Ancient earth

As soon as you’re out of earshot, Alex looks at you. “Like I said, nothing bad, just…something you should know. It’s about Amara. Something about elemental spirits is we can get a sense of each other when we’re near another spirit.”

You nod. “Are you saying something’s wrong?”

Alex shakes her head. “No, in fact, she seems great, for a boring earth spirit! No, I’m saying, she’s older and stronger than any spirit I’ve met.”

You think for a moment. “I’m assuming that’s not necessarily bad? Surely she knows you can sense that.”

Alex shrugs. “Of course. I just thought you should know what we’re getting into.”

You smile. “Fair enough. As long as she’s on our side, I think it’s fine. Her and Victor seem happy, so I’d rather not mess with that.”

Alex giggles. “More than happy! I’ve never seen an earth spirit so excited, normally it’s impossible to have a conversation with them.”

You chuckle. “I’m sure they’d say something similar about you, Alex.”

Alex pouts. “Aww, don’t take their side, you know you love it, my bondmate!”

You plant a kiss on her lips, and her grin returns. “Of course I do. Now, let’s see how these two are doing.”

Fortunately for Sarah and Melora, they’ve already awoken, sparing them a wake-up from an excitable fire spirit. They’re already breaking down the last of the camp when you arrive, and they both greet you with a smile. You do notice Melora moving rather stiffly, and Sarah yawning occasionally, but otherwise they seem happy. You help them pack everything up, and you’re rewarded with appreciative kisses from each. Alex, meanwhile, conveniently disappears as soon as there’s work to be done.

You walk back to the others, arms around both girls’ waists. They happily sway against you as they walk, and all three of you are smiling. Once you’re back at the fire, everyone introduces themselves to Amara, and she introduces herself as well. Knowing what Alex told you, you definitely note an air to her that you would describe as mature, almost motherly. You get the sense that she’s a caring person, but also fiercely protective of those she cares about. However, you also get the sense that she keeps herself in firm control most times, her outburst last night notwithstanding.

You feel like she’s appraising you as well, through the stories the girls are telling. She nods in approval at several points, though that’s all the feedback you see. Finally, though, she looks at you, and Ferra, who is at your side as usual.

“So, I hear great things about you, Nicholas. Both from the others, and from my love. But I would hear it straight from you. How did you come to arrive here? And what are your goals?”

You smile. “Those are long and complicated answers…”

She fixates you with a look. “I can be patient. Please, share your story.”