Deal?""Deal!"This time, their exchange was more stilted and awkward as she ordered him to close his eyes. Their conservations were usually filled with eye contact but this time she wanted to surprise him all at once. Ezran grew noticeably quiet and when she checked on him, she found him staring at the two of them fondly. She decided not to comment on that as she readied the next phase of her plan. As she readied cans and shook them, Callum immediately knew what she was about to do."You're gonna dye my hair aren't you?""Whaaat, how'd ya know?" she sarcastically exclaimed, still shaking her can.His look was actually very bold for Callum. She didn't intend for it to look good on him because she hoped he wouldn't like it. After all, the amended rule would be she just shaved it all down to a buzzed trim and that would be that. But it actually… looked decent. His hair was spiked up, all throughout his mid scalp as his high fade perfectly highlighted his newest feature. The tips of his hair? White tips. She found it humorous but also convenient. She recently just freshened up her white hair and the white hair dye was the most recent can available. But to her surprise?"I love it!" he exclaimed, eyes filled with the textbook wonder she adored.She couldn't believe it. "R-Really? Ya actually like it?"He nodded as he looked himself in the mirror. "Yeah! It's not something I think I'll keep up, but boy am I gonna enjoy this." He turned to face her with a smug grin. "White, huh?" It was that expression that made her realize "white hair dye" had a different meaning with her family. "Whelp, I'm flattered you let me in on the joke." A sense of relief (and annoyance?) washed over her as Callum laughed.As they gathered at the register, he proudly declared, "I won the bet, no?" He pointed down at Ezran. "Wait, is it still free for first customers or—""Oh, no," she shook her head. "That was for that month."A sort of twinkle in his eye sparked for a moment as he shrugged. "That's cool I'll still pay—"Thankfully, she had a backup plan. "Actually, we have another deal however.""But you said—""Yeah, I did, but there was also a deal today. So, yeah…" he narrowed his eyes as he brother muttered something about not looking a gift horse in the mouth. "It's, um," she looked down at Ezran, then back at Callum, "Half off for customers who bring new customers! And as ya already know," she pointed at the sales stand on the counter, "Children are already half off!"Callum rolled his eyes. "I'm still tipping you."She laughed. "Great! Hardly had any customers today anyways." When the two left, Rayla laughed to herself.Okay, that one she was proud of.::::"Well, well, well," Rayla eagerly greeted as the door chimed, "as I live and breath, is that Callum I see?"He laughed. "Yup! Alas, less white tipped than before," he bowed as he gestured to his head. "But, I have a birthday party this month and as much as my parents loved my boldness they also wanted me to look… more presentable for any potential photo ops."Rayla snorted. "I guess being the son of Katolis Industries' CEO means ya aren't privy to complete adventurous looks.""Step-son," he corrected, already making his way over to her station, "but they actually don't care about most of the scandals and gossip. They're just actually sick of how it's starting to lose its colour."Rayla sighed, feigning disappointment. "Oh well, at least ya liked it." He nodded, already wearing his barber cape. "So," she began spraying his hair, "by 'presentable', what does that exactly entail?" She ruffled up his hair—something she's grown to enjoy doing, and he's grown to like as he smiled and squirmed a bit. "What's this party's theme? Who's birthday is it?""Uh… mine, actually," he sheepishly admitted.Her eyes widened. "Seriously? Ya're a July baby too?"His eyes widened as well. "Wait, when's yours?""The thirty-first!""What, mine's the fifteenth!" he exclaimed. "Small world."She nodded with a grin, already knowing what today's "deal" would be. "Ah, that's in a few days though. Ya really left this to the last minute, huh?" she said as she continued to spray his hair and soak it up with moisture, massaging his hair a bit. "So I guess I hold the cards, huh? What I do decides how presentable ya are for your own birthday?"He scoffed. "You've always held the cards."She smirked. "Then it's a good thing I'm a fair dealer then, eh?""You mind dealing me a new hand?" he pointed up at his hair.She snorted. "How long do ya wanna keep this bit going?""'Til we get a full house?"She laughed at that, hard, causing the two to erupt in fits of laughter. Eventually, such attention garnered that of her father. Who had just finished his client and sent them off (full price of course). "Wow, I don't think I've ever heard my daughter laugh like that," he cheerfully exclaimed. "Ya must be the infamous Callum I've heard about.""And you must be Lain, the hilarious joker responsible for the best family prank I've ever heard." He chuckled. "And yeah, I'm told I have a way of humouring your daughter."Lain laughed. "I'm glad sense of humour isn't something I have to teach ya!" he laughed again, but obviously at the expense that both her and Callum were flushing red."Da," she grumbled, "can ya leave me with my client, please?" Her father mouthed 'your client' as he waggled his brows, crossing his arms. She just rolled her eyes with a sigh. "So, Callum, are ya feeling somethin' special for your birthday?"Her father perked at that. "Oh, your birthday's coming up?""Y-Yes sir. The fifteenth.""Ah, well, happy early birthday!""Anyways," Rayla gritted thur her teeth, shooting her father a glare, "do ya have a look ya want or—""Whatever you like!"She fondly smiled. "Callum, c'mon, we can't just do the same routine—""No, no, I mean it!" he quickly said. "Umm… do you have a hairstyle you like? Wh-Whatever it is! Give it to me."Of all days for him to say something like this, it had to be when her dad was standing a couple metres away from her. "O-Oh… that's…" she saw his hopeful smile and completely forgot all about her dad's teasing smirk. "Really, really sweet, Callum." She chuckled. She took one look at him as she played with his hair. Her favourite look? Messy hair was always nice… she wanted to add a subtle touch to his.And so that was what she gave him. Her father made passes, mischievously smirking each drive by. Rayla just ignored him as she continued to chat with Callum like usual. It must've been because of his exposure to her mother and Ethari, but he seemed less put off by his presence. This one… she wasn't sure why, but it went by quicker than usual. Actually, they all started feeling considerably shorter at each haircut.Even with Ezran there, somehow doing two cuts still felt shorter than one.She held a heavy heart as she showed him his new hair for his upcoming birthday, already confident he'd love it. It was already done. "Am I good or am I good?"His eyes awe and amazement swept over to hers a he laughed. "Thank you, for finally giving my a good hair day on my birthday."Her brow raised. "I'm assuming there's a story for that one?" she asked as he rid himself of his cape and started dusting himself off with the cloth."Yeah," he sighed, following her to the register, "but that's a story for next time." His tone dropped a bit, as if disappointment was wringing through.She shook herself off her sadness and mustered her best, genuine smile. "Hey," she tapped his wrist, my gift to you is a free haircut!"His eyes filled with a tired disappointment. "But—""And your early one for me can be accepting this kind gift!" she cheerfully suggested.His eyes accepted their defeat as he nodded. "Fine. But can I also greedily ask for another gift?" She raised a brow. "Your number?"Her eyes widened. "What?""If you don't mind me asking?" He shrugged. "I'd… I'd like to actually celebrate yours? Or you can celebrate mine? It'll be a, um, Just July da—aay." He cleared his throat, red in his cheeks.Perhaps if she had her brain at full capacity and not in smitten mode she would've caught his near verbal slip, but she was in smitten mode. So all she did was slip him a note with her number and leave her with the anticipation of a text."I don't even think I have to tell ya," her father's voice appeared from behind her, riddled with disappointment, "that that's coming out of your check," he disapprovingly chided her.She sighed, accepting it fully now. "Okay… but, Da, ya mind if I make an early birthday request this year?" He stared at her skeptically. "Can ya ignore this and not tell Mum? Or Ethari. Or Runaan. It-It can still come out of my pay. Just… don't tell them."He sighed. "Fine. But that's it. Next time I catch ya there'll be trouble, alright lassie?""Aye, I hear ya!" But the sight of Callum's text later that afternoon, was well worth the pay cut.::::Late August, Callum lost a bet with his brother and ended up having to shave his head down to a trim and drop him off for his first day of school. Of course to suffer at the expense of his classmates and friends. She was told that it was also the result of a minor jerk dance that failed and wasn't "jerky" enough. So this was his amended make up to that.He had told her all of this over text, and told her to save his seat. She said she gladly would await his arrival and that she would try to make it look as best as she could. That obviously called for line-up art! The awkwardness of it all, was that she wasn't working today. Runaan was the only one manning the shop and had a myriad of questions and skepticism when she arrived and elusively answered his questions. But when Callum walked in, he immediately pieced it together.Okay, so maybe she had a crush on him that wasn't subtle and her family kind of picked up on that.Nonetheless, that wouldn't deter her from helping Callum."Look on the bright side," she giggled as she finished his line up"we've finally gotten to the plan B we both settled with!"He chuckled. "I'm glad I've made you laugh nonstop though," he said with a smile, "I do love your laugh."She bit her lips, barely containing it. "I love yours too, thanks." She cleared her throat. "But seriously, I don't think this, will look bad. I just find the irony funny. I think," she reached for the mirror and display her work, "it looks sick." It was just on his right side, and it was a line-up of Katolis Industries' logo, the two towers. One slightly taller than the other, as a small gap bridged them. It looked good on his near plain had and made her smile. "So do I still got it?"He sighed. "You do…" he rolled his eyes, obviously fighting back his smile. "Seriously though, this is hilarious and my family's gonna love that you twisted it.""No specifications in just being a plain trim!" she said.He jerked his thumb at the door. "So are you done for today or have a break?" he asked. "I was gonna get coffee before I headed back home. Just, let the summer breeze soak in my new scalp."She snorted. "Actually," she smiled, "I um… was 'bout to clock out after this!" She just embraced her blush as she said, "How 'bout we call this… atrocity, a free pass and ya pay me back with a coffee?"Callum sighed, rolling his eyes as he headed toward the door. "Alright, but I'll buy you a snack too!""Fine by me! Lemme just put my apron away," she shouted as she darted toward the backroom.. And directly into Runaan. "Ah! Runaan, I'm so sorry.""Honestly Rayla, ya can't keep doing this," he disapprovingly muttered.She blinked at his serious tone. "I-I won't! I just wasn't looking where I was going…""No, I mean 'bout ya and Callum." Her eyes widened. "I know he's just one customer but he's also a regular and that's a lot of profit costing us when ya don't charge full price." He crossed his arms. "Im tellin' your parents about this. I know you already know the deal, but ya can't keep this up just 'cause it comes out of your pay.""Okay fine." She nodded. He was right. What she was doing was absurd. "I… I swear I'll charge him the full price next time."::::"So you are the hair wizard Callum can't shut up about?" Claudia greeted.Her brother Soren yawned as he sat himself down in the fold out chair waiting area. "Can you make this quick though? Shopping for costumes is exhausting."Claudia grinned. "We were doing Halloween shopping. You see—""I know," Rayla chuckled, circling around Callum as she continued to trim his sides down to nothing. "Callum texted me 'bout it. He also told me about his banger idea to dress up as Sokka from Avatar." She shot him a wink. "Clever, and serious commitment, aye.""I mean, if it's done by you, it'll still look good and work for me after Halloween's done!" he cheerfully declared.Rayla fondly ruffled the top of his hair, the amount that was left on the mid scalp. "Thanks," she whispered.Claudia noticed that small exchange and smirked. "So, why did you need to sneak ahead and get your cut without us? I mean, we ended up waiting for you regardless…"Callum awkwardly coughed as Rayla started combing back his hair and fitting into the signature ponytail Sokka was known for. "I-I just thought you and Soren would be longer trying on your Zuko and Azula costumes."Rayla's eyes widened as she pointed at Claudia with her lips. "Ya are Azula?""It's surprisingly more accurate than you think," Callum muttered.She simply smiled at the two as she said, "Ohhhh, I see why." She tapped her nose and pointed at them repeatedly. "You two wanted alone time.""No!" they said together. They shared a stare before awkwardly looking away."Umm," Rayla showed him the cut as she began taking off his cape and cloth. "Good, yeah?"Callum nodded and immediately met her eyes. "Thanks Rayla. You're a real life saver for this Halloween costume.""Just…" she sighed, "make sure to send me pics."Claudia frowned a bit as the two made their way to the register.Rayla also remembered to charge Callum at full price like she promised. "So, that'll be fifteen—" her eyes widened as she caught the Halloween decoration in their barbershop window. It was a skeleton holding two pairs of scissors. "A-Actually, we have a deal—"Callum sighed. "Ray, I know you wanna keep giving me discounts and freebies but I want to pay full price for once. And tip."She internally groaned. "Okay, I know. An-And ya can. But we really have a deal this time.""Sure you do, I'm sure it's just as clever as your others—""It's called the Spooky Slish & Slash and—""Very cute, but—""—for people who're getting Halloween related cuts for costumes—""Rayla, come on.""—And we 'slash' the price in half. So it's actually seven dollars and fifty cents.""Rayla.""Cal," she sternly said with a pleading look. "I'm not lying.""She isn't!" her father suddenly appeared, looking sheepish on her behalf. "We do have that deal going on until the thirty-first." He cleared his throat as he gestured to Claudia and Soren. "I heard ya two have costumes! Would ya like your hairstyles to match or…""No thanks!" Claudia politely smiled."Yeah, I'm just wearing a wig," Soren shrugged.Callum's face was red as he slid the correct amount over. "S-Sorry about that." He coughed. "I guess I'll uh… see ya in two months?"Rayla shyly smiled. "Aye, 'til then."As the three departed, she caught the tail end Claudia shouting at Callum for not inviting her to the party. But she couldn't care less about that. He knew she was lying all those times and now when she was telling the truth she had to be bailed out. This was so embarrassing."I'm sorry, lass," her father sighed, giving her a hug."It's fine." She chuckled. "At least I'm not getting a pay cut this time."The two laughed as they returned to their work.::::"Okay I've had enough!" Callum shouted, darting straight through the door and toward Rayla's station. Because Christmas was on the rise, Slish & Slash was almost always packed during the holiday season and that meant her whole family was present. Runaan was manning the register, undergoing an exchange as everyone else was at their respective stations cutting hair. Rayla finished her recent client and was slightly taken aback by Callum's presence.One, for his explosive entrance, but two, for how close he was. He was nearly in her face as his head of hair was longer than she had ever seen. It was messy, a bit unkempt, but definitely fluffy with a lot of hair. It must've really grew out in the time they hadn't seen each other. They talked, yes, through texts and phone calls, but never saw each other. None of them ever attempt to do a video call. But right now, she was looking at him fully head on.And as angry as he looked, he looked cute too."Enough of what?""This year, Katolis Industries' Christmas Gala has a fantasy theme and I want you to give me a haircut." She nodded her understanding, prompting him to continue. "But I want to pay full price."The word "fantasy" caught her attention and she immediately knew what she wanted to do. "This one's free of charge," she easily said, this time on purpose. She felt her parents stares, her uncles gasps and eye rolls but she bit back her lip as she listened to Callum ramble."Nope. I won't accept your freebies anymore. And neither your half deals, or quarter deals, or deal-deals. I'm paying full price." He stomped into his seat and plumped himself down."Okay." She smiled to herself. Within seven minutes, she twisted at the long locks of hair all around his head and fashioned them into small, adorable braids. His jaw dropped, clearly amazed at her efficiency as she tied the last one and stepped up.It was simple, but she thought it would suit this "fantasy" theme and his simple look. It just worked. Her family laughed, clearly amused with Rayla's method as Callum's jaw remained dropped.She laughed. "That'll be fifteen dollars," she sweetly said, holding her hand out. "Plus tip."Callum sighed as he dug into his pocket and placed eighteen dollars in her palm. But also a beige envelope."Wait, what's this?" she asked as he moved toward the exit."An invitation to the Gala." He smirked. "Oh, and matching would be ideal." He winked before leaving.She didn't even bother fighting her blush, her smile, or her giddy laugh.Then her mother said, "Okay so if ya're gonna be dating the Katolis Industries CEO's step-son, he better pay for all those cuts!"She didn't care though. She had her own haircut to worry about.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Lazy Dancing
"But Mom, why do I have to!" Callum whined as she stomped his foot, begrudgingly following after his mother as she led him down the corridors."Because Callum, you're older now and it's time for you to start acting more presentable for these social affairs," she explained. "I know it's boring and drab, but human kingdoms and Elf kingdoms all over visit these events and how you act reflects upon the image of our family."Callum pouted at that. "But Ez doesn't have to take classes.""Because he's not old enough yet," Sarai sighed, "I know this isn't fair but you're of age to start taking some of these events more seriously."He pouted as he crossed his arms, coming to a stop. But suddenly, he was picked up from his feet and hoisted above his captor's shoulder. He looked at their back and recognized the shield. "Aunt Amaya!" he shouted, rapping on her metal shield. "Put me down!""You know my sister can't hear you, Callum.""Then tell her to turn me around so I can sign at her to put me down!" he whined.He heard the sounds of arms moving but considering how they were still walking, he assumed negotiations were short. Because of that, Callum was now sat in the middle of the Ballroom, watching her mother dance. He was bored with all the talking and lessons she had about how "dance is a formal but elegant affair," and that "it's a rhythmic experience but also a freeing one." He thought she looked silly dancing with no one, her arms and hands holding nothing as she twirled around and repeated the steps.He felt someone prod at his shoulder and he turned up and saw his aunt frowning at him. "Pay attention," she told him.He frowned as he signed back, "I'm tired."She just rolled her eyes as she pointed toward her sister, narrowing her eyes at him.Callum sighed, returning to his mother's lessons."Callum," she said softly, "I know this is boring, but these events have hundreds of eyes on you! So instead of hiding under tables or playing hide-and-seek in the drapery—""Ray and I did that once—""—I think it's time you two learn how to have fun at these like everyone else!"His brows raised. "Wait, Rayla's taking lessons too?"His mother smirked at that. "Yes," she said in a weird tone. "Why, excited?"Callum laughed. "No way! Aw man, whoever's teaching her must hate being her teacher."::::"Runaan, ya said we'd be learnin' basic forms," Rayla grumbled, following her instructor to the lotus pool."I did," Runaan said, "we'll be learnin' the basic forms… of dance." He turned around and held a firm posture as his hands and arms were held out for nothing. He must've caught her disappointment as he sighed. "Rayla, ya need to learn how to act more appropriately at these events. Ya can't expect to be treated maturely for our training when ya can't act mature in a professional setting."She blinked bewilderedly as she scoffed. "How is a party a 'professional setting'?" She crossed her arms and pouted.Her mentor sighed once again. "It is a party, aye. But we're also coming together as multiple factions, villages, kingdoms, and gathering to have fun." He nodded at the elf with the violin sitting on the lotus pool edge, and they began playing music. "These dances and events show a bit of culture and life, but also similarity! The divide from the human kingdoms and Xadia happened long ago, but many of our cultures and norms are derived from the time we were one." He began the steps, repeating them over and over as he said, "One of those arts, is dance.""Oh, so it's lame in every culture?" she sarcastically asked."Maybe Ethari teachin' ya what 'sarcasm' is was a mistake," Runaan muttered."So is dance." She sighed."We're learnin' this so ya don't cause any problems during the Winter Ball."Her eyes lit up. "Maybe I shouldn't go then! Cal and I can just ditch and play in his room!" she said hopefully.Her mentor stopped dancing and facepalmed. "Rayla. I'm doing this because even the King and Queen of Katolis agreed it's time for ya and Callum to stop goofing and start learnin' how to behave at these. Ballroom dancing is the best thing the two of ya can do and I know ya'll enjoy it if ya just take the time to learn!"Rayla gasped. "Wait, wait, wait, Callum learnin' how to ballroom dance too?"Runaan smiled, for some reason. "Indeed. Now are ya motivat—""Ha!" Rayla snorted. "Good luck with whoever's in charge of that!"::::"Callum." his stepfather's voice made him rigid. "I know this is frustrating but your mother said you need to learn.""Yes, King Harrow," he grumbled, looking back down at his feet. He wasn't aware of the King's shoulder slump, as he was too busy making sure he didn't step on his stepdad's toes. But then he did. As his stepfather hissed, Callum groaned and threw his head up. "This is so lame.""I know, I know," Harrow laughed, "getting your toes stepped on is lame for everyone."Callum looked at him with a frown."I-I was… kidding."He just sighed and looked back down at their feet again. He continued to count out loud the steps, repeating the motions as they moved forward and back. Then he heard Harrow laugh. "I'm trying to memorize it!" he shouted, stomping his foot. On his stepfather's foot. He cringed at how Harrow winced and apologized immediately."No, no, no it's fine!" he assured him. "Both for that, and counting out loud. I'm sure Rayla will be counting too."Callum sighed, pulling away from Harrow as he threw his arms up. "No way!" he crossed his arms as he pouted. "Rayla's too good at things like this. She'll know how to do the steps. She's just gonna hate doing it too because it's lame."He heard his father approach him from behind and kneel. "Are you worried if you start showing interest Rayla would make fun of you?""No," he scoffed. "Rayla wouldn't do that. I just know she thinks this is lame because it is. Why can't we just play in my room during the Winter Ball?"King Harrow sighed, smiling at him. "Callum, I know this is lame but your mother and I, and even Runaan agreed that you two need to learn how to have fun like grownups!""But you guys don't always dance.""Well… we're teaching you guys to dance because that's some of the most fun we have at these events!" He chuckled. "C'mon, don't tell me you don't love all the musicians playing music?"Callum shook his head. "I do… but I don't wanna ballroom dance.""I know, I know, it's lame," he agreed. "I thought so too when I was your age."Callum gasped. "Really?""Yes," his stepfather nodded with a smile, "but after I had my first dance. I knew this was something I would love to do anytime I could.""Who'd you dance with?"His stepdad grinned. "Your mother."Callum giggled. "Mum's right, King Harrow," his grin fell a bit as he shot Callum a curious brow, "you are smitten!"Harrow laughed, rolling his eyes. "Okay, okay, I am. But I'll gladly admit that if that means you're willing to give this another shot?"He nodded. "But lemme change out of my boots. So when—if, I step on your toes it won't hurt as much."Harrow nodded and Callum took that as an immediate sign to run.Meanwhile, Harrow crossed his arms, proud he got through to his son until one of his guards spoke. "You do realize he's just gonna hide now, My King?"Harrow sighed. "Send out a search party for my son." The guards saluted and began walking toward the exit. "And make sure to add whoever finds him has to teach him ballroom dancing!" At that, the guards hastened their pace, as if pretending they didn't hear him. "I hope whoever's teaching Rayla is faring better."::::"Why are ya teachin' me how to ballroom dance?" Rayla randomly asked as she and Ethari rehearsed through the steps.The tinkerer chuckled. "It may be 'cause ya're insistent refusal to learn and I'm more of a…" aaaaand another toe stomp, he winced, smiling sweetly at her, "kinder teacher."Rayla snorted. "Sorry.""It's fine, it's fine." He cleared his throat and smiled down at Rayla, who was too busy looking down at their feet and counting.At her new mentor's laugh, she shot her head up and raised a brow. "What's funny?""Nothing. I just thought it was cute ya are counting out loud."She scowled. "Aye. How else am I supposed to know?""A-Ah, it-it's fine." He smiled back."Then why was it funny?""Ummm inside joke?"Rayla narrowed her eyes. But because of her lack of focus, she stepped on Ethari's toe again. As he winced, Rayla released herself from his grip and groaned. "This is so lame!""Rayla, it was an accident, these things happen. We can just try again—""Not that. It's just lame itself!" she kicked a pebble, causing it to fly straight into the lotus pool and nearly hit their violinist in the head. They frowned at her but she couldn't care less. "Music is supposed to be fun and cool. Why are we lame-ifying it with formal ballroom dancin'?" she asked, disgusted.Ethari laughed. "Ya know, Runaan thought the same thing when he was a teenager?"Rayla snorted. "That's not surprising.""I suppose not," he chuckled. "But ya notice he knows how to now?""Aye, I do," she grumbled, sitting on the lotus pool edge."So even if he thought it was 'lame' he still learned," Ethari proudly explained as he sat beside her."But Runaan does that 'bout everythin'. He thinks assassin's should learn to blend in with every way possible!" Rayla rolled her eyes. "It's stupid. Not every assassin does that. And this isn't even related to assassin training! It's for a stupid dance."Ethari sighed. "It's not stupid. For all ya know, Callum could be looking forward to dancin' with ya."She snorted. "If Callum is looking forward to dancin' with me, it won't be with this fancy, pancy, style.""How do ya know, if ya never try?" he shot back, with a sly brow.Rayla sighed, clenching her fists. "Fine. Ethari, let's just do this from the top."He grinned, rising up his spot and moving toward the open area they had been practicing. "Now let's—" he turned around and sighed as he realized she was gone. He looked at the violinist and chuckled. "Ya're still chargin' by the hour, eh?""Aye," they answered."Well, I hope Callum is actually learnin'."::::Callum felt stupid.For one, he was practicing ballroom dancing with no one.And two, he thought he was going to learn Sky Magic not ballroom dancing!"Prince Callum, you need to move a bit slower," Lord Viren softly pointed out.He sighed, slumping his shoulders before slowing his pace. It wasn't that Callum hated Viren, he knew he was his stepdad's closest friend, but he just… didn't agree with him. Ever since the day he told Rayla about how he does magic, she corrected him and explained what Dark Magic was. It was a practice elves disapproved of and it was often why Viren avoided everyone during the visitation days where Runaan and Rayla came over.He was a bit uncomfortable with that side of Viren's magic abilities, but he knew he also knew Sky Magic because he possessed a Primal Stone of his own! He'd seen him use it before, teaching his daughter Claudia out in the courtyard. He wasn't able to catch any signs or anything of the sort because he was passing through, but he wanted to learn nonetheless. Rayla sadly didn't know many Draconic words relating to Sky, and so he explained he would have to ask Viren about it.She was okay with that as long as he was only learning Sky Magic from him, which Callum was fine with too. He thought Dark Magic looked scary, and whenever Viren or his daughter performed it, he would have nightmares. But it was because of all of that, that Callum thought when Viren approached him in his room and said, "I have something to teach you" he thought it'd be the fabled magic lessons he was waiting for."Er, Prince Callum, now you're moving too slow."He groaned. This was so not Sky Magic."How am I supposed to know when to move fast or slow?""The… rhythm of the music, the pace," Viren explained pointing at the violinists off to the side. "You just need to match it and move with it."Callum sighed. "This isn't working for me… can we… maybe just take a break and try something else?"Viren scoffed. "Prince Callum, that is the fourth time you have suggested that. What does that even mean? What else would we try?"He gulped. "Sky Magic?"He blinked at him, shocked. He then raised his hand and the violinists stopped playing. "What do you mean… by that?"Callum raised his right hand and pulled his sleeve back a bit, revealing the Primal Stone bracelet Rayla got for him. Viren gasped, nearly sprinting over as he crouched down. "Is that a—""Primal Stone? Yeah…" he sheepishly said, put off by Viren's sudden interest.He chuckled. "This is amazing! It's so compact. H-How?""Rayla asked her parents who asked Avizandum and they put it together. She and her friend Ethari were the ones who fashioned it into this little bracelet!" he cheerfully explained, shaking his hand around. As uncomfortable Callum was around Viren, he was amused by how amazed he looked right now. "So… can you teach me some Sky Magic? I know you have a Primal Stone of your own!"Viren chuckled. "Why, I can teach Sky Magic. But, you know I am able to perform other kinds of magic, yes?" he proudly stated standing tall with his staff.Callum cringed. "Ahh… but… I just want to learn Sky Magic not… um," he tugged at his collar. "That kind of magic."Viren frowned. "I see. You know my daughter enjoys 'that kind of magic.' And she's not too far in age from you," he stated, "I believe seeing someone around your age learn might help. And may open your mind to it?"Callum shook his head. "No thank you." He grabbed his bracelet. "I'd just like to learn Sky Magic please."Lord Viren nodded, smiling down at him. "That is fair. How about this?" He raised his hand and the violinists began playing again. "You will try your hand at ballroom dancing once again and after, I'll teach you a spell."Callum grinned. "Deal!"::::Rayla felt stupid.For one, she was practicing ballroom dancing with her mom.And two, she thought she was going to learn sword techniques, not ballroom dancing!"Ray, darlin', ya need to match my tempo," her mother lightly chided, squeezing the girl's hands.Rayla sighed. "Mum, why are we doing this!"She chuckled. "Considerin' how much ya've asked that, I'm assuming ya already know," she teased. "But come on! Don't tell me ya don't want to dance with Callum."She scrunched her face up, curiously. "Why does everyone keep mentionin' Cal? Of course I'm gonna dance with him, he's my friend!" She rolled her eyes. "I just wanted to learn cool sword forms but now I'm just sat here learnin' how to 'match the tempo'," she mocked.Her mother laughed. "I get it, it's lame, it's not fun, but it's only lame and not fun now." She pulled away from Rayla and crouched down, meeting her eye level. "Trust me, when ya dance during the Winter Ball, ya're gonna have a blast!"Rayla felt her cheeks heat as she looked up at her. "Will ya and Da be there?" she quietly asked.Her mother's eyes widened as she sadly smiled. "Ahh, darlin', of course your Da and I will be there!" She grinned, holding her arms out. Rayla stepped into the embrace and sighed. "It's the bloody Winter Ball! We wouldn't miss it for the world!""Ya missed the last three," she whispered into her mother's shoulder.She pulled away and frowned. "We did. And I'm still sorry 'bout those.""I know, I know, ya and Da are doing important stuff protecting the Dragon Egg," Rayla dismissed, looking down.Her mother lifted her chin with her finger, causing her to see her smirk. "Hey, how 'bout ya tough at just fifteen more minutes of this," her smirk grew wider, "and then I'll teach ya some sword forms."Rayla's eyes widened. "Really!""Really."She grinned. "It's a deal!"::::The Winter Ball was in less than a week, but Rayla and her family were staying far longer than that. So, in the short time they had to prepare, the entire castle was in a tizzy trying to get things ready. But amongst the chaos, the parents and guardians of the children of interest, decided it was time to get the two to practice together. According to Harrow, Viren managed to get a lot done with Callum. While Tiadrin reported having successfully gotten through their daughter.But because everyone was busy, Lain decided to take over the lessons between Callum and Rayla. He wasn't someone who had much standing in "The Bet" nor did he really care for how much everyone else was pushing it. He thought the two dancing together would be sweet, so that was all he cared for when he took the mantle for dance instructor. Nearly everyone reassured him that they would be great. But…"Ya're not matching my tempo!""You're not following the pace of the music!"That was not the case."Guys," Lain shouted, holding his hands up placatingly, "this is a cooperative dance? Which means ya dance together." He gestured to the two of them.Rayla scoffed. "Da, he's not following me! He keeps steppin' on my toes!"Callum rolled his eyes. "She's not listening to the pace of the music! She's going too fast!""No I'm not!""Are too!""Am not!""Are too—""Enough," Lain sighed. "I think that's enough for today. I'm…" he shook his head, "going to look for your mother."The two kids stole a glare at each other for a moment, before stomping past Lain and into the halls, going their separate ways. He merely sighed to himself as he thanked the violinists for their time and wandered off, in search of anyone. He managed to catch King Harrow walking about the halls, getting pestered by an advisor about drapery and colour coordination. His eyes seemed to light up as he rushed over. "Lain! What happened?"He blinked. "What do ya mean, Harrow?""I mean, I just saw Rayla stomp past me!" he explained, pointing down the hall.One of his guards clicked his teeth. "Haven't seen her that upset since Prince Callum accidentally dropped her Moonberry juice."His fellow guard nodded in sadness.Lain just rolled his eyes. "They can dance! Just… not together."Harrow blinked. "Are you serious?""'Fraid so," he shrugged. "I decided they needed time to cool off before anything else.""But what if they can't?"Lain cringed. "Then I'm not sure either of them are dancin' this Winter Ball."::::When Callum walked into the courtyard that late evening, he was surprised to find Rayla sat at their usual bench… sketching. His eyes lit up as he said, "You're using it!"Rayla jumped, her eyes flew toward Callum as she defensively hugged her sketchbook to her chest. "Aye, so what?"His cheeks redded a bit. "N-Nothing. Just thought it was cool.""What are ya doing here?"He pulled his right sleeve back and revealed his bracelet. "I was gonna practice Sky Magic.Her eyes widened. "Really? Ya know spells!"He shrugged. "Just one." He tugged on his bracelet. "Lord Viren said I can't learn the other ones yet because they're pretty powerful and dangerous. So he's gonna ask my parents first."Rayla frowned a bit. "He's a good teacher?"Callum nodded. "He taught me a lot with Aspiro! We can do so many pranks with it!"She giggled. "That's cool."He moved over to the bench and sat beside her. "What were you drawing?She shrugged. "Nothing."He pouted. "Aw, come on. I show you my drawings."Rayla sighed. "That's true." She then flipped her book open and revealed her crude sketch of Callum's face.The two blushed a bit, but Callum frowned as he noticed his sketch was of him being angry. "Why do I look mad?"Rayla shrugged again. "I dunno. Are ya mad at me?" She hugged her knees close to her chest.Callum blinked. "No… not you."Her eyes widened as she turned her body towards him. "Really?"He nodded. "I'm… I'm not sure what I'm mad at.""But ya're mad?" He nodded again. "Same." At his surprise Rayla just sighed. "I think I'm mad 'cause I didn't get to show ya my cool sword tricks."Callum's eyes widened. "I wanted to show you Aspiro!"Rayla smiled. "That would be cool.""So would your sword tricks!"Rayla giggled. "I guess everyone's so busy making sure we know how dance—""They haven't given us time to have fun?" Callum finished.The two shared another smile before scooting closer. They both pulled out their sketchbooks and began drawing. Callum showed Rayla how to do faces, but aside from that, it was pretty quiet. The two revelled in the silence and their small moment together until they heard music playing. They both shot their heads up in alarm. The guards that were off to the entrance, talking amongst themselves seemed unbothered.They were usually the ones who watched over the two as they played in the courtyard but they never ratted on them when they hid here. "Scott, Lydia!" Callum shouted, gathering their attention. The two jumped, clearly startled as the two rarely ever addressed their presence. "Where's that music coming from?"Scott chuckled. "Ah, that's the band for the Winter Ball. They sometimes rehearse in the great hall in the late evening."Lydia smiled. "They've been doing it ever since they arrived!"The two kids exchanged a look. "It sounds pretty," Callum said.Rayla grinned. "Why, do ya want to practice?""Why not?" Her eyes widened as Callum stood up and held out his hand. "Wanna dance?"Rayla found herself slowly nodding as she accepted his hand and followed the rhythm of the music. They swayed and turned, as they carried themselves through the steps they knew by heart by now. Callum was following her pacing, while Rayla matched the music. It was honestly fun. Which was surprising for the two of them.They were so engrossed in their little moment, they didn't' even notice Lord Viren approaching through the archway. He was stopped by a set of spears and blinked at the two guards keeping him out. "Umm, excuse me?"Scott sheepishly rubbed his neck. "Sorry Lord Viren. But, uh, Prince Callum and Lady Rayla usually prefer to be… undisturbed when they're… playing together."He blinked again. "Really?"Lydia coughed. "Really. They're very adamant about that."Viren looked over their spears and his jaw dropped as he realized the two were dancing. "Do they… often do this?" The two guards shared a smile before shaking their heads. "Understood." he backed away and straightened himself up. "Then I suppose I'll make my way through the long way. Take care," he said before departing.::::The adults watched with bated breath as Callum approached Rayla across the hall. She had just finished snacking on the hors d'oeuvres and was currently wiping her hands on a napkin as he made his way over. "This one dance might determine the course of our bet," Tiadrin teased.The rest rolled their eyes. "Let them be kids, for Thunder's sake," Lain chuckled. "Honestly, I'm amazed he's about to ask her. The two of them hardly wanted to be in the same ballroom together.""Maybe he wanted to ask her the night of?" Ethari wagered before taking a sip of wine."In any case, be glad they're 'bout to dance," Runaan reminded them."You are so pessimistic," Sarai teased. "I have faith—""Rayla just kicked off her heels," Harrow pointed out."What," his wife gaped.Across the floor, Rayla had stuffed her teal heels underneath the food table. She turned around and smoothed out dark teal and navy dress, just in time for Callum's arrival. He giggled at the sight of her shoeless feet but she rolled her eyes. Callum wore a red suit, tapered to his form with the braces of gold laced around his shoulders and buttons. She barely had time to assess his footwear as he crouched down and pulled them off, stuffing them beside Rayla's underneath the table (if you listened closely, you'd hear the sounds of six adults facepalming simultaneously).She cocked her head, confused."So it won't hurt if I step on your feet!"She giggled. "It's okay if ya do."He held out his hand, and she accepted it, the two walking toward the dance floor. Despite their small frames, it seemed as though many were aware of their presence as they parted the floor and let the two take to the centre. They assumed their stance and fell into rhythm the second the band's next song began. This act alone had many connotations and meanings among the crowd, but for the two of them, it was a dance between friends."How…" Lain whispered in awe. "They're in such good rhythm!""Very poised," Runaan noted."That's my boy!" Harrow excitedly exclaimed."Pardon my intrusion," Viren announced, startling the six of them, "but this would be when you two also take to the floor?" he amusedly looked at the King and Queen and they gasped."Right, that is what we're supposed to be doing," Harrow stiffly said."Totally forgot!" Sarai giggled, setting down her drink."We spent all this time teaching them, might as well show them how it's done," Tiadrin smugly stated."Also," Viren turned back, "If I may be so bold, while the sight is sweet to see, I would recommend not losing sight of the fact they simply just want to have fun together at the end of the day." He then took his leave, no doubt ready to fade into the background.But the six adults sunk that in for a moment. At the end of the day, they were only ten and eleven years old. As much as they neared the age to be ready for courting, that wasn't what sparked this relationship they all shared. None of them would've met, if it hadn't been for Callum befriending Rayla. It was friendship that founded this. And here they were, romanticizing every aspect of their time together as kids."He has a point," Tiadrin sighed. "I may not be too fond of that numpty's practices, but he has a good point.""Aye," her husband agreed. "It's what I've been saying.""Perhaps we have lost sight of what made those two so sweet to begin with," Runaan sadly admitted."Well I could tell ya that." Ethari scoffed. Tiadrin slapped his shoulder, making him roll his eyes.Sarai sighed. "Maybe we should stop pushing them so much. If it happens on its own, it may be as sweet as a moment like that.""Does Callum know Rayla's the one leading?" Harrow observed."Don't ruin it," Sarai chided.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Words of Weeping
“Mom, what does ‘I love you mean’?”
Sarai blinked at her son curiously. “What do you mean, Dear?“
“I hear that all the time in my head. It sounds like the way you say it, but it’s not your voice.” Callum tilted his head at her, patiently awaiting a response.
She continued to blink at him. “When you say you hear it in your head…”
“Like I can hear it whenever I’m like, not thinking. Or just randomly.” He shrugged, looking down at the book she was currently reading him. “Like, you know how this girl is currently thinking, ‘I don’t like this big bad wolf’?” She nodded, intently listening. “I hear, ‘I love you’ just… randomly.”
Sarai’s eyes widened. “Callum, tell me,” she flipped the book shut and grabbed his shoulders, staring at him seriously, “this voice, is it one you’ve
never
heard before?”
He nodded. “It sounds funny too! Like they have an accent!”
“Okay, but, you’ve
never
heard it before?” He nodded again. “And… this voice, whenever you hear it again, they never say anything different? Accept ‘I love you?”
“Yeah!” he nodded once more, growing excited at how his mother listed all the right things. “How’d you know! Do you have a Thought Voice?”
She chuckled, shaking her head as she embraced him. “Ohh my sweet child, no, I
had
one.” Callum pulled away and blinked in shock. She nodded. “Yup. That, is called a Forever Vow. You know how your stepfather likes to say I’m his one and only soulmate?”
Callum giggled, nodding.
“Well, he’s actually right, I am.” She smiled. “A Forever Vow, is your Soulmate’s
first
words to you. It’s the first words you’ll ever hear them say when you first meet,” she explained ecstatically. “It’s always someone you’ve never met, or at least, someone who's never said anything to you directly.”
His eyes widened. “So… what did your Forever Vow sound like? What happened when you heard it?”
She smiled fondly. “It was, ‘
You’re
my Soulmate?’” she said in a mocking voice of King Harrow, causing Callum to giggle once more. “For him, it was ‘Lady Sarai, pleased to meet you.’” She chuckled. “A
lot
of Forever Vows are just greetings or hellos.” A wistful look overtook her face as she contently sighed. “But when he said my Forever Vow, it just resonated with his words and then disappeared, I never heard it again. A tingly sensation overcame my
whole
body and I
knew
he was the one.”
Callum gasped. “Whoa… that’s amazing!” he said in awe. “I can’t wait to meet mine!”
She giggled, hugging him once again. “That, won’t happen for a long while I’m afraid.”
::::
It was one random morning in the dining hall, while they were all eating breakfast, that Callum realized something. Ezran was still down for a nap, being looked over by the castle wet nurse, and his parents were currently employing the baby-less time to be extra lovey dovey. As King Harrow fed his mother a jelly tart, he stopped chewing his strawberry and asked, “Wait, how is King Harrow your Soulmate if you and my dad had me?”
The question, looking back, carried more hurt than a young Callum could realize.
Maybe then he’d notice the hurt in his father’s face, ruining such a tender moment with such a weighted inquiry.
Maybe then he’d realize his mother's sympathetic frown as she comfortingly squeezed Harrow’s hand.
But he was just a child.
Sarai turned and sweetly smiled. “A-Ah, you see Callum,” she swallowed her jelly tart, “Your biological father and I had you through… let’s just say
illegitimate
means.” She said, scrunching her face in embarrassment.
Harrow chuckled a bit, squeezing his mother’s hand. “Your mother means that how you were… conceived wasn’t
entirely
through romantic means.”
She rapidly nodded at that. “Yes! And, I
did
love your father—”
“And sometimes meeting your Soulmate and hearing their Forever Vow doesn’t mean you’ll end up together forever,” the King tacked on.
“But his Forever Vow
was
my words.” She sadly smiled. “He at least died knowing he had spent the rest of his life with
his
Soulmate.” Her eyes then turned to Harrow, squeezing his hand before lifting it to her lips for a soft peck. “But what he and I had doesn’t betray what Harrow and I have. And the same goes the other way around.”
“Exactly,” Harrow nodded.
“You want to know why?”
Callum nodded.
“Because it gave birth to you,” his mother widely grinned, “And
that
is all the love I could hope for out of something like that.”
The rest of that breakfast was rather silent, but Callum chewed happily. If there was anything he was learning about Forever Vows, it was that they were more complicated than they sounded.
::::
“What happens when someone says the same words as your Forever Vow?” he asked, the thought occurring to him as he heard his mother say “I love you” to Ezran.
A three year old Ezran turned away from his toys and blinked as his mother laughed. “You’re
really
obsessed with yours, aren’t you?” she teased.
Callum’s cheeks flushed as he put down his pencil and sketchbook. “Mom, I just…”
“I love ya.”
He shook his head. “I just want to know more.”
She nodded, holding her hands out for him. Callum wordlessly walked over, kneeling before her. She held his hands and squeezed them. “Well, if you remember when you first told me about yours, you pointed out that I said ‘I love you’ plenty of times and it made you think of yours. But you’ve heard me say it to you, and your father say it to you, and it hasn’t resonated.” She leaned down and kissed his nose. “Trust me, Dear, when you hear it, you’ll know.”
He sighed. “But what if it sounds like someone I've heard before?”
She shook her head, chuckling. “Callum, when you hear it, you will
know
.”
“Promise?”
“Promise.” She kissed his forehead.
Ezran then whooped, throwing his stuffed wolf up into the air and causing it to land on his face, making the three of them (and the guards in the room) laugh.
“You think Ezran can hear his?” Callum asked.
“The moment he can hear his own thoughts,” his mother softly said, “I think he’ll know.”
::::
Callum had been learning KSL for three years now. Ever since Aunt Amaya started frequenting the castle more and more, he had become insistent in learning for her and her mother’s sake (and Gren’s). He didn’t want her to have translators when he could just converse with her himself. So he started learning ever since he was six years old. He’d become more proficient in the last year, nearly as good as his regular speaking.
But it wasn’t until Aunt Amaya brought up cultural events and conversational scenarios within him, that Callum realized something.
“I love ya.”
He blinked then raised his hand, startling Amaya’s current lecture. She motioned him to speak and then he asked,
Are Forever Vows difficult for Deaf or Mute people?
She smiled.
My sister wondered when you would ask about that.
Callum pouted.
Well?
Amaya rolled her eyes.
It’s tricky. Sometimes Forever Vows aren’t just words.
Callum’s jaw dropped at this revelation as she continued,
Sometimes it can be sounds. Laughs, sniffles, coughs.
Her smile shifted in a smirk.
Even signs!
He gasped. “Really!”
She nodded, clearly enjoying his excitement.
Yes! And even if some can’t hear their Forever Vows, maybe their Soulmate will hear theirs and they find each other regardless.
She shrugged.
It will still resonate even if it’s one sided.
Callum slowly nodded, remembering what her mother and Harrow said about that one breakfast morning.
Like Mom and my biological dad,
he replied.
His aunt frowned a bit but nodded.
His brows raised. “I never asked but,” he then signed,
Can you hear yours?
She smiled again.
Sort of.
He raised a brow.
Remember, Forever Vows are what your Soulmates first words are to you. I don’t hear mine. I see it.
His jaw dropped once again.
It’s in sign!
he asked.
Yes,
she nodded.
But I don’t know if I’ll hear from them or if someone will translate it for them.
She shrugged once again, seeming nonplussed.
I’m told it should still resonate either way, from other Deaf and Mute people.
Callum hesitantly asked,
Can I know what yours is?
She scowled, shaking her head.
I’d prefer to keep it to myself.
She then shot him a skeptical stare.
Just because you like to announce yours, doesn’t mean everyone does. Make sure you remember that before you ask.
He nodded. “Yes, Aunt Amaya.” He then smiled.
Please, continue the lesson.
He was already learning so much today.
::::
“Afternoon Lady Lissa!” Callum greeted as he entered the courtyard. His excitement deterred as he noticed she looked like she was crying.
“Oh,” she sniffed, “Afternoon Prince Callum.” She stood up and dusted off her dress. “Are you going to sketch here again?”
“Yeah…” he slowly nodded. “But you can stay!” he hastily added. “It's a public bench after all, I don’t mind sharing.”
She giggled. “That’s awfully kind of you, Callum.” The two sat down together. Callum produced a handkerchief from his messenger bag before grabbing his pencil. “Oh. Thank you,” she softly said as she accepted the handkerchief, using it to dry her tears.
He nodded, advising she can keep it as he continued to draw.
“I love ya.”
“I love ya.”
His sketch of his mother’s face was ruined now.
“I love ya.”
He erased her face as he accidentally wrote his Forever Vow over her face. But then he heard Lissa sniff again and he looked over, watching her shake her head. “Is uh… is everything okay?”
She sighed. “Um… I'm not sure.”
“What do you mean?”
“I…” she bit her lip. “My husband and I are having… a spat.”
His eyes widened. “Lord Viren?” She nodded. “What happened?”
She bit her lip again, averting her gaze. “He… He did something I… don’t agree with. An-And normally I could overlook it, but this time, he did it and it involved… Soren.” She released a shuddered sigh, and Callum found himself placing a comforting hand in hers. “I… I just don’t know what to think.”
Callum blinked, unsure of what to think either. “Do… Do you love Lord Viren?”
She stared at him. “What?”
“Do you love him? Is… Is he your Soulmate?”
She chuckled, as if she forgot her sadness for a moment. “Yes, he is.” She nodded, closing her eyes. “My Forever Vow was, ‘Your excitement is all the magic I need.’ And his was ‘Can you show me more magic?’ I saw him lighting up lanterns without matches and couldn’t help but ask when I caught him alone.” She fondly laughed. “He must’ve lit up dozens of candles and lanterns for me that night.” She smiled. “He’s a good husband. I think his problem is just loving too much.”
Callum thought on what he knew about Lord Viren. He was a Mage, but he performed magic differently from what elves could do, as he was told. He was often told not to ask or invest any interest in it because of that. But from what he knew of Soren and Claudia, how they acted and talked about their parents, they
both
must’ve been doing something right.
“Did… whatever he do, was it out of love?” he asked. “For Soren,” he added, “was it out of love for Soren?”
Lissa blinked. “He… it was out of love for our entire family.”
He smiled. “Wow, if it was just Soren and it ended up being for the
entire
family, he must have a
lot
of love.”
Lissa giggled. “He certainly does.”
A quiet silence hung about, before Callum thought about something he hadn’t thought about in a long time. His biological father. “Do… Do you know I don’t really miss my biological father that much?”
“Really?” she asked, shocked.
He shook his head. “I don’t really remember him. Sometimes, I forget his name.” Embarrassment overcame him now as he prayed she wouldn’t ask, because he
definitely
forgot it. “But, I
did
miss him when he died and I had no Dad,” he solemnly explained, “I think… I think I missed having a whole family. But when King Harrow came along, I didn't realize how much I enjoyed it until…” his hands flipped through his sketchbook, revealing a drawing of his entire family in one big hug. “Until we were whole.”
Lissa’s sniffle startled him, and he quickly shut his book. “N-No!” she assured him, “it’s not offensive or—it’s just, that’s very beautiful Callum.”
He shrugged. “My stepdad said sometimes Soulmates are just a, ‘For now relationship’, that they don’t always work. And some say that they breakup first and then eventually rekindle their love.” He thumbed through his pages as he bit his lip. “I think… I think remembering what the Forever Vow means is something people should consider.” He looked up at Lissa. “Because at the end of the day, it’s through communication that we hear it, right?
“So, I think love should be upheld through communication. Trust and honesty, that’s all communication,” he then shrugged again, “that’s what my mom keeps telling me anyway.” Callum kicked his feet against the courtyard pavement. “Maybe talking it out civilly might make things have more peaceful results? I’m not sure, that’s what my stepdad does when he’s being Kingly.”
Lissa laughed, her eyes finally dry. “Ahh, Prince Callum, you are truly wise beyond your years.” She held out his handkerchief back for him. “I know your brother is set to take the throne, but I know he’ll find a great advisor in you.”
His cheeks flushed, surprised by her complement. “O-Oh. Thanks?” he said unsurely, taking back his handkerchief.
“No, thank you, Callum.” She then rose up and began walking. Just as Callum resumed his sketching he heard her call out from across the courtyard, “And Callum?”
He looked up.
“If you think that about King Harrow, perhaps you should…
communicate
with him too.” She winked, then walked away.
Strangely enough, a few days later, Lord Viren announced he would be “going cold turkey” whatever that meant. But it seemed to make Lissa cry with joy, and his mother was relieved, while his
father
wore a look of pride. Callum was just happy, everyone seemed happy.
::::
“Do you ever think about how, ‘I love you’ is pretty forward?” Claudia asked one evening in the library.
Callum, now twelve, looked up from his rune textbook and raised a brow. “What do you mean?”
“I
mean
, mine is just, ‘Claudia, is it?’ And yours is a
declaration
of love,” she pointed out with deadpan
Feeling defensive, he pointed his pencil at her. “Your parents had some pretty romantic first lines.”
She scoffed. “It was a pickup line. Some pretty minor flirting, Callum,” she corrected. “Even still,
yours
is just… something you say like, after you’ve been dating for a long while!”
He shrugged. “I dunno… I just thought it was a proclamation.”
“From someone who’s never
met
you?”
“Hey, I’m a prince of Katolis! They might’ve heard about me!”
“But that doesn’t translate to them reading their Forever Vow from you,” Claudia pointed out.
“I love ya.”
He pouted, ignoring his Forever Vow. “What, are you saying I can’t make someone fall in love with me over a parchment and paper of news?”
Claudia snorted. “Oh, Prince Romance, you keep telling yourself that.” She leaned over and patted his arm reassuringly before returning to her own rune readings.
“You never know, they might just fall in love with me at first sight.”
“And what, will your Forever Vow for them be, ‘I know’?” She snickered. Though it
was
a good joke, leaving the two laugh together. Unfortunately, the librarian thought they had enough loud fun and kicked them out. In fairness, they were a bit loud all evening.
Though Claudia had a point.
Why
was
his Forever Vow so
profound
? It was like she said, a declaration of love that was most commonly known to be intimate and intense. His dad and mom didn’t say that until their third outing. Viren and Lissa didn’t say it until after their first kiss—according to Claudia’s account. In the books he’d read, “I love you” was something they’d say to proclaim the seriousness of their relationship to another. It was connection.
A connection that was strengthened or maintained
through
these three simple words.
In the end, it was something one should
not
say when you meet someone for the first time.
When they all gathered at the dining hall, he decided to ask. “Okay, just to get the teasing out now, I’m going to ask about Forever Vows again—”
“Ahh, Classic Callum,” Harrow grinned.
“Thanks Dad,” he sighed.
“Ohh my hopeless romantic!” Sarai swooned.
“Thank you Mother.”
“Callum, can you go one
week
without thinking about it?” Ezran teased.
He shot his younger brother a glare. “I went
two
without saying anything!”
“That’s somehow better,” he muttered.
Callum just rolled his eyes. “Can I ask now?” His mother motioned him to go ahead. “Is it… weird that mine is ‘I love you’?”
His parents exchanged a look while even
Ezran
awkwardly averted his eyes. He crouched under the table, no doubt to feed bait as their parents turned back to Callum.
“It…
is
a bit unusual,” Sarai softly answered.
He looked to his father. “Dad, give it to me straight.”
“It. Is. Bold,” he simply said. His mother slapped him on the shoulder, but he held his hands up innocently. “What! He asked! And it
is
!”
Callum sighed, slumping against his seat. “So what does that mean? Wh-What kind of
person
is my Soulmate and
why
are they like that?”
Sarai scoffed. “Callum, you can’t judge your Soulmate based off their Forever Vow. Plenty of people have some pretty dumb Forever Vows.” Her eyes sneakily shot toward his brother, who was sneaking more food to their resident glow toad.
“I know you’re talking about me!” Ezran shouted.
Callum laughed at that. Ezran’s Forever Vow, was “You have jelly on your nose.” The rest of them weren’t surprised by it, but Ezran owned it like he wouldn’t expect anything less of his Soulmate to tell him.
“What I’m getting at is, whatever possesses them to say it, your Soulmate saying your Forever Vow isn’t the end all be all of who they are.”
“Take me for example!” his dad chimed in, creating a round of laughter around the table.
Callum nodded, poking at his steak. “I guess that just means when we meet it’ll be a pretty wacky scenario, huh?”
“I bet!” his father agreed.
::::
It was done.
The war between Xadia and the human kingdoms had come to an end. When the reports came through when Aunt Amaya announced Avizandum—Thunder as he was known to the human kingdoms—came down and offered negotiations, the entire world shook. Though Katolis maintained The Border, plenty of other kingdoms sought their own forms of engagement and conflict. Callum’s father and mother wanted nothing to do with the elves unless they crossed the border and sought ill will, but not
every
kingdom had the same sentiments.
The Kingdom of Neolandia had apparently derived their own plans of usurping Thunder, and it was by attacking the Dragon Prince Egg. The assault was a ten day siege at The Border, at which General Amaya and her Standing Battalion were ordered to remain at their stations and hold a light blue banner along with the flag of Katolis. It was held high and proud, symbolizing Katolis’ lack of involvement within the current conflict. And from then on, an endless flux of reports ventured back and forth within those ten days.
Callum empathized for the heavy heart and sorrowful look his parents wore at each new letter, the amount of lives and devastation overtaken beyond Xadian borders was beyond grim. Avizandum’s power laid waste like never before seen. The attempt on the Dragon Prince’s life failed substantially as the Neolandian forces could not even penetrate further than Lux Aurea. But they maintained a foothold within Xadia for so long, bold and reckless merchants and traders strove for wealthy exchanges and resources.
Such behaviour resulted in the most tragic but impactful acts in the course of their entire history. Elves had saved and shielded the non-combatant humans from the wrath of Avizandum. It was upon his horror, realizing he’d slain his own forces, that a truce had emerged and the senseless violence ceased. The act of selflessness by the late elves reminded the warriors on the battlefield of the innocent lives they devoted to protect, while Avizandum realized the coming appeal the two sides were beginning to mend with. It was in this act, he announced an immediate cease fire, and that he proposed a negotiation with
all
the leaders of the Human and Xadia kingdoms.
Katolis hosted the treaty signing and celebrated with a grand ball. And because of this, a formal affair that invited people from
all over
meant an endless barrage of socializing.
“What’s Xadia like?” Callum asked.
Janai, the Golden Knight of Lux Aurea, awkwardly smiled. “I’m… afraid I do not know, Prince Callum.” His guard, Marcos, laughed at his disappointment. “My duty at The Border and in Lux Aurea meant I rarely had time to travel the lands.”
He frowned. “But, you’ve seen
some
things, right?”
She chuckled. “Yes, Prince Callum, I’ve ‘seen
some
things,’” she repeated. “What would you like to know?”
“Well, is it true Primal magic resonates with everything? Like, plants, trees, wildlife?”
She nodded, fascinating the young prince further. “Even elves ourselves,” she looked to his guard, “May I demonstrate something that may seem hostile?” The question was so befuddling he had no idea how to react.
“It’s okay, I vouch for her!” Callum assured Marcos, who looked skeptical.
At that, Janai’s hand illuminated with heat and volcanic-like cracks, before dissipating quickly. “I’d rather not cause
too
much of a panic.”
Callum’s brief moment of wonder was all he needed however. “That’s amazing!” He clasped his hands. “I’d
love
to learn more about Primal Magic, we humans can only do study so much.”
“I love ya.”
“I love ya.”
“I love ya.”
Callum slapped his head. The action caught a myriad of strange looks all around him. “Prince Callum, are you alright?” Janai asked.
“Do you need to see a doctor?” Marcos concernedly asked.
He smiled, appreciating their concern as he shook his head. “No, it was just my Forever Vow.” He sighed. Marcos offered him a sympathetic smile as Jania stared, confused. “It was a triple whammy this time.”
“I’m sorry, Prince Callum.”
Janai’s eyes widened. “Ah! You’re referring to your Soulmate’s first words to you?”
Callum’s eyes shot wide. “Wait,
elves
have Forever Vows?”
“Forever Vows?”
“You know, your Soulmate’s first words to you.”
“Oohh, that is right, humans call it that.” She laughed. “We have a Draconic word for it.
Aeterna Votum
, meaning Eternal Vow.”
“Aeterna Votum,”
he whispered. “That’s beautiful!”
She smiled. “Thank you. In our culture, it is quite a controversial affair as many Mages make profit in selling ways to find your Soulmate immediately so you may exchange
Votas
sooner.” She shrugged. “But, there are beautiful exchanges of course. My parents had theirs under the light of the Sunforge.”
His awe seeped in as he gasped. “That’s amazing…”
“I’m glad you enjoy my home, Prince Callum,” she rose up from her seat, holding her empty glass, “I hope you visit some day and enjoy it as I have enjoyed your home. Excuse me, however, while I refill.” Her eyes shot off into the distance as her eyes widened. “Oh, Kazi’s made a friend!” she cheerfully walked off and over to the middle of the Ballroom.
Callum traced her movement and saw she was heading toward his aunt Amaya and Gren, who were currently conversing with a Sunfire elf. He watched the wholesome scene of humans and elves bantering about, but startled at a
loud
gasp. He looked back toward Aunt Amaya and Janai, and was surprised to see two smiling at each other.
“
You
are my Soulmate?” Janai exclaimed.
Gren translated for her, leaving Amaya to smirk and respond.
“Don’t sound too disappointed,” Gren interpreted, “I was hoping you’d be taller.”
The group shared a laugh as the hall roared in applause and congratulations. Marcos placed a comforting hand on Callum’s shoulder, anticipating his disappointment. Throughout his life, he had seen
plenty
of Soulmates get together and heard many Forever Vows spoken. It was both endearing and sweet, but also sad as he had yet to hear his. But this time? He could
barely
be focused on being happy for his aunt or his new friend Janai, nor could he be
bothered to be jealous
or sad.
Because he realized many things about elves.
They had Forever Vows.
They could have human soulmates.
But most importantly?
They had accents.
He never realized it, but his Forever Vow had an accent. He never considered the possibility of his Soulmate being an elf. His Soulmate could be an elf!
“I love ya.”
Now
that
was something to think about.
::::
“Are you sure about this, Callum?” Claudia quietly asked, hands firmly placed on her jar.
The two were currently at The Border, about to utilize the “frowned upon” technique Janai had told him about three years ago. Claudia managed to capture a Soulsquito , something they had studied and learned about from elf Mages that could take you to your Soulmate when you let it suck a bit of your blood. It was a practice that was often ridiculed and looked down upon by most, because they believed in natural means to hearing their Forever Vows. But Callum couldn’t be bothered.
He was nineteen. Ezran’s courting day was soon, and his parents said he would need to look good with a date of his own. It wouldn’t matter if it wasn’t his Soulmate. But that wasn’t why he was doing it. It was that last straw. He’d gone on for so long not understanding what his Forever Vows meant, why they would be the words that were said, or how it would be done. He’d thought up and down about the ways Soulmates stay together and fall apart, and what their Forever Vows truly mean when they pursue romance. He thought about what it had done for him, giving him another father once again and a cool little brother.
He thought about its possibilities, his potential matches, his option to pursue hopeless romance. But in the end, he just
needed
to know as soon as possible.
Callum mounted his horse, waving at Soren and Marcos to prepare their horses to follow. “I’m sure, Clauds.” He nodded back at her. Then, he held his arm out with his wrist exposed, “Let me have it.”
Claudia released the Soulsquito and it latched onto Callum’s wrist. It wasn’t as painful as he thought, despite the creature’s size, but it pulsated white, dark teal, and navy, then repeated the colours as it flew off toward Xadia.
Soren laughed. “Called it! It’s Xadia-ward!”
“Let’s go!” Callum shouted, racing after the creature.
Within a day’s time, he found himself at the edge of a clearing in the middle of a forest. He recalled from Xadian maps this place was the Moonshadow Forest, but prayed that wherever it led it wouldn’t be the Silvergrove. It was a village known for its secretive location and entrance, but as they arrived at an empty clearing, his fears came true. The Soulsquito flew right in and disappeared. Callum sighed. “I guess that’s that. There’s no way they’ll—”
Then suddenly, the village appeared out into the open. A whole village randomly before them. An elf with long white hair approached the three. “I’m assumin’ that Soulsquito belonged to one of ya?” he asked, his bow blades drawn.
Callum raised his hand. “Yes! Sorry, I didn’t know it’d take me here. I was just looking for my… well, you know,” he cleared his throat, “I can just take my leave if you—”
“No,” he sighed, “It’s fine. Ya’ve already come this way.” His eyes then widened. “Are… Are ya the Prince of Katolis?”
He chuckled. “
Step
-Prince, but yes.”
He tilted his head. “Well, whoever’s your Soulmate is certainly a lucky one.” He nodded his head behind them. “It went up the village, I think it’s still waitin’ for ya. I’m Runaan, I can guide ya through.” He sheathed his weapons and waved for them to follow.
With that, the three dismounted and followed. Silvergrove looked
beautiful
. As Callum caught the Soulsquito flying above, hovering for them, he observed the village. The entire town looked so warm and cool, the vibrant colours blended so well that he wagered even without their cloak spell they were hard to find. It was amazing. So this is where his Soulmate lived? Maybe even grew up? He shook his head, he wouldn’t let his opinions form now.
The Soulsquito then landed on a small hut’s door, resting just above the door knocker. He gestured for Soren and Marcos to wait outside. With a deep breath, he knocked on the door.
This was it.
He was about to meet them.
The door opened and… out came two elves. A male with a set of white bangs that covered his left eye and a female whose white hair nearly dropped to her shoulders. Their eyes widened as they saw the Soulsquito’s colours pulsate, then fade, leaving the creature to fly off.
“This,” the one with shoulder length hair spoke, “is
too
good to be true!” She laughed. “Ahh, what a lucky girl.”
Callum coughed, bowing his head. “I-I’m—”
“Prince Callum, we know,” the other spoke, clearly humbled, “I’m… I’m amazed ya were hers.”
He raised his head. “Y-You
know
? For certain?”
They exchanged a look, one he couldn’t make out. “Well… we
figured
it’d be done by this.” He sighed. “I’m Lain. This is Tiadrin. We’re Rayla’s parents.”
Her parents?
She?
Rayla?
He took another breath. They were just
saying
things. Rayla—if that was her name—hadn’t said
the words
yet.
“I… we can’t be sure, but, we do have a way…” Lain gestured for him to enter, and so he did.
His legs were shaking as he followed the two toward a backroom. Tiadrin looked as if she was fighting tears. “I… I never thought we’d do this for the Prince of Katolis but…” she chuckled, “That’s enough of that.” She opened the door and they walked into the room.
As Callum stepped through, he
immediately
deduced this was “Rayla’s” room. It was far too small to be theirs and possessed trinkets and stuffed animals someone younger would usually have. The two looked as though they had seen a ghost, Lain staring at the bed while Tiadrin grabbed something from the nightstand. She opened her palm to reveal it, and it looked like a Moon Opal encased within a necklace. It had a white braid tired around the chain.
“Is… Is that a Moon Opal?” he asked. Did she leave it for him? Is this a key to find her?
Her mother nodded as she crushed the opal, shocking Callum for a moment.
“Historia Viventem,”
she whispered, before casting it out.
With that, the two left the room and shut the door.
Callum was too enthralled with the mystic power flowing around him, he didn’t even realize they ditched him. Because right before him, was a young elf girl. She was about a head smaller than him, hair the length of Tiadrin’s but straighter like Runaan’s. Her eyes looked kind and hopeful, and her smile was strangely sad. But then she spoke…
“I love ya,”
she said.
Callum’s eyes widened as he felt his heart pulse. It was a surge of sensation he had never felt, his entire body sang with warmth as his mind quaked for the tiniest of seconds. And then, it calmed like it had never calmed before.
I…
…love…
…ya.
The Forever Vow faded as if it was a thought he was losing, and it was then Callum realized this is what they meant. This was the moment one lost their Forever Vow in their head because it had been said aloud.
And here it was, a young elf girl with the same accent. The
exact
three words.
“I just thought I'd say that first.”
She laughed.
Oh, her laugh…
“I know, that’s kind of a bold start but… when I realized what lied ahead for me, I knew I wanted the first thing I said to ya to be somethin’ meaningful. I… I don’t know if it’ll be meaningful for ya, but… it will be for me so… sorry if that’s selfish. Soulmate.”
She chuckled, rubbing the back of her head.
“I suppose I should just… start with what my
Aeterna Votum
is? O-Or Forever Vow! I-If ya’re human! I heard that’s what ya called them over there from my mentor Runaan… argh, I explain him later!”
She sighed.
“My name is Rayla. I am a Moonshadow elf, in case this isn’t clear. Though, ya
should
be in my home so I hope ya’re a brighter Soulmate in that ya can pick up from context clues!”
She laughed for a moment.
“Sorry, this is weird to do alone so I wanna make things light hearted… at least for me.”
She cleared her throat.
“So yeah, my Eternal Vows, or whatever ya call ‘em… I never had any.”
Callum’s eyes widened. He recalled when he was younger, Amaya told him not every person can hear theirs, but usually the other could. He… He
could
hear hers. So
where
was she! He wanted to look frantically for her, but he was afraid of taking his eyes off Rayla.
“Please. Just… don’t leave or ruin my room? I want things kept as they are. At least until, I dunno, this is done?”
she gestured around them.
“So yeah. I never had any Vows in my head. I… I grew up thinking I was weird when I heard that everyone else could hear someone else’s voice in their heads.”
She scoffed, clearly annoyed.
“Can ya imagine that, Soulmate? I
don’t
hear a random stranger’s voice in my head, and
I’m
crazy!”
She chuckled, before pointing at Callum.
“Oh, I hope it’s okay I call ya Soulmate, I… I didn’t want to make up a name.
“Anyways, so I never had one. But I guess I’ll explain what I do for a living. I’m an assassin. My lovely parents, Tiadrin and Lain, if they haven't introduced themselves already ‘cause I’m assuming they let ya in, inspired me into wanting to serve Xadia. They’re more commonly known as Dragon Guards. Their duty is to protect The Dragon Prince Egg in Zubia’s home. Along with six other awesome elven warriors! And well, I wanted to follow in making a difference in Xadia so Runaan—who I mentioned before—became my teacher.
“I’ll… I’ll talk more ‘bout him later. Or maybe leave like, logs talking ‘bout each important person in my life? I don’t even know how or where I’d do that,”
Rayla muttered, cupping her chin. She then shook herself.
“We’ll worry ‘bout that later! Anyways, Runaan, is one of the best assassins in Silvergrove. He’s the leader of our entire force and teaches each and every student. He taught me nearly everythin’ I know. His husband taught me the importance of life, but he taught me the importance of managing it.
“Ah, who am I kiddin’, they
both
taught me that,”
Rayla seemed to have a fond smile.
“Okay. I’m
really
draggin’ this out. I’m sorry Soulmate. Not just for draggin’ it on, but for this. This… way I’m tellin’ ya.”
She took a deep breath.
“I suppose to properly document this, it is currently day nine of the Neolandian Siege—”
Callum’s eyes widened as tears began to rise, the breath he hadn’t realized he was holding began to escape. No. No. No. No. No. No! There was no way—
“—and we’ve received reports of humans passing through Xadian borders. Non-combattants. Merchants or traders, who must’ve sought an advantage in the battle’s chaos and snuck through. The leaders frontin’ this war decided to utilize the humans as shields or…”
Rayla swallowed. It was then Callum noticed she was also fighting back tears.
“Hostages,”
she finished,
“in order to push Neolandian forces to retreat and cease fire. But… they’re
innocent
…
Rayla shook her head.
“Neolandia chose this fight. The Katolis forces at The Border withheld and declared passiveness in this battle! No other kingdom, no other village has a stand in it! They’re just—I
know
they were probably gonna steal our resources or harm the fauna, but they are still innocent.”
She sighed with a shudder.
“Runaan taught me that we do not take life lightly, it is precious. As an assassin, we
never
take the lives of those who have done nothin’ wrong.
“They… They don’t deserve to die or be wrapped in this fight,”
Rayla asserted, meeting Callum’s tearful eyes.
“Which is why… I have to do what I have to do, Soulmate.”
She closed her eyes and took a breath.
“I know the reported route the humans are taking. Intelligence is going to report to Avizandum so he can lay waste upon them as the arrow, while the negotiators who arrive at dawn are the bow. But, I can stop this.”
She humorlessly laughed.
“It wasn’t until I came up with this plan, that my mind cleared and I realized…
why
I didn’t have an
Aeterna Votum
. I just… I wasn’t meant to. Because… I never lived long enough to hear them.”
“No, no, no, no,
no!
” Callum screamed, falling to his knees, pounding at the floor.
“I’m… I’m gonna give ya minute to soak that in,”
she softly said.
“‘Cause I know ya probably need it.”
Callum scoffed. He didn’t need that. He needed her. He needed to know what would’ve been her Forever Vow, her Eternal Vow, her
Aeterna Votum
! He needed to know what he would have said. He needed… more than this…
The minute must’ve passed, because Rayla started speaking again,
“I don’t know if it’s any consolation, or if it makes ya feel better, but I cried my eyes out too. Wh-When I realized all this.”
She sniffled, and when Callum rose up to meet her eyes she realized she was crying too. Almost as much as him, but he couldn’t tell because this was some sort of illusion. He wasn’t sure if it was because she was his Soulmate, or that because she said his Forever Vow, but reached for her hands to hold, grasping at nothing but embracing it nonetheless.
“I… spent… my
whole
life wanting Eternal Vows but I could
never
hear anyone else’s dumb voice except my own! I-I-I don’t even know what
ya
sound like!”
“This is my voice,” he softly said, “This is what I sound like.”
“Where ya’re from!”
“Katolis. I’m from Katolis.”
“Or… or if ya even like me…”
“I do… please… tell me what you did for the war…” he sobbed, “T-Tell me what you did…”
She took another breath, calming herself. It was almost as if he actually spoke to her.
“I… I’m not tellin’ my parents this either. Not Runaan, or Ethari, his husband. No one. I can’t let anyone stop me and if it’s just me… it’s less casualties.”
She closed her eyes and clenched her fists. Callum followed them, maintaining his pathetic fictional embrace with his own hands.
“I… I have to stop those humans, and if I’m too late, I’ll… I’ll have to make sure I can at least stand between them and certain doom long enough for someone to realize. And then… talk it out.
“If there’s one thing ya should know, is that I’m stubborn,”
she laughed,
“Maybe Stubborn Rayla would've been somethin’ ya called me.”
Callum laughed. “It
would
.”
“But I have to take a stand. I have to stop this before it becomes more senseless. Before children become a ‘justified’ hostage,”
she angrily spat.
“Before innocent villages become home bases and army camps. Before… Before these lands are ruined with war and the life we wanted to protect is all gone.”
She sighed.
“I have to do this. And… I’m sorry this is how ya had to learn…”
A moment passed, a fleeting moment where she held out her hand, as if for a squeeze. Callum hastily accepted. They must’ve been meant to be because she squeezed it the second he embraced her fingers. They both seemed to want to interlace their fingers into each other, which made Callum smile. Her hands were probably warm. And four fingers into five, it was
meant
to fit.
“I… I considered that it didn’t really matter
what
I first said because Aeterna Votum is always a Soulmate’s first words but… I chose ‘I love ya’ because I wanted to say it for someone else for once,”
she explained,
“I hope I wasn’t too forward. Seriously. And I hope… well, ya’re interested in me enough to know more.”
Callum nodded his head rapidly.
“If so,
Historia Viventem
is the spell that will be used to cast this. I’m leaving specific instructions to my parents that when they find the note, that my Moon Opal is to be left untouched and that they are not to use it in this room to reveal this memory. Ya’ll know if they listened if the Moon Opal had a white braid attached to it.”
Callum smiled as he remembered that
vividly
. They are some cool parents.
“That braid, as ya can see,”
she pointed to the right side of her cheek,
“is mine. My note will say my parents can hold onto it and sob while ya listen to me blabber on. But… then it’s yours to keep, if ya want. Or not, if that’s creepy.”
She chuckled. “
Sorry. Tryin’ to make light again.”
She shrugged.
“But yeah, if what I’m about to do yields the results I hope, ya’ll have plenty access to Moon Opals if ya’re a human. And if they say no, I’m leaving several notes in my drawers that basically recognizes ya as a resident of Silvergrove. So ya should be welcomed with open arms. And I
know
it’s not anyone from here ‘cause I’ve spoken to everyone here. I was kinda obsessed with Soulmates…”
“Hmm, you too eh?” Callum chuckled.
She then added,
“If ya ever want to hear me again, well, ya can just cast
Historia Viventem
here. Or, well, anywhere within Silvergrove so long as I’m in your thoughts. It should only show memories with me. But, I was never really the Mage type.”
She shrugged.
“I’m sure my parents will help ya figure it out. I’ve also left them memories, Runaan, Ethari, and my parents. Practically everyone who’s ever impacted my life. I’ve also included in them along with notes that I’m allowing ya to listen to them. Even if some of them are entirely directed to them specifically. Just… in case ya want to hear my voice in another way.”
She took another deep breath.
“I love ya, Soulmate. I hope ya live a good life. I hope ya… find someone else out there. I… I read once that Soulmates aren’t your forever love, or that sometimes cases like ours happen. But, I just want ya to hear my words like… a sort of approval. Whoever else ya meet, or if ya don’t meet anyone and choose not, I’m all for whatever ya choose.”
She smiled.
“Just don’t stop lovin’ life along the way. ‘Cause… while I
am
doing this to save innocent lives,”
she shakily said,
“I’m also selfishly doing this in hopes that it saves your life. And that it’ll eventually lead to ya coming here. And hearin’ me.”
Callum blinked back his tears as he continued to hold her fake hand. “I do hear you Rayla.”
“I love ya,”
she leaned forward and pecked his chin.
He laughed, clearly way too late for that to be at an appropriate height, but he kissed her forehead feeling nothing.
But his heart would be full.
::::
Lain and Tiadrin filled Callum’s new empty thoughts with memories and stories of Rayla. He stayed up the entire night, sketching her from what little photos he had, creating a rendition that held him in her arms. Soren and Marcos stayed at an inn as the three stayed up together. Callum let them listen to Rayla’s message for him, then afterward he asked if he could hear theirs. The two had a
chest
of Moon Opals prepared for this day and it made him sob at how prepared they were for him.
Each message, each story, he drew and drew and laughed and cried. He had gone around the village, learning more, how Rayla grew up, what she had done. He learned about her first knife trick from Runaan. He learned about her endless love from Ethari. He learned about her wit from her mother, Tiadrin. And he learned about her determination from her father, Lain.
Her parents were quick to welcome him as family. Tiadrin, musing that it was because he was royalty, while Lain stated it was because he recreated their daughter with the most beautiful of sketches. He let them keep a few, promising to return and sketch more. And then they told him more.
Even though the report he heard in Katolis said it was a group, it was just Rayla who saved those humans. No other elf. She snuck off in the middle of the ninth day and made it barely on time. The rest of them were still here in Silvergrove and it was too late. Avizandum wasn’t aware of her presence when he attacked, killing her and injuring a few humans in the process. Because of this, Tiadrin and Lain resigned from their duties among the Dragon Guard, not bearing much resentment toward the King of Dragons, but to mourn their daughter.
It was because of his debt and guilt, that they had such an endless supply of Moon Opals, as he swore to supply them whenever they needed. The two had mixed feelings about the Dragon King, but were too busy living out lives without their daughter, trying to make sense of it all. Callum extended invitations to Katolis, assuring they would be treated like royalty whenever they visited and they gladly accepted.
And it was only the beginning.
The beginning of the healing Callum had to begin.
While he did venture places and learned more about Rayla, he also dedicated himself to her character. What would she do? What would Rayla do? He knew, that in this age of peace between their two lands, he had to stand as a forefront to protect and preserve what she sacrificed her love for. Which is why when he helped found and created the first ever village sharing human and elven residents, bordering Xadia and the human lands, he named it…
Rayla’s Votum.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Types & Typing
Callum wasn't sure what to expect when he tried Xadia, but its flashy graphical loading screen and flowery heart of a logo already sent all the red flags he needed. "This is such a dumb idea," he grumbled, already setting up his account. Claudia and Soren pestering him about getting a life outside his art, his parents and little brother telling him to pursue interests aside from his commissions, and even their bulldog Bait grumbling at him like he was a lost cause.Basically?Everyone was out to get him by reminding him that he was a romantic loner. He was hitting a block with his most recent piece anyways, so what did it matter? He didn't have anything better to do! Not that he'd tell Claudia or Soren that. From what he had seen so far, Xadia wasn't too dissimilar to any other dating app he had seen. Typical interests, a few photos, and just a brief "what are you looking for" bio.Callum filled out his in barely a couple minutes before he started using the actual app. And within seconds the senseless swiping already began. A myriad of characters had already flew past his screen, guys, gals, and nonbinary pals of all sorts with photos and descriptions that made Callum shrug. Did it really matter what he swiped for? Everyone here could be as fake at something simple as one text, and the same went for what his said. How would anyone be able to tell if anyone was genuine or real? It they weren't just creeps trying to kidnap or murder people? It could all be fake.All these photos and interests, even the cities of origin, could just be made up.And yet, his friends insisted it would be a nice way to get his feet wet back into the modern world. He scoffed at that thought as he kept swiping no. "As if I'm out of the loop in the 'modern world'," he muttered. The amount of commissions he received that were basically asking him to do serious full body art of memes and pop culture shows were absurd. He wasn't exactly lost in the current of the world wide river.But he was lost in his thoughts, so he did not notice how he swiped yes by accident on some poor unsuspecting young woman until his phone lit up with, You matched! He was startled by the sudden hearts across the screen as it sucked him into a DM.
Callum [12:10 PM] Uhhh, oops?
Rayla [12:11 PM] WOw
Rayla [12:11 PM] Great start, sir!
Callum sighed, rolling his eyes.
Callum [12:11 PM] Hey, this was an accident.
He clicked on their settings, was there a way to delete or back out of a DM—
Rayla [12:11 PM] This is a strange form of playing hard to get
Rayla [12:11 PM] but u have my attention so far
Rayla [12:12 PM] Let's see how Callum sticks the landing!
He blinked. Really? Maybe he was out of the loop in the modern world if that was all it took.
Callum [12:12 PM] You're easily entertained.
Rayla [12:12 PM] Correction, its called bored.Rayla [12:13 PM] u just happen to be my only source of entertainmentHe scoffed.
Callum [12:13 PM] You're TEXTING me. I'm pretty sure however crappy your phone is it can handle a a quick YouTube search or something to entertain you.
Callum [12:14 PM] You know, instead of just chatting with random dudes online.
Rayla [12:14 PM] WOW strike one mister
He blinked, befuddled, what now?
Rayla [12:14 PM] u just assume my phone is crap?
Rayla [12:14 PM] I mean it is,
Rayla [12:15 PM] but like benefit of the doubt or whatever
He rolled his eyes and sighed, slumping into his office chair.
Callum [12:15 PM] I apologize for the correct guess I made
He then smirked.
Callum [12:15 PM] But just because I'm curious… Samsung?
Rayla [12:16 PM] OKay now THAT is the REAL strike one
Rayla [12:16 PM] ewww, an Apple user.
He chuckled.
Callum [12:16 PM] Are you always so critical of people's choice of brands?
Rayla [12:17 PM] Are U always playing the "whoops mb" angle?
He laughed, shaking his head.
Callum [12:17 PM] Okay, seriously swiping yes was an accident.
Rayla [12:18 PM] OH WOW
Rayla [12:18 PM] u are SO bad at this.
Rayla [12:18 PM] truly what a way to pick up women
Rayla [12:18 PM] men should take notes
Rayla [12:18 PM] catcalls? Pffft
Rayla [12:19 PM] its all bout saying "mb didnt mean to even show interest"
He rolled his eyes. He's caught in a box here. He immediately picked up on what this "Rayla" girl's personality was like. There was no way he would leave unscathed. He really hoped she wasn't going to spam his DMs with more nonsense like this once he figured out how to leave, because then he'd have to figure out how to block.
Callum [12:19 PM] genuinely unsure of the next response here.
Rayla [12:20 PM] ?
Callum [12:20 PM] If I leave, you win. If I stay, I'm subjected to more of… this.
Rayla [12:20 PM] Wow! U catch on quick, Artsy Boy.
He titled his head.
Callum [12:20 PM] What?
Rayla [12:21 PM] ur profile? You like "Art" huh. That's vague, but cool.
Feeling defensive, he clicked on Rayla's profile picture, hoping it'd take him to hers. And sure enough, it did! He was met with the brief description and profile he had skimmed past and apparently accidentally swiped yes on. Upon his quick scan, he scoffed and returned to their DMs.
Callum [12:22 PM] You're one to talk, "martial arts".
Callum [12:22 PM] kinda vague, eh?
Rayla [12:22 PM] ...u just had to look at mine to come up with that, yeah?
He clicked his teeth in annoyance, now straightening up his office chair.
Rayla [12:23 PM] HAH. lack of response means yes!
Callum [12:23 PM] It does NOT.
Rayla [12:23 PM] Totally does. It means u flopped on the quick rebuttal.
Rayla [12:24 PM] and thus paid for it by not being ready
He rolled his eyes again. Seriously, this woman was going to cost him his sight with how much he was already rolling his eyes.
Callum [12:24 PM] and I suppose you're just always prepared?
Rayla [12:24 PM] Duh, how else can I school chumps like u?
He frowned, narrowing his eyes.
Callum [12:24 PM] okay, you did not, "school me."
Callum [12:24 PM] Also what decade are you really from?
Callum [12:24 PM] NO ONE talks like that.
He smirked.
Callum [12:25 PM] Do I have a catfish on my hands? "23" pffft.
Rayla [12:25 PM] ME. u are out here typing with PUNCTUATION.
Rayla [12:25 PM] NERD
He bristled at that.
Callum [12:25 PM] Sticks and stones.
Rayla [12:26 PM] are cavemen tools, yes yes.
Rayla [12:26 PM] but those won't help u craft a better comeback
Rayla [12:26 PM] HEYO
He scrunched his face, not believing what he was seeing. Was she really a year older than him?
Callum [12:26 PM] What are you, five?
Rayla [12:26 PM] U seemed to be obsessed with age, stranger
Rayla [12:27 PM] NOW who's the real pedo?
He gaped.
Callum [12:27 PM] NO ONE SAID ANYTHING ABOUT PEDOS!
Callum [12:27 PM] It was CATFISHES.
Rayla [12:27 PM] Ehh tomato potato
Callum sighed, palming at his face. What was with this woman?::::Honestly, Rayla thought "Callum" would've stopped messaging her after she made her iPhone joke, but to her surprise, he stuck around. Xadia wasn't exactly an app Rayla used for dates or hooking up, she just liked chatting with strangers and messing with them a bit. The pure enjoyment of destroying a DM within an hour was something she was proud of. But, apparently she was getting sucked into this particular conversation.
Rayla [2:57 PM] PLEASE. Its both.
Callum [2:58 PM] It can't be "both"
Callum [2:58 PM] It released during October, so it's SOLELY a Halloween movie
She rolled her eyes, turning over in her bed and onto her stomach.
Rayla [2:58 PM] Okay but by that logic then Die Hard's not a Christmas movie
Rayla [2:58 PM] bc it came out in like, June or July.
Rayla [2:59 PM] whatever it was during the summer.
Surprisingly, that seemed to shut him up. Disappointment overcame Rayla as she propped herself up with her elbows, digging into her mattress. Sure, she liked having fun, but this was completely the most unsatisfying way to win an argument/end a DM convo. She sighed, rolling out of bed and into her slippers. She walked out of her room and tucked her phone into her jean pocket as she headed toward the kitchen.It seemed her folks left a fresh brew as she walked over, leaving her to pour some into her own mug. But then her phone chimed. That was Xadia! With an excitement she wasn't aware she had, she set down her drink and pulled out her phone.
Callum [3:03 PM] okay but regardless—Polar Express is pretty boring Christmas movie.
Her jaw dropped as a weird swelling in her heart stirred for the briefest of moments.
Rayla [3:04 PM] OMG YES. THANK U
Rayla [3:04 PM] Only save and grace was the hot chocolate scene
Rayla [3:04 PM] that shit SLAPPED.
She turned from her coffee and frowned, now wanting hot chocolate.
Callum [3:04 PM] Aww man, now I want to make hot chocolate.
She giggled.
Rayla [3:05 PM] Same!
Rayla [3:05 PM] but I could do without the uncanny valley aspect
Callum [3:05 PM] Oh same, I don't want nightmares.
Callum [3:05 PM] But thanks for putting that in my head.
"Are ya teasing guys and gals online again?" Ethari asked, approaching the coffeemaker.She jumped, startled at his presence. "A-Ah, what?""Ya have a kind of grin going on," he pointed and gestured at her face, "it screams mischief."She blinked, scrunching her face. "That sounds childish.""Ah good, fittin' for ya," Ethari teased, grabbing the pot."Oh," she grabbed her mug and held it out, "have mine. I haven't put anythin' in yet. I changed my mind to hot chocolate." She placed it in ihs spare hand and turned back to the cupboard, retrieving another mug."Hot chocolate… in October?" Ethari blinked.She scoffed. "To cut a long story short, The Nightmare Before Christmas was discussed at length on its Christmas validation, and now I'm thinkin' 'bout hot chocolate," she explained as she turned on the kettle and grabbed herself a packet of hot chocolate powder.Ethari snorted. "Aye, that movie's worth watching twice a year—one for Halloween, and another for Christmas."Rayla's brows raised at that. "Hey, that gives me an idea!" She picked up her phone and began typing.
Rayla [3:07 PM] How 'bout us aficionados take this to the road and catch a movie?
Rayla [3:08 PM] Subjecting it to our fine tastes and criteria.
She wasn't sure why she felt a bit nervous at his lack of response but the second his message came she was glad.
Callum [3:08 PM] wow…
Callum [3:08 PM] You know what aficionado means?
She deadpanned as she rolled her eyes. "He's got jokes, eh?""Who?" Ethari asked, mouthful of berries."No one," she brushed off.
Rayla [3:08 PM] I see our moviegoing will also undergo bad jokes
Callum [3:09 PM] Of course! You're the one planning it after all.
She smirked.Okay, so maybe this would be fun.::::"Okay okay," Rayla chewed, munching on her popcorn as the two walked, "so what's this criteria then?" She dusted off her hands before tucking them back into her leather jacket, saving them from the cold. She lazily stomped around in her combat boots as she bumped shoulder to shoulder with Callum.He chuckled, shrugging. He had his right hand stuffed into his navy blue trench coat pocket, while the other held out the bag of popcorn Rayla had been incisitently eating. "Listen, all I'm saying is that live action superhero movies are their own genre of film. They make good cinema, but not good films. Was that helpful?"She shook her head. "Not at all. But I enjoyed it!" She grinned as she bumped his shoulder with her elbow. "Ya really like talkin' 'bout this stuff, eh?""Yeah," Callum shrugged sheepishly. "B-But that's not say I don't think they're not good movies—""I get it, the animated ones are better." Rayla rolled her eyes.When the two decided to go and catch the most recent hero flick, they approached it as a casual outing in preparation to commentate on a film. Of course, both sides were wise to alert family about their online meet up in case if the other person turned out to be a kidnapper, but after watching halfway through, they both sent messages to their respective families saying it should be all good. But to still await an update of when they return home.It was because they both had nearly done this simultaneously that they shared one of their favourite laughs that night."Hey, never could be too sure," Callum whispered to her."Ya wish ya could kidnap me. I'd sock ya before ya could get the chance," Rayla teased."Ah yes, miss 'martial arts'," he mocked.They had been shushed, but they weren't disruptive aside from that moment. Overall, Rayla found herself pleasantly surprised with how much she enjoyed talking about a movie with someone else. Callum on the other hand, found solace in finally having a fellow moviegoer who didn't mind his quiet chattering during a film. He wasn't a particularly loud or pestering viewer, but he had comments and would reserve them to himself or if anyone was nearby.Because the two had gotten so wrapped up in the movie and talking, they didn't even realize they barely dented their popcorn. And so Rayla recommended taking a walk around the park near the theatre as they ate and talked."So," she reached out and grabbed another small handful, "why am I the only one munching on this?" She stuffed popped kernel into her mouth and shot him a skeptical stare.Callum shrugged again, bringing his spare hand up to pull his red scarf up a bit, as a brisk breeze passed them. "I'm not a big popcorn fan."Her eyes widened as her mouth hung open, causing a few bits to fall out."Eww, you know some poor pigeon's gonna eat that and end up dying right?""I'm dyin' right now. Ya don't like popcorn?""It gets stuck in my teeth," he casually answered."Nearly all food does."Callum rolled his eyes. "But popcorn is the worst of it. And it's not even that good for what its cons are.""Cons?" Rayla scoffed, yanked the bag away from him. "This bloody lunatic is going off 'bout 'cons' when talkin' 'bout kernel.""I'm just saying, yeah chocolate messes up your teeth, but at least it usually tastes good—depending on what kind of course," he quickly amended. He pointed his fingerless glove at her. "That? Is consistently a nightmare to take care of with a toothbrush and floss. Hardly worth the subpar taste."Rayla gasped. "And I thought your Nightmare Before Christmas take would be the last strike."He snorted. "I'm pretty sure I'm on like strike nine at this point." he turned and smirked. "So that begs the question, are we bowling or playing baseball? Because one of those means I've done pretty well while the other means it's halfway through an inning and it's your turn to bat."Her eyebrows raised. "Wow, ya know baseball?"Callum was taken aback. "Do I not seem the type?""Honestly, with all the stuff ya just said 'bout movies—""I can like more than one thing."Rayla grinned. "Glad to know. Maybe we should head to a baseball game. Minor League, Major League I'm fine with either." She shrugged.Callum nodded. "Same." His phone then chimed. Digging into his pocket, he sighed. "Ahh right, I promised my parents I'd help with my brother's Halloween costume.""Nice, 18 and still trick-or-treating," Rayla shivered a bit as she gave him a half thumbs up with her hands, which were still holding the popcorn."Ezran would never turn down free candy. And he likes the costume I make him." He sighed. "But that's me, so I gotta head to the station.""It's cool, I can walk from here anyways." She danced in place, keeping warm as another gust blew by. "But baseball for sure?"Callum smiled at her. He pulled off his scarf and wrapped it around her face lazily, barely keeping it tight as he just tossed the last wrap on her head. "If you don't die from freezing until then," he joked before walking off."Ya know this barely helps, right?""Same with wearing just jeans and a leather jacket!" he shot back before leaving. Rayla's laugh was all he could hear as he left the park. Until his phone cimed again.
Rayla [7:27 PM] And u don't even walk a girl home? Tsk, strike 10.
He laughed.Callum [7:28 PM] So… is it baseball or bowling… still unclear…::::"Who's scarf is this?" Rayla raised her head up from her bed looking over at her desk.Kazi was currently using it, along with her laptop, for their lit paper due in a couple days. They often worked better in Rayla's home and while Rayla wasn't exactly a college student, she enjoyed Kazi's company nonetheless. Sure, her folks and family teased her about them being her only friend, but she didn't' care. Right now, she cared that Kazi was just dangling Callum's (read: her) red scarf, when they just ate pizza."It's mine, and don't get your grubby greasy pizza fingers all over it," she hissed, shooting out of her bed to snatch it from them. She folded it up and placed it on her lap as she sat on her bed. "I'll cut your pinky fingers."Kazi snorted. "Please don't. I'll need those for my ASL classes." Their eyes lit up. "Though, I wonder if if you could still sign with just four fingers?" the whispered to themselves.Rayla rolled her eyes. "As long as whatever amount of digits ya have isn't dirty and touchin' this, I'm all for whatever."Kazi turned around in the office chair, staring at Rayla skeptically. "You don't really like red too much. Especially with your outfits—actually, especially with your work outfits."She rolled her eyes. "Being a bodyguard usually calls for subtlety or desecration. A red scarf kinda ruins that vibe, I think."Kazn nodded. "Exactly. So why do you have one?"Rayla shrugged, moving it to the foot of her bed as she laid down. "Friend gave it to me."Her friend's eyes widened at that. "You have another friend?"She shot straight up. "Hey, ya don't have to say it like that." her phone chimed and Rayla immediately went straight for it.Kazi sighed, rolling their eyes. "Aw c'mon, tell me more about your new friend! Stop tormenting Xadia users," they complained, scooting their chair closer to her.
xxCallumxx [2:21 PM] I just got a commission to do Gravity Falls characters in the art style of Jujutsu Kaisen baseball players.
Her eyes widened. "No way," she muttered."Why not!" Kazi whined.
Rayla [2:21 PM] That's sick!
Rayla [2:21 PM] I was legit 'bout to ask, "U watch JJK and GF?"
Rayla [2:22 PM] but then I remembered your whole artist rant
xxCallumxx [2:22 PM] IT WASNT A RANT
Rayla [2:22 PM] Oh dear god, improper grammar AND no period?
Rayla [2:22 PM] u mad mad, eh?
xxCallumxx [2:22 PM] Make fun all you want but I know you agree with me.
Rayla [2:22 PM] I do, I do, relax. Animated movies do get slept on alot
Rayla [2:23 PM] especially when they're not big budget companies making them
xxCallumxx [2:23 PM] Okay but to spare you (and myself) from ANOTHER rant, I was originally trying to segue into baseball.
Rayla [2:23 PM] *Side swipe transition*
xxCallumxx [2:23 PM] Thank you. Now, on the topic of baseball, when are you free?
Her eyes widened as she scooted up against the wall, her feet now sticking out across her bed.
Rayla [2:24 PM] I got a client who needs a bodyguard throughout their stay and so the next two and a half days I'm a no go.
Rayla [2:24 PM] But rest of my week I'm game!
xxCallumxx [2:24 PM] Perfect! My dad actually teaches Minor league baseball and I asked for a spare ticket!
And then her phone was swiped out of her hands. Rayla gasped as she watched Kazi step back and narrow their eyes at her phone skeptically. "Who's Callum? And why does he have Xs around his name." They gasped. "Wait… are you going on a—"Rayla scooted to the edge of her bed and held her palm out. "Ya know I know eight different ways to break your fingers." It was returned to her palm instantly."Is this a date?" Kazi excitedly asked, taking their seat back at the office chair. They spun in excitement before Rayla stopped their momentum with her foot."No. We're just catching a ball game," she casually explained. Tucked her phone into her pocket and stood up. "Are ya gonna keep staring at me like that, or do ya want another pizza? I'm 'bout to make a trip."Kazi's eyes narrowed. "It's his scarf isn't it?"Rayla nodded. "Yup. And ya touch it ya don't get to use my laptop.""Fine," they relented as she left her bedroom, "but this discussion is not over!"::::"So like," Rayla spoke, chewing on her small bag of popcorn, "no one accuses Coach Harrow of nepotism considerin' the fact his son is on the baseball team?"Callum snorted, looking up from his sketchbook momentarily to look at Rayla. "They're highschoolers. Half of them don't even know what that means."She shrugged, taking another handful of kernel and munching on them accordingly. "Ya know, ya kinda gave the impression ya'd be watchin' too?"Callum sighed. "It's the second inning, things don't pick up until the third, anyways."Rayla gasped. "Ya're one of those fans."He rolled his eyes, laughing. "I watch full games, Rayla, just… not all the time." He sunk back down into his sketching. "At least when they're not this lame.""That's your brother and dad, and ya're dissing their performance," she clicked her teeth. "I have half a mind to snitch.""They're gonna pull through, they always do, it just takes a rocky first two innings to find their footing," he explained, still drawing, "A lot of their pitchers and basemen were out of commission so it's been awhile since they played a game together as a team.""Aye," Rayla nodded. Her eyes lit up as she recalled, "Oi, speakin' of commissions, how are yours going?"He smiled, still drawing. "I finished the baseball one I told you about but I had to close them. Some dental company reached out to me and wanted me to design some of their marketing posters and ads, so I gotta do that with full focus since I'm under a contract and such."She chewed, leaning back in her bleacher seat as she poured the remainder of her popcorn into her mouth. "Must be cool being a digital graphic artist," she said, still chewing, "ya get to draw a lotta sick things for people."He scoffed. "And weird things too. But, whatever pays well…""And ya were doing that since 11th grade?" she asked. A crack of a bat caught her attention. "Wait, check this out!" she smacked his shoulder.Callum looked up in time to see his brother from mid field dive for the ball and catch it in his mitt. The batter was out and the teams began to switch, rushing off the field and over to the diamond."Ayyy way to go Ez!" he shouted. "See?" he turned to her, "Now it's the third inning, things are gonna ramp up." He smugly smiled as he returned to his drawings."Ya still would've missed your brother's awesome catch," she elbowed him."Nah, that's why I have you," he teased. She ignored her warm cheeks in favour of rolling her eyes. "Anyways, you were saying something about 11th grade?"She nodded. "Aye. Ya've been doing commissions since high school, that's pretty cool.""Not as cool as being a bodyguard," he exclaimed, elbowing her with an impressed smile. "You're only a year older than me and you're out here guarding… Beyoncé?"She snorted. "I still am not allowed to tell ya my clients.""Okay okay, be a sketchy drug dealer, it's cool," he snidely mused.She gasped. "It's called 'confidentiality,' and I can also kick your ass too, ya know?""So you've reminded me," he smiled, still looking down at his drawing. "But what's the most intense thing you've had to do?"She rolled her eyes. "Every time someone learns what I do for livin', that's always the first question.""Oh good, so you already have an answer."She giggled. "I elbowed a guy's teeth out to help wade a client through a mob. And it was a mob mob. Real chaotic.""Does your uncle ever give you clients that are hard to handle?""Nah," she shook her head, "Runaan knows I can hold my own. He and I take some together, especially if it's requested."Callum sighed. "Still, that sounds like a cool way to live your life.""Same with yours," she shot back, scooting closer to him.At that, Callum closed his sketchbook and looked up, as if his internal clock was taking over. "And now the real game begins." He smiled at her, before turning to the field.First up to bat was this young girl Ellis, but before Callum could watch her bunt, his phone chimed.
Ray [1:04 PM] pssst, your drawing looks cool
He looked to Rayla, who was now looking intently at the game.
Ray [1:04 PM] but next time ask me before u draw me like one of your french ladies
He chuckled, tucking his phone away, leaving the two to enjoy the rest of the four innings together. And he was right, Katolis did win.::::"Hey cave goblin!" Soren shouted, bursting into Callum's room with a box of pizza. "We come bearing sustenance to keep you alive!"Claudia trailed behind. "And we're gonna do a surprise movie night!" she cheered, bringing in packs of pop cans.The two stopped and blinked as they found the young man at his usual spot, but instead of drawing on his tablet or sketching, his materials laid open as he was texting on his phone. Texting. Callum. Callum was texting."Doth my eyes deceive me," Claudia dramatically spoke, "is sweet Callum conversing with someone, other than us!""Why, sister, I believe—" Soren's eyes lingered over Callum's shoulder as they caught a glimpse of the phone screen. "That is Xadia!"Callum jumped, startled by the two. "Shit, when'd you guys get in here, you scared me." He took a breath, holding his phone to his chest."We've been here for like ten seconds," Claudia deadpanned."And we shouted our arrival," Soren noted."But forget that," his sister dismissed, setting the pop cans down on the nightstand near Callum's bed. "You're using Xadia?""And a lot it seems," Soren wiggled his brows.Callum tilted his head. "Whatever happened to privacy!" he shouted."They said you invited them in!" his mother shouted back."They always say that," he replied. Shooting the two an unamused stare, he sighed. "Alright, laugh it up now, go ahead.""Oh I would but—" Claudia slugged Soren's arm, "Argh, that." He rubbed his shoulder as he said, "But seriously man, I'm proud of you! I know everyone makes fun of online dating but it can take a pretty bold step to do that and put your heart out there.""And he should know," Claudia stage-whispered, "he's still stepping.""Thanks for dragging me, Clauds.""No problem.""Whoa whoa, there's no heart putting here," Callum laughed. "I'm just talking with a friend."The two siblings stared at him. "A dating app… and you're talking to a friend?" Claudia surmised."Callum," Soren shook his head, "even I know that's a bad lie. And I'm terrible at telling when someone is lying!"He scoffed. "But it's not a lie.""Oh, then I guess I'm still terrible," Soren shrugged, sitting on Callum's bed as he flipped the pizza box open and reached for a slice. Claudia slapped his hand, causing him to wince. "Ow! Wha—oh! Ah hah, more lying," he pointed an accusing finger his way.Callum rolled his eyes. "No really, Rayla and I just chat and hang out."Claudia shrieked, making the poor boys cringe. "Wait, wait, wait, hang out?" She held her hands up to her chin as she giddily asked, "Have you gone on… dates?"Callum smirked, making the young woman squeal. And then he frowned. "No. Because they weren't dates. Just friends hanging out.""What was the screaming!" Harrow shouted, barging into the room with a frying pan."Callum has a not-girlfriend," Soren deadpanned.Callum facepalmed at the excitement that brewed within the household.Ray <3 [9:17 PM] Awww so im your fwirst fwiend?Ray <3 [9:17 PM] so sweetCallum quietly chuckled, making sure not to draw attention to himself as his family watched the movie. He texted back.
Callum [9:18 PM] Rich coming from you.
Callum [9:18 PM] I'm sorry, you have Kazi and…
Ray <3 [9:18 PM] Mine is someone I actually met!Ray <3 [9:18 PM] U had to meet yours through Daddy's friends.Ray <3 [9:18 PM] XPCallum sighed, barely holding back his smile.
Callum [9:19 PM] Regardless, they say they wanna meet you.
Callum [9:19 PM] And I think that can be fun!
Callum [9:19 PM] You barely got a chance to talk my dad and Ez after their game.
Ray <3 [9:19 PM] That was your fault. NO warning about those chilidogsRay <3 [9:20 PM] Did NOT want to meet them while I was LITERALLY shitting myselfHe snorted, covering his mouth."Callum," his mother hissed, "text your girlfriend after the movie's done.""Yeah Callum, when the movie begins, phones are on silent!" Ezran reminded him."I hear you, I hear you," he assured them.
Callum [9:21 PM] On that disturbing image, I am being scolded for texting and watching.
Callum [9:21 PM] So I'll ttyl
Ray <3 [9:21 PM] *GASP* For shame Callum!::::"You know, she doesn't shut up about you," Kazi teased.Rayla rolled her eyes. "And neither do they apparently."The plan was for Rayla to visit Callum's place the last week of November, but Kazi's laptop fried and so she had to let them into the apartment. At the time, she and Callum were out on a walk, and so he decided it would also be fun to visit her place too. Meeting Kazi was a fun exchange, Callum admired their studious discipline but also made fun of how he couldn't see someone like them befriending Rayla. He got a laugh out of Kazi, and earned himself a smack, but it was worth it.Callum found himself looking all over Rayla's room while Kazi worked. Well, semi-worked and occasionally turned around to tease. Rayla just laid on her bed, waiting for everything to wrap up. "Oh!" Callum's eyes lit up as he moved to Rayla's headboard, "Is that my scarf?"Rayla's hand snatched it immediately by instinct."Sorry," he snorted, holding his hands up, "your scarf?" he joked.She flushed a bit. "S-Sorry. I kept forgetting to return it and—""It's fine, you can keep it," he pushed it back to her. "You need more warm things anyways. Seriously. Leather jackets in winter will not save you, Ray.""Aye, but they will make me look cooler than the cold air itself."Callum continued to look around, but Rayla caught Kazi mouthing, "Ray?" with a teasing smirk, to which she flipped them off for.Then a door unlocked. "Rayla? Ya home?""Aye Mum, I'm in my room with Cal and Kazi!" she shouted."Can ya help with the food?" her mother shouted back."Aye!" She turned back and stopped Callum, who was already moving to help. "Just sit here. I'll handle it." between Kazi and her parents who probably arrived with Ethari and/or Runaan, Kazi was the least problematic of the five. She could hear into the room anyways, since their apartment wasn't that big. Until…"You know ASL, yes?" Kazi asked, turning around.Callum smiled. I've known Sign Language since I was 7 years old, he explained, my aunt is Deaf.Kazi's eyes lit up. Can you help me practice?
Sure! Where to start?
Just regular conversation, they suggested, I just want to practice speaking in Sign.Callum nodded. Fair enough! So what shall we discuss?Kazi smirked. How long have you two been dating?Callum cringed. Maybe this was a mistake.The rest of the evening was fairly short as after Rayla finished setting the table, Callum announced he had to make his leave. Rayla jumped at the opportunity before any of her parents could sway his easily influenced heart, pushing him out of the apartment and into the hall. She said she would walk him out and as the two excited the elevator out, she asked, "Kazi didn't say anything stupid, did they?Callum blinked. "Umm… no?"Rayla sighed, relieved. "Good, that's good." They then reached the doors and walked out. It wasn't until the wind blew, that Callum realized she was wearing his scarf again. His hand instinctively flew to it, but he stopped himself. She still noticed. "Oh. Do ya want me to return—""No I…" he grabbed the scarf, and wrapped it firmly around her, patting it close around her shoulders and neck. "It looks good on you."She blushed. "Thanks. It's still your scarf."He scoffed. "Then it looks better on you.""Aye, can argue with ya there," she smugly smirked. She took a step.Callum then realized he was still holding her (his?) scarf and that they were fairly close. He gulped, released the cloth as he backed up. "See you at my place in two days!" He turned and walked. "Bye!"He hoped his phone would chime and it would have a dumb text calling him out for being a coward or making fun of what just happened for being so cheesy. But when he didn't receive any message that night, he knew he messed something up there.::::As soon as Rayla walked in, she realized she probably could've been more subtle"So there's where his scarf went," Claudia grinned.Rayla flushed as she hid herself within the scarf's warmth."Yeah, yeah, she has it now, I gave it to her, big deal," Callum brushed off, taking her hand and leading them into his room.As he moved to shut the door, his father teased, "Ah, leave it a couple inches open! I—""Knock it off please!" he begged, before shutting it close. He sighed, slumping himself onto his chair. "Have at whatever you'd like. I seriously gotta finish this commission."Rayla furrowed a brow. "Ya're doing commissions again? I thought ya closed them.""So now you're curious about what I'm up to?" he muttered.She frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?" She crossed her arms. "Not messaging ya for a day isn't the same as gettin' ghosted. Ya already knew I was coming over today."He whipped himself around, gesturing at her. "But that was before—" he stopped himself, clenching his hand around his tablet pen."Before what?" she asked, holding a breath.Come on, say it. Say it."Nothing," he sighed, turning back around as he continued drawing.They spent the rest of their time in his room in a somewhat comfortable silence. Callum was currently doing a commission drawing a gift present shaped like a snowman, which must've sparked his next question. "Do you wanna exchange gifts?"She blinked, looking up from his sketchbook she was flipping through. "Like get each other something for Christmas?""Yeah," he nodded, turning around with a smile. "It could be fun. I'm already doing something like that with Soren and Claudia, what's one more friend?"Her smile faltered a bit but she nodded. "Ground rules…""Nothing expensive?""Joke gifts only?They both smiled.But the mood was nearly forgotten that evening as they had dinner together. Claudia and Soren thankfully left to go eat with their father, but Sarai—as she insisted Rayla called her— and her questions were not helping her and Callum. Harrow had the typical run-of-the-mill Dad Jokes, and Ezran was plenty teasing for Callum, but Sarai targeted her with great interest. And it wasn't that, that made her upset or… feel upset at least.It was Callum deflecting and trying to save her."So, how did you and Callum meet?""Online, just chatting like friends over movie ideas," he explained, "her opinions were very wrong."She shook it off but still didn't want him to have that. "No they were not!"Then it was,"What was your first date?""We just hung out, not really 'date'," Callum scoffed. "We watched a movie and talked over it a bit. Walked around more and shared more wrong opinions about popcorn."It just kept going on."You know Rayla, Callum's always had access to spare tickets and things like that, but he's never brought anyone else to my husband and Ez's games! Not even Claudia or Soren!"Rayla barely had time to flush at that implication as Callum was already quick to shoot it down like a hunter during duck season. "Because they don't like baseball. Rayla actually gets the sport and I thought she'd like to see some Minor League action! It wasn't a big deal."So that was what it was?As he walked her down the steps outside his house, he had the gall to ask, "Are you… okay?"She turned, staring at him in shock. "What.""I just… sense you're kinda upset…"She scoffed. "Glad ya can sense it."He frowned. "Alright, hit me, what is it?"She wound her arm back and punched his shoulder."Ow! What was that for!""Ya said hit ya!""You know what I meant.""Do I? Is it something I know or is it just a 'friend' thing," she mocked, "we can talk 'bout next time we 'hang' out. Ya know! 'Not a big deal'!"He scoffed, shaking his head. "Are you for real? You're seriously mad about that?""Don't say it like that!" she stomped her foot.He blinked. "Like what.""Like… nothing," she sighed, closing her eyes.Callum humourlessly chuckled. "Exactly."Her eyes shot open before she narrowed them. "Whattya mean, 'exactly'?""I mean, you aren't so clear yourself!" he nearly shouted. "F-First it's when we first spoke, how we hang out, and then you scoot closer, you take my scarf, you flirt and tease and you're just so lax about it!" He gestured at her. "What does that even mean!"She swallowed. "What about ya! I'm sat here listenin' to ya say sweet things and ya flirt back, but it doesn't have an effect on ya!""Because you act so nonchalant about this!""Why can't I be nonchalant 'bout us flirting?""Because. We met. On a. Dating app!" Callum shouted.Rayla frowned. "So why didn't ya just call it what it was!""Because neither did you!"At that, the two were panting, nearly in each other's face. Oh, who was anybody kidding, they could just slip and kiss—that was how close they were right now. But…Rayla sighed, turning around. "I don't wanna keep yellin' at ya right now. It' gettin' late."Callum cleared his throat. "Same." He took another deep breath. "I'll… I'll see you for for the gift exchange."She scoffed. "We're still doing that?" When she turned and saw his hurt eyes, she regretted her stupid joke."We don't have—""N-No. It's Christmas and… I thought that was a cool idea." She nodded. "I'll just… text ya.""Same."::::Ray <3 [11:01 AM] Seriously, the Internet's ability to combust over a cat is something I'll NEVER get overCallum chuckled.
Callum [11:01 AM] Same thing but with our dog Bait.
Callum [11:01 AM] I love that little pupper.
"So why are you even looking for something like this?" Soren asked as they walked around the mall. "It's so specific, you'd have to order that."He shook his head. "We promised nothing expensive."He blinked at Callum. "And you're not going all out for an apology gift."Callum's brows flared. He shouted, "It's not an—" he then sighed. "It's not an apology gift," he calmly said.Soren titled his head. "Really? Because we live across the street from you and we even know that that needs some apology gifts."He sighed. "Soren, that's not important right now." His phone chimed again.Ray <3 [11:05 AM] I think this is the last I let Runaan assign me a client so early in the morning.Ray <3 [11:05 AM] we just finished and I am TIRED.He smiled, sending a picture of a GIF cat hanging in a tree.
Callum [11:06 AM] I'll be sure to spam you with more cat photos upon your slumber.
"I don't get it, are you two just acting like you didn't have a huge fight last week?" Soren asked.Callum rolled his eyes. "No Soren it's just. Not what our focus is right now. We're just… talking."Ray <3 [11:06 AM] Thanks, I could use the boost upon my revival."You know what I think?""That we're dating, I know," he sardonically answered, tucking his phone away."No, I think you both thought you were dating," Soren pointed out.Callum stopped walking and stared at him. "What?""Yeah," he nodded, crossing his arms, "I think you both thought that and so whenever you teased or flirted you just let it be because you both thought so."Callum licked his lips, amusement reaching his face as he said, "Then tell me, oh so wise Soren, what went wrong?"Soren's proud smile turned to a scowl. "You just thought these things. None of you had the balls to actually admit it."That… was actually pretty on brand. He frowned. "I just… Rayla… I guess I was following her lead?" He shrugged. "I don't know what I was doing but… I think I was grateful she didn't label it. Because I was not prepared." He laughed. "I still might not be."Soren chuckled. "Well, that's how dating is. You never really are prepared for it."Callum smiled up at Soren, then, caught something behind him. "Wait, that's the store I need! Yes! Soren come on!"::::"Did I make things weird for you when I told you he said you weren't dating?" Kazi asked, swaying their shopping bag back and forth as they walked through the mall.Rayla had been so tired all week doing so many early shifts, but this afternoon was her only shot at getting Callum's gift done in time. "Blaming ya feels like the easiest thing to do," she teased. A chime startled her, and she looked at her phone.
xxCALxx [3:36 PM] This just in, fifth Santa commission this week!
xxCALxx [3:36 PM] Will St. Nick move on from being my muse? Who knows!
Rayla smiled.
Rayla [3:37PM] Make sure not to overwork yourself too much!
Rayla [3:37PM] ITs christmas time!
"So… are you blaming me?" Kazi asked again.Rayla sighed. "No, Kazi this… this was my fault." She put her phone away as she scanned the shops, looking for the item in her mind. "He said all the right things back that night. I am lax 'bout how we… flirt," she admitted, taking a breath, "And I guess… I dunno, it was frustrating?"Kazi scoffed. "So was being on the end of watching you piece this together," they mused, flicking Rayla's scarf.She clicked her teeth as she turned her head, hiding her scarf from her friend's attacks. "I dunno why I blew up on him so much.""'Cause your 'lax' provocations didn't get the reactions you expected and it made you worry if it was really one sided," Kazi stated as a matter-of-factly.Rayla blinked. "Well, shite, I guess ya really had to come for my neck huh?"They rolled their eyes. "I'm just calling it like I see it."Rayla shook her head. "But I know it wasn't. What we said that night… we both wanted something.""So why didn't you say it then?"Another chime.
xxCALxx [3:40 PM] is that your way of caring?
She looked down at her phone as she replied to Kazi, "We were yellin' at each other." She chuckled. "And… some space to think helped." She stopped walking as her eyes widened. She found it. What she was looking for!"And did it?"Rayla grinned. "I'm 'bout to find out soon!" She shot back a quick text before running off to her desired store.
Rayla [3:40 PM] Yes. It is.
::::When they sat down at the park bench at the same time, a silence passed. His gift, stuffed into a large bag while hers was more modest. They sat there for a moment. It wasn't as chilly as more nights, so Rayla's jeans and leather jacket combo would spare her. But it was still uncomfortable how long they waded in the quiet.Then, Rayla's phone chimed.
xxCALxx [6:03 PM] oops?
Rayla laughed. She turned to him and slapped his shoulder. "Ya are such a dork!"Callum sat there, taking each slap as he nodded. "I know, I know, but since I started, allow me to apologize first?" She wanted to protest, but it would be an endless loop so she let him go ahead. "I'm sorry I was too much of a coward to really confirm or respond to you… properly." She blinked, confused. "I mean that, those times you were just letting a moment play out to see how I'd respond and I just… didn't confirm it outright because I knew we both knew what I meant."She released a sigh of relief. "Okay, so ya did know too?""Yes.""Thank God," she muttered. "But lemme speak now!" she squashed his cheeks close with her cold hand. "I was a coward too. I… I used Xadia to mess with people. I let people DM me and I tried to see how quickly I could make them leave the DM or just block me or whatever. But… ya… ya were a whole other person I wasn't expecting." She sighed. "I think that… kind of surprised me and I didn't take us as seriously as I should've."Callum chuckled. "I used Xadia because I was told I was a loner. I just used it because I thought it'd get my foot out there in terms of socializing." He shrugged. "That's what it was at first, yeah? We just… hung out?"Rayla nodded."But even if it was hanging out, it was still a date."Rayla smiled. "Aye, they were."He grinned. "Good. I uh… I would like to ask you something, but you have to open my gift first."She laughed. "How 'bout to make ya suffer, ya open mine first. Then I open yours?"They locked eyes, both smiling like idiots.Then, without having to exchange words, they exchanged the gifts. At the same time, they opened them. Callum laughed as he dug in and found a large scarf with popcorn kernel designs woven into its red and white colour scheme. Rayla giggled giddily as she found a huge ugly sweater that said JACKET on it. But as she tried it on, a small DVD fell out and onto her lap. And what it was made her laugh harder.Callum picked up the DVD and smiled at her, asking, "Would you like to watch the Christmas movie, Nightmare Before Christmas, with me? As a date?"She nodded, smiling. "I would."
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Drunken Drumming
[6 PM]
Rayla slumped her head onto the counter.Another failed gig.Because of course she'd have another. In hindsight, playing drums for a jazz group in a Café when she barely knew anything about jazz, would spell disaster. The jazz brunch band had recently lost their drummer and Rayla took the job like a fool. What had followed that late morning, was the most embarrassing performance she had ever given in her life. Of course she had reviewed sheet music, but that didn't matter.That jazz group "felt out" the rhythm and tempo, nearly improvising entirely on the spot and leaving Rayla to follow suit. But… she was a drummer. She was supposed to set the pace and beat. She had no idea what she was doing up on that stage and needless to say, she wasn't surprised when Silvergrove Sips told her they'd be "looking at other applicants as well."She wanted to go home and cry, but she told her parents she caught a good gig. If she went to her uncles' place, Ethari would pester her about what she played while Runaan would ask her to play it again on his drums. So, she wandered around all afternoon until she found herself at a bar.Katolis.It literally just opened, with the staff still turning stools down from tables and wiping them down, but she saw it as a good opportunity to hide away.A place to just drown in pity and sadness as she felt sorry for herself.But then, a voice cleared its throat just before it. Rayla lifted her head to find the bartender, a young man no doubt somewhere near her age with plain brown hair, leaving on the counter. The rolled up sleeves of his navy blue shirt revealed his slim frame, while his kind smile did all the selling. "So… what can I get you?"She sighed. "A shot at life."He cringed. "Umm, sorry. All my shots are more literal and temporarily fulfilling and less metaphorical and long lasting." He shrugged, pouting disappointedly.She giggled. "Then I'll take a shot of scotch with a splash of water." She then squinted at his name tag and read out, "Callum."His brows raised but he crafted her drink nonetheless. He grabbed a bottle of scotch and bottled water, pouring the liquor to near fill before adding a couple droplets of water. He slid the beverage over and smiled. "Enjoy."Rayla smirked, circling her fingers around the shot glass' edges. "Thanks," she softly said, eyes toward her drink.He seemingly took no offence or curiosity to how she didn't immediately just down the shot—after all, not everyone always did—but he did ask, "So what brings you to Katolis this early evening?"She raised head a bit, shooting him a skeptical glare. "What's it to ya?"He held his hands up in innocence as he nervously chuckled. "J-Just curious. I mean…" he gestured his right palm out toward the bar, "you are the only customer here right now."Rayla felt her cheeks flush a bit as she scoffed. "Can't a gal just start her night drinkin' it away?"Callum chuckled. "She can. But uh, usually the night will have to start for that to work…" He placed his hands on the counter as he leaned onto them. "And as I've noted, we just opened."She rolled her eyes. Slumping her left cheek into her open palm, she sighed. "I won't tip ya if ya keep being nosy."He gasped, clearly filling his pitch with mock offence. "Guess there goes my rent," he wistfully feigned, snapping his fingers."Ya joke, but some people do live tip to tip," she deadpanned.Callum's amusement subsided as he stared at her with a blank face. "I know… I'm a bartender," he pointed out, gesturing toward himself.Rayla took advantage of his attention to his own body and sought the excuse in giving him another once over. Okay, so he was cute and a bit handsome—in a dork-like way. She noted that the other employees seemed to be avoiding the two, either out of kindness for an illusion or privacy or because they actually had things they needed to do. But regardless, she figured there were worse people to be talking to, so she might as well stick around and see what he was like as a conversationalist."Oh come on," he smiled, "Customers barely start trickling in these hours. You'd be the highlight of my night if you just humoured me.""Surely the later hours would bring the better highlights, aye?"Callum shrugged. "You'd be a surprise. A nice chat can have a more lasting impact than a round of shots."She raised her brows at that, appreciating the semi wisdom offered. He might just be a decent guy to chat with. So she humoured him. "In all honesty, it was just a shite day," she shrugged, "embarrassed myself at work and it cost me. Literally." With that, she downed the shot and gasped, letting the liquor scratch her throat a bit.He sympathetically frowned. "Ah, hate when that happens."She raised a brow. "That's happened to ya?"He amusedly looked at her. "I work in a bar. It's bound to happen."She chuckled, swirling her finger around the rim of her now empty glass. "Worst thing ya've done?" The hesitance in his face, that riddled with regret upon recalling not too fond memories made her giggle a bit. "One that ya can legally tell me, perhaps?"He laughed. "Oh relax, I haven't ever done anything that bad." He waved his hand dismissively. "Worst thing I've ever done was when I tried sliding a customer's shot of whiskey down the bar and ended up sliding it off the table." She smirked, biting back her laughter a bit. "It spilled and caused a slip," he shook his head, cringing, "one of my bussers fell and cut her hand on the glass."Rayla giggled, muffling her amusement behind her hand. "Sorry! Sorry. That… legitimately sounds bad," she tried to suppress her smile, "but it also sounds hilarious."He rolled his eyes. "Well, thankfully it was Claudia, and she and I more likely to laugh things off together." He shrugged. "She still looks back and laughs about it. I felt particularly shitty about the fact that I ruined a customer's drink and since Clauds fell with a tray, a whole group's round of shots in the process." He shook his head, sighing. "Paying for the next round after that did not result in profitable gain that night."Rayla held her hands up. "Well, bright side is your shitty mistake managed to enlighten a future patron in storyform." She grinned, gesturing to herself. "So that's a pretty good win."He snorted. "Oh sure. I'll be sure to let past Callum know about this great day." He pointed his chin toward her glass. "Want a refill?"She nodded. "Why not?"
[7 PM]
Dozens of more patrons had entered and Katolis was now filled enough to be considered white noise chatter. Not too many people so that Rayla's bar seat was crowded, but not too little that an awkward silence would happen anytime soon. Because of this, the conversations between Rayla and Callum were a bit more lively in volume. He had managed to get her mind off her terrible morning, at the expense of more terrible bar incidents."No way!" she giggled, slapping the counter. She nearly knocked her third empty shot glass in the process before calming down her laughter. "So then what?"Callum laughed, shrugging nonchalantly as he threw his towel off his shoulder and onto the counter. "Then the most awkward realization had to occur," he said as he wiped a nearby spill. "It was like we both came to the same realization that I poured a dude a glass of water instead of vodka, and so we just laughed." He shook his head, smiling at the memory. "He said it was all good and even tipped me because he said it was funny."Rayla snorted. "Wow, bet ya wish all your customers had that kinda kindness when ya messed up."He squinted his eyes as he bit his upper lip. "Uhhh, maybe not for the shot glass incident. If someone tipped me for causing my busser to slip and fall and cut herself? I'd be pretty offended." He chuckled, throwing the towel back over his shoulder.She rolled her eyes. "Sure, but money's money at that point, no?""Money's always money," he shot back, "but it doesn't mean how it's earned has no value either."She scoffed. "I personally wouldn't care."He narrowed his brows, clearly not believing her. "Really?" She nodded. "So if you had to kill someone for money, you would?""Obviously not in that kind of thinkin'," she exasperatedly said. "I mean in a more causality sense.""So… if you accidentally hit someone with your car, but your insurance ends up reimbursing you with a more substantial net gain, and you don't get charged for the incident you'd be okay with that?"Rayla blinked at him. "The Hell kinda scenario is that? Christ, that's dark!""Hey! You said a causal sense!" he countered. "But the fact that you haven't said no makes me believe you'd be into blood money."She rolled her eyes, biting back her smirk. "Bloody money's still money."He shuddered. "Okay, that is dark."
[8 PM]
Katolis was starting to get a little crowded. Rayla's jaunt to and from the bathroom felt as if it multiplied in difficulty, as the crowd between her and the bar grew a bit. But upon her return, she caught Callum darting down the bar, seemingly ditching a customer who had just shouted an order. He placed his hand over her glass of whiskey and pushed it back down to the counter. His eyes looked like they were wide with concern and it startled her a bit."Umm, what?"He looked around and awkwardly shrugged. "I-I wasn't looking after your drink." He cupped his hand over her glass, giving it a tug but she held on, narrowing her eyes in suspicion."And?""I had orders coming in and Soren had to step back so—" he sighed, shaking his head. "I don't know if someone did something, but your drink was left unattended." He frowned. "It got a lot more packed when you left. I just…" he tugged on the drink again, successfully pulling it from her. "Let me get you another glass, on the house." He set the drink aside and pulled out a new glass, filling it with whiskey.She watched him toss the drink's contents out into a sink and set it down inside. She smirked, swirling her new glass as she stared at him. "Was that just your way of tryin' get me a free drink or do ya always do that for customers?"He sadly frowned. "I try to." He shrugged. "I obviously can't catch every unattended drink but my bussers and I take note. I just always do this," he pointed to her drink, "whenever I noticed a patron come back after leaving their drink with no one watching it."She smiled. "Wow, a regular knight in shining armour."He stared at her with deadpan. "It's a precaution," he blankly stated. "And it's a very real, and very scary part of this job."Her smile fell a bit. "I know, I know, I was just tryin' to lighten the mood." She looked down at her drink before smiling up at him. "Thanks," she softly said before taking a sip.Callum nodded before returning down the counter to take the order he had ditched.It was upon his return, that he asked her, "So what do you do?"She blinked. "Pardon?""Well, we've gone into an abundance about what I clearly do." He gestured around them. "How about you?"She bit her lip, frowning. Then, she took a big sip of her drink, and followed with a deep breath. "I'm a drummer."His eyes widened. "You're in a band?""No, just a drummer," she replied. "I… sorta freelance?"Callum slowly nodded, as if piecing something together. "So this morning's… hiccup, that was a gig?"She nodded. "Yup," she said, popping the "p."He sadly smiled. "Hey, couldn't have been that bad—""I played for a jazz band and I know nothin' 'bout jazz," she blankly explained, "It was all improv and on the spot, and I butchered it. I butchered it so bad they told me they'd look for other drummers and I only got half of my promised pay."He cringed. "Can you not like, sue on that? Or something?"Rayla scoffed, rolling her eyes. "It's a pay by performance sorta thing. I still get the pay for playin' but playin' well is another story."He frowned. "So… when you talked about living tip to tip—""Okay now that is crossing a line," she asserted, shooting him a warning finger. "And ya only get one tiptoe."He nodded, zipping his lips shut."But for the record, I live with my folks, so I'm not some homeless, starvin' artist, okay?"He held his hands up. "I didn't say anything!""But ya were thinkin' it!"He shook his head, laughing as she held her mock glare at him.
[9 PM]
It had gotten to a dull roar level of noise. They now had to speak up more, and talk loudly, even at the short distance between them. It must've been because she saw him line up a row of empty glasses and fill them all with vodka in one go, but then when he returned to her he caught her eyes of awe. He tilted his head at her amusedly. "Penny for your thoughts?""That a tip joke?" she teased.He rolled his eyes. "But no seriously," he jutted his chin at her, "whatcha thinking about?"She sighed, shrugging slightly. "What made ya want to do… well, this for a livin'?" she asked, gesturing around them with the beer bottle in her hand.His eyes widened as he blew out a breath. "Wooow! Looks like I'm gonna need one myself," he said as he picked up a shot glass and poured himself half a shot of scotch. He downed it, shaking his head as he let it burn in his throat a bit. "Okay," he croaked out, "Ummm, sort of grew into it?"It was now her turn for her eyes to widen. "Sooo… ya had a shite dad or…"He laughed. "No, no, no, my stepdad was very adamant in making sure I didn't need to do this!" He smiled, fondly looking down at his empty glass. "But, I was a bit invested in his work. After all, it was how he met my Mom." He turned and placed the empty glass behind him. "Spent a lot of my youth just… watching my dad work from the safety of the back kitchen! Then when I was of a legal labour age, I started barbacking for him!"Rayla spit out her drink, coughing as she stared at him. "What backing?"He frowned, throwing his towel over the spill across the counter. As he wiped it down he clearly enunciated, "Bar-backing!" She furrowed her brow, still confused. "Like… a bartender assistant! Cleans spills, fills ice, cleans glasses, all that stuff," he discarded his soaked towel and grabbed a spare from behind him. "I don't have a lot of barbackers now, unfortunately!"She nodded. "So ya love doing this!" she asked.He chuckled, nodding as he gestured around him. "I'm in life itself! Nothing greater than being slack in the middle of people conversing like people, and sharing the loose lipped liquid that is liquor for a moment of bonding!" He smirked, pointing at her, "You should know, you're Scottish!"She laughed. "Aye, fair point!" she admitted, raising her beer. "But that's actually a sweet reason!""Thanks!" Callum shrugged. "My dad thought so too! It's why he lets me take over most nights now—well, that and because he feels like he's getting too old for this shit now!" he laughed. He then thought about his joke. "Speaking of Scottish by the way, did you move here!Rayla smiled. "Ya could say that!"He cocked his head."Parents and I moved here from Scotland when I was like seven, uncles lived here their whole lives!"He nodded at her. "And the drumming?" He crossed his arms. "What about that? Why do you drum?"Rayla smiled thinly, he observed, as though she hadn't appreciated the questions. She kept her lips tightly lipped as she brought her beer to them, taking a small chug. She set her beer down and met his eyes. Hers were filled with a silent screaming he couldn't put into words. There was so much she probably wanted to say in that moment.But instead, she just said, "Because I love music. Simple as that."
[10 PM]
Callum handed over two glasses of rum and coke before sliding back to Rayla's spot. "Sorry 'bout that. I believe it was your turn?"She stopped blowing into her empty beer bottle and turned back to him, smiling. "I asked, 'Favourite animated movie?'"He grinned, leaning onto the counter. "Megamind, easy!" He snapped his fingers. "Best superhero movie ever done too, in fact!"Rayla golf clapped as she wore an amused smile. "Ahh, so he is a man of culture!"He rolled his eyes. He shifted his weight to his left hand as he smiled. "How about… Christmas movies?" Her brows raised in interest. "Favourite Hallmark movie?"She snorted. "And by that, I'm assuming ya mean in the 'so bad it's good' way?""Is there any other way to love a Hallmark Christmas movie?" he mused.She nodded, "True true… but, ugh, I can't think of one!" She rolled her head around, as if working out a crick in it. "They're all so bad!""Then I have one," he raised his hand, "Christmas Mail! That movie is the best trainwreck I have ever stumbled onto through channel surfing!" He wordlessly pointed at her beer, motioning for another, to which she nodded. "But yeah, highly recommended," he assured as he handed her a new beer.She chuckled. "I'll put it on the list!" She then cracked open her beer and took a sip, closing her eyes a moment. "I think nearly all Christmas movies are lame because they just overuse Christmas songs!" she offered her two cents.Callum nodded, considering her take."Seriously, sometimes a movie can have a good score, but other times it's the score that makes it bad!" She scoffed, swirling her beer around. "And ya know what a good score is 'cause humans know how to recognize nice sounds and rhythms. Only reason why Christmas movies do so well in the score department is 'cause they reuse similar songs!"He grinned. "Do you write anything original?"Rayla's cheeks flushed. "I'm a drummer!"He rolled his eyes. "So I've been told…" he muttered."No, I mean, I'm not exactly a lyricist!" she replied. She shook her head, not liking the direction of the topic. "Screw it! Back on topic—my turn!" He motioned her to go on. "Favourite… season?"Callum's smile grew fondly. "Easy! Winter!"She made a disgusted face."Lemme guess," he frowned, "Spring?"She scoffed. "Ya had one-third chance gettin' that right!" She sighed. "Spring's warmer, prettier, and less snowy.""Snow sucks, yeah, but it also can look pretty! Spring's got too much rain!""Rain, not hail, or wet snow, or wet snow hail, or blizzards!" she shot back.Callum snorted. "I have more of a personal bias!" He sweetly smiled. "Family and I have a winter lodge we go to every Christmas! Fun typical family stuff, snowman, hot chocolate—""Hallmark Christmas movie binges?""And that too!" Callum shrugged. "It may not be for everyone, but I think winter has a lot of upsides people tend to forget because of how bitter it gets." He laughed. "That can be said for a lot of things about life too!"Rayla laughed. "To each their own, I suppose," she said, raising her beer."I'll metaphorically cheers to that!"
[11 PM]
Katolis was just mind numbing at this point. Rayla had told Callum she was going to sit with her beer as he worked. She knew it would get packed in the later parts of the night and though Katolis was a sort of quaint and casual bar, it would also receive the same rowdy treatment in its final hours. Patrons were getting loud with laughter and banter, a couple were getting handsy and making their quick exits for their own brand of fun that night.She was slumped against it, slowly sipping at her beer. Her parents called her an hour or so ago and she just shot them a text saying she was out drinking. She hoped the vagueness of that statement would make them interpret it to be celebratory drinking, rather than pity drinking, but all she got back was a "be safe!" and a "let us know when you're on your way back!" She felt sad about that.Because in all honesty, who was she fooling?She set out to do solo work but ended up at a jazz brunch gig, which couldn't be further from the type of music or setting she wanted to play for. She kept insisting she was a drummer but each attempt Callum mentioned anything remotely related to music or or drumming she just didn't want to talk about it. Here was this young man who had a whole air about him that screamed confidence and togetherness and she had the audacity to tease him.She was lame. She wasn't a drummer, she was barely a musician. She should've just packed her bags and gone back to her uncles, begging them to take her. Just… swallow all that pride and accept whatever judgements they had so long as they let her in. Money was money, after all.But that made her frown."Money's always money, but it doesn't mean how it's earned has no value either."He… He had a point there. What he was doing here in Katolis? That was honest work. What her uncles do for a living? That was honest work too. Her pursuing her solo starting career? It was honest. But now she confounded herself with playing jazz. How had she fallen so off the mark?She sipped on her beer with a pout, eyes lingering on Callum as he exchanged cash for some change, pocketing the bills in his register. His smile was so genuine. Rayla had worked for plenty of establishments with that patented "service with a smile," and she while respected and understood that technique, this was different. Sure, she had seen employees who'd perform that smile with sincerity but Callum's was different. He was different.He really loved what he did for a living, didn't he?Rayla smiled at that thought. She loved what she did for a living too… or at least, she believed she did. Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was because she was still depressed about her terrible morning, but Rayla… she wasn't too confident in her job at the moment. Not in the way Callum was about his.She sighed, wishing for that type of excitement for herself. And then she raised her hand, garnering the bartender of the hour's attention. "Hit me with a glass of vodka on the rocks!"And then the real night began.
[12 AM]
Callum was worried.Throughout the entire night, Rayla seemed like a reserved sort. She obviously had a bad day and talking it out over a glass of scotch clearly was the way to get her to vent at the time. But something must've happened in the last hour or so because when she decided to spice things up with a glass of vodka, he knew despite her Scottish descent, she was going to be drunk.She was getting more rowdy, not to the point she was bothering or berating other patrons, but to the point she was just incessantly wanting for his attention. It was like she was an infant, squeeing and giggling each time he came by to say hi or check up on her, but pouting like a baby each time he left. As they neared closing time, he grew more and more worried as at how she behaved.She was just tapping her fingers against the counter, like a toddler with no toy or direction, and aimlessly rotating her head around. He did notice a handful of men (and a couple ladies) eyeing her up quite interestedly throughout the night—which wasn't a completely unfair observation on their part. Rayla was a cute and beautiful young woman after all. But it was this behavior that effectively shut off all interest and made his customers avoid her like the plague. He was about to congratulate her, assuming it was purposeful, but one second into their conversation he immediately knew this act was just drunk fueled.Callum sighed, knowing what he had to prep his staff for. He cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted, "Last call!" His proximity to Rayla startled her, making her shush him like a librarian. "Last call for drinks! Bar closes at one!"Soren thankfully stepped up, prepared to take anyone rushing to the bar. Callum slumped down and looked at Rayla. "Are you good?"She winked. "I know I am, but what are ya?" she giggled.He sighed. "Okay, you are wasted, good to know." He motioned her to sit down. "Stay put, I'll be back." Thankfully, not many came by to buy or collect on last minute drinks. Majority of the people who had come came to close their tabs. Rayla still sat in her spot, or rather… slumped. Her face was now buried in her arms as she rested them on the counter. He walked over and poked her arm. "Heeey? Rayla? You in there?""Rayla not home," she muttered into her arm, "leave a message."He blinked. "You… you're supposed to beep.""Boop," she sung.He chuckled. "Well, Rayla, Callum has returned to let you know it's last call so…""I know!" she shot her head up. His eyes widened as he realized she had cried into her arms, as her eyes were red and puffy. "Ya were sooo loud! Like, louder than my drums loud!" She hiccuped. "Ya know… my drummin' can be loud and nice, or well paced and rhythmic, but it doesn't matter when no one wants ya!" she sniffled.Callum winced at the sight. "Alright, I'm cutting you off," he sighed, taking her glass away from her.She gasped. "Nuh, uh, uh! Izz last call! Ya said!" she held her hands out and opened her palms. "Gimme. I want my vod… ka rockseses."He turned around and grabbed a new glass, filling it with water before returning it. "Here you go!"She grinned. "Aye! Now lemme show ya numpties how to… drank!" She chugged her water, nearly finishing it half way before gasping in delight. She slammed her fist against the counter and shouted. "Hiccups gone!" All the drunk patrons in Katolis cheered for her, raising their glasses while she returned the gesture. "To hiccups!""To hiccups!" they cheered."Yeah!" she turned back to Callum, smiling. "I love Dreamworks!"He blinked. "What?""What?" she dazedly echoed. "Yeah, that's what I thought!"Callum just chuckled. "Alright… you just keep drinking and we can talk again when you've calmed down a bit."She nodded "Roger dodger, lodger." She shot him a two fingered salute.Callum mirrored the gesture, ready to take off until—"Ya ever just… not think bartending's not for ya?" He stopped and turned, frowning at how she slumped her face against her palm. "Like… ya have your own dreams and wishes and even though it's similar to others, ya still… wa-wanna make it your own? But doing that just… leads to shite that seems so unneccsary and… uselessless… less, 'cause like, the others who're livin' the similar lifestyle are sayin' ya can join 'em? But ya just… don't?"He leaned close. "Rayla, are you talking about drumming?"She shrugged. "Maybe is, maybe yesn't," she smirked at him, "who body knows?"He wanted to laugh, but her small little monologue was still etched into his brain. "I think this should be a conversation for when you've got a bit more water in your system."She snorted. "Good luck with that! I'm on my million-hundredth shot!" she held her empty glass out to him, "Can ya refill please?" He blankly took the drink and refilled it with water, this time not even hiding it from her. But she still swiped it and drank like it was vodka. "Ha, hah! Tricked ya!"Callum smiled at her. "Yes, yes, you got me.""Hell yeah I did!"And then that became the rest of the night.Rayla drank a couple more glasses, making trips to and from the washroom while Callum waited. He was sure she threw up during one of those trips. But as patrons made their way in and out, Rayla had returned from her third trip. Her face was redder than usual, and it had gotten considerably red because of all the drinking. She averted his eyes as she sat back down at her seat, grabbing her nearly finished glass and sipping it.He tilted his head. "You okay?""Aye, I'm fine," she asserted.He nodded rapidly." Okay! If you say so!""I do say so…" she grumbled, crossing her arms. "I also say…"
[1 AM]
"…that was the most embarrassing thing I've ever done."His eyes widened. "Wow, you sure sobered up quick!" He laughed, taking her empty glass of water from her.She sighed, shaking her head. "I have a pretty high tolerance and recovery. But shite do I remember how much of a blether I was. What the Hell was I even talkin' 'bout!"Callum snorted, shrugging. "Beats me."She facepalmed, groaning into her hands in embarrassment and frustration. He was being kind. She knew she said more than that. She was going on a lot of tangents, but her job? She was on a near rant about that one. Maybe he was sparing her, or himself from the embarrassment. She just meet this guy a few hours ago and while they were more lax and casual at the start, she just basically barred her soul and insecurities out of nowhere.Though, that did make her wonder… "Have ya… had a lot of customers who've had outbursts like that?" she hopefully asked.He turned and raised a brow. "Umm, I'd say it wouldn't be a regular work week without one of those." he teased.At that point, customers had begun leaving their seats and tables, hailing bussers to pay off their tabs or heading directly to the counter themselves. Soren seemed to be manning it well and so Callum turned to Rayla. "Not to put a further damper on things but—""I know, I know," Rayla muttered, already digging into her pocket for her wallet, "my tab. I'm payin' with credit."The transaction out of the way, the staff began making their rounds to clean everything. Callum leaned over and tapped the counter, gathering her attention. "It's okay, stick around. I'm closing anyways and I could use the company."Rayla shrugged. "Not like I had anythin' better to do," she muttered."That's the spirit!" he cheered, before turning to his staff. "Everyone else, clock out! Get out! Go head on home!" he waved them off. "I'll handle closing, it's fine!" There was reluctance across all their faces, and Rayla took that to speak volumes about the kind of boss Callum was, but they were still making moves to leave. But they eventually did. "Take care Soren, say hi to Clauds for me! Oh, Corvus, thanks for taking today's shift, really appreciate it! Ah, Marcos, great bussing, keep it up!"Sure, it all sounded cheesy.But each departure, each wave, each smile—Callum looked like he had a profound impact on these people. Rayla frowned at that. She wanted her performances to have the same kind of feeling.It was when they were finally alone, and that Callum walked around, wiping tables, that he suddenly said, "I've thought about it before." She turned around and stared at him, confused. "Bartending? How it's not for me?" He chuckled, shaking his head. "Yeah… it was hard finding my own pace and rhythm."Ralya smirked. "I dunno. I kinda like the pace ya got going on.""Thanks," he smiled, "I worked hard to find it."She frowned at him as he turned the stools up and onto the table he just finished wiping, then moved onto the next. "Ya want me to help? I can wipe a pretty mean table."He snorted. "What's that supposed to mean?""Ugh, ya know what that means just, ya want my help or not?"Callum laughed. "If you can reach the spare towel behind the counter without going over, then by all means!" he shouted. "But I can see why you don't consider yourself a lyricist."She gasped. "Rude!" She then leaned over and swiped a towel for herself, moving over to the far end of the bar. She began wiping as she asked, "Jokes aside… how'd ya get through it?"Callum chuckled. "I technically didn't?""What?""I mean, what you're talking about is a block, right? A creative one?" he turned to her as he flipped his stools. "It happens. It's life. It's… human?"Rayla scrunched her face. "I know that!" She sighed. "But that's not the point."He titled his head, now moving to the booths. "Then what is?"She scowled, flipping her stools over and placing them on the table, mirroring Callum's style. "My uncles, Runaan and Ethari, are some pretty damn good musicians," explained, moving onto the next table. "Runaan makes the music and Ethari helps produce it. But, they also collab in singing as a duet.""Do you sing?""Ya could never get enough alcohol in me to sing for anyone," she seriously said."Whoa, not even for birthdays?""Ya're talking to someone who's managed to say happy birthday in perfect, harmonious monotone," she proudly stated.Callum laughed. "Aww, how sweet?"She beamed at him and then turned back to finish her table, now moving onto the booths. "Anyways, they're the ones that got me into music. They shaped well… me. My whole sound and style, started with them. But… I knew it wouldn't end with them," said as she continued cleaning."So you set off on your own first, to prove something or to find your own sound first?" he asked, moving onto the next booth.She shrugged. "Aye, it was probably both.""Fair enough," Callum admitted.She whipped around and stared. "Really? Ya think so?"He nodded. "I mean, it's a form of grooming slash nurture. They helped raise you and you appropriated their interests," he shrugged, "but that's not always one-to-one, because growth. And so it makes sense that when you grew up you'd want to affirm things for yourself.""Did ya ever do that with ya and your stepda?" she asked as she moved over.He fondly laughed. "A couple of times, after he stopped doing a lot of shifts with me." He sadly smiled. "At first I thought it was because he didn't like working with me. Then I thought it was because he wanted to overburden me with more of his workload. Eventually, I just talked it out and… it clicked."His hand brushed against something and when he looked up he froze as he realized she had caught up to him, and that they were cleaning the same table. She coughed, spurring him to retract his hand. "S-Sorry," Rayla sheepishly apologized."It's fine," he pointed at the counter, "I'll just finish over there…"She nodded silently, continuing her wiping. "But ya were sayin'?""It clicked. That was all," he said softly. "I realized I was more than what my father made of me and what I thought he made of me. It also helped that I was a lot better at mixing drinks than him." She snorted. "You laugh, but it's true! A lot of customers stopped coming nights he was working and started hoping I'd be there too!"Rayla smiled. "That's honestly such a flex, that must feel great." She pulled her towler away and walked over to the bar. "I could never know what that must feel like.""To be better than your mentors?""To be better, period."
[2 AM]
She sat at the stools, waiting as Callum washed the dishes. "What made your da want to own a bar?"Callum shrugged. "He had the same kind of ideals as me. Wanting to be involved in people's lives, helping and chatting, all that sort of stuff." He laughed. "He's actually not much of a drinker, but he recognized the effects alcohol has on others and respected that. So he fronted on that line of thinking to create a more lax, chill bar. Since I technically own it, I've been talking to him about livening it up a bit. Not too much that it loses its quaint charm, but enough to make it feel more…""Lively?" she guessed."Yeah," he chuckled.Rayla then recalled, "Ya mentioned your parents meeting through your da's work?"He nodded. "Yeah, something like that. She came to his bar one early evening and they just chatted. It was a quiet day too, not a lot of customers, and they just got to know each other."Rayla blinked. "Really? That's it?"Callum looked through his kitchen window to stare at Rayla. "Not every couple as an endearingly romantic meet cute. Sometimes it's just life, and people being people."Rayla chuckled. "Ugh, but that's so lame though!" she whined. "I could never imagine my partner being someone I just met casually. 'Cause then all my family would ask 'bout how we'd met and it'd be super lame…"Callum snickered. "Then I pity the poor fool who has to arrive atop a noble steed for your interest!" he teased, resuming his dish washing.She rolled her eyes. "Still, Katolis must've been such a big part of your guys' lives.""Still is," he mused. "Having your parents so intertwined with our passions is a bit of a doozy.""Aye, my parents are pretty supportive of my career." She sighed. "They funded my music college, they cheered for my graduation, and they went to nearly all my gigs. But… the good gigs stopped coming and a lot of the hype fell with it. They stopped makin' time for my gigs and started acting like I was out here performing for my hobbies."Runaan and Ethari took care of me a lot growing up, but they were the ones that really cemented my potential. I just…" She released another sigh. "I hid here because my stupid overconfiedece got the better of me and I told them all I caught a good gig today. And I knew my uncles would just pester me 'bout how it went and my parents would ask too and… I dunno, I'm tired.""Understandable," Callum agreed. "You lied and you feel guilty. Plus, you just helped me clean up a bar. That's plenty tiring already." She scoffed, fighting back her smile. "You say they're supportive, but are worried about their reactions to hearing your unfortunate performance?"It was shite. 'Unfortunate' implies bad luck, I just botched it.""I call it 'unfortunate' because it was unfortunate what happened to you. Even if you did make a mistake or something was your fault it's still unfortunate," Callum countered, effectively silencing the young woman. "If anything, from what I have on this imaginary paper before me, the facts are they've supported you for everything, but it's the real failures you haven't told them or talked to them about that makes you assume they're disappointed. But, is it really just you being afraid you're disappointing them?"Rayla clapped. "Wow Dr. Phil, ya're truly a Mage of insight," she said sardonically. "Of course I am afraid! I'd have wasted their money on complete shite at that point!"Callum shrugged. "That's always the case though, college tuition is insanely stupid," he bitterly addressed, "Don't think anyone should blame their kids for those situations when the prices themselves can only go up from here.""So what, I just suck and tell 'em to deal with it?""No, I think you should focus on the telling part first," he advised, shutting the sink off. After drying his hands, he walked back into the bar and toward the counter. "Maybe just talk it out?""And see if somethin' just… clicks?" she guessed, smiling a bit.He nodded, beaming back at her.
[3 AM]
Callum was tallying up and counting the money earned in the register. As he went over the money earned, Rayla silently knocked her knuckles against the counter. It was upon the third rap Callum knew it was a repetitive beat. He stopped his counting, knowing his photographic memory would recall his place, as he turned to Rayla. "You know what your problem is?" he asked as she yawned.She stopped tapping and looked at him, interest clearly piqued. "Aye, I'd love to hear another opinion.He chuckled. "I think it's your mindset." He crossed his arms. I think you don't have enough confidence in yourself."She furrowed a brow. "Whattya mean? Yes I do!""I mean, you talk about yourself and your skill like so half assed it's not even considered modest at this point." He laughed, noting her annoyance. "Seriously! You don't talk about drumming like it's something you do but rather something you play. As if, you're making light of what it means to you!Rayla rolled her eyes. "And how do ya know it means somethin' to me?""Aside from how much you've talked about it all night, and your incessant declaration for loving drums," he smugly quipped, "I really don't. But that's because you don't own up to this career of yours. Live it up!"She scoffed. "It's no that easy. It's not just a mindset thing.""Really?" Callum shook his head turning around and into the kitchen. He returned with one of his pots and placed it upside before Rayla. "Go ahead, use whatever—don't chip nothing! Just… make a beat up with whatever."Rayla gaped. "Whatever?""Yeah, go on. Original, a cover, who cares— do it!" he gestured.Rayla grabbed the pot and gave it a few test knocks, feeling out its sound and echo. She tilted it toward the edge of the counter a bit before exposing a quarter of it out to change the noise produced. She tapped on it thrice with her index finger, before tapping the side with her pinky twice. She then slid her right hand across the counter, creating a skidding sizzle like noise. She slid her hand back and forth before switching to her nails, sliding them back and forth every other interval. And to finish it off, she started tapping the heel of her boot against the stool at a consistent one second timing.She then started humming.And her voice fascinated Callum. Sure, it was one of those voices you could tell wasn't much of a singing voice, but he couldn't care less. Her hum, her beat, her smile as she closed her eyes. He couldn't help but smile at her. What a sight!This was the potential her uncles saw.This was the skill her parents funded to educate.And this was the young woman who couldn't see herself.He knew next to nothing about music, but she must've reached her own climax as she ramped up the pace and ended her song with a bam, flicking the pot to create a resounding echo as the last note. She opened her eyes and sheepishly smiled. "How was it?" she nervously asked.Callum smiled, bringing his hands together to applaud her. "Now that is a drummer. I know I don't know jack about music, but like you said, humans know how to recognize nice sounds and rhythms.' and trust me, I recognized it full force right here." He laughed in awe. "Rayla?"Her flushed cheeks burned at her name but she nodded. "Yeah?""I feel like so long as you walk and talk with confidence knowing you'll be able to make at least one pearson vibe with your beats, then you should ride that kind of confidence into your own performances too."She smiled. "I… I think I'll try…"
[4 AM]
"Hey, sorry again for makin' ya stay so late and everythin'."Callum laughed as he locked the doors shut and turned around, greeting her with a puff of cold air from his mouth. "Relax, I was planning on closing by myself anyways. It's the holidays." He gestured around them, as the snow fell around.Rayla grinned. "Suppose so." She tucked her hands into her jacket."So, what are you going to do?""Talk to my parents. To my uncles. Then? Then I'm gonna play some bloody music."Callum smiled. "Then I can't wait to hear it!" He held out his hand. "Here's an offer: I'll invest in getting some live entertainment set up in here," he pointed up toward his bar's sign, "if it means you'll play here for me."Her eyes widened. "Seriously?""Sure!""B-But ya haven't even heard me play on actual drums yet and—"Ah bup, bup, bup!" Callum brought his finger to her lips, shushing her. "What'd we say about confidence?"She blushed and for totally two different reasons. "I'll gladly accept," she replied, holding her hand out.Then they shook hands.Neither pulled away.In fact, they pulled closer.Rayla tugged on Callum's hand as she pointed upwards with her free hand. "I'm still sorta tipsy but uh… pretty sure that's a mistletoe."Callum looked up and laughed. "Ah, Clauds must've gotten around to setting that up!"She smiled. "So…""But it's not a mistletoe," he pointed out, holding a finger up, "It's a holly. A common misconception is the berries—hollies actually have red berries while mistletoe are white." He then looked down and was met with her blank stare. "O-Oh. B-But there can be exceptions—"Rayla leaned over and pecked his cheek, warming with a heat that could not compare to any amount of layers of clothing ever. "I guess if it's not the same then, not the same rules." She melodramatically sighed, before turning away and walking off. "Thanks for the drinks and the talk, Bartender Callum!"He stood there, frozen."Th-Thanks for drinking at Katolis!" he shouted back.For Rayla, she got further down the block and facepalmed. "Really? 'Bartender Callum'?"For Callum, he bonked his head against the door. "Really? 'Thanks for drinking'?"Nonetheless, the two started that morning with alcohol to get out of their system, and ideas to ponder for a long while.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Say What I'm Already Thinking
They kiss and get together.The End.
----- CHAPTER BREAK -----
Social Convention
If Callum wasn't a party animal back in early Summer, he certainly wasn't one now in mid January. It was the same venue, some frat house on campus he could never bother to remember because he didn't really pay much attention to things like these in Katolis College. This time, it was a celebratory party for the season finale or whatever that their football team won. Callum hadn't been to that game because he was in a "zone" with his recent projects and wanted them done in time to submit for the next art showcasing.Rayla didn't mind, of course—in fact she had pushed him to stay in his studio and work on his project instead of even thinking about coming to the game. But the antithesis to his behaviour resulted in his resident nuisances: Claudia and Soren, taking action. They both decided the artist had to "make it up" to Rayla and also accused him of not being supportive as he didn't show up for even Soren. It was a pathetic guilt trip attempt and Callum wouldn't have taken the bait.But then he heard from Rayla that she was getting dragged into this as well—much to her equal displeasure—and she had begged him to come. Rayla had a plethora of readings to catch up on in her classes and wanted to work on them immediately. But of course, the resident nuisances pleaded that she deserved a break before getting on the grind and when that didn't work they promised to not bother her or Callum if she showed up to the party.And that was how he ended up at the party.Stood off to the side of the food table with a cup of punch in one hand, and Rayla standing to his left. He was honestly surprised the second they arrived she hadn't left him to greet her team or anyone who had thrown her a wave. She simply stuck by his side and led him over to the food table, declaring it a nice spot to chill. But still…"You know you don't have to stick with me, right?" he suddenly spoke.She raised a brow at him as she took a sip of her drink, a cup of punch with just a dash of tequila. "Aye, but I want to?" she easily responded.Callum chuckled. "Okay but don't blame me when your fans accuse you of being negligent," he said with a feigned sad shrug.She snorted. "Speak for yourself, 'lone artist,'" she teased, "Pretty sure ya'd have a following of your own if ya bothered to show for more of your showcases." She nudged his elbow with hers.He rolled his eyes. "Man, I have been going to them!" he exasperatedly whined. "You will always hold this over me, huh?""Sorry," she said, not looking sorry at all. "But staying barely an hour hardly counts." He sighed in annoyance. "Cal, it just blows my mind ya're practically famous in the whole art scene on campus but no one knows it's bloody ya!""Hey," he smiled, gesturing between themselves, "Contrast, right?"She quirked a brow at that before laughing. "Right, right," she giggled. "Basically art in of itself." She raised her right hand, shaking her cup toward Callum, and he laughed as he toasted with her, letting the clink of their plastic cups fill the air in the drowned out music.A comfortable silence hung in the air after that. That was how it always was with him and Rayla. It was funny to think they had met at a party like this, months ago, and were now sharing a moment. He had definitely pegged her wrong at first glance—actually, upon first impression too. Rayla wasn't at all what he thought she'd be. He did suppose if there was ever a highlight to Claudia and Soren forcefully dragging him to that party, it would be the fact that they met.And for what all that introspection was worth, he knew the feelings were reciprocated on Rayla's end too. It was the same reason why he believed her at her word when she said she wanted to stay with him. That, and also because he knew her too. Despite what many thought about Katolis' football star, she was quite an ambiverted person. Rayla did have good social skills, as evidenced by how well she got along his parents, and she wasn't shy of making that known. But she was also a bit reserved in the company she kept. That was something Callum realized after hanging out with Rayla a couple of weeks.She didn't have any other friends.A fact he had mercilessly teased her about every so often. For someone who carried themselves with a lot of confidence and sociable personality, she didn't really have anyone else to hang out with. Though Callum did understand transferring from Scotland to the states didn't exactly lend itself to making fast and long friends. Which was a shame, because he thought Rayla was a fun person to be around!"Actually, I didn't have many friends back home either," she randomly elaborated as she helped herself to another cup of punch. She was really working through it.Callum raised a brow. "Seriously? Star football player—you?" he gestured his half empty cup at her.She rolled her eyes. "Being a high school jock star was more alienatin' than ya think." She shrugged before taking a sip. "I think a lot of kids wanted to play up the clique of hangin' with the jock crowd but they weren't really my scene.""Sorta like now, right?" Callum wagered, waving an aimless hand toward the partygoers around them. "You respect the team on the field but that's all it is?"Rayla grinned as held her cup out toward him. "Ya know me so well.""Likewise." He returned the gesture, clicking their plastic cups and holding it there for a moment. The smiles they had on each other's faces were reflex at this point, as was the way they knew each other. Callum understood Rayla's true life was in the literary and philosophy halls of academics. With that, he could guess being a teen jock trying to engage in book discussion wasn't a well received topic from her high school peers."I'm honestly not sure if I'd trade my high school social life for your entrapment with Claudia and Soren," she mused with an impish grin.Callum snorted. "I'm biased, but I think you had it easier.""Ah yes," Rayla dryly remarked, "how dare they drag ya off to parties where ya mean your future best friend!""Well, jury's still out on whether that has good results."She gaped at his smug smirk, lightly slapping his arm, careful not to spill his drink. "Arse," she shot back. The two shared a laugh. "But do ya 'member how ya were when we met? Ya were soooo awkward back then.""Pfft, like you weren't trying too hard. I could say you also got a bit shyer over time," he retorted. It was true in actuality. A bit of a timid, more soft side of Rayla came out more notably over their time together."Maybe 'cause ya're the only one that sees that," she replied.Callum chuckled. "Then I guess I'm pretty lucky, huh?"Any quippy response Rayla would've had fell short as someone suddenly cleared their throat, garnering their attention toward in front of them.A young brown woman, who looked not too far in age from them, with a thin shy frame was suddenly standing before them. They had red hair, styled into short dreadlocks with a nice fade and some small round glasses. They had hands folded nervously in front of them as their fingers fidgeted with the hem of their maroon cardigan. Callum exchanged a confused glance with Rayla, expecting this person to know her, but upon her confusion he wagered they were just a fan."Can I help ya?" Rayla inquired politely.They shook their head. "I-I… my name's Kazi, and well, I'm in your Philosophy class?"At that, Rayla's brows lifted. "Professor Lujanne?" she clarified."Her nine AM classes," Kazi added, pushing their glasses up.Her eyes widened with realization. "Ah yeah! Ya're the lass who's always askin' questions and stuff. Man, ya always manage to generate such an interesting tangent for Lujanne to off on." Callum looked back and noticed her fellow peer seemed flushed by the attention. "Well," the football star chuckled, "ya're not here for lecture notes are ya? 'Cause I'm 'fraid I don't bring school work with me so social events." She snorted as she leaned over and jerked her thumb over to Callum. "That's this nerd's job."He scoffed. "Really? You once brought your homework to your locker room," he teased.She managed to school her embarrassment with a laugh, turning back to Kazi as they no doubt had an actual objective for being here. They laughed too, more awkwardly than Callum and Rayla, but Callum didn't think much of itl. "I-I was kind of wondering… I mean, we could talk about class if you'd like?" Their fidgeting with their fingers increased as they shrugged. "I've always enjoyed hearing your points whenever you and Lujanne get into discussions too. They're kind of my highlights of that class."Callum couldn't help but giggle at the way Rayla's cheeks flushed. "A-Ah, well, I guess ya can say I'm a bit passionate 'bout the subject…" she proceeded to rub the back of her neck as she shrugged. "What'd ya wanna talk 'bout?" Her eyes suddenly widened as she looked to Callum. "Ah, if ya don't mind me rambling—""Ray," he smirked, shaking his head, "I've been subjected to your rants as much as you have with me. It's all good." He nodded his head over toward the bathroom. "'Sides, I'm gonna hit the little artists room. So don't wait up." He held out his drink, prompting her to take it into her left hand, and began to walk off as he said, "Please, do go on!""Ya're missin' out!" she shouted over the crowd as he merged within.He shook his head good naturedly as he waded through and made his way over to the bathroom. It wasn't much of a hassle to navigate the rowdy partygoers, but he wasn't a fan of the whiffs of alcohol and screaming going off in his ears as he passed through. He quickly sorted himself into the bathroom, and took care of his business. He hated public washrooms, but bathrooms at parties could be just as worse given the atmosphere. Taking a leak in an alcohol stinking bathroom wasn't a particular highlight of the night, but parties rarely had any in his experience.After washing his hands and a few splashes of water against his face to wake himself up, Callum returned to the party scene with a smile. And then he caught her.Rayla was now leaning up against the wall, laughing and smiling as Kazi talked to her. He couldn't hear anything obviously, but the way Kazi's lips moved, he got the sense they were rambling but Rayla seemed all for it. He smiled from across the room. Seeing the look on Rayla's face at the sight of someone genuinely being interested in talking about schoolwork was priceless. He'd heard time and time again how growing up around the jock scene made it hard to really connect academically, so he was glad she had a moment to nerd out. But it was adorable seeing the excitement vibrate off her."Uh-oh," Claudia's voice appeared, in typical sing-song. "Is somebody a little jealous?"He blinked at her, confused. "Uhh? What?"Her tipsy state—smiles and doughy eyes—vanished instantly at his question. "Really? You know who she's talking to, right?" Callum continued to blink. She sighed, rolling her eyes in annoyance. "That's Kazi Suns. They're like, one of the best tutors in the whole Philosophy department. I hear profs love having them in their classes for all the discussion portions. Really livens up the classroom."Callum snorted at that as he glanced back at the two conversing then to his longtime friend. "Prof's have favourite students?""Wouldn't call them a fave," she argued, "but definitely a presence most enjoy. The nerd ratings of them is adorkably high.""Sounds like a crush to me," he teased, elbowing her playfully. "Seems Rayla is chummy with them. Want me to ask her to put in a good word for you?" He waggled his eyebrows suggestively.Claudia stared back with a blank face. "Me?" she dryly remarked. "You're joking right?"Callum tilted his head. "Uhh, yes? That is what teasing is, am I wrong?"She rolled her eyes as she released a loud groan, then muttering something under her breath along the lines of, "So stupid." She palmed her face before turning back to him. "Kazi's obviously flirting with Rayla," she stated, gesturing toward the two.He blinked at that, baffled by the random claim. Sparing another glance, Callum merely chuckled at the sight of the poor person trying to not seem flustered. "Weeeeell, I'd say they're barely able to hold a conversation." He chuckled softly as he rubbed the back of his head. "You sure they're well known for their 'lively' discussions?"Claudia snorted. "People can be shy too, Callum," she shot him a knowing smirk, "I mean, you knew all about that before Rayla came into your life."He awkwardly laughed at that. "Well, suppose I did! But hey, Rayla has her awkward moments too!"She cast a glance back at the two. "Well it certainly doesn't look like she's having them now." The teasing tone to her comment made Callum blink once again in confusion, he wasn't sure what was worth teasing in the current moment. She looked back at him with a smug smirk once more. "That doesn't bother you?""That Rayla's making friends?" he amusedly guessed. "No? Not at all?" He raised a brow as he asked, "Why would it?"Claudia frowned. "I wouldn't call what Kazi has in mind, 'making friends'," she dryly stated.At that, his raised brow remained. "And what would you call it? 'Making conversation'?""Are you being serious right now? Or are you just messing with me?""Clauds, I feel like you just accept at this point that no one ever understands what you're saying because not everybody speaks Claudia," Calllum exasperatedly pointed out. "Heck, not even Soren speaks Claudia, and he's known you all your life!"Her frown deepened as she scoffed. "Excuse me for trying to help you," she muttered as she walked away.He stared at her bewilderedly. "What does that mean!" he asked her."You're on your own, Callum!" she shouted over her shoulder, before merging with the partying crowd.He sighed as he shook his head, staring at where she had gone. Sometimes, Claudia could concoct the craziest ideas but other times, he felt like the verge of crazy was being mentioned but she was either not expressing it clearly or he just didn't understand. Tonight it was the latter. He wondered if even Soren had his moments where he wished he could speak some semblance of Claudia just to understand his younger sister if only for a second. Not even gibberish could compare to the way Claudia spoke sometimes."Callum?" an unfamiliar voice called out, startling him out of his thoughts. He turned around and was surprised to find a man seemingly the same age as him, around Soren's height with pointed black hair. He stared back at Callum with his light brown eyes, carrying a weight of curiosity and… nervousness? Callum wasn't sure what to make of the person standing before him, especially because he knew Callum's name and he didn't know his."Uhhh… do I, um, know you?" he awkwardly asked. He really hoped he didn't. Callum just… didn't pay attention to his peers in any of his classes. In fact, practically all his classes barely required him to do so! The most a professor ever asked of Callum to participate in any group work was when his drawing professor, Ibis, told his class to sketch three portraits of their seatmate in three different angles. But even then Callum forgot whoever it was he sketched. He remembered the sketch, just not the name.And while this young man before him didn't look familiar, Callum could vaguely recall that sketch he made looked nothing like him."N-No!" he hastily pointed out. "I doubt you would, I'm majoring in English and well, I figure you're in the Fine Arts so we wouldn't exactly cross paths." At Callum's nervous smile, the man held up his hands placatingly. "I-I'm not a stalker!" He palmed his face and groaned. "That sounded so bad…"Callum chuckled, offering the man a little help with the tension with some humour. "Lil' bit, yeah," he joked. "So, what is your name? If I don't already know you."He chuckled back. "Marcos."Callum blinked at that. "Marcos? As in, plural Marco?"The black haired man sighed. "Yup. My dad made a mistake on my birth certificate and when my mom noticed they kinda… liked it?" He shrugged with a laugh. "'Unique' as they put it."Callum snorted. "I'm sorry," he added, covering his mouth, "That's just… wow."Marcos nodded. "Yup." Shaking his head, he took a step forward and fidgeted with the pockets of his gray jeans. "Anyways, I-I heard that woman over there say, 'Callum' and saw you respond so I just thought I'd check—""Do you know me?" Callum asked, tilting his head curiously.Marcos blinked at him blankly. "Dude. Your art is like… on every art showcasing Katolis has."Callum flushed a bit at the obvious fact. But it grew when he realized the implication of the man's words. "Wait… you've been to all the art showcases?"He proudly puffed his chest as he smirked. "Well, not all, but enough. And definitely enough to get a look at your awesome work.""Thanks," Callum shyly shrugged, "Still not used to the attention. My friend's been trying to get me to show up more and stay longer for them.""I heard," Marcos chuckled, "Last time, I just got there and I heard from one of the volunteers that you came and left within the first hour."At that, Callum's embarrassment soared, causing him to tug at his scarf awkwardly. "I'm still getting better.""Hopefully I either get there on time next time around or you stick around a little longer." His smirk grew into something… mischievous? He shifted his foot and crossed his bulky arms across his chest as he said, "But you could maybe talk about your work now?"Callum's eyes widened. "Wait, really? Now?""I'm a big fan," Marcos replied with a sincere smile. "Like, you have no idea how much I love seeing your artwork. I was amazed when I saw it at the main lobby earlier this month, like, that's huge! Both the piece and your exposure!" He held up a high five, and Callum surprisingly found himself returning the gesture."Wow, I-I didn't think anyone other than my best friend would be a fan.""Are you kidding? You need to stick around those art showcases more, people can't stop talking about your stuff!" the man continued to gush.Callum grinned. "Thanks! I… I guess I'll try to?" He was surprised at how easy it was, to make conversation with someone aside from Rayla for a change. It felt… nice. "So, uh, how long have you been going to these? Or, um, been a fan?"Marcos sighed, as if out of nostalgia, as he looked to the ceiling with a small smile. "Dude, probably like," he looked back to Callum with a bigger smile, "Since the first one I went to? Back in my first year. I'm in my third year by the way." Callum's eyes widened. "Yeah, my prof for Arts and Fictions course wanted us to compare modern art to modern fiction and recommended our school's art showcases." He shook his head, smiling and laughing to himself. "I remember when I walked in and was way in over my head with all the shit was I was seeing. I saw your piece, the one with man with half his face cracked, and the other half inside, has—""A glimpse of his childhood," Callum knowingly finished, nodding."That's the one!" Marcos excitedly cheered. "I just remember looking at all those colours, the realism of it all, just thinking, 'Wow… I wanna write my paper on something like that.'" He clicked his teeth and shrugged. "I wanted to ask the artist if I could use their piece in my paper but—""He wasn't there," Callum pieced together, closing his eyes in minor frustration. "Yeah. I'm kinda getting that that's a bit of a disappointment.""Lil' bit," Marcos playfully winked.He sighed. "I-I will say, that was one of my first few pieces that went up in those galleries. I wasn't going near them anytime soon.""Well, I'm glad you're going to them now." Marcos nodded. "But, uh, I'd love if you could talk to me about some of them? I have my own guesses to their whole meanings and things, but I'm not as well versed as most are in 'art' so I'd appreciate a crash course?"Callum shrugged. "Eh, why not? Though, you sure you wanna do it here? It's kinda loud."Marcos shrugged back. "If it's not a problem with you, I don't mind. But I'm down to take this elsewhere if you'd like?"He shook his head at that. "Can't. Came with my friend and I'd hate to leave—""Say no more," Marcos waved his hands dismissively. "But before you blow me away with your amazing art knowledge, can I get you a drink?" he pointed over to the food table.Callum almost found himself saying yes, but mentioning Rayla a second earlier made him remember, "Ah, actually, my friend's been holding my drink for me." He cringed as he added, "I just realized, probably for a while now? You mind taking this conversation over with them?"Marcos' confident expression seemed to falter for a moment, but he still seemed all for it. "Lead the way!"With that encouragement, Callum led the man through the room and over to the food table. At his arrival, he noticed Rayla and Kazi seemed a lot chummier than before—Rayla was laughing at something Kazi had said, barely holding herself upright as she held her and Callum's drinks. He smiled as he said, "Uh-oh, hope I didn't miss out on too many Philosophy jokes."Rayla brightened at his return, shaking her head while chuckling. "Nah, Kazi was just tellin' me 'bout the time a prof of theirs just straight up abandoned the whole lecture 'cause they were getting too wrapped up in their discussion." Callum chuckled at that, smiling toward them, but their gaze seemed to avert his. "Oh, who's this?" she cocked her head, looking over his shoulder.Callum beamed at that as he gestured between Marcos and Rayla. "This is Marcos! He's apparently a big fan of my work—he's been going to the art showcases longer than you!" At that, Rayla gasped and raised her brows, clearly impressed by the statement. "He wanted to discuss my work with me since…" Callum awkwardly coughed, rubbing the back of his neck."Since ya're hardly ever there for them?" she deadpanned.He sighed, rolling his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, point's been made. Anyways, I just came to collect my drink." He held out his hand and Rayla handed over said drink with her right. "I would offer if you'd like to join, as I'm sure you'd love to praise me as well—""But of course," she teased, looking at Marcos, "Who else would do it if not for me? Ya know he's got some self-esteem issues? Guy can't take a compliment for the life of him!"Marcos chuckled at that. "So I've noticed. It's cute."Rayla grinned. "Aye, ya got that right!"Callum merely sipped his drink in sullen silence, now possibly regretting this introduction."A-Ah," Kazi spoke up, pushing up their glasses.They all turned to her. "Oh, snap, sorry, Kazi," Rayla seethed, "I'm down to still chat if ya are. Though I will say, Cal's art pieces are practically Philosophy discussions in and of itself! I've got some photos of them too if ya'd like references, it'll be a fun chat!""You know there's no photography allowed at those showcases, right?" Marcos pointed out. "Least not without consent from the artists or attendants."Rayla looked over at Marcos, amused, and looked to Callum. "The artist is my best friend! I was there when he made some of the things he's put up. My photos are the finished pieces right from his very studio!" she proudly stated, turning her chin up.Marcos seemed to blush at that, probably out of embarrassment but Callum couldn't tell why, especially since he glanced away and averted his eyes.Kazi shyly smiled. "U-Um. Th-That would be cool," they chimed in, "But, I was trying to warn you Callum."He blinked, caught off guard by the claim."That's not your drink," they pointed to his hand and continued to explain, "Rayla was holding your drink in her left hand."Callum looked at his drink, realizing his punch was a lot more full than before, then looked to Rayla, who must've made an observation that made her realize it wasn't her drink as well. She shrugged. "Eh, no big deal. Free refill, I guess?" she joked, eliciting a laugh from Callum, but a round of awkward chuckles from the other two. She took another sip of her cup before turning back and filling it again."I feel like I should cut you off," Callum mused, "You've been downing those like shots.""Oi, relax," she waved him off, "It's not spiked or anything. Claudia already tested it. 'Sides, even if it was, ya could stand to get drunk here and there."He rolled his eyes. "I think I'll stick to the high of paint fumes."She snorted. "Of course ya'd say that.""Wait… you guys just," Marcos vaguely gestured between their cups, "share drinks?" He exchanged a look with Kazi, who shared a look of discomfort.Rayla and Callum exchanged a look of confusion, unsure of the point. "Yeah?" they said together."Well, it wasn't really sharing this time," Callum pointed out."It was an accident," Rayla reasoned. "Though it's not much of a big deal. Just some backwash, no big." She shrugged. Though their two new companions seemed nonplussed about it, exchanging yet another glance. "Anyways, ya're a longtime Callumite, eh? What was the first piece ya saw?" she eagerly asked.Callum stared at her. "'Callumite'?""All the Callum fans call ourselves that, ya'd know if ya make a social account other than Tumblr." She shot him a smug look, then turned to Marcos. "Ain't that right, Marcos?"He blinked, obviously caught off, "Uhh I'm not sure? I didn't find his socials anywhere so I wouldn't know?"She sighed, clicking her teeth. "Ya had one job," she wistfully muttered. Callum laughed while she lifted her head and smiled up at Marcos. "Anyways, what was the first piece—""Oh! It was the Two Faced Past," Callum told her.Her eyes lit up before looking back to Marcos. "Oooh, that's a good one!" She turned to Kazi as she dug for her phone, no doubt fishing for the photo. "Ya'll love this one, Kazi, it's a real beautiful and subtle piece!"Marcos tilted his head. "So when did you start going to the showcases?""Only halfway through her second year," Callum answered. He leaned forward and playfully elbowed Marcos—but wow was there some muscle—and added, "Looks like you've got fan seniority on her."He chuckled at that while Rayla snorted, now showing Kazi the photo. "I bet ya've got a lot of fans with more seniority than me if ya just—""Okay, okay! I'll stay longer!" he conceded, holding up his hand placatingly. "I'll actually stay and chat too." At her smug smile, he jokingly tacked on, "You can even hold my hand through it if I need you to.""Pfft, like ya already don't need me to do that anyways." She turned back to Kazi and smiled. "It's good, eh?"Kazi nodded rapidly, before pulling their head back from Rayla's phone. They looked to Callum with a smile. "You are a wonderful artist."He felt himself flush once again as nearly moved to rub the back of his neck, but Rayla stepped back and slapped his hand, narrowing her eyes at him. "Just say thanks and take the compliment, No added anythin'."He shrunk under the call put—something Marcos found funny—and nodded his resignation. "Thank you, Kazi," he replied to them, "it means a lot to hear that."Rayla whistled, wearing a teasing smirk as she said, "And he even ad libs! There's hope for ya yet!" That managed to erupt a whole round of laughter from the group, something Callum was grateful to hear.It was strange.Earlier, Kazi seemed fine with Rayla from the brief moment they interacted, aside from the shyness. And Marcos seemed a lot more confident and talkative when he was conversing with him a couple minutes prior. But all of sudden it felt like him and Rayla were leading the conversation and they thought became very apparent to the two of them. It started with Callum asking about the two's majors, what made them interested in it."I-I like Philosophical discussions. Loved them in high school.""Hey, Rayla did too!""I-I see."For Marcos, he replied, "I've always been into literature as a kid. Novels are like, my favourite pastimes, so… any excuse to learn more while also still reading is nice.""My dude," Rayla raised a fist out, "I totally relate."He looked as though he considered the fist bump for a second before granting it, still politely smiling all the while.Then Rayla tried to bridge the two into a theoretical discussion about one of his old pieces and their meanings. As she had both Philosophy and English classes, Rayla stood at a footing to lead more in the conversation. Yet Kazi spoke up more whenever they could tack onto Rayla's point, while Marco would commit to simple one note answers."I truly do think the artist is trying to express the importance of a spotlight devoid of any attention, can also be as alienating," Kazi said, adjusting their glasses as they looked at the photo in Rayla's phone. It was the one with silhouettes that she liked so much.She snorted. "The 'artist' is right here," she nodded her head over to him, "Ya don't have to refer to him like that." Kazi flushed a bit as they nodded, visibly taking Rayla's advice under consideration."Well, what did you mean, Callum?" Marcos chimed in, looking at him attentively. His guess centred around appreciation to the everyday that people tend to ignore.The eyes falling back on him was a bit uncomfortable—almost as much as having the three talk about his work in front of him. "Uhh, Rayla knocked it out of the park with her whole comment on society's way of idolizing cultural figureheads because of their platforms." He noticed the collective brief disappointment across both their faces and quickly added, "B-But art can be subjective, and whatever resonates with you o-or however it makes you feel is your experience!"Marcos smiled at that, but Kazi still seemed to sulk even after their attempted smile.It was at this point Callum started to feel a strange pressure with their conversations. And he gathered Rayla did too, by her occasional glances and thin lipped smiles. Did the two of them not like the other? Or were they not interested in the conversation topics? It was these thoughts that made Callum feel even more awkward than before.But then, Marcos was the first to change the topic for once. "So how did you two meet?"They both exchanged a confused look, no doubt because of the sudden topic change, then shrugged. "At a party like this, actually!" Rayla cheerfully stated. She leaned over to Callum and playfully elbowed his arm. "Caught this one just as he was 'bout to leave—""And I've been paying the mistake of never being fast enough ever at ditching ever since," he sarcastically complained."Hey, if it hadn't been for me ya'd have never gotten out of that artist block of yours!" She quickly thumbed her phone for the photo and turned back to Kazi and Marcos. "I was the one who gave him the inspiration for this painting, ya know?"Marcos' eyes widened along with Kazi."And she's continued to become an inspiration everyday since," Callum tacked on, smiling proudly.Rayla's cheeks reddened just the tiniest shade before she laughed. "Ya admitted it, I'm your muse, no take backs!" she teased."C'mon, I hardly ever deny that," he remarked."I-I think I'm getting the hint now," Kazi randomly said, sheepishly adjusting their glasses.The two turned to them with questionable looks."What?" Callum asked."Whattya mean?" Rayla chimed in."Yeah," Marcos shot Kazi a knowing smile—but Callum also saw a semblance of… defeat in it? "I'm getting the picture too." He turned to Callum and shrugged. "Well, I hope we can still be friends? I'd still love to chat with you during one of your showcases."Was he… leaving?And what did the friend comment mean anyways?"Uh, yeah sure?" Callum fished for his phone. "Can I get your number in case? Ray and I will hit you up at the next showcase so we can check the gallery out!"Rayla nodded as she swiped the camera gallery away on her phone and opened her contacts. She held her phone out to Kazi. "And I'd love to have yours too. We can exchange notes—oh and maybe I can string ya along to the next gallery too!"Kazi softly chuckled as they nodded. "That would be great," they said as they accepted Rayla's phone and inputted their phone number, all while Callum and Marcos exchanged their contact information. And after that was done, the two cast their goodbyes and merged back into the party. When it became clear they weren't actually leaving the party, Rayla and Callum exchanged yet another look of confusion."So… that was weird right?" he asked her.Rayla scoffed. "Thank God, I thought I was the only one seeing… whatever that was. Ya don't think we bored them, do ya?"Callum shrugged. "They seemed interested? I dunno, it was very weird." He drank the last of his punch and smacked his lips, thinking the whole encounter over. "Maybe they just wanted to stop by for a bit but weren't planning on chatting with us the whole time?" he guessed. "I mean, I thought they were gonna leave just now but it didn't seem that way."Rayla shrugged back before downing her drink. "Well, I wager we should follow their example and actually cut," she shook her phone at him, revealing the time to be 11:44 PM. His eyes went wide as Rayla pocketed the phone and clicked her teeth. "Let's be glad I caught that sooner than later. Ya said ya wanted to be up early in time for tomorrow your folks, aye?""Yup. Well, early enough where I can go ahead of you," he explained as they began making their way toward the front door, "And I'm still not a fan of these one-on-one baking and cooking lessons my Mom's giving you. 'Cept for the baked sweets, please keep making those."She laughed, taking his empty cup out of his hand and throwing it along with hers in a nearby bin as they reached the foyer of the frat house. "Of course ya'd say that. And not for like, the fact that I don't have to resort to eatin' instant ramen or takeout food slop anymore.""Oh yeah! Nearly forgot all about that disgusting food habit of yours since you've been eating so regularly now!"She rolled her eyes as Callum pulled the door open and held it for her. "Ya're so undeserving of my food," she muttered as she walked out."But not your sweets from Scotland right? I know Ethari's been sending stuff specifically for me, you can't keep hiding them!""Callum, Rayla, wait!" the two turned back to find Claudia and Soren chasing after them. They both stepped outside, leaving the door open for them. Once they caught up, Claudia smiled at the two with her typical, "only Claudia knows why Claudia is smiling like this" grins. "Soooo, you two are leaving?"They exchanged another look, before nodding. "Was that not clear?" Rayla asked, gesturing around them."You, uh, leave with any extra… info," she raised her brows suggestively.Soren sighed. "Way to be subtle, Clauds."While Callum looked in confusion, Rayla asked, "How do ya know we have people's contact infos?"Soren chimed in, "We saw you talking—""Because I set you up!" Claudia interrupted, proudly puffing her chest.Her brother facepalmed, shaking his head."Set us… up?" Callum clarified."Yup!" Claudia nodded. "Sore-Bear and I were just hanging out on the quad, talking…" her eyes widened for a split second, "about you two. And then Marcos happened to be nearby when he heard your name!""One of our teammates, Corvus," Soren said to Rayla, "has an elective in Philosophy." He developed a smug smile as he added, "Apparently their tutor, Kazi, was veeerrry interested in getting to know you." He winked. "You're welcome."The two exchanged yet another look, before shrugging. "Thanks?" Rayla awkwardly supplied."Yeah, I guess having more friends is cool," Callum agreed, unsure what else to say."Wait, wait, wait, 'friends'?" Claudia hastily interjected, eyes wide with… anger? "Did you two just… friends… again—" she took a deep breath. "We set you guys up because since you've said numerous times that you're not dating—"Because we aren't," they said together, with deadpan."—we thought it'd be cool with you guys if we got you some dates!" Claudia continued, though her eye twitched at their interjection.Rayla gasped. "What, ya think we're just waitin' to be matchmade?""Also, why go through this whole process?" Callum asked. "Why not just say, "Hey, met these people who are interested in you. Here's their info?'"Claudia stared at him blankly as she shot back, "If I had, you two would've just ignored me and moved on!"He bit his lip as Rayla snorted. "She got us there," she conceded. "Well, hope your life savings weren't staked on that outcome, because we just exchanged info only to hang out again. We invited them to come with us to this one's next showcase," she shook Callum's shoulders with glee.He chuckled. "Stop calling them mine, it's the school's!""Eh, tomato, potato," she waved her hand dismissively."Wait, wait, were you two talking with them… together?" Claudia asked."Yeah?" Rayla looked to Soren. "I thought ya said you saw us talkin'—""Separately!" Claudia threw her hands up, clearly frustrated. "We saw you talking separately but we weren't watching you the entire time! When I looked and saw Callum and Marcos were gone I assumed you just went somewhere private with him.""I just took him to meet Rayla," he answered quietly, still very put off by Claudia's sudden loudness. "But hey, they didn't' even seem too bothered or too keen on asking us out anyways. I saw, like, no flirting.""Same," Rayla agreed.The siblings groaned, throwing their heads back. "Of course you two wouldn't see it," Soren muttered."Whatever. All I'm hearing is more reasons not to go to another party," Callum remarked as he turned around, making his way down the steps. "No more invites please!"The two clearly had more to object to, but Rayla outspoke them as she raced down the steps, shouting, "Wait, ya're gonna head back to your dorm?""I thought this was made clear from our prior conversation," he monotonously stated.She rolled her eyes. "It's late. And your dorm is on the other side of campus. Just stay at mine for the night, it's on the way." He heard Claudia gasp scandalously as Soren whistled. "Oh piss off, he's done it before," she shouted back at the two."What!" they exclaimed.Callum looked up at them with tired eyes, they were so shocked by everything now. "And she's done the same with me. Heck, even my mom knows this now. How are you two just finding out?"Claudia continued to stammer in shock as Soren gestured wildly at the two. "And… you two… are… still… huuuuh?" he shouted.Callum just shook his head and turned back to Rayla. "You just want to make sure I don't stay up late in my studio again," he shot back with a grin."Can ya blame me for having ulterior motives?" she replied, matching his smile,"You? Never." He held his hand out for her, and she accepted it easily, interlacing their fingers as they walked down the path. They heard another gasp from Claudia while Soren just cursed into the night, before they went back inside the frat house."What the Hell is with those two, I swear," his companion commented, shaking her head."Who knows, I doubt anyone understands why they are the way they are."Rayla snorted. "Yup, doubt it.""I wonder why Kazi and Marcos didn't even bother trying to ask us out though," he thoughtfully brought up. It was a curious thought. It didn't exactly explain why they were so awkward or… weird during their conversations earlier though."Hm, maybe they didn't want to ask us out with the other there?" Rayla guessed."But they seemed like they 'gave up' before we left," he pointed out. "I wonder if it was something we did?"She laughed. "Probably something ya did.""Oh, what like my personality isn't charming?"She continued to laugh as she said, "Ya said it, not me!"He laughed with her, shaking his head at her joke as they continued to walk back to Rayla's dorm in a comfortable silence, squeezing each other's hand in comfort all the while.