Separation anxiety

You head out the next day, planning to check in on Trevor as you pass by. Fortunately the two cities are close, which means you will get two nights in a bed before going back to camping out.

When you stop for lunch, Rachel comes and sits beside you. You chuckle at her choice of outfit for traveling, a light dress that emphasized her large chest. She blushes, and looks at you. “Look, I never planned to make this trip, I didn’t pack many clothes!”

You smile. “I know, but it’s fun to tease you sometimes. You’re usually so composed!”

Rachel smiles. “Age and experience, darling. But in a way, that brings up what I wanted to talk about. I know this will sound weird, but...I need to go back.”

She looks at you as if worried about your reaction. “With Trevor gone, I’m senior councilor, and someone needs to manage the AWIO. Plus, and let’s be honest, I’m dead weight on this mission you’re on. Just a non-combatant you need to protect.”

You sigh. “So are Lynn and Yura, though.”

She shakes her head. “They contribute in other ways, Lynn by enhancing magic and Yura with her seer abilities. I just read auras. I can be more useful back home, keeping an eye on things.”

You sigh. “I know it makes sense, I just hate to break the family up.”

Rachel smiles and puts a hand on your leg. “It’s not like this is a breakup, darling. It’s not even a ‘I need some space’ thing. To do what you’re trying to do means that sometimes resources need to be spread out. The girls talk, and we know that wether you like it or not, you’re building an empire with you as the leader. That means that at some point, someone like Clarissa or Kali might have to go be a general. Yura or Lynn might end up ambassadors or advisors. The group won’t always be together, except in our hearts. We love you, and we love each other. That’s the important thing.”

You chuckle. “Who would have thought that the blonde with big boobs would be the smart one here.”

Rachel punches your arm, laughing. “That’s right! And to soothe your worries, I don’t think anything short of armageddon could separate Anna and Maya from you.”

You laugh. “Yeah, and vice versa. Ok, Rachel. I promise to keep in touch while you’re gone somehow. Maybe there’s communication magic I can absorb somewhere.”

Rachel smiles. “Just be careful. Now that I’ve seen you fight I know how reckless you are. I don’t want to lose you.”

You nod. “I’ll be careful.”

She chuckles. “I’ve heard that before...”