Aisha, Vofric, and Sariel sat quietly at a table while listening to Kargon’s recollection of his time alone. Avant latched onto him and rested his large body against his master’s leg. As soon as they had met up, Taze left on another delivery. Villagers gave them space in a private room at the local tavern. The party had already filled in their missing ally about what they’d been up to. Granted they opted to leave out private matters. Thus their murmurs had gone silent as Kargon shared every detail of his training.
“We ended up in Shusyoun and stuck around for a day to help with a dead demon they were having issues moving. Then we drove around helping folks which ended up making us backtrack anytime there were more lightning strikes,” he explained. “I’ve been going all out every time we stop. I wanted to get back to searching for you. Luckily you found me!”
Sariel grunted. “It was difficult to miss your inferno. We were likely distant since none of us identified it sooner.”
“It wasn’t bright enough if you couldn’t see it from the sky,” Kargon said with a smirk. His draconic friend shared a similar expression.
“Do you not consider it odd that your father had an Artifact? Or that he readily gave it to you?”
“That’d be like me asking if you thought it was odd that your father spent centuries searching for you. And I don’t know what to think about Dad having these things,” Kargon continued, flicking the goggles around his neck. “What matters is that he willingly gave me something so powerful so I wouldn’t hold anyone back.”
Sariel snorted. “Understandable.”
“Kargon, I am impressed by your achievements. And we must discuss the fact you are in possession of an Artifact. But, firstly, I would like to inquire about something,” Vofric said. A smirk pulled at the corner of his lips and took all his focus to keep subdued. “What you said in order to unlock your full ignition. Am I correct-”
Aisha kicked the barrel the dwarf sat atop. Lack of footing spun it slightly and turned his smirking face towards her. An unmistakable blush covered the Hero’s face to her ears. She had latched onto the words spoken by her best friend. Their meaning could be anything. He was too stupid to realize his feelings. Vofric confirmed it. There was no reason to ask for clarification. Aisha’s eyes flitted about as she stared at the table and tried to deduce what to do. Out of habit, she ran a thumb and finger against her horns to focus.
“What’s on your mind?” Kargon asked reactively.
The Hero took notice of her unconscious action and placed her hand firmly on the table. A slow gaze forced her eyes to meet with her closest ally. It always struck Aisha that Kargon had clear, hazel eyes. They perfectly suited his watchful gaze.
“What did you mean when you referred to Aisha as ‘everything?’” Sariel asked directly.
Whatever emotions she felt regarding the situation were well hidden behind her straight face. It still drew Aisha’s blustered ire. She stared at the elf with mouth agape. No words came out of her mouth. While acting like they didn’t care, Sariel and Vofric were equally motivated for their young friends to express their feelings. The results were unknown but so was life. Living with any regret wasn’t worth it when it could be cut short at any moment. They stared intently at Kargon who turned his attention to the owlbear nuzzling his hand.
It wasn’t shame or embarrassment that turned the half-elf away. Rather he wasn’t sure what to say in such a situation. Obviously he thought more about the conversation he had with Master Avant. But he wasn’t sure his internal considerations mattered right now. The goal was to inform his allies as they had done for him. Then again, one of them was known for keeping secrets. The other would do so if requested. Obviously Avant couldn’t talk any more clearly than before. That left Aisha. If she wanted to keep a secret there had to be a good reason. Especially since it was being kept from her most trusted confidant. A soft trill snapped Kargon from his reverie. His hands had gone still and his pet required attention. The monk laughed softly and obliged. Though he didn’t look away, he was acutely aware of Aisha staring at him.
It dawned on the Hero that she was unprepared to face her old companion. Wrongful assumptions gave her the idea that nothing had changed between them. But regardless of Kargon’s words she had begun to see him differently. By ignoring the long past conversation by the river, she’d fooled herself into thinking it was avoidable. Seeing Kargon in the village square immediately completely shattered that idea. Even watching him battle quickened her heartbeat more than she’d ever admit. The moment he’d made his presence known, Aisha felt safe. Nothing would stand in the way of his protective instincts. And he all but admitted they felt similarly about each other.
Aisha let out a shaky breath and said his name.
“Kargon.”
It sounded no different than any other time his name was uttered. Except he recognized the faintest shiver in her voice. One that had disappeared by the time they became soldiers. It’s appearance signaled she was scared of something unknown. Something she couldn’t think her way out of alone. Kargon pulled his hands away from Avant and stared across the table at his dearest ally.
“What did you mean?” she asked.
Kargon stared intently at her quivering lips. They didn’t do that before. Or maybe they did. He’d never focused on them very much. That was all it took for his realization to click into place. Months of agonizing about what he’d said to Master Avant were solved within moments of drawing Aisha’s attention. He couldn’t help but laugh at himself.
“What?” the Hero asked incredulously.
“You’re the person I care for most,” Kargon answered with a chuckle. “I think that’s the best way I can word it right now. You know how bad I am at understanding myself.”
A flush of red engulfed his face. The others would assume he was igniting if they didn’t know better. There was no reason to hide the reaction. Any chance of keeping a secret went out the window when speaking with Aisha. And no one was more aware of Kargon’s inability to keep his mouth shut than her.
Wide eyes and a sharp inhale were Aisha’s only reaction. A similar shade of red encompassed her face as a sharp tone sounded in her ears. The words repeated endlessly in her head. Part of her was infuriated at how she reacted. It was unbecoming of the Hero. That’s what all her swordmasters said. But even she had to admit that never sat right with her. She couldn’t help the reaction elicited by the person across from her.
“Aisha, should we step out?” Vofric asked quietly.
“I think it would be prudent.” Sariel answered.
Avant walked under the table, within reach of the dumbstruck Hero. With a quick step he tackled her barrel. It was light enough not to knock her off but heavy enough to require her attention. But Aisha wasn’t distracted like Kargon. She was very aware of everything around her. So much so that she was cursing her natural instincts.
“It… wouldn’t be fair. For you to leave, I mean. This concerns our entire party,” Aisha stammered as the blush slowly faded. With her attention turned to Kargon, she asked, “What do we do about this?”
“Oh.” Kargon’s laugh quickly faded. “I guess it would be awkward. Right. I can leave if you want me to. I’d rather stick around and help with the quest though. After it’s done we can go our separate ways.”
Vofric’s eyes went wide as realization set in. A quick glance at Sariel revealed her interest as well. It wasn’t written on her face or stance since she was facing towards the dwarf. But her eyes darted towards Aisha awaiting her response. Avant bumped his head lightly against her hand that had slowed while listening to Kargon.
“No! That’s not what I mean! I mean what do we do about this!” she said defensively while waving a finger between the half-elves.
“What do you mean?” Kargon asked.
Vofric hummed. “My friend, when two people care for each other-”
Aisha stood up suddenly and slammed her armored hand on the table. “Vofric, you were right! Take Sariel and Avant and please step outside while we hash this out.”
“Was it so difficult to sit quietly without intervention?” Sariel grumbled as she stood up.
“Apologies, friend.” Vofric chuckled. “I was unable to stop myself.”
Avant growled and shook his head. The communication earned a pat on the head from Sariel.
“Busybody, indeed.”
They didn’t care that the conversation was overheard as they departed the room. With the door shut, Aisha finally sat down and let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. Raw emotions still overwhelmed her. She couldn’t help but laugh at the realization that the person causing her overactive nerves was also helping calm them.
“What’s wrong?” Kargon asked innocently.
“You know,” she replied.
“I really don’t. I mean, I know part of it. But you asked about what we’re going to do. Explain.”
Aisha sighed. “We have to finish the journey. I assume it's also your focus based on the training you put in. With the demon king’s castle and everything going on, we can’t turn our attention to this.”
Kargon raised an eyebrow. “This?”
“I’m…”
The word came out before Aisha could stop herself. Years of being stringent with her words easily unraveled near her best friend. Habits were hard to break and their question-response style of planning was proving a hurdle. The reason was obvious to her. Pushing against her emotions was hindering the path forward. A low groan escaped the Hero’s mouth then she looked at Kargon.
“I feel the same way about you that you feel about me,” Aisha said. “And I figure if we feel the same about each other then our relationship would change. I mean, that’s how Mom always described it.”
Kargon laughed softly. It was met by a furrowed brow from the Hero.
“Sorry. You used so many words when three would’ve been enough.” Kargon said. “But I think you’re wrong about something. We’re not your parents or mine. Whatever this is, we can figure it out slowly. Focusing on it doesn’t have to be considered at all until we’re done dealing with the demon king. I’m happy to just be by your side like I’ve always been.”
“You don’t want anything from me?” Aisha asked.
“Do you?”
Aisha caught herself again but didn’t hesitate.
“Your attention and care. Maybe a few words that go past just being friendly. If that makes sense. Kinda how Zigon talks to Velana,” she admitted.
It was impossible to hide the blush overtaking Kargon’s face. Part of him desperately wanted to inform her of how his parents spoke to each other when only the three of them were home. Or maybe she did know from the times she visited while the boy was studying under the monks. But he definitely couldn’t bring himself to openly speak that way. Regardless of how experienced he was with words.
“When we’re alone. I can promise that much,” Kargon said with a nod.
“What about when we’re with the others?” Aisha asked.
The man smiled. He’d never been courted but was sure this wasn’t the norm.
“I’ll treat you like I always have. The person I care for most in the world.”
This time the words carried more than a simple admittance. Respect, trust, and admiration were only some of the meanings both of them discerned. Even Kargon was aware there was more to be interpreted than he was capable of.
“I promise to do the same.” Aisha awkwardly repeated herself. “Is… there anything you want from me?”
“Say the words when you’re ready.” Kargon answered immediately.
The Hero nodded fervently. “I just hope the others won’t push too hard.”
“Vofric was trying to get you to express yourself with your own words. Since you have, I doubt he’ll meddle much more.” Kargon replied while shaking his head.
The door to the room creaked open and the dwarf poked his head in. “I missed your insight my friend.” He turned to Aisha and apologized, “Apologies for the heavy handed approach.”
“Though even I admit it was effective.” Sariel added.
“It’s fine,” Aisha replied with a shake of her head. “We’re done here anyway. Right?”
Kargon smirked as he rose from his seat and stepped to the side. With an exaggerated bow and wave he gestured to the door.
“Lead the way, Hero.”
Aisha, Vofric, and Sariel sat quietly at a table while listening to Kargon’s recollection of his time alone. Avant latched onto him and rested his large body against his master’s leg. As soon as they had met up, Taze left on another delivery. Villagers gave them space in a private room at the local tavern. The party had already filled in their missing ally about what they’d been up to. Granted they opted to leave out private matters. Thus their murmurs had gone silent as Kargon shared every detail of his training.
“We ended up in Shusyoun and stuck around for a day to help with a dead demon they were having issues moving. Then we drove around helping folks which ended up making us backtrack anytime there were more lightning strikes,” he explained. “I’ve been going all out every time we stop. I wanted to get back to searching for you. Luckily you found me!”
Sariel grunted. “It was difficult to miss your inferno. We were likely distant since none of us identified it sooner.”
“It wasn’t bright enough if you couldn’t see it from the sky,” Kargon said with a smirk. His draconic friend shared a similar expression.
“Do you not consider it odd that your father had an Artifact? Or that he readily gave it to you?”
“That’d be like me asking if you thought it was odd that your father spent centuries searching for you. And I don’t know what to think about Dad having these things,” Kargon continued, flicking the goggles around his neck. “What matters is that he willingly gave me something so powerful so I wouldn’t hold anyone back.”
Sariel snorted. “Understandable.”
“Kargon, I am impressed by your achievements. And we must discuss the fact you are in possession of an Artifact. But, firstly, I would like to inquire about something,” Vofric said. A smirk pulled at the corner of his lips and took all his focus to keep subdued. “What you said in order to unlock your full ignition. Am I correct-”
Aisha kicked the barrel the dwarf sat atop. Lack of footing spun it slightly and turned his smirking face towards her. An unmistakable blush covered the Hero’s face to her ears. She had latched onto the words spoken by her best friend. Their meaning could be anything. He was too stupid to realize his feelings. Vofric confirmed it. There was no reason to ask for clarification. Aisha’s eyes flitted about as she stared at the table and tried to deduce what to do. Out of habit, she ran a thumb and finger against her horns to focus.
“What’s on your mind?” Kargon asked reactively.
The Hero took notice of her unconscious action and placed her hand firmly on the table. A slow gaze forced her eyes to meet with her closest ally. It always struck Aisha that Kargon had clear, hazel eyes. They perfectly suited his watchful gaze.
“What did you mean when you referred to Aisha as ‘everything?’” Sariel asked directly.
Whatever emotions she felt regarding the situation were well hidden behind her straight face. It still drew Aisha’s blustered ire. She stared at the elf with mouth agape. No words came out of her mouth. While acting like they didn’t care, Sariel and Vofric were equally motivated for their young friends to express their feelings. The results were unknown but so was life. Living with any regret wasn’t worth it when it could be cut short at any moment. They stared intently at Kargon who turned his attention to the owlbear nuzzling his hand.
It wasn’t shame or embarrassment that turned the half-elf away. Rather he wasn’t sure what to say in such a situation. Obviously he thought more about the conversation he had with Master Avant. But he wasn’t sure his internal considerations mattered right now. The goal was to inform his allies as they had done for him. Then again, one of them was known for keeping secrets. The other would do so if requested. Obviously Avant couldn’t talk any more clearly than before. That left Aisha. If she wanted to keep a secret there had to be a good reason. Especially since it was being kept from her most trusted confidant. A soft trill snapped Kargon from his reverie. His hands had gone still and his pet required attention. The monk laughed softly and obliged. Though he didn’t look away, he was acutely aware of Aisha staring at him.
It dawned on the Hero that she was unprepared to face her old companion. Wrongful assumptions gave her the idea that nothing had changed between them. But regardless of Kargon’s words she had begun to see him differently. By ignoring the long past conversation by the river, she’d fooled herself into thinking it was avoidable. Seeing Kargon in the village square immediately completely shattered that idea. Even watching him battle quickened her heartbeat more than she’d ever admit. The moment he’d made his presence known, Aisha felt safe. Nothing would stand in the way of his protective instincts. And he all but admitted they felt similarly about each other.
Aisha let out a shaky breath and said his name.
“Kargon.”
It sounded no different than any other time his name was uttered. Except he recognized the faintest shiver in her voice. One that had disappeared by the time they became soldiers. It’s appearance signaled she was scared of something unknown. Something she couldn’t think her way out of alone. Kargon pulled his hands away from Avant and stared across the table at his dearest ally.
“What did you mean?” she asked.
Kargon stared intently at her quivering lips. They didn’t do that before. Or maybe they did. He’d never focused on them very much. That was all it took for his realization to click into place. Months of agonizing about what he’d said to Master Avant were solved within moments of drawing Aisha’s attention. He couldn’t help but laugh at himself.
“What?” the Hero asked incredulously.
“You’re the person I care for most,” Kargon answered with a chuckle. “I think that’s the best way I can word it right now. You know how bad I am at understanding myself.”
A flush of red engulfed his face. The others would assume he was igniting if they didn’t know better. There was no reason to hide the reaction. Any chance of keeping a secret went out the window when speaking with Aisha. And no one was more aware of Kargon’s inability to keep his mouth shut than her.
Wide eyes and a sharp inhale were Aisha’s only reaction. A similar shade of red encompassed her face as a sharp tone sounded in her ears. The words repeated endlessly in her head. Part of her was infuriated at how she reacted. It was unbecoming of the Hero. That’s what all her swordmasters said. But even she had to admit that never sat right with her. She couldn’t help the reaction elicited by the person across from her.
“Aisha, should we step out?” Vofric asked quietly.
“I think it would be prudent.” Sariel answered.
Avant walked under the table, within reach of the dumbstruck Hero. With a quick step he tackled her barrel. It was light enough not to knock her off but heavy enough to require her attention. But Aisha wasn’t distracted like Kargon. She was very aware of everything around her. So much so that she was cursing her natural instincts.
“It… wouldn’t be fair. For you to leave, I mean. This concerns our entire party,” Aisha stammered as the blush slowly faded. With her attention turned to Kargon, she asked, “What do we do about this?”
“Oh.” Kargon’s laugh quickly faded. “I guess it would be awkward. Right. I can leave if you want me to. I’d rather stick around and help with the quest though. After it’s done we can go our separate ways.”
Vofric’s eyes went wide as realization set in. A quick glance at Sariel revealed her interest as well. It wasn’t written on her face or stance since she was facing towards the dwarf. But her eyes darted towards Aisha awaiting her response. Avant bumped his head lightly against her hand that had slowed while listening to Kargon.
“No! That’s not what I mean! I mean what do we do about this!” she said defensively while waving a finger between the half-elves.
“What do you mean?” Kargon asked.
Vofric hummed. “My friend, when two people care for each other-”
Aisha stood up suddenly and slammed her armored hand on the table. “Vofric, you were right! Take Sariel and Avant and please step outside while we hash this out.”
“Was it so difficult to sit quietly without intervention?” Sariel grumbled as she stood up.
“Apologies, friend.” Vofric chuckled. “I was unable to stop myself.”
Avant growled and shook his head. The communication earned a pat on the head from Sariel.
“Busybody, indeed.”
They didn’t care that the conversation was overheard as they departed the room. With the door shut, Aisha finally sat down and let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. Raw emotions still overwhelmed her. She couldn’t help but laugh at the realization that the person causing her overactive nerves was also helping calm them.
“What’s wrong?” Kargon asked innocently.
“You know,” she replied.
“I really don’t. I mean, I know part of it. But you asked about what we’re going to do. Explain.”
Aisha sighed. “We have to finish the journey. I assume it's also your focus based on the training you put in. With the demon king’s castle and everything going on, we can’t turn our attention to this.”
Kargon raised an eyebrow. “This?”
“I’m…”
The word came out before Aisha could stop herself. Years of being stringent with her words easily unraveled near her best friend. Habits were hard to break and their question-response style of planning was proving a hurdle. The reason was obvious to her. Pushing against her emotions was hindering the path forward. A low groan escaped the Hero’s mouth then she looked at Kargon.
“I feel the same way about you that you feel about me,” Aisha said. “And I figure if we feel the same about each other then our relationship would change. I mean, that’s how Mom always described it.”
Kargon laughed softly. It was met by a furrowed brow from the Hero.
“Sorry. You used so many words when three would’ve been enough.” Kargon said. “But I think you’re wrong about something. We’re not your parents or mine. Whatever this is, we can figure it out slowly. Focusing on it doesn’t have to be considered at all until we’re done dealing with the demon king. I’m happy to just be by your side like I’ve always been.”
“You don’t want anything from me?” Aisha asked.
“Do you?”
Aisha caught herself again but didn’t hesitate.
“Your attention and care. Maybe a few words that go past just being friendly. If that makes sense. Kinda how Zigon talks to Velana,” she admitted.
It was impossible to hide the blush overtaking Kargon’s face. Part of him desperately wanted to inform her of how his parents spoke to each other when only the three of them were home. Or maybe she did know from the times she visited while the boy was studying under the monks. But he definitely couldn’t bring himself to openly speak that way. Regardless of how experienced he was with words.
“When we’re alone. I can promise that much,” Kargon said with a nod.
“What about when we’re with the others?” Aisha asked.
The man smiled. He’d never been courted but was sure this wasn’t the norm.
“I’ll treat you like I always have. The person I care for most in the world.”
This time the words carried more than a simple admittance. Respect, trust, and admiration were only some of the meanings both of them discerned. Even Kargon was aware there was more to be interpreted than he was capable of.
“I promise to do the same.” Aisha awkwardly repeated herself. “Is… there anything you want from me?”
“Say the words when you’re ready.” Kargon answered immediately.
The Hero nodded fervently. “I just hope the others won’t push too hard.”
“Vofric was trying to get you to express yourself with your own words. Since you have, I doubt he’ll meddle much more.” Kargon replied while shaking his head.
The door to the room creaked open and the dwarf poked his head in. “I missed your insight my friend.” He turned to Aisha and apologized, “Apologies for the heavy handed approach.”
“Though even I admit it was effective.” Sariel added.
“It’s fine,” Aisha replied with a shake of her head. “We’re done here anyway. Right?”
Kargon smirked as he rose from his seat and stepped to the side. With an exaggerated bow and wave he gestured to the door.
“Lead the way, Hero.”
