Running

You practically sprinted out of your room, your heart hammering against your ribs like a trapped bird. The transparent glass orb was heavy in your coat pocket, but the images inside it felt heavier. You needed to find her. Now.

Following the memory of the silver fountains from your vision, you cut through the ornate archways of the Markab quarters until the cold night air hit your face. The southern gardens were quiet, bathed in soft witch-light and the gentle splash of water against white stone.

And there she was.

Luhnasa was sitting on the edge of the fountain, her hands resting on the marble rim. Killandas stood right beside her, leaning down with that smooth, practiced posture, gesturing toward the stars as if he owned them. He was chuckling at something he’d just said, his plumed hat catching the faint breeze.

"Luhnasa," your voice broke through the quiet, sounding sharper than you intended.

She turned her head instantly. The second her eyes met yours, her entire demeanor shifted. Without a moment's hesitation, she stood up, brushing off her skirt, and stepped away from the monitor to walk toward you.

Killandas’ smile froze for a fraction of a second—a subtle crack in his perfect facade as he realized his moment had just been cut short.

"Warren!" she said, her voice warm and genuine. She wrapped her arms around your waist, pulling you into a quick, comforting hug. "Where have you been? I was looking for you earlier."

You looked past her shoulder at Killandas, who quickly recovered his composure, adjusting his cloak with an easygoing grin.

"Ah, the star student returns," Killandas said, nodding at you with that condescending warmth. "I was just keeping your charming girlfriend company while she admired the garden magic."

"Right. Thanks," you muttered, your fingers tightening slightly around Luhnasa's hand.

Luhnasa gave your hand a reassuring squeeze, but as she turned back to glance at Killandas to say goodnight, you caught the subtle look in her eyes. It wasn't confusion. It wasn't innocence.

She wasn't stupid. Luhnasa knew exactly why the most sought-after veteran in Markab had dedicated a song to her, invited her to dance, and walked her through the moonlit gardens. She knew he wanted her. But in her mind, as long as she didn't cross any physical lines and kept reminding him, and herself, that she had a boyfriend, there was no harm in letting the handsome, talented bard shower her with gifts, compliments, and social status. She was putting him on the back burner, playing dumb to keep the attention flowing.

"We should get some rest, Killandas," Luhnasa said smoothly, giving him a sweet, polite smile that promised absolutely nothing. "Warren and I have early classes tomorrow."

"Of course," Killandas replied, his eyes narrowing just a sliver before he gave a dramatic bow. "Until tomorrow, then. Sleep well, little bird."