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Chapter Text

Storm Spire – After the battle                                                          

A fresh breeze spiraled around the Storm Spire, whirling around its visitors and effectively chilling them to the bone. It was a welcoming touch of coldness. Little by little, the heat of the battle was swept away with it, making place for euphory and contentment. The positive atmosphere extended to all remaining survivors, from Elves to Humans, from Dragons to Twin-Tailed Inferno-Tooth Tigers and from adults to teenagers to children. Janai felt a surge of wholesomeness, seeing the small flocks of people socializing regardless of their background or beliefs.

She suddenly realized that yes, they did come a long, long way. Two parties, once on entirely opposites sides, had worked together as a united front against their common enemy. And it turns out they were stronger together. The Elves and Humans had held ground and ended up victorious against the Dark Mage.

Meanwhile, the aftermath mirrored nothing of their long-standing rivalry. On the contrary, it seemed the battle of the Storm Spire had functioned as a bonding glue. One that unites and connects. Janai saw the events transpiring from far above and while mounting Agunah, her Twin-Tailed Inferno-Tooth Tiger. With the rushing wind came the delightful sound of friendly conversations amongst them.

To her, it was a tell-tale sign. As both Human and Xadian kingdoms bonded over tragedy, it allowed them to look for similarities rather than differences. To look past prejudices and beyond cultural contrasts. The once so precarious and tense state – one that edged on the brink of war – had never seemed so far from reality.

This string of events all started with two Katolian princes and one Moonshadow Elven girl, who had set the stage for all border- and boundary-crossing relations. They showed that friendship and romance do not have to be limited to one nation, as long as your heart is in the right place. And as it turns out, Humans and Elves can work together just fine. Despite their cultural differences, and despite their own ways of living and ruling.

Agunah’s soft fur flaunted against the military costume of the retreating knight. While the majestic creature took flight towards the Sunfire Elven capital, she spotted a certain Katolian shield amidst the crowd. At that very moment, the woman sporting the metal safeguard turned around and waved with long-stretched arms. Seeing the unrestricted enthusiasm, Janai could not help but nod to her human prisoner friend ally in acknowledgement.

Some border-crossing connections indeed…

Lux Aurea – 3 Months Later

A bronze-skinned woman stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, letting the scorching sunbeams illuminate her sturdy frame. Her mind travels back to that exact week, three months ago. She mentally replays the battle of the Storm Spire. That battle’s victory. The miraculous awakening of Queen Zubeia. Her sister’s…

Dozens of sunrises later, the pain and grief had not settled yet. To her, the wounds feel too fresh to work over. They run too deep to deem easily recoverable. Which is why she hasn’t. Recovered.
Janai lets out a long sigh. Her newly bestowed responsibilities did not make the mental processing any easier. Most weeks went by quickly, spending the majority of the daytime negotiating, delegating, organizing, justifying. Call it perks of being a Sunfire Royal.
Currently, it meant that she just did not have any quiet moments to work through her grief. She could barely look beyond tomorrow. Lux Aurea never stills, and never wallows in misery. She – and the citizens of Lux Aurea with her – have to pick up the slack and fix what has been broken.

The one thing she does know is that she will miss her sister dearly. Khessa has always been the better queen, she thought. Just thinking about the crown waiting for her in another three months, Janai shudders. It simply was never a consideration for her. She, the younger one, largely kept away from harsh training and etiquettes, and was always the better warrior. Janai had fitted the role of the Golden Knight of Lux Aurea as a glove from the moment she was appointed.

That position, however, seems to be a reality lost. The switching of roles will happen fairly soon, if she had to believe the not-so-subtle whispers echoing within the Sunfire palace. She will though, as the gossip more than often do reveal what the officials have been hiding behind their walls of secrecy. It appears that a coronation is planned in sixty sunrises. Granted that everything goes according to plan, she shall be queen of the Sunfire Elves.

Bless the Solar Deities. Her brows furrow in frustration at the unfairness of it all. Janai never wanted this. Nevertheless, being the only Sunfire Royal left in Lux Aurea – her brother having freed himself from the shackles of the Royal Family to pursue a healing practice in the countryside – left her no choice in that matter.
Besides, she expects a hectic run-up. Ever since Duren and Katolis have aided in the safe homecoming of Prince Azymondias, a selected group of Sunfire diplomats tried to strengthen bonds between the Human kingdoms and Lux Aurea. Herself included, of course.
The Katolian princes and a Moonshadow Elf had successfully brought the two nations closer, which meant that reconciliation actions had gained momentum. Letters have crossed the Breach thousand-too-many times more than before, and the border patrol stations had lowered their numbers. They agreed that there was no need for hateful encounters on the wriggly paths surrounded by lava. It did almost cost her life, after all. That is, if it wasn’t for the mercy of a certain Katolian general.

While basking in the warming sun-rays, Janai tucks a strand of hair behind her pointy ears. She thinks about the upcoming meetings planned for this week, and the conference she has to attend in an hour. With representatives of Katolis and Duren, and even some Moonshadow and Skywing Elves. Finally, a concrete plan will be set into motion that ensures a continuous and fair trade across the Breach. It is only logical that the closest neighbours play an important role: the Katolian child-ruler Ezran and the soon-to-be crowned Queen of the Sunfire Elves, Janai. Words have it that the young king might be accompanied by his family members.

Janai sighs again. Speaking about the child’s family… her thoughts drift off to one particular deaf general. She has not seen her since the battle of the Storm Spire, but her snarky personality and charismatic appearance have not vanished from her retina yet. On the contrary, it seems that “General Amaya” had taken pride in making their turbulent and short-lived history unforgettable. She even began taunting her during moments of reflection – ones like this.

Her eyes wander over the golden roofs of Lux Aurea, her mind relinquishing the vivid memory of one shield-wielding woman over and over again. The minutes tick by, while she loses track of the here and now. There she stood, her mind up and about, until a knock on her door signaled the arrival of the long-awaited guests. She took two seconds to regroup, and straightened her stance.

Focus. It is time to show everyone your worth. For the honour of the Sun Forge. For Khessa.

Chapter Text

Katolis – the Battle, 2 Months later

“Aunt Amaya!” A frantic shout comes from behind, calling out to the short-haired brunette. Totally oblivious to her surroundings though, she didn’t – couldn’t – hear nor see the shadowy figure approach her. What she did notice, was the small body that ran and promptly crashed against her. Ah, our little Ezran. Just seconds after impact, she begins to pour all her love into a welcoming bear hug, engulfing him entirely in her muscled arms.

Her family was her everything, and a fact that has always been. Last year, this group worthy of her overwhelming and overbearing warmth had reduced to a saddening two. The death of King Harrow left a heavy weight on Amaya’s shoulders, with her more and more feeling the urge – the need – to shower her remaining family with lots of affection. And so she tried her hardest to fulfill this need.

That show-and-tell desire had proven to be quite a challenge so far, with her always being away and protecting the Breach. No one but General Amaya was strong and cunning enough to keep the Sunfire Elves from infiltrating Katolis. Being the vital embodiment of defense did mean that she could visit Callum and Ezran only during the few instances she got to enjoy a week-long leave. And how often did that happen? One, two, maybe a lucky three times a year? Although she loved her job immensely, she has always regretted this aspect of her responsibilities.

But now the tides are turned, and times seem to be vastly different. As soon as it was decided that the Breach did not need such drastic defenses anymore, Katolis’ Imperial Council had wanted to put another lieutenant in charge of the border patrol station. The force that is Amaya, member of the Royal family, General of the Standing Battalion, was needed elsewhere. And Amaya could not be more relieved.

At first, that is. After spending almost three months willowing away inside the Katolian palace, she had enough. It had been great, helping her youngest nephew with the unfamiliar task of being King. But little by little, she realized that the bearer fits his crown so, so well. At this point the warrior honestly did not know where else she could be of use. Despite Ezran having just celebrated his 11^th Birthday, the throne fits him like a glove. He owns it, and oozes the confidence of a true ruler.  

It was remarkable, how charismatic Ezran could be in these dire times. Engaging intently, and participating in all the governmental bla-bla. As his aunt, Amaya couldn’t be more proud. Even thinking about the last couple of weeks, experiencing the joy of seeing Ezran in action, brings a giddy smile to her face.

Hugging the younger boy even more tight, a sweet scent of jelly tarts fills her nostrils. She warms at the familiarity. So much like Sarai, Amaya thought. The woman chuckles at the sudden random realization, all while keeping a strong hold on her companion. In the corner of her eyes, she sees Ezran’s Glow Toad grumpily taking place next to the throne. That chair seems so big for the small boy, but the mere sight of Bait filling that empty spot beside him sparks a feeling of contempt.

At least he is not alone in all this.

The thought is swiftly replaced by a vibration Amaya felt behind her. Immediately after the sensation, she felt her youngest nephew slipping out from her arms and moving a few feet away, spine straightening and his head held high. Curious, Amaya directed her head towards the source of commotion as well.
Upon making the 180 turn, she sees it is Ophelia and Gren that have stepped through the set of massive doors, letting them shut heavily. Regal as always, Ophelia strides across the throne room with sure and long steps. Next to her, Gren does his uttermost best to seem just as professional, but fails as soon as his eyes meet the General. Knowingly, his eyes glint in both mischief and admiration.

Once the pair arrives to where Ezran and Amaya are, they come to an abrupt stop.

“Your Majesty. General Amaya.” [[Your Majesty. General Amaya.]] Ophelia and Gren simultaneously speak and sign in tandem. Both bow as a sign of courtesy; always the faithful followers of the Royal House of Katolis.

[[What is it?]] the recipient woman curtly replies. She typically wants to get down to business as soon as possible, without the snobbery of royal courthouse speech. It was simply too flowery and resembling a weak attempt at tiptoeing around the real issues at hand.

The woman turns to Ezran at that. “Have you told General Amaya about the upcoming treaty negotiations yet, King Ezran?” Ophelia questions the younger boy. Gren dutifully translates the words into meaningful, understandable language. The one sentence certainly picks Amaya’s interest, and regards her nephew.

Ezran on his account shakes his head in rebuttal. The general wonders why he hasn’t: it sure sounds important. Besides, it is not like she hasn’t stuck around the Katolian Palace for two months. It is certainly not an excuse to conveniently leave out this upcoming diplomatic matter.

As soon as Ophelia reads the air in the room – seeing the boy’s answer and Amaya’s all-revealing face – she clears a throat. Meanwhile, Gren’s eyes hadn’t stopped twinkling. In anticipation, maybe? Amaya has no clue.

[[“We’ve started to assemble a delegation to attend the conference in Lux Aurea. His Majesty will be joining said meeting on behalf of the Katolian Kingdom and his presence is vital to enforce a successful trade route.”]] Ophelia’s pale blue eyes keep trained on the child, making sure to get her point across. [[“The trade of various goods across the Breach could have tremendous implications for the prosperity of our economy. It is highly recommended you choose an experienced and trustworthy diplomat to accompany you to the Sunfire Palace.”]]

After her speech, Ophelia folds her arms to air a polite yet stern gesture. Meanwhile, Amaya crosses her arms, having processed the message and its implications. The struggle is undeniably present. The Imperial Council do possess excellent negotiators and lobbyists, and the King does have a small but incredibly faithful inner circle. However, for the task at hand, Amaya was not sure these options would suffice. Ophelia herself seems to be occupied with leading the country in Ezran’s absence, while Corvus and Gren lack the diplomatic know-hows to aid in the upcoming conversations. The council, on the other hand, are more often conservative and sceptic than not when it comes to such international trade establishments. It appears to be suboptimal either way.

Furrowing her brow in thought, Amaya thinks about other alternatives. Who else is there? And while it seems a dilemma, more and more ideas pop up that say otherwise.
She is inclined to argue it should be her. Although these diplomatic tasks are really not her cup-of-tea, the responsibility would be best put in Amaya’s hands. She could guide her nephew through these conversations with her experience and insightful opinion. She would be open to ideas from other nations, Human and Xadian altogether. She is innovative, creative, professional and authoritative. Besides, Amaya muses, the trip will give her a much-needed change of scene. A fresh breath in her life that she so desperately needed.

As Ophelia and Gren convey the necessary details during the subsequent hour, Amaya’s last flickers of doubt evaporate. She makes her decision then and there. It is high time to see and enjoy this strange, golden city. Judging from the looks Gren kept sending that same hour, Amaya knew that he knew. His enthusiasm showed; after all, he would be accompanying her on this travel to Lux Aurea.

Where she goes, he will follow.

And so the General wasted no time in agreeing to the yet unspoken question. To the Breach and beyond it is.

To: Callum, From: Amaya.

Dear Nephew,

How is the Moonshadow Grove treating you? I hope they are more inviting than the first time you’ve been to their hidden forestland. Not to be presumptive, but I know of some Xadian villages that like to give their Human friends a very warm welcome. Every pun intended, of course.

Just kidding. I’m quite certain that rumors and stories about the Battle of the Storm Spire have reached far within the Xadian land. The return of their Dragon Prince is a big event, and you were a certainly main character in enabling that reunion. I, for one, am immensely proud of your bravery and achievements. And I think the rest of Xadia will agree to that.

Any luck with connecting to the Moon Arcanum yet? If not, I don’t doubt Rayla will help you with it. On that note, be sure to let your (girl)friend know I am not planning on threatening her a next time. It seems she still is a bit scared of me. Oh wait, on a second thought… I am not totally against a healthy dose of intimidation, so I would love to give her my best-practiced shovel talk. Let’s say we leave it up to our next encounter ;)

And I have some news. It appears my next task will land me in the Xadian kingdom as well. Maybe you’ve heard about our plans to establish a trade route to and from Xadia. Well, your brother and I will be attending these treaty negotiations in a few weeks. The Sunfire Elves are hosting, so a trip it is!
Are you planning on visiting Lux Aurea anytime soon? I’d say it is high time for a family reunion, since we apparently all decided to leave the Human lands for a Xadian alternative.

Rayla is also very much welcome, so be sure to tell her that. Speaking about our Elven friends, I now realize I will probably see Janai during my stay in Lux Aurea. Ahem, long time no see.
It’s still funny when I think about it. She introduced me as her keeper, but we all knew I wasn’t her prisoner. Giving her fiery attitude and my bad-ass personality, I wonder who gets the upper-hand in the upcoming negotiations…

Wish you the very best, dear nephew. Hopefully we cross paths again soon.

With love,

Your Aunt, Amaya

Lux Aurea – 1 Month later

“Welcome to the Golden City, Your Majesties.” An exotic-looking Elf bows in respect and guides the Katolian trio into the Sunfire Palace. The young Sunfire Elf looks majestic in his traditional clothing; a long white robe donned with red and golden accents. It seems to consist of featherlight fabric, making it ultimate comfort wear in the scorching desert climate. The slight military look is reminiscent of the uptight and strict nature of the Sunfire Kingdom, though some hints of elegancy were sewn into the costume. Amaya eyes the servant in wonder and jealousy.

I would die for a piece of that clothing, really. Nothing is more sweat-inducing than Katolian armor wear.

The brunette huffs. Their trip towards the entrance had been quite an adventure already. With the wriggly small streets enclosed by mile-high walls, the atmosphere was humid yet accommodating. Along the way, they encountered a spectacle, with street vendors bustling, people chatting away and unfamiliar spices filling the vibrant air with the wildest aromas.
But despite the positive air that hang around, Amaya could also notice the Battle’s aftermath. Viren definitely left a destruction in his wake. Fallen or half-burned buildings, broken windows and ravaged stores: almost every street corner had them. Even the flower beds were not left untouched and seemed to have been trampled on by the intruding troops.

Meanwhile, the Sunfire Palace was at the heart of it all. It stood tall and proud in the middle of Lux Aurea, outstanding in every sense of the word. Taller than any other building, and more vivacious and luxurious than the surrounding golden roofs. Thousands of decorations adorned the walls, more intricate than anything else Amaya has seen in her life. She much have passed this part of the city before – though in a time of haste and despair – yet she never noticed the finesse in which the details were crafted and placed on every square inch of the palace.

Even now, inside the Palace, her brown eyes are glued to the building’s interior. It looks so magical…

Beside the General, Lieutenant Gren and King Ezran wandered around just as awestruck. The three of them were baffled by the heads-on onslaught of luxury and wealth. Compared to home, everything seemed so extravagant and in-your-face. Naturally their area of interest switched to the entrance hall, which turned out to be littered with cultural – mostly golden – artifacts.
Every ten seconds, the accompanying Sunfire hosts had to nudge the visitors back towards the main path. The exchanges were quite awkward, and the seemly young Elves looked either hesitant or excessively respectful. It almost reminded Amaya of a certain Elven interpreter…

To Gren’s delight, Amaya decided to make an opportunity out of it. No eyes means no communication, and so turning your head away from the stumbling hosts did wonders for your reprimands. It also helped that Gren had no intention of stopped her, he himself constantly in conversation with members of the welcoming party.

At a certain point, a familiar Skywing Elf joined the group. Ibis, looking out-of-place in this stormless and glittery environment, calmly added himself to the travelers. Amaya paid him no mind, still busy with avoiding the hosts and randomly admiring a particular bronze statue. Instead, Ezran was enthusiastically conversing with the winged Elf, animatedly recalling the past two months along the way.

Without the assistance of Gren, Amaya could not participate well in the present mingling and connecting. Not that she viewed this as a problem. No, the spectacular location made up for it a full 100%. Though, a tiny spark of loneliness loomed over her. In front of her, border-crossing friendships and peace were established. Having been slower than the rest, she eyed the display with a bittersweet feeling.
The brunette had always hated Elves. This year, that life-long anger changed into something else. Sadness, since yet another family member was killed by the Xadian creatures. Confusion, from experiencing the incredible bond that can growth between Humans and these Elves, without any expectations or prejudice. Gratefulness, from seeing that trust can be built or re-built. Compassion, from being beside Janai and her meltdown at the Sunfire Queen’s murder. Understanding, when it got thrown in her face that both sides – Human and Xadian – have a long history of losses and grief and revenge. And now, she feels hope.

The vicious cycle is about to be broken, Amaya muses. Lost in thought, she does not notice that the rest had gradually become a mere spot in the distance. A deep sigh escapes her lips.

The next moment, a small grin grew on her face. That she could live until this day. Who would have thought? I’m about to attend a historic event of convergence, of mutual understanding. Of a step closer to a peaceful unification.

.

.

.

A slightly warm touch on her shoulder startles Amaya. In a fraction, she gets pulled out of the clouds and into the real world. Without immediately grabbing for her shield, she looks aside.

The sun-kissed skin of a four-fingered hand. A half-long burgundy sleeve leading up to patted shoulders. Full and dark lips, high cheekbones. Two half-lidded eyes, trained on her own. Sienna-colored make-up that complements the golden headpiece covering up a set of horns.

Amaya’s grin splits into a beaming smile. The observing Elf mimics the gesture, the shape of her eyes transforming into a cute, crescent one.

Janai.

Chapter Text

Storm Spire – Before the Battle

A whiff of fearful anticipation hung in the air. Preparations have finished, quickly albeit with great care and thoughtfulness. They were as ready as they could be. Hundreds of Elves and Humans were bracing themselves. They had gathered at the base of the Storm Spire. The heat of the approaching battle could be felt by everyone. No one knew whether it was a figurative or an actual response to the marching soldiers miles away.

Janai stared far ahead and towards the bright horizon, her head filled with nothingness. Her heart beat with painful throbs. Having fled Lux Aurea with a small fraction of their original Sunfire forces, she felt vulnerable. The pain of losing Khessa – seeing her fall from the throne room and disappearing from plain sight – added to her feeling of helplessness. The devastating blow left a gaping hole in her heart, and was as fresh as a newly cut wound. It had been a mere three-hour ride, after all.
Between then and now, she had no time to grief. As the Golden Knight of her nation, she had no choice but to assist and partake in the defending front. Let alone accept what awaits her after a new sense of peace has settled…

A blast of wind moved a flurry of leaves in front of her face. Their oval shapes leisurely migrated from left to right. Meanwhile, deep sighs escaped a pair of umber-painted lips.
Already feeling plenty conflicted, a little voice kept installing more and more doubt into the lone woman. Her head had gradually become a blurry mess of incoherent thoughts. Her head and heart clashed, and don’t seem to agree. She started questioning herself.

What is your motive, your driving force?
Why are you here, Janai?

She couldn’t provide herself with answers.  

.

Is it for your country? Is it a matter of revenge?

.

Is it none?

.

Is it both?

.

Well. The redhead likes to think it is everything combined. A mix and mingle of various circumstances and reasons. Her mind went over the facts. First and foremost, she will be able to bring justice to the Sunfire Elves. They want to – and shall – bring that murderer to his knees. They will make sure the city and lands of Xadia will not be harmed again.
Then there was the other fact. That is, she simply wants to avenge her sister. Bring justice to her harsh and unyielding, but to her so very dear, sister. She and Khessa always had a complicated relationship, but they went through thick and thin, and she cannot image having to live without her. The warrior is dreading the moment she will step foot into Lux Aurea again, only to find the remains of the Sunfire Palace empty and cold.

With a crispy rustle, she was awoken by a prompt sound. A not-so unfamiliar clang of metal on metal followed. She didn’t try to turn her eyes or redirect her gaze, but a new presence she definitely felt. Eventually, in her peripheral vision she could see the woman as well. Ah.

The Human General.

In amidst of all the chaos, this bull-headed, short-haired, strong-willed and unbelievably frustrating Human  had managed to ground Janai. It kept her from going crazy and making rash decisions. Like get herself killed, for one. Janai’s prisoner stopped all that, with one ruthless tackle and a pair of chocolate irises. She didn’t want to admit this, but it just happened. Somehow. For some unexplainable reason.
With her knowledge on the dark mage, Amaya had charged ahead at full force, helping the quartet of teenagers and Janai, amongst others, prepare for the upcoming battle. With her witty non-verbal responses, she skillfully molded their social bubble into a less tense and driven alliance. With her eyes, she commanded a room full of experienced soldiers and left no room for discussion. With her stance and demeanor, she managed to revel a surge of warmth and heat inside of Janai.

She is effective, and oh so dangerous. She is, really.

After a full minute of mulling over it, Janai went and took a look at her companion. Just like she herself had done, the Human warrior was gazing at the outstretched lands of Xadia, practicing a faraway look in her eyes. Her trademark grin was not wiped from her face, though. Does she own any other expressions?

Janai decided against ignoring the general for a second longer, and shuffled towards her unexpected visitor. The movement didn’t go unnoticed by said woman, who immediately turned her full body to face Janai. A crooked yet subdued smile was directed to the Sunfire Elf in greeting, who on her account flushed lightly.

“What is it?”

The tanned woman spoke abruptly, almost embarrassed, all while making sure the other could read her lips. Her gaze ended up in the deep wells that were the brunette’s eyes, which flashed with a spark of – Janai suspected – understanding.

[[How are you feeling?]] Amaya slowly signed. Her piercing gaze did not leave the Sunfire Elf. On her account, Janai squinted her eyes in a subconscious effort to decipher the short phrase. The gest of it, she got though.

Her facial expression then turned contemplative, as Janai had not quite figured out how she felt about all this. She was not able to pinpoint her state of mind, let alone translate her thoughts into a coherent sentence. The vague, mental blur had not been cleared up yet.
The silence told Amaya enough. And as if Janai’s face held a million answers, the human set of eyes began to glint in seriousness. Her smile gradually faded away. She nodded purposefully.  

She stepped closer to Janai, invading her personal space. She bumped their shoulders encouragingly. Then, she redirected her face to the view that was in front of them, leaving the Golden Knight to form a response.

Seeing the understanding, the underlying message. The lack of empty words, the consoling gesture. Janai got the feeling Amaya knew exactly what she is currently going through. What I am –

And that is when it suddenly dawned on Janai. Khessa.

.

She’s gone. For good.

.

Janai had to swallow down the flood of tears that threatened to escape her eyes.

Amaya leaned in closer, her shoulders barely touching the gold-and-red attire.

A lone tear rolled down Janai’s left cheek.

The next ten minutes were spend with just the two of them. Staring into the faraway distance. Janai almost leaning and relying on Amaya. Almost.
No words were spoken. Yet, none were needed.

Her presence was healing. Amaya is.

Lux Aurea – Present

The pair was already helplessly behind the chatting group of diplomats. Their greeting had been short, curt, as always. A bit playful, and slightly mischievous. Though this time, there was a distinct lack of theatrical acts - no dramatic entrances through a ring of fire and no confrontations amidst scorching lava cascades.

It was… strangely normal.

Almost too strange for the two of them, Amaya thought. She gave the soon-to-be Sunfire Queen a quick once-over, immediately noticing the slump she was in. Even the area underneath her eyes seemed a bit darker, indicating a severe lack of sleep.

Although she had noticed, Amaya decided not to act on it. The whole way down to the reception hall, the brunette kept her smiling façade on while trying not to raise any suspicion on the taller woman. They also kept their small talk to a minimum. That, the short-haired woman didn’t mind – formalities were always a hassle to her. It was too energy-consuming, to say the least.

Once Janai began catching up to the rest of the Katolian and Skywing allies, Amaya automatically followed. She kept sneaking glances at her companion, trying to read her mood.
How to explain? Janai seemed somewhat less fiery. Absent, even. The hot-headedness that Amaya kept linking to the Sunfire Elf was dulled. Despite their familiar greeting, her sassiness was slipping away with each passing minute. Her responses seemed a tad cold, and their broken conversation missed the familiar spark and cheeky undertones.

Amaya didn’t know what to think of it. What she did know, was that she would rather see it differently. As much as she once despised the antics of the taller knight, she came to like their back-and-forth banter.

How things have changed…

The rest of the afternoon and evening did not do much for Amaya’s initial suspicions. The future ruler had seemed off, though she kept acting utmost hospitable and friendly to all guests.
During the day, Aanya of the Duren Kingdom had joined the group, accompanied by a select few of her loyal subjects. They had joined dinner, which was nothing short of a culinary adventure for every invitee.
And everything had seemed great. The ambiance, the mood, the conversations that flowed and flowed and never stopped. Amaya saw it all. The evening was filled with amusement, entertainment and lots of drinks. Late at night, the Golden Knight had acted as a personal escort and gallantly showed everyone their sleeping quarters.

Still. After that initial encounter in the hallway, Janai had not even spared Amaya a second talk nor glance.

That is the one reason Amaya frustratingly falls backwards onto the bed after shutting the door behind her. Stilling herself on the soft matrass, the general replays today’s events in her head. Each and every instance Amaya had glanced at Janai, or had tried to make conversation…
In the end, she got lost in thought. There were simply no signs that she was to blame for the Elf’s slump. Yet, no signs were directed towards any other cause. Amaya could not read her ex-enemy at all. She still cannot.

Ugh.

Letting her eyes shut tight, she moves her arm in front of her face. Exasperatedly, she puffs and groans. As the seconds tick by, she begins doubting herself. Keeping the memories on repeat, she gets more and more tangled in a web of misinterpretations. She wriggles and turns, leaving dents in the burgundy quilt.
Confusion starts overwhelming her senses. The alcohol in her system does not help the onslaught of emotions either. Instead, the lingering taste of brandy fuels the burning of her heart. And to be honest, Amaya feels numb. Unknowing. It was as if she was blind to the scenes that were placed in front of her.

Hadn’t they been connecting?

.

Apparently, they hadn’t. At least, not as much as Amaya had assumed.  

But then, did it all mean nothing to her?
This thought keeps Amaya up for some two hours longer, before the much-needed sleep catches up to her.

Just before settling into her dreams, Amaya came to a decision. Tomorrow will and should bring her more answers. That, I will make sure of.

Lux Aurea – Meanwhile… in the reception hall

“So…”

“…”

“Hey.”

“He-hello.”

One shy posture is straightening promptly, while the other remains relaxed. They feel awkward by the direct approach, while he keeps eyeing his neighbor in curiosity.
The latter restarts the conversation again. “You’re Kazi, right?” A questioning pause. “I’m Gren, lieutenant in the Katolian forces and Amaya’s interpreter.” He holds out his hand and expresses his boundless excitement with a beaming smile.

“Ah, right!” A squeak comes out, mimicking the greeting gesture. “Ye-yes, my name is Kazi.” After shaking Gren’s hand, a set of four fingers move to their face. Their pair of round glasses is then touched in a nervous reflex. “Oh, but you k-knew already.”

Well. Not that this nervousness affects Gren, though.

And that is why his positivity stays on strong. “No worries! Listen, I really want to thank you for helping Amaya. I was quite worried that she’d be misunderstood.”
That perks the Elf’s interest. They answer in a hurry: “No problem… it has been quite an honour to assist Her Radiance in the interrogations.”

“…” Gren simply cannot mask his amusement. A set of knowing glints are directed Kazi’s way.

“… Amaya was a whole lotta trouble, wasn’t she?” he guessed after a hinting few seconds of silence.

Kazi could only nod in confirmation. How embarrassed they were to translate some of the general finest remarks towards the Golden Knight. The braveness of the woman became a source of wonder, really.

The lieutenant chuckles. “Actually, I wouldn’t have expected anything less. She’s quite the personality, after all.” He continues in rapt enthusiasm. “Amaya always has the tendency to bring out either the best or worst in people, and she is especially ruthless in battle.”

That, Kazi can agree with. They had seen the way the Human General had charged ahead, warning Her Radiance for the approaching danger of the troops. It was so, so unfortunate that warning came too late…

“That is also why I’m really curious what she will bring to the table tomorrow. Amaya has hated Elves since forever – no offense Kazi – “ the Elf blinked rapidly, gulping at the direct reference “– and that hatred even worsened after the death of her sister, by your Dragon King nonetheless.”

“A-ah” is the only thing the scholar can utter.

“I guess she retracted some of that anger over the past couple months. I mean – “ Gren started to whisper “did you see how she and your general greeted each other? I totally ship it!”

S-ship?  Kazi blinks again, not understanding Gren’s choice of words.

Kazi regroups themselves shortly after. “I-I am not sure if I remember reading about this Katolian term…” they admitted. And just like they thought the spirit of the tall man couldn’t be lifted any higher, the contrary was proven. His brown eyes were downright sparkling, his face bursting of unrestrained giddiness.
Upon Kazi’s confession, an intense and hushed conversation followed. It continued up till the early hours, during which the two had found common ground. To the story of Janai and Amaya, that is. And – strangely enough – to their dislike of mustard.

.

Meanwhile, two persimmon irises followed the pair of interpreters, partly and unintentionally listening in to their conversation. The action stilled her uplifting mood, decreasing her already rock-bottom frame of mind. Her subdued smile had vanished completely once the whispering began.

Needless to say, it became a long, long night for her.  

Chapter Text

Lux Aurea – Present

Soft sunrays break through the semi-transparent burgundy curtains, illuminating the figure who has hid herself underneath the thin quilt. Upon feeling the warmth on her face, Amaya stirs. She hadn’t slept that fantastically, and so she tries stretching her limps in an effort to feel more awake. This effort was fruitless though, as she keeps craving a healthy dose of caffeine to get her energy levels up and running.

In the end, Amaya concludes she was in a desperate need for a balanced breakfast as well. After all, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. That is a fact she keeps reminding her nephews every so often.

Despite the warmth and comfort of her bed, Amaya musters just enough energy to get up. She dresses herself for the day, putting on her familiar clad of military clothing. Slate blue and sturdy material peacefully rests on her shoulders and hipbones, fingers sliding over it as the General fastens her sheath belt. The cool metal comforts her now, and the heavy weight of her shield gives her a sense of security. She feels grounded.

Having freshened up to brace the day, she steps into the corridor. A mighty yawn escapes her, and she loosens her shoulders once more. While stretching her upper body and walking down the hallway, she curiously eyes the open area next to her. The patio on her left is vast, not unlike the rest of the Sunfire Palace. There, sunlight is able to heat the garden to high temperatures, and Amaya can see the warmth literally being irradiated from the ocher bushes.

A movement amidst the exotic flora stands out to the woman, and intrigued she steps into the light. Closer and closer she went, until she stops a few feet away from her discovery. Amaya takes in the sight. Brown fur flows calmly in the wind. A mane’s fiery colors are swept from left to right, similar to flames dancing in the open air.

Suddenly, Amaya recognizes the early intruder as the hotcat of the Golden Knight. What was it - she - called again? Her doozy mind prevents her from answering her own question.

Oh well. Breakfast first, remembering later. She shrugs.

To her own fascination, the early intruder has taken an interest in the approaching yet sleepy human. Eyes brimming with temperament close in on Amaya, inspecting her and her presence. And that she does thoroughly. Sniffing a scent that was half metal, half sweet and a tad reminiscent of cinnamon. She sees the General’s confident stance, which is full of curiosity and intrigue. A set of dark brown eyes that are not afraid to stare back at the inspecting feline.

The silent interrogation takes a full two minutes, all while Amaya does not steer away from the intense eye contact. Then, it all came to a sudden stop.
And the General noticed why. The Twin-Tailed Inferno-Tooth Tiger has made her judgement.

Right then and there.

With much fuss, Agunah launches herself towards the General and nuzzles her large snout against her metal-clad shoulder. The action is attention-seeking, and almost whiny. And a complete surprise for said Human, who almost stumbles towards the ground upon catching the heavy weight of the bouncy hotcat. At the same time, however, she couldn’t be more elated. So cute. A giddy smile escapes her, and promptly her fingers find the soft locks of the Xadian creature.
Amaya has always adored animals, much like her youngest nephew. That is why she could not resist scratching the suddenly affectionate cuddler behind its ears. A low rumble follows, its vibrations reaching Amaya through their physical contact.

What an unexpected morning it has become. 

.

.

The cuddling session continued for a steady fifteen minutes, before it ended as abruptly as it began. Agunah apparently decided she had enough of the scratching and petting and doting, as she suddenly retreated and trotted away from Amaya.
The brunette’s eyes tracked the moving creature as it came to a halt a dozen feet further. Or – more accurately – she bounced to a halt, as the huge feline jumped to its next target.

That target being another sleeping warrior. Janai. Amaya’s breath hitched, and her eyes quickly narrowed at that revelation. How long has she been standing there?

.

.

As it turned out, Janai was not prepared for the onslaught of a 200 pound Twin-Tailed Inferno-Tooth Tiger racing ahead to its cuddling prey. Being too slow, too sleepy probably, to recover from the added gravitational force, she was literally tackled by the mighty hotcat herself.

With an umph she hit the dirt. Spectacularly underwhelming, Janai thought, while burying her head in the soft fur that was Agunah. Her mind travelled back to some moment ago. She had seen the other woman hugging her companion, and blatantly she continued ogling the affectionate display. It had been a welcome sight – and a bittersweet one – compared to the conversation of last night.

Last night… she sighed.

Janai did not know how long she had been lying on ground, heads-on tackled by her enthusiastic steed, but at a certain point she felt a weight being lifted from her torso. Finally, some breathing air. She clumsily stood up, brushed some dirt from off her military gown and sighed once more.

The big elephant in the room had not been addressed yet. That, Janai was well aware off. Deciding against ignoring the other presence any longer, she turned towards her visitor. The knight managed a half-smile.
Amaya, on the other hand, beamed right back at her. With her arms crossed, she teasingly eyed Janai. Deep brown mesmerizing eyes sparkled in amusement.

The cockiness behind the gaze spurred some irritation in the recipient, who send a warning glare her way. Janai did not like to be played with, to be laughed at. Definitely not by her old rival, whom she had fought with honour and matching strengths. And thus she frowned in mock annoyance. As if to say don’t you dare judge me, you Human.

After all, Janai knew that Amaya had been just as close to a morning nose-dive herself.

This one gesture shouldn’t have mattered to the fearless General. No, it shouldn’t have changed anything in her behavior. Janai just knew, and she is a good judge of character. Amaya was stubborn, and once she got herself a teasing subject, she did a damn fine job at getting her healthy dose of laughs and grins and jokes.

Yet… A change was unmistakably there. It was as if the brunette suddenly fell down from her high, out of her dreams into the world of reality. Seemly burned, she recoiled in herself, winced even, and stepped back. Then, Amaya gave a half-smile herself, in an attempt to save this downtrodden interaction. And Janai could only watch in sad disappointment. 

Do you hate me that much, Amaya?

Storm Spire – After the Battle

“Kazi, could I talk to you for a minute?” An accented lilt echoes near the Storm Spire, directed at the scholar who had isolated themselves from the bustling crowd.

The Xadian linguist rapidly turns towards the sound, recognizing the commanding tone. They suppress a squeak, not being used to the direct addressing. “O-of course, Your Radiance.” They bow in respect, an action which the taller knight immediately dismisses with a waving hand.

“Please, Kazi. I-I’m not… “ a melancholic sigh follows suit. “For now just refer to me as the Golden Knight. That is what I am and will be… for the time being.”

And that time couldn’t be long enough. I’m not ready yet. And not ready ever, I think.

“Of course, Golden Knight of Lux Aurea.” is dutifully replied. “What were you curious about, i-if I may ask?”

The one question makes Janai’s fingers itch. She feels unbalanced, literally nerve-wracked and out of her comfort zone. In an automatic response, she tenses up.
It was just a little something. Something that may be worth considering, to her at least. Something that she could hold onto from now on. A new project.
To her, it was a question out of curiosity, and so she did not dare to think about the implications. What it meant for herself, for her own mindset and her thundering heart.

As on cue, the thump thump grows a tad bit louder.

It takes a solid minute for the Golden Knight to put herself together. To regroup herself. She had bit her lip in contemplation and mere self-frustration. Out with it, you dunce.

“Kazi, how long did you take to learn your – ehm – finguistics?” she blurts eventually, not sure how to phrase it right. In an effort to clarify, she wiggles her eight fingers altogether. Her face heats up in embarrassment, and she tilts her head slightly to fight an upcoming blush.

“Ah!” The other Elf perks up at the enquiry. “Do you mean Katolian sign language?”
They eye the warrior, and are confirmed of their assumption by a fierce nod. In rapt enthusiasm, they continue. “A-as it can be considered a language on its own, it is typically a very dynamic learning process. In most cases, it might take a few years…”

The reaction is instant, complete with crestfallen eyes and deflated stance.

Interesting. Kazi clears her throat to catch the somber knight’s attention. “However!” Persimmon irises find the scholar once more. “In my case, I attended sign language classes at my university, and they lasted a semester. That should be enough to cover the basics, I believe. I-I did do other courses simultaneously though, so it is hard for me to put an estimation to it….” they trail off “… also considering each individual learns at a different speed… and – ”

“And if it is a fulltime evening study, will a few months suffice?” Janai interjects.

“When motivated, definitely so.” Kazi immediately confirms.

The Golden Knight’s shoulders lean slightly forward, as if to express her veiled concern. “Could it be possible to be ehm… moderately adept within three months?”

Why would Your Radiance –

“Ah.” They utter aloud, cheeks flushing at hearing their lack of self-restraint. Two fingers straighten a pair of round glasses onto their face. “W-With the right motivation, I do believe your suggestion is manageable, Golden Knight.”

Now it was Janai’s turn to clear her throat. Kazi gulps, daring to look her superior in the eye. The small flicker of vulnerability they find is unexpected, though. The massive conviction, on the other hand, not.

“Would you be willing to teach me then? This sign language?”

A quick pause. “Discreetly, of course.”

Persimmon searches for olive green. Burning determination meets hesitant enthusiasm. The scholar discovers only sincerity and willingness in her gaze, upon which they nod approvingly. Her attitude makes Kazi sure of one thing: the motivational aspect is present in its finest form. In fact, a better student one cannot possess.

And thus they whispered solemnly. “It would be an honor to teach you, Golden Knight.”

Lux Aurea – Present

Breakfast was a silent affair. With the child King and Katolian interpreter being too sleepy to chat, Kazi being their usual quiet self and Amaya being unable to speak out loud, only clinks and clatter of cutlery were heard in the diner hall. And it has quietened down even more, now that most guests finished their breakfast. Janai currently sits on the far edge of the enormous table, silently sipping on her Sunberry juice.
She oversees the group of visitors with only mild awareness, the other half of her mind still residing somewhere else, somewhen else. Flashes of balled firsts and fleeting blue armory cross her mind occasionally. And while she sets down her glass of morning beverage, her gaze may have directed – and redirected – itself to the woman in question subconsciously.

General Amaya. The brunette had been enjoying a substantial amount of breakfast, seemly having forgotten about some thirty minutes earlier. Her facial expression couldn’t be more different compared to then. Staring at her, with her wide pupils full of caution, and her body on edge. She hates Elves, after all.
Now, she finds the woman animatedly signing to Kazi, her hand and long fingers so fast the movements seem to blur and flow and mix altogether. To Janai, the scenery stings. The aftertaste of her drink seems slightly more bitter as she swallows the last drops down her throat.

Curious – yet so, so confused – she tries to pick up their line of conversation. The fully decorated table containing food and flowers and long, golden glasses challenged her mission gravely. That does not falter her determination though, as Janai shifts her attention to the signing duo. She cranes her head leftwards to see that Kazi is signing.

Is that a, wait  – … [[talk]] … [[not]] … ehm – and a question, judging from Kazi’s body language.

.

What the flames was that sign again?

Visibly struggling with her inner translations, Janai runs a hand through her red locks. From Kazi, her gaze turns towards Amaya herself as the woman shakes her head in a resolute no.  Janai repositions herself to get a clearer view.

A… [[why]] … [[silent]] … hmmm.
So something about talking and not talking back. Great going, Janai.

.

By the Solar Deities, I can’t make anything out of this.

Lost in thought and slowly giving up the attempt, she misses Kazi signing back an answer, their head signaling towards a tapestry on the far end of the room. There, a certain Sunfire Queen was regally watched over them, her woven, golden irises piercing the ones of Amaya as she turns around to satisfy her burning questions…

.

.

Now that Amaya knows about the somber mood of the Sunfire queen-to-be – and its most likely cause – she is feeling relieved. Almost happy. For a second, she had drawn her own conclusions. Reasons that involved her and herself and everything that had transpired in the past six months.

The Katolian general had no time to let the revelation sink in.

[[“Are you avoiding Your Radiance, General?”]] Intrigued, Kazi eyes their neighbor who had been idly signing away about her mediocre sleep and mediocre walk to the dinner hall. As if she was trying to dismiss the looming atmosphere that hang in the air this morning. A force field that repels a certain Knight and General.

A cough and choking sound are the only reactions they get in response. Amaya had just been chewing on a piece of Xadian pastry, and certainly did not expect the linguist to confront her so blatantly. Even Kazi did not expect this, if they were honest.

After recovering from a near-choking death, Amaya lifts her hands to sign a response. [[“She started it, K-A-Z-I. None of this is initiated by me.”]] Dejected, she added an empty [[“I did not want this at all...”]]

In fact, Amaya had been trying to get Janai’s attention yesterday. All day long, she was waiting for a chance to catch up with the Xadian woman. Never during that entire day a moment was suited, nor created, to reconnect with just the two of them. And Janai certain hadn’t been helping.

Today as well. She’d looked like she wished I was never here to begin with. That is why I …

In any case, her actions were downright avoiding. Nothing resembled the strong-headed and direct Golden Knight from before the Storm Spire. Or the woman who had shown mercy and honesty and bravery.
What Amaya found was a fallen knight, who was a mere broken and over-exhausted shell of herself.

It seems the linguist had not caught Amaya’s last statement, as they questioned further. [[Did she offend you in any case?]] The recipient tilts her head in confusion. [[General A-M-A-Y-A, she just started learning, so it might be a misunderstanding – ]]

That makes the brunette perk up. What is she – ?

[[I don’t understand.]] The warrior shot back in the most direct way possible. It is better to get the truth out fast, after all. I hate procrastination like a I hate Viren. A whole frickin’ bunch.

Upon seeing the interrogative look on Amaya’s face, Kazi is fast to respond. [[Your Radiance has been learning Katolian sign language for three months now. She requested it, said she would like to be able to sign in three months…]] The linguist paused for a full two seconds, letting this new discovery be absorbed by her companion. [[… which is around now. That is why I was convinced she had tried to talk to you.]]

Amaya’s eyes blow up in sheer surprise. It would be an understatement to say that she is utterly, royally, gob smacked. Her hands had dropped own her lap, and the brunette’s line of sight may have flickered three-too-many times towards her right. All while her confusion only grows further.

Scratch that. It seems like a conversation is long overdue. No more avoidances, no more unspoken words, signs or feelings. Amaya was dying to unravel the mystery that was Janai, and she was going to take action pronto. With a high-pitched screech a tick mahogany chair is pushed back, as Amaya stands with clear resolve.

In one fluid motion, her body turns towards the head of the table, whose chair is occupied by none other than the Golden Knight. With a thud, Janai sets her golden glass down as her unfocussed eyes found the dangerous browns of Amaya. A rush of adrenaline flows through said brunette, as she lifts her hands.

[[J-A-N-A-I]]

Persimmon eyes grow bigger in recognition. Why didn’t you say anything, Janai?

[[I need to talk to you. Now. So, can we talk? Alone?]]

Chapter Text

To: Amaya, From: Callum.
Dear Aunt Amaya,

First of all, it was great to receive your letter! It’s been such a long time since we last exchanged them. What was it… some months before you came to visit us at the Banther Lodge? Anyhow, I love reading your snarky commentary, and I’m glad to know you and Ezran are doing okay!

As for me,  I’m enjoying my time here with the Moonshadow Elves. At the moment I spend most of my time with Rayla and Ethari at their house, after I got a warm welcome from the entire village. Apparently the news about our victory had reached the Moonshadow Grove way before we did, so they knew all about our travelling adventures and battles. The strangest thing of it all is that they see me as a savior now, a hero. I still can’t believe it up until this point.

Slowly but surely, I’m learning the know-hows of Moon spells and magic. It turns out the Moon Arcanum takes me somewhat more effort to master than spells like Aspiro and Fulminis (which I nicknamed whoosh and flash to Rayla’s utter frustration). Anyways, soon I’ll be surprising you with lots of fancy illusion spells! I just know it. Maybe that will keep you from teasing my girlfriend…

Ezran already told me you’ve decided to join him in Lux Aurea. Great to hear that you’re finally up and leaving the walls of Katolis, even travelling to the Xadian villages in peace this time! Well, I’m sure that knight friend of yours is glad to see you again, even though she probably won’t admit it.

I learned that’s the way of the Elves. Too stubborn for their own good. Believe me.

Did I already tell you what my next stop is? The Earthblood Kingdom it is, in case you didn’t know.
We’re planning on stopping by the Sunfire Palace before continuing our journey to the South. Who knows, maybe we’ll see each other on Xadian grounds again. If not, I hope you have a wonderful, sunny stay with Ezran and your Elven friends ;)

I’m sure it will all go well. Even Rayla has gradually taken a liking to you, despite everything that has happened between you two. And if you can sway Rayla, you can basically do everything.
One thing I know for sure: Mom would have been so, so proud of you.

Take care of Ezran. We’ll see you soon,

Callum (and Rayla)

Storm Spire – After the Battle

Amaya is awestruck. She simply cannot tear her eyes away from the majestic, gigantic creature in front of her. Queen Zubeia stands tall and proud inside the Storm Spire’s cave, where sunlight peers through the ceiling and is scattered by her navy scales. The sight is unfamiliar, enchanting and utterly blinding.

“Is this … a dream?“ the Skywing Dragon gasped. Her pale blue eyes roam over the group of Elves and Humans gathered around her resting place, and settles at one spot in particular.

A few feet in front of her, Amaya sees her eldest nephew confidently reaching out for the Elven girl’s hand. Looks like they’re going strong now. Being able to show off in front of the Dragon Queen herself. Pfft. She fights the urge to scoff and grin at the same time. At last, Callum is happy. And that fact matters more than anything.

Even from behind the pair, Amaya sees it all. The looks that the young lovebirds give each other are indisputable. She recognizes it as true love, as the brunette had seen with Sarai and Harrow before. A love that can withstand the hardest obstacles, and can overcome their own, biggest differences.
After all, Callum and Rayla for sure did not have it easy. They had gone through quite some hardships the past few weeks, including getting ghosted, attacked and swindled. At the end of the day, however, their growing feelings hadn’t faltered. Instead, they had definitely grown even stronger, judging from the lingering looks and this strange gravitation the teenagers had towards each other.

Amaya was almost jealous. Almost.

Her gaze then shifts towards the white-haired girl. Rayla. She and the ex-assassin surely got off on the wrong foot, having met her at dark place, at an even worse timing. Yet, Amaya is convinced they would get along in the future. And that was not even considering the fact that she doesn’t want to anger Callum. I’ll admit. Recently, I am becoming more and more surprised of myself…
Anyhow, aside from the soon-to-be-planned shovel talk, it seems this young one possesses some righteous fighting spirit after all…

Thinking about fighting… the general takes a deep breath, the exhaustion of the battle finally seeping in. While her energy is steadily depleting, Amaya takes some time to observe and rationalize.  Not only was the cute little Dragon Prince home again, the Queen of all Dragons had finally awoken from her yearlong hibernation. Her lack of need for fight and survival and protection made the woman realize the state she was in.
Injured. Tired. Damn sore.

Dear Heavens, how much I would give for a heavenly massage…

Musing to herself, Amaya swells at the sight of her nephew and the Moonshadow girl once again. So wholesome, really. The baffled expression of the dragoness in the background stirs another flood of emotions in her. Want. Reassurance. Approval. Taking in the events of that very moment, Amaya makes a split decision.

Playfully, questioningly, she nudges to her right.
Her righthand neighbor stands somewhat closer than she anticipated, and so the tap turns out to be a forceful jab. Oops. Well, it certainly got the redhead’s attention, and that is just what she wants. As the woman turns towards her, the brunette observes the sunlight being deflected from her golden breast plate and head-piece. Then, Amaya looks right into the scowling yet twinkling eyes of the Sunfire Knight. Janai.

Her gaze holds a thousands words. An amused What do you want? seems to be whispered to her.
Amaya had wanted to reply so badly. You know, just… a touch, a reassurance, a steady pillar. Instead, she makes the slightest movement with her right hand, aiming to rest it on a metal-clad shoulder.

In lieu of a nod, she receives a demanding gesture, with a hand reaching out and strengthening the no-nonsense attitude. Yet. The hand is so close, so reachable. It looked… soft?

So, so soft.

It spurs Amaya into action.

.

.

When rough skin and fabric were felt on her own, Janai had been surprised. In an immediate reflex, she shot her gaze to their connected hands. Oh, flames. It looked so unexplainably… right? Suddenly, a warm swirl of tingling – again mysterious – emotions fluttered in her chest. In one smooth motion, she sought eye-contact with Amaya next.

Pools of brown stared back at her. It is a dark, chocolate brown, she noticed. The Elf felt like drowning and flying at the same time, but kept observing. The contrast between Amaya’s skin and facial features became more visible in the blinding light. The scar on her right cheek greeted the knight familiarly. And when her pale face broke into a radiant smile, Janai unconsciously mimicked it.

In the background, she picked up a faint voice. It seemed Queen Zubeia was in awe. “Elves and Humans are here?” she had whispered. The Golden Knight couldn’t believe it either. Still smiling, Janai squeezed this callused, delicate hand in her own and brought it down between them.

It felt warm and comfortable. Five fingers rested leisurely between her own four. They fitted like two puzzle pieces, and that fact alone made Janai look up confidently to her Dragon Queen.

They had accomplished something legendary today. Sensational on so many aspects, that Janai was not afraid to show off. And she felt even more encouraged by the presence next to her, with whom she felt a connection the most.
It was unprecedented. A Human with a pure heart had saved Janai from the depths of despair. Now, a sore reminder of her sacrifice burned into Janai’s own palms. Every so often, scorched fabric skimmed across bronze skin. Yet, in that same Storm Spire cave, her eyes brimmed of so much happiness that it brought life to Janai’s heart.

She held onto this very moment – the warmth, the feelings – when she mounted Agunah to go home. Alone.

Lux Aurea – Present

[[J-A-N-A-I]] Amaya signs with clear, big movements. Upon realizing that she is addressed directly, the recipient forces herself to sit upright. She stiffens when she sees the flames set ablaze in the set of brown irises. It is as if… she knows.

Janai’s breath staggers with that very thought. She knows.

From the body language, it is clear as day the message was meant for Janai, and Janai alone. The Golden Knight couldn’t be more aware of this fact when she sees two rough yet delicate hands pick up the conversation again.

[[I need to talk to you. Now. So, can we talk? Alone?]] Oh.

.

.

Following the smooth yet sharp, heated movements of Amaya’s hands, Janai let the short sentences sink in. Understanding and seeing the desperation of the woman, she feels almost forced to stand up and leave and follow Amaya to whatever place. To hear what she has to convey, and what got her all worked up.

But if Janai were to be honest, she had her suspicions anyway. What bothers Amaya so much is me. Me and nothing – no one – else.

Somewhere along this thought-process, she remembered her own reluctance to talk to said general. Why she thought Amaya wouldn’t want to converse and get to know her better. It had everything to do with what she had learned last night. The overheard conversation kept repeating and repeating itself in her mind, like a wicked incantation.

What bothers her is me.
Because, as truth be told, Amaya hates Elves. Hates me, who is an Elf.

And at least I’m not foolish enough to think I could be the one to change her mind.

That is why she thought of refusing the request. To keep ignoring the human general, to avoid making conversation and – what? Probably being reminded over and over again why this newfound friendliness couldn’t work. In any case, it was much easier than the confrontation Amaya is currently looking for.

Still. The longer Janai gazes into the burning flames that are Amaya’s pupils, the more she is inclined to do the exact opposite. To screw avoidance, screw cowardice. She is and always wants to remain the Golden Knight of Lux Aurea, who is supposed to be honorable and fierce and head-strong. She shouldn’t be hiding away from difficulties, and face the situation as is. Masking and concealing is more fitting of a… Queen.

Don’t think about it. That will be a problem for the future.

A movement stirs her trailing mind. No longer awaiting the Elf’s response, Amaya had taken a few big strides towards her. Coming to a stand-still just before her, the brunette now towers over the silent red-head. Aside from the occasional blink, zero eye-contact was lost. Janai experiences a tingly sense of déjà vu when she feels herself drowning again.

A sigh follows. Amaya sees the chest of Janai heaving in a breathy motion. The latter feels her apprehension slipping away with the action, and squares her shoulders once more. Steadying her hands on both sides of the table, she hoists herself up and rounds the table. Without sparing her another glance, she and the brunette walk out of the diner hall in dead silence.

The remaining guests are none the louder.

.

.

Once a somewhat secluded area was reached, Amaya wasted no time in addressing her companion. Taking a one-eighty turn, she swiftly moved into Janai’s space.  

[[Why didn’t you tell me, J-A-N-A-I?]] Again, big and exaggerated movements. The bronze-skinned warrior eyed the sentence, its meaning not really sinking in yet. It urged Amaya to elaborate, and so she hit the nail on the head with a [[That you learned to sign. Or at least understand it.]]

The silent and insertable ‘me’ was implied.

Meanwhile, Janai continued to stare at the slightly smaller woman, trying to read her mood. Whether she was just angry, or the tiniest bit disappointed. She could only see the scorching heat in her eyes, though. Deflated and slightly intimidated by the onslaught of Amaya’s sign spitting, Janai resorted to a non-verbal shrug.

To be frank, she couldn’t even appoint one solid reason herself.

The dismissive gesture did not land well on the other side. Amaya, on her account, was slowly getting frustrated by the lack of response. Not only was it the exact point of her intervention, she hoped – expected, maybe – so much more from the other woman. After all, just like herself, Janai is a strong and independent and open person.
At the moment, however, she seemed more closed-off than ever. Her walls were built up to be sky-high and impenetrable. And Amaya could relate to it with all of her being. Grieving is a long and dreadful process, one which she is awfully familiar with.

That is why Amaya could not help sympathizing, despite her frustration and curiosity. She had felt similar feelings, and she had gone the same stages of crying, hiding, masking, depression and emptiness. Still, she wanted to break those walls. She wanted to know, to connect. To feel.
And so she prodded further. [[I understand you’re having a hard time right now.]] Amaya started with, followed by a softly signed [[But we can still talk, you know]]. She had almost glared up and straight into those mystical persimmons’, but stopped herself short of it. Ugh, when are you going to break down your walls?

Instead, she gave an all-encompassing look. One that screamed and whispered at the same time.
I know what you’re going through, Janai. Please.

As if a spell broke, Janai snapped. One desperate plead – Amaya’s – was enough to tear down her sky-high walls. With her heart thundering against her ribcage, she redirected her head to her immediate left. It was just to… get one second away from the woman’s hypnotizing gaze. Simultaneously, she inhaled deeply and tensed her hands.
And the tension rose till its breaking point. Upon breathing out, out the words came. The general patiently watched the outburst of signs, secretly proud and fascinated by the display.

[[I didn’t think you would have wanted me to tell, A-M-A-Y-A.]] The red-head stumbled through it, fumbling with her eight fingers. Smooth eyebrows furrowed in concentration. [[After the battle, I wanted to learn sign language to be able to talk to you. You know, in a better way. I am still learning…]] Another sigh. [[… and I have not perfected it yet. I wanted to surprise you.]]

The last sentence was signed in a rush, as if Janai almost decided against revealing this fact mid-sentence. Amaya’s eyes widened upon seeing the last revelation though, trying to make sense of the whole situation.

She failed terribly. Wanted to… but not anymore? Is that what you’re saying?
Then, the brunette hands moved on their own accord, following her trail of thought. [[I don’t understand… why didn’t you say so sooner?]]

“BECAUSE YOU HATE ME! THAT’S WHY – “ This time, the outburst came in the form of a frantic shout. Realizing the vocal confession, Janai immediately shut up. She could see that Amaya had seen it, though.

With her eyes down, in near shame, she continued more subdued. [[It doesn’t matter.]] A movement caught her eye. On instinct, she retreated further, taking a step back. [[Forget it, A-M-A-Y-A. It’s okay…. I get it.]]

Meanwhile, the woman in question had not stopped going over the facts. The sentences and signs kept replaying themselves like a stuck record. Now that the truth was out, she could not help feeling incredibly lost.
Forget what? And… what the Hell? Amaya scrunched her face up in confusion. In a subconscious move, she closed the distance again. One step forward. Tracing back all of their encounters, she tried to pinpoint the exact moment it all went so horribly wrong. How this misunderstanding came to be.

Because that is what it is. One massive miscommunication.

Amaya eyed the near-depressed woman with pity and exasperation. Oh, you silly Elf. Janai tried to avoid any eye-contact, cheeks flushing with – Amaya figured – embarrassment and heightened emotions. That is why she had no other choice but to come closer. Another step was taken.

[[You lost me, big time.]] she confessed. [[Me, hating you? When did I ever say that?]]

A few seconds ticked by, before Janai suddenly took reign of her body again. She glared at the shorter woman and deadpanned: “I heard Gren talking yesterday. Said you always hated Elves.”

And that’s why you hate me, she mentally added.

Suddenly she felt a five-fingered hand landing on her shoulder. Brown pools drank in the persimmon seas of hurt and secret betrayal. A flash of understanding passed over these browns, her facial expression morphing from a small smile to a breathy sigh.

Her hand removed itself from Janai’s shoulder and grazed her collarbone, where it left a strangely hot tingle.
[[I did for a long, long while. Did you know my sister was killed by your Dragon King?]] Janai nodded slowly. Of course she had heard of this infamous story, and of the death of Katolis’ beloved Queen. [[That’s why I hated everything that was remotely associated with Xadia. Dragons. Magic. Elves…]]

Until I met you.

Amaya continued in full swing. [[I never said I hated you, J-A-N-A-I. People change, and I clearly have.]]

I like this bond we’re building. Don’t tear it down because of a misconception.

[[And you have too. I mean, learning sign language? That’s some dedication, Hotstuff.]]

The knight scrunches her eyebrows in an attempt to decipher the last word. But, seeing the trademark grin appearing on the brunettes pale face, she knows it means trouble. Another weird nickname, probably. Oh well, I could always ask Kazi later today.
Janai was going to let this one comment slip. Just this once she would forfeit, and not counter it with a deadly strike. Yet, upon seeing Amaya downright wiggling her eyebrows, she huffed. “Shut it, Human.”

It was an automatic response. Folding and unfolding her arms in and out of a defensive stance, she successfully fought an upcoming flush of heat. Compared to other instances, the woman recovered fairly quickly from the teasing. She simply couldn’t help but to feel elated and relieved and grateful at the same time. Suddenly in a more positive, reciprocating mood, the red-head tried to explain herself. [[To be fair, I had to keep myself distracted. From… everything, I guess. Hence…]]

With a few hand gestures, Amaya was left to fill in the dots. Connect the dots, even. And she should be able to do so; Janai was convinced of that. She for sure did not want to repeat her shameful outburst word-for-word. She had said more than enough. More like ‘too much’, if you ask me…

[[Really, that’s the only reason? I don’t buy it.]] came the eager reply. This time, Janai was too stubborn to give in to the insinuations and provocations. And so she remained silent, eyes locked onto glistering counterparts. Amaya, on the other hand, refused to give up either. In an attempt to get a rise out of the Elf, she smirked cockily.

[[Is that all you’re gonna give me?]]

.

.

Okay, okay. Amaya had to admit, she was being royally defeated at the moment.
She mentally went over the past couple minutes. The much-needed confrontation; check. One heartfelt confession; check. Clearing up misunderstandings; check. Understanding one stubborn Elf; pending.
And now that the silence stretched over a minute, Amaya had to think fast. What would be best?

Another step was taken then and there. [[Okay fine. I won’t ask again if you beat me in a spar first.]]

Janai glanced at her in surprise. One corner of her plump lips lifted into the tiniest smile. Probably realizing she had won the battle, Amaya thought sullenly. And suddenly, the brunette felt the most bittersweet taste of defeat. Bleh.

[[Tomorrow. 9 AM sharp?]] Janai proposed.

The tiniest smile came back on Amaya’s face as well.
[[You got a deal, Hotstuff.]] Game on.

At the mention of her newfound nickname, Janai’s little forehead crinkle reappeared once again.

Chapter Text

Lux Aurea – That same evening

[[G-R-E-N]]

[[“Yes?”]] Upon seeing Amaya signing his name, the taller men smiles and voices his answer. He regards the woman closely, taking in her posture and demeanor. In his mind, he tries to piece this Amaya with the other Amaya’s he had seen throughout this political travel. Compared to yesterday, she seems lighter. Compared to this afternoon, she seems – what is it?
A mix of annoyed, contemplative and confused.

The general then turns to face her companion in full fledge. She shifts her weight somewhat to accommodate the change in seating. Muscled legs dangle from the concrete balustrade. Her signs came sudden and fast. [[How do you think I view all this?]] The brunette gestures all around to stress her point. [[Xadia? The Sunfire Elves? Everything?]]

Gren, on his account, lifts his left eyebrow in confusion. His upbeat voice echoes through the twilight sky. [[“Where is this coming from?”]]

Amaya was not in for mockery, it seems. [[Just answer the damn question. I’m serious…]] a slight pause, before a [[…for once]] is admitted. He saw a ghost of a cheeky smile breaking her pale poker face. Serious, my fine ass.

The translator decides to answer truthfully anyways. [[“Well, I don’t think I’m able give a definite answer to that. You are and should be entitled to your own feelings, so if anyone can answer this question, it’s you.”]] His caring gaze then catches the exasperation in her expression. He could not help but elaborating further.
[[But if I have to take a guess, you are slowly getting used to being here. In Xadia, and in Lux Aurea. And while you did have a fierce hate for everything associated with the Breach and beyond, I don’t think you do now.]]

[[Why so?]] Amaya questions, intrigued by the opinionated answer.

His reply comes fast. [[“Because I see you here. You seem to get along with Kazi – I must admit, I do too – and especially your Golden Knight has taken a liking to you. And that feeling is reciprocated, if I’m not mistaken…”]] A flashy wink is send her way.

Amaya choose to ignore the show-off, paying it no mind at all. No, her mind got stuck on an earlier phrase. The implication that a certain knight is hers to have. That’s…. hmmm.
It renders the woman speechless, and so Gren provides a closing word. [[“So, given all that I – “]] he hesitates, eyeing the absent, faraway look that blanked over her [[“ – I think you are growing fond of this place, its people and its magic. Much like your nephews are.”]]

Amaya inhales a breath of cooling air, redirecting her gaze towards the vast patio that lays before her. [[You are not entirely wrong, I suppose…]] She leans back and stretches her shoulders pensively. Feet tap slowly against the balustrade, filling the silent air.

[[But Gren.]] she intermits after a while, suddenly more alert.

[[“Yes?”]]

[[How come you mentioned my hate for Elves yesterday? As if you believe I still am hating Elves?]] Which you don’t, apparently.  

Amaya continues raptly. She repositions herself again, turning towards her ginger friend. [[What if someone else overheard it? Someone that would want to stop the negotiations because of it? You would have put everything in jeopardy, everything we are trying to achieve here.]] Brown irises filled with burning passion zoomed in on Gren.

He gulps, his pupil blown up in pure panic. [[“Pray tell, did someone hear?”]]

[[She did, yes.]] Amaya deadpans.

“She…?” The whispered exclamation is out before his signs.

The brunette observes the lieutenant’s confusion and reads his words. The retort comes immediately after, as she frowns and shuffles closer to her confidant. [[J-A-N-A-I, you dunce.]]

Gren gasps in mock surprise. [[“Oh, Heavens! What that why – “]]

[[Yes.]] Thump. Thump.

He blinks three-too-many-times. [[“And that is why you – “]]

[[Yes.]] Thump. Thump.

Ah, was what Gren thought as the truth slowly settles in. [[“And you talked it out?”]]

The question is greeted by another nod from Amaya. Thu-thump. [[Barely, but again a yes to that question]] she almost-laughed.

[[“So you two are good now?”]] he enquires last. To be frank, the translator good not help but be curious about the warrior duo. Did they have a good heart-to-heart? Did Amaya finally realize how she fe –

O-oh! Gren’s eyes sparkle in pure happiness upon seeing a red hue appear on the brunette face. He pauses in his enthusiasm slightly, waiting to see what the woman would do. What she would answer, and mostly important, how she would act. Can’t believe I’m experiencing her first true –

O-oh! There it is again. Another movement to showcase her slowly crumbling fierceness. General Amaya blinks her blush away. The woman swallows loudly, her left hand stilled on her breastplate.

Awh. If Gren could melt, he would be a measly puddle right then and there.

Instead, swooning it becomes. Especially after her final words:

[[We’re in a much better place. Actually… tomorrow morning, she will be the first one I see.]]

Storm Spire – Before the Battle

“Kazi, we’ll go ahead. See you at the Storm Spire, okay?” was what Janai uttered last to the linguist. With her curt nod and an adjustment of their glasses, they had parted ways. They were about to fly off to someplace further – a home to all Skywing Elves – and support the defensive front at the Storm Spire.

It was of great importance that both generals arrived first. The Golden Knight figured as much. She reasoned they would need to lead her Sunfire Elven army to the battle grounds together. Yes, her army. Amaya of course held no position in her army, but she was insistent on joining the first flight to the Storm Spire.
And Janai let her. Something about her family, Kazi had said. Given the circumstances, the red-head thought it wouldn’t be a problem if another strategist joined the team. On the contrary even. The Katolian general’s intel on Khessa’s killer may even be crucial to win the battle.

They would face a common and familiar enemy, after all…

Besides, Amaya seemed as hateful of the Human mage as Janai was. Something shone in her eyes that fateful day, that day she stopped Janai from combusting and boiling and exploding from rage and revenge. It was largely resembling sympathy, though it bordered on overflowing empathy. As if she understood what Janai was going through. As if. She mentally huffed in disbelief, still not out of her self-dug tunnel of grief.

After Kazi and Janai bid each other farewell, it was a matter of finding the Human at pronto. The latter turned around and away from the timid Elf swiftly. There was no time to spare, as they would need the majority of their time to prepare and perhaps convince Agunah. Twin-Tailed Inferno-Tooth tigers weren’t the easiest steeds in that aspect. The red-head thought back to her fellow comrades, who were downright thrown off or even attacked while training. They should find you worthy, and not the other way around, as Khessa once told her when they were kids.

Khessa…

Mustering enough energy to put one foot after the other, she stepped outside the corridor and into the grand hall. There, she hasted through the endlessly stretching room, paying little attention to the servants and guards she came across. Within a few minutes, she stood outside. Armed and ready. If only that Human would –

Ah.

It seemed she would not need to search long. Not at all in fact, as she could see the general’s familiar curvy yet masculine outline from afar. Some dozen feet further, Amaya was already pacing impatiently with her arms crossed and shield securely settled on her back. Stuck in her own mantra, the brunette did not see Janai approaching. That is, until a warm hand settled on her shoulder, effectively shaking her out of her trance.

Brown eyes zoomed in a set of full lips. “Let’s go, Human” Janai carefully phrased, not putting any malice behind them. She did put some pressure on that hand though, just to stress the urgency.

The message was clear as day. After Amaya shot her an amused but serious look – her head slightly tilting to meet the persimmons of the taller knight – she uncrossed her arms. Janai, on her account, let go and stepped back. She then walked away with a steady pace, long legs carrying her to the stables. Now if only Agunah would be a bit less reluctant and more accepting…

Janai silently prayed to the Solar Gods, wishing the process of mounting would be smooth and effortlessly. Unbeknownst to the Sunfire Elf, however, Amaya seemed to have employed a whole different strategy. Stepping towards the stables, she tried to observe, judge and approach. Slowly, almost stealthily.

The brunette wore a beaming grin on her face while closing in on her prey. She loved cats, after all.

And these were just the biggest, most enormous, hugely gigantic and utterly magical cats she had ever seen!

And before she knew it, she already made her acquaintance with Janai’s very own hotcat.

.

.

When Agunah let out a mighty purr, Janai snapped out of her stupor. That is, after mentally slapping herself a dozen times. What the - ? She simply could not believe her eyes, and figured she must have stepped into one of her dream scenarios. Weirdly enough, these hallucinations did not cease over time and so Janai reasoned she must be actually seeing Amaya softly stroking the furry ears of her steed.

Tiny flames licked at the inside of her chest. Thu-thump. Thu-thump.

When the red-head and brunette locked gazes, the latter nudged her head sidewards. As if she wanted to shout a Shall we go? with full fervor. Sharing her enthusiasm, Janai almost skipped over to Amaya, her four fingered hands automatically diving into the softness that is Agunah.

The hotcat was quickly saddled and before long, the knight had settled herself on her steed. Ready to fly, ready to fight. Next to her, Amaya was preparing herself to mount Agunah. Her chested heaves with deep, steadying breaths. Just like Janai, she was mentally checking off the boxes for take-off.

Once ready, she grabbed Janai’s outreached arm – when did I… when did that happen? – and positions herself behind the other woman. The latter felt a sudden warm weight pressing against her back. Oh. Two hands placed themselves on her metal-clad hipbones lightly.

Meanwhile, droplets of affection kept fueling Janai’s flames of passion.

With one glance thrown over her left shoulder, she checked if Amaya was good to go. One determined confirmation later, Janai signaled her steed to set course to the Storm Spire. Okay, here we go…

.

At the very back, Amaya reveled in the sight before her. She had never flown before, and so she adsorbed every little detail with wonder and awe. As they climb higher and higher, Lux Aurea gradually became nothing more than a spot in the Xadian soil. Clouds began engulfing them wholly. Fresh breezes of air cleared her lungs and mind. Meanwhile, she also eyed Janai. The Golden Knight had been handling the flying hotcat with grace, treating the creature respectfully and kindly. With honor. She oozed confidence and control. It was almost serene.

Yes. Amaya had never flown before, and that was a fact. All the more reason to keep a steady hold, to keep hold something that is familiar. Something she knew. It was why Amaya’s hands never left the sides of Janai. Even after landing on the Storm Spire, even after becoming overcome with giddiness upon observing two – Janai figures – familiar figures.

She never did let loose. Instead, Amaya had given her a soft squeeze before jumping off Agunah. Janai felt the warmth of her hands even after demounting the steed herself.

Rumor has it she was a blushing mess all the way to the battle grounds.

Lux Aurea – That same evening

“Kazi, can I ask you something?”

“S-sure, Golden Knight. How can I help you?”

“Oh yes.” Janai uncharacteristically fidgeted on her spot. “I happened to make conversation with Amaya today. I’m sure you’ve noticed our… fall-out during breakfast.”

That they did indeed. Another observable truth presented itself in the attitude change of both woman. Before and after that confrontation. Whereas the morning was clouded in tension and heaviness, the afternoon had been floaty and light. As did the treaty negotiations, which ran much, much more smoothly.

So yes, Kazi definitely had noticed.

Upon seeing the confirmation plain visible on their face, Janai continued. “Well… the Human mentioned this phrase to me. I mostly understood her signs – “ she sounded proudly, almost giddy “ – but this Katolian word was the one thing we didn’t cover during our lessons.”

“A-ah.” was what the scholar stuttered. They had a slight suspicion as to where this conversation was going. Given the general’s cheekiness, boldness even, the mystery spelled out hints of mischief. Great. Frankly, Kazi genuinely doubted whether they could bear the consequences of the upcoming revelation.

By the Solar Deities, what have I gotten myself into?

Seconds of silence followed. It ultimately lead to Janai’s decision to step in and continue the enquiry. “Anyhow, I think I remember the signs well enough. Mind if I show you?”

Naturally, Kazi could not disobey a request from the Golden Knight and soon-to-be Sunfire Queen. And thus, albeit with some apprehension, a silent nod was offered.
The single gesture put Janai into action. Stumbling through the signs with clear inexperience, she managed the [[Hotstuff]] near-perfectly. At the very least, Kazi understood its meaning.

And what a translation it was. Kazi shuddered in sheer embarrassment, feeling as if she could combust spontaneously. Seriously, Amaya. You are driving me crazy with your reckless antics…

Meanwhile, the woman observed their change in body language with suspicion. Just looking from this moderate distance, it was so obvious that they knew. Crossing her arms in a defensive and questioning stance, the knight focussed all her attention on the reddening Elf. Narrowed eyes bore into dilated counterparts.
O-oh no. Well… that is how Kazi knew that Janai knew.

They guessed there was no going around the inevitable. “Oh my!” the linguist exclaimed, as if they were actually surprised by the mysterious phrase. To Kazi it was a mere half-truth, in the predictability aspect. “T-that’s… are you sure you want to know, Golden Knight?”

The linguist tried to avoid the truth relevance – and all consequences that came with it – but Janai didn’t want to have any of the stalling and waiting. “Out with it, Kazi” she eventually deadpanned. It was followed by pause, after which a much softer voice near-whispered. “Is it really that bad?”

Bad? “Well no, but… yes, maybe?” was what escaped Kazi’s lips. It was a trick question, with tricky answers.
After all, it really depends on the context and interpretation and mood of a certain woman, I guess.

It was that moment Kazi knew they were thrown into the deep. Trapped into going one way, moving into one direction. Forward. Outward, and out with it.

.

.

Janai could not believe her ears when Kazi sputtered the following words: “It means Hotstuff, Golden Knight.”

What did she call me? How -

As if the linguist could read her mind, they clarified once more. “She called you Hotstuff.” Their crimson cheeks flushed with a burning heat, mostly in sheer embarrassment. Two fingers nervously found a pair of round glasses, whose material shone under the twilight illumination. The red-head could hear them gulp in anxiety.

Having said that, their expression definitely held nothing against Janai’s. Lips pursed, eyes wide open. Nails dug into shaky hands, arms vibrating next to her body. The bright red flush had appeared instantly, and in its highest intensity. She was set aflame, both her mind and body. Burning hotter than her Heat-being mode.

Hotstuff, really?

W-why? Why Amaya?

.

Why must you be so, so impossible?

Chapter Text

Lux Aurea – The next day…

It would be a lie to say that she’d never slept so bad in her life. But it came close to her worst, as Janai tries to rub the circles from under her eyes. The revelation from yesterday kept her riled up till the smallest hours. The scorching sun went under and rose again, while persimmon irises could not stay fully closed.
Well, it wasn’t due to her lack of effort. The red-head had tried hard to calm her heart and mind, but to no avail. And so she had been lying in her soft queen-sized bed, wondering about the whys and her stance in all this.

Ugh, Amaya and her dumb antics. Janai sighs, thinking back to her conversion with Kazi. It left quite some food for thought, that’s for sure. Enough to survive an entire night without a second of well-needed sleep.

A couple of hours ago, she had gone to the kitchen herself, downing a cup of Xadian coffee to feel a little more alive. It had worked tremendously, and now she was effectively running on caffeine and willpower alone. Janai sighs deeply once more as she steps into the sunlight. Her feet sweeps away specks of dust from the training ground.

A tap on her shoulder wakes her from her mental rollercoaster. Janai is not surprised to see Amaya greeting her with a blinding smile and a little wave. She is not surprised at all, but it certainly holds no remedy for the bubble of heat that swells up at the sight. Hotstuff… right. Slightly flustered, but dead-set against showing it to the giddy general, she clears her throat while masking her face with her slender hands.

After putting her hands down and away from her warm face, the Sunfire Elf mirrors the welcoming gesture with a tight smile. [[“Good morning… A-M-A-Y-A”]] she manages to sign shortly after. Said woman does the same, this time without the nickname. And frankly, Janai feels relieved by it. She does not know how she would have acted if –

No, it’s not important right now. You came here with a resolve and a plan, Janai.

Uplifting the corner of her mouth, Janai shows Amaya a playful grin and turns around. With big strides, she walks to the edge of the training arena and grabs two wooden sticks from a mahogany basket. She feels the smoothened surface of both objects with care, nods in approval and returns to her sparring partner at once. The taller woman then tosses the left one to Amaya, who catches it with ease.

Amaya eyes the sparring tool and does her own inspection on the material’s sturdiness and weight. The brunette shoots the tired Elf a teasing look shortly after. Janai counters her smug face with one of her own. Okay, here we go.

.

.

After both readying themselves, the spar commenced with a collision of sticks. It started off much like they had expected – heated, energetic and with verve. Now, a few minutes later, they have settled into a comfortable rhythm. Strike left. Block. Turn. Change position. Strike right. Block. Another evading maneuver. The friendly battle continues without screaming or laughter, just the clanks of wood against wood filing the morning air.

Amaya grunts softly when another powerful hit meets her dummy weapon. Just barely, she manages to block it again. Strong vibrations of impact travel to her arms and shoulders.

The feeling is strangely familiar to Amaya. It is funny to think that just a few months ago, they did a similar thing. Janai and her, the two of them. At that time though, they had totally different intents. On the Breach they had fought sword against shield, shoulder against shoulder, tooth for tooth. And time and time again, they faced each other with frustrated scowls. How these expressions have changed since then….

Amaya takes the liberty to observe her opponent. A fiery mane of red locks dances around a bronze, well-sculped body. Golden adornments flicker with each move. Janai’s face displays a mixture of concentration and exertion and mirth. Seemly glad to have a worthy sparring partner, able to push her buttons. Well, Amaya knows this is by far the most fun and competitive fight she herself had in a while.

In fact, the last time was… well…

Sarai.

She shoots Janai a flashy smile, albeit bittersweet about her sudden trip down memory lane. The smile she gets in return send pleasant shivers down her spine. Janai’s flushed cheeks push a set of gleaming eyes into a somewhat crescent shape. Admittedly, Amaya likes that genuine smile. A lot. So radiant. So pretty…

A realization hit her. Uh, oh.

The fraction of lost focus is enough for the Golden Knight to gain the upper hand. She had tried to tire Amaya out by an onslaught of strong blows and overpowering strength. But to her utter disappointment, her sparring partner had more stamina than anticipated and didn’t budge at all. Janai blames her wishful thinking above all.

After minutes of prodding and filling every gap between them with a practiced strike, she finally sees her chance. When Amaya loosens her grip on the wooden stick in that very moment, Janai initiates her coupe d’état.

The slight push is enough to shift the gravity to both their disadvantage. Amaya imbalanced by the attack, Janai merely exhausted. Anyhow, it causes them to underwhelmingly tumble to the dusty ground together. Amaya loses her weapon in the process, slowly rolling away from their tangled mess. Janai holds hers tightly in her right hand, straddling the other woman in a strong hold.

The position is… intimate, to say the least. Amaya struggles against the taller Elf that now sits on top of her, though without much strength. They remain seated, holding eye contact. Never letting their shit-eating grins fall from their faces.
Still. To avoid being proclaimed as the loser of the two, Amaya is inclined to put an end to this situation. It is high time to defer to other methods, she muses. The brunette had managed to sweep Janai off her feet – quite literally – but she would rather see her become undone.

She refuses to question herself when that became her hobby.

In any case, it is time to turn the tables. Shift the momentum. And she already knows what to do. Seeing that Janai made no effort to restrain her wrists and hands – considerate and foolish – Amaya lifts her hands.
[[Are you done?]] she signs then, delivering the message with a playful wink.

The grin on Janai’s face slowly falls, and confusion overtakes her expression. Good. The change in attitude provides Amaya a perfect chance to land her killing blow.
And that she does. [[You can let go now – ]] she continues, followed by a short pause [[ – because you’ve already caught me, Hotstuff.]]

.

Instead of the expected blush and flush and stammering, Amaya sees absolutely nothing. No avoiding gesture, no back-tracking. Absolutely nothing. Well, that sure is a big surprise and definitely not at all the reaction she was aiming, or even hoping, for. Her eyes glow in – she thinks – unbelief and obliviousness.

Wait a second… glowing eyes?

An abrupt rush of heat brings her back to reality. She flinches away from the sensation, rolling from under the taller woman and morphing her body into a defensive stance. Brown eyes dart from left to right, observing the messy scene in front of her.

It is not hard to spot the threat. The culprit turns out to be a wooden stick, now attached to a scorching hand. The partial Heat-being mode leaves Amaya unharmed, but the poor weapon was set aflame in an instant. And judging from Janai’s expression, that was not in the plans at all. Downright surprised by her own outburst, she springs to action and throws the burning object a few feet further, letting it burn out the last of its fuel.

Seconds pass in silence, both standing stiffly and watching the fire die out in an anticlimactic poof. They stay mum, not knowing how to react nor respond to this situation. Janai is mostly shocked with herself and the absurdity of the moment. It is so, so out of her control. And she hates when that happens. Especially if that means she is hurting… someone she cares about.

Why must you be like that, Amaya? Now you’ve done it.

Amaya, on her account, was not even sure if this is what she had in mind when she pulled that prank. I mean, that was… something. Almost sheepishly, she observes the object of her sudden guilt. She sees regret washing over the red-haired silhouette briefly, followed by a sharp inhale. Then, a deep exhale. The heated glow gradually shimmers out, and persimmon colored irises find Amaya’s.

Seeing the questioning look of the Elf, she shrugs half-apologetically. As if to say, I’m sorry, I’m fine and I didn’t mean to. The resulting glint of relief she then spots in Janai’s eyes does wonders for her heart. And the similar apologetic shrug vanishes every doubt she has.

Amaya laughs.
It took only a few seconds before both women absolutely, undeniably, crack up at the ridiculousness of it all.

Laughter fades into a comfortable silence. Gathering her very last ounce of self-dignity, Amaya dares stepping into Janai’s space again. After coming to a standstill, she holds out her hand in defeat. Only this time, only this moment. Her ex-opponent perceived the hand in what seems to be a delightful satisfaction. The four fingers that seamlessly linked themselves with Amaya’s feel familiar and strong.

They shake hands, concluding their spar with a honest retreat of the general. Though, Amaya couldn’t resist teasing and mocking her one more time. While stepping back a couple of inches, she ends their little ceremony with a [[… next time, you won’t be using your little heat tricks on me, Hotstuff.]]

It was at that very moment Janai knew. She had finally prepared herself to strike her own killing blow. Making herself taller by puffing her chest and squaring her shoulders, she closes the distance with Amaya again. She makes sure her lips are fully visible, her gaze as intense as the flames that had just adorned the poor wooden object.

She forgoes to add signs. Janai considers it a payback for Amaya’s mysterious teasing. Pulling off another smug grin of her own, the Elf gives her companion a taste of her own medicine: “Please, spare me the threat. I guess I’m just too hot to handle.”

The subsequent hair flip messes with Amaya’s mind, very much like that one smile did.
Shit. I am so, so screwed.

Katolis – One month later

Three weeks after being back in Katolis, Amaya is already at her breaking point. It feels just like before the trip to Lux Aurea. Boring, non-eventful. Though, the additional emptiness is new. New, but definitely not helping her sullen mood.

In other words, it sucks. Gren had accompanied her throughout these weeks, also not being assigned to any particular other mission. Every member participating in the treaty negotiations are currently held at the castle until further notice. Until her nephew decides how they could fulfill a role in strengthening the bonds between Xadia and Katolis.

So, until that moment arises, Amaya is stuck inside the high concrete walls of this godforsaken fortress. To her, it feels like being a prisoner all over again, without the snarky prison keeper and her nervous interpreter. Without being able to joke around and banter with the enemy-turned-allies. Without –

Heavens, I’m slowly going crazy here.

Of course, Ezran is her pride and joy. That she is well aware of. As of the fact that she is still surrounded by her family, so she knows she shouldn’t be broody and itchy all day. Amaya tries her best, she really does. It just wasn’t enough, not for her.

Sometimes, in her worst moments, she feels jealous of Callum. Envying his freedom and adventures and the fact that he got to do it all with his little girlfriend. When such thoughts boil to the surface, Amaya push them down hard. After all, she is already sinning – hoping for more than she could ever get. Deserve, even.
To her own disgust, Amaya even considered putting her turmoil in one of her letters to Callum. In the end, she barely managed to decide against it. I mean, how would Callum feel? It is not that we can change any of this…

Currently taking a breather at one of the watchtowers, she tries to enjoy the view over the Katolian land. The cool breeze makes her feel even more empty inside, though. Amaya sighs in pure frustration.
A shadow on her left makes her turn ninety degrees. There stands her faithful companion, rock and loyal friend. Gren takes a spot right next to the moping woman, bumping his shoulders with hers.

As expected, he is the one starting the conversation. [[“How is it hanging, General?”]]

Her eyes tiredly follow the signs. [[Please, just A-M-A-Y-A. And I’m feeling like shit right now.]]

Gren, the happy-go-lucky person he is, never stops smiling. His irises fall onto the shorter woman’s posture knowingly. [[“Well, I figured that was the case. Ever since you came back, you’ve been…”]] he pauses shortly [[“… different.”]]

Amaya huffs, trying to seem annoyed by his questioning. She simply can’t, though, as she admits:
[[Can’t deny the facts, genius.]]

Not wanting to let the brunette suffer on her own, Gren tries to steer the conversation to a deeper level. He turns slightly more towards Amaya. [[“May I take the liberty to guess what’s wrong?”]]

She grins upon seeing his misplaced enthusiasm. That’s so like him. [[Sure, shoot.]]

[[“Is it the Golden Knight? J-A-N-A-I?”]] His first guess hit home, as Amaya’s pupils widen. Like a deer caught in the headlights. Bingo, is all Gren thinks before adding a: [[“It definitely is her, isn’t it?”]]

Amaya nods, taking a second to gather herself. Her mouth feels so incredibly dry. Th-thump th-thump. [[How about it?]] she shakingly replies. Gren, on his account, furrows his eyebrows in surprise. [[“Well, I’m just confused. Didn’t you say everything was good and well between you two?”]]

[[You know there’s never been a good between us, G-R-E-N. It’s always been strangely weird.]] Charged. Heated. Definitely that one day. The day I - …. and I haven’t really sat down and talked to her since.

That just sucks.

[[“Well, is it a good weird?”]] Gren enquires. [[“Because I have the feeling something is happening between you two.”]]

[[Like what?]] Amaya immediately shoots back.

[[“I’m talking about the mushy stuff here. I mean, Amaya, les-be honest.”]] The ginger raises his left eyebrow in a hinting gesture. One that completely flies over the brunette, as she morphs her expression into an annoyed and confused one. An expression Gren is frightenedly familiar with.

He scrambles and fumbles to pick up his hands, quick to elaborate. [[“How long has it been since you have been interested in someone? Romantically, I mean.”]]

.

Wait, what?

[[“I see you, A-M-A-Y-A. I am not blind.”]]

A defeated sigh. [[Is it that obvious?]]

[[“Wait, you know? You realized? How come there’s no action then?”]] Gren flies his hands around, exasperated and maybe a tad bit disappointed. Sure, he was elated by the developments. But still…
[[“J-A-N-A-I sure looks like she could use a certain general in her life.”]]

Just when Gren thought Amaya’s mood could not decline further, it plummeted like a brick. A soft breeze shifts brown locks from left to right, masking part of the general’s face. The overall demeanor, however, is unmistakable. Amaya looks like she’s given up a future with…

The confirmation comes shortly after. [[She’s not… not… like that.]]

Gren tries to smoothen over the roughness that embodies Amaya’s emotions. [[“How do you know that?”]]

Blue eyes meet browns as Amaya bears her heart to her most loyal friend. [[She is just easily flustered. Believe me, I like getting her all blushed up. But nothing more than that, okay. I’m not risking anything at this point.]]

[[“But…”]] The deadly glare that follows shut Gren up, effective immediately. Still, he could not leave it like this. He cannot bear to see Amaya this broken. Amaya is never broken.
He decides to grasp her shoulders in a firm hold, forcing the woman to read his lips. “What do you want, Amaya?”

To Gren’s heart wrenching shock, he sees a ghost of a tear falling from her sharp cheekbones. His heart aches, especially because he has his suspicions about the whole affair. I should take action soon, he reminds himself while awaiting her answer. And it comes in a deafening silence.

[[The one thing I will never have.]]

Chapter Text

Lux Aurea – Meanwhile… in the Queen’s quarters

“Have you attended to her Radiance already? How was her mood this time?”

“Yes, I did. And well… I figure you’ve noticed already?”

A firm nod follows promptly. “Hmm.”

“Just like the late Queen, she wears her heart on her sleeve and shines brighter when happy and content.” a musing, reminiscing voice echoes in the lone corridors of the East Wing.

The two Ladies of the Royal Chambers look at each other in silent agreement.  They too had heard the gossip and saw the way the soon-to-be ruler had changed. Changed for the better, from sad and grieving to positively energetic. Simply radiating. On a good day, one maiden had even seen a genuine smile on her Radiance’s face.

Rumor has it this all began with the arrival of those Humans…  

“Do you know what’s been up with her Radiance lately?”

From the keepers to the clerks to the ladies, maidens and guards. All had their own suspicions as to whom was responsible for this demeanor change. And most importantly, how and why this came to be. The craziest story once circled around the Royal kitchens, involving the Human Child King and a Moonshadow’s illusionary spell.

Blinking that bogus of a story away, the younger Lady whispers curiously. “Is it perhaps a secret lover?”

A humph and hiss are the immediate response. “How assumptive, my Child! Who told you such a preposterous story?”

“N-no, that’s not…” she whisper-shouts, backtracking quickly. “I mean, what else can make her Radiance forget about the late Queen? You know how she was after the Battle at the Storm Spire. And she for sure is not looking forward to be sitting on the throne anytime soon.”

That the elder woman can agree with. She had seen the younger Royal being raised in the light of Lux Aurea’s primal power, growing up to be a strong and magnificent leader. A warrior, a knight, shielding away her emotions and wielding viciously with words and swords to anyone who dares to defy her. The only one that ever came close to her Radiance’s heart was the late Queen, and once she had lost her lifeline… the young knight had never been the same.

For months and months, she had seen her Radiance drown herself in grief and all of her newfound responsibilities. At least, that was the case, up until those negotiations…

“You may have a point, Child.” Curious herself, she keeps her eyes trained on her companion. “Do tell, why do you think her Radiance has found her forever light?”

With a gleam in their eyes, they started exchanging stories. Stories about a certain fall-out between their Golden Knight and the Human general. About the late-night sessions with the Royal Scholar Kazi. About a spar that had left spying sergeants in awe and wonder. The latest clue came in the form of a letter, one that had been delivered to the Royal Palace a couple of days ago. The sender was unfamiliar, mysterious, and it had been the topic of rumors ever since.

Yet, the two Ladies had a hunch. That red seal definitely belongs to the Kingdom of Katolis…

Lux Aurea – Before her departure

Amaya had not seen this coming, and that is an absolute fact. Because she feels it, this strong emotion, with all of her being. Dread. Reluctant to up and leave the Golden City. It is supposed to happen this afternoon, yet her legs seem like concrete, keeping her grounded and cemented here and now.
Amaya berates herself for being this way.

The treaty negotiations had been a success. With the two neighboring monarchies of Katolis and Lux Aurea making progress to move forward hand-in-hand, the future starts to look brighter. No plans are set into motion yet, but soon Ezran and Janai will be appointing designated representatives to further the interregional trade and travel. Soon, the two lands and their citizens will cross that Breach and become closer than ever.

Yet.

Until that soon comes in sight, some time will be taken to recover their lands, complete the rebuilt of destroyed infrastructure and prepare citizens for the upcoming changes. Especially the last part will be a challenge, as not everyone shares the same mindset of harmonizing and connecting. There is still plenty of work to do to convince the traditional faction of the brilliance of their plans.

Well, Amaya fully intends to help her darling nephew to the best of her abilities. Back at home. Back in Katolis…

The brunette takes a deep breath, inhaling the scent of Lux Aurea. She smells a touch of spices, mingled with cinnamon and lotuses. She has come to like this air, just like she has taken to the scenery and all of Lux Aurea. Amaya had thought she would never miss a single speck of Xadian ground. But here she is, thoroughly and utterly aching by the thought of leaving. Of leaving J–

She was walking slowly but steadily, moving forward one tiny step at a time. Now, in the distance, she sees a small figure awaiting her arrival. Ezran. He is waggling around while lifting his Glow Toad with much heaving. Looks like his patience has run out. Yet, upon shuffling closer and closer, Amaya clearly sees the sparkle of joy in his eyes. It makes the general chuckle at the sight. Ah, he’s such a sweet boy…

The moment Ezran notices Amaya’s arrival, he turns and skips towards her. Bait’s limps juggle with each movement, just as his curly hair does. The display of giddiness and energy is infectious, and soon Amaya cannot help but follow. Shortly after, the young boy greets his aunt with a toothy smile.

[[You’re all set, King Ezran?]] she asks him, after which she puts both hands on her hips. Curiously lowering her gaze, she sees a quick non-verbal confirmation. Happy curls bounce from left to right.
“And you?” Ezran tilts his head in question. The mock intimidating gesture looks almost convincing. And one resolute nod from Amaya later, both started giggling at their theatrical act.
Amaya figured it must have looked ridiculous to any random bystander. Two Katolian royals, fake-questioning one another in broad daylight, like some weird departing ritual. Strangely enough, it comes as a much-needed distraction to the general. A good remedy to forget about the ache.

[[Where’s Gren?]] Amaya suddenly thinks aloud. Ezran blinks. His eyes dart around as if to find an answer. Eventually the boy answers in a shrug, not remembering anything that could cause the translator to be late. Where could he be? the brunette wonders, genuinely not knowing either. Yesterday evening had not been very eventful – with zero alcoholic drinks involved – and should not give him a reason for being late.

That lazy –

It seems her mental rant is about to be cut short, as Amaya catches sight of another approaching duo. The rosy ginger locks of her friend formed a stark contrast with the palace’s interior. And the person accompanying him.

Oh.

Gren’s company is the one person Amaya had wanted to avoid, if possible. It was a little selfish thought, a matter of self-preservation. Just to avoid having to be hurt more and more.  Just wishful thinking.

Forget about the ache, Amaya. Don’t start having feelings now.  

Janai, being the oblivious yet perfect woman she is, immediately walks up to her. [[“Hey, are you alright? Ready to go back home?”]] Worried persimmons find a pair of deflated browns. [[Hey, J-A-N-A-I.]] she replies curtly, her signs to the point.

Oh, how Amaya want to pour her heart out and tell the ugly truth. Hey. Am I alright? No, I am not. Definitely not. I’m not ready to go home. I’m not ready to be away from you here.
Instead she forces an additional [[I guess, yeah. Me and Ezran are all packed up. Gren though…]] She chuckles awkwardly, feeling the piercing and calculating gaze of the taller woman burning on her face. Heavens, her face burns brighter than ever today. The attentive gaze leaves a flaming sensation all over. Dear god, it burns.

[[“That’s good to hear. Gren told me it will take about thirty hours to reach Katolis, and I want you to have a comfortable trip home.”]]
Home. That word struck a realization. Amaya gulps. I’m not ready to sit in that stupid castle and think about… about…

About how much I miss this. How I miss you and how much I wish I’d have told you what I feel. For you.

A sullen yes is all she could muster. Amaya feels a lump in her throat, feels like crying and blushing and hugging at the same time. Feels like throwing up. Feels like throwing away that realization deep, deep into the darkest pits of the Breach. She gulps another time, trying to dissolve that lump in her throat and keep her emotions hidden from full view.

And Janai, being the oblivious yet perfect woman she is, redirects her stare elsewhere. To Gren and Ezran amicably chatting away. To the Royal Palace, which shines magically in the morning dew. Back to Amaya, where it stays a little longer.

“Will you be back soon?” Janai suddenly blurts out, eyes widening at her own action. The subdued general would have laughed at the impulsiveness, but aches and aches at the look of desperation staring back at her. As if looking into a mirror. [[“Will you be there for my coronation, A-M-A-Y-A?”]]

The implied “Will you be there for me?” set the rest of Amaya aflame.

The only response she could manage was a pitiful hopefully and maybe before Ezran whisked her away from the conversation. They said their goodbyes and soon enough, Amaya was dragged away from the palace and the Golden City. From Janai and her warmth. From the one thing I’m afraid of putting into words.  

Lux Aurea – The present

It’s been a month since the Katolian delegation had left for the Human lands, Janai realized one day. She was casually sitting in the evening sunlight, relishing a cup of freshly-made mint tea. For a couple of hours, her schedule was clear and void of any tasks appointed to a soon-to-be Sunfire Queen. And honestly, that was a strong necessity. She was fed up with signing papers and pleasing the old, patriarchal members of the Sunfire Council. The peace and quiet was god-send, and she was enjoying it to the fullest.

Especially now that she got an update from Katolis. To her surprise, an official looking envelope had arrived this morning. Twenty-four sunrises after their departure. Ahem, not that she was counting. She discovered that the letter belonged to Gren, and that revelation stirred an explosion of mixed feelings. First and foremost, she was delighted to hear and learn more from them, relieved to know that they thought of her as an ally. A friend even. Yet, a tiny voice whispered the disappointment that came with it. With the sender not being...

Ah. A familiar warmth welled up inside her chest. It had been a recurring feeling for the past couple of months, always somehow related to the Human General. The tingling and fluttering felt oddly comfortable to the bronze-skinned warrior, who was not used to this surge of heat. Not in this way. Not with anyone else.

She was still figuring out what it all meant.

Meanwhile, thick paper crinkled in-between four fingers as the letter still resided in her right hand. That message had certainly left some food for thought, that was abundantly clear. Gren had started off positive, words overflowing with the latest gossip and small-talk. His tone had gradually turned darker though, as he began referring more and more to the mood of his faithful companion.

Who had apparently been feeling down and depressed. Filled with less and less hope every time the sun rose from its slumber. And the worst thing of it all – Gren had said she was hurting. Aching, he wrote.
And Janai hated it when Amaya hurts. She grimaced at the sudden self-revelation.

Well well, how different the times have become.

The tall knight gulped, thinking of what could have happened to the brown-haired woman. Her mind drowned in possible scenarios. Janai has always been thorough, and so her mind could not stray away from the worser than worst-cases, from images that would even haunt her nightmares. Also, the fact remained that Amaya was miles and days of travel away. Janai’s heart ached at the thought of not being near her hurting friend. The taste of mint tea did little to sooth her worries.

She was aching, he wrote.

Then, it struck her. Whirling thoughts abruptly came into focus, as her heartbeat increased. The sun seemed to stay stagnant in the evening sky just as Janai’s breath was caught in her throat.

Is that why I didn’t want her to leave in the first place? The thudding grew in intensity. Why do I even want to have her nearby, so impossibly close to me? Always, every time? She saw flashes of taut muscles rippling underneath a metal suit. Thin lips that curled into a cheeky grin every so often. Sometimes it even took the form of a beautiful smile. The kind, calming eyes that had dragged her out of her deepest turmoil. Warm hands that had saved her life and strengthened her confidence.

Another whiff of mint shook her back to reality. A dartling heartbeat still resonating in her throat. By the Solar Deities, what have I done now? A sigh followed suit, with persimmon pools of worry glooming over the nearing sunset. Why must I torture myself this way? Wanting the impossible, wanting that one thing that I had sworn off since being promoted to Golden Knight.

.

Remember what Khessa said. Remember that your destiny lies elsewhere.

The Breach – Two weeks later

The broad-shouldered guard was surprised to see three cloaked figures appearing at the border outpost. Politely they had sought permission to cross the Breach. Though being a trained and experienced sergeant, never had he experienced such a request being made in a peaceful, communicative way. Training could not prepare the man for this surprising and ridiculously unthinkable occasion, and so the raised eyebrow was difficult to mask.

“Why do you seek permission to travel across the Breach?” he had stated, arms crossed and his weapon well within reach. Although peace had settled itself nicely in both countries, military personnel on-duty should always have a watchful eye. Especially rare circumstances – such as the current one – asked for caution. And that’s how he approached it.

Yet. Never in the million years he would have foreseen the next move. Three cloaks slowly came off, causing the sergeant to grip its sword. He was mentally preparing to defend the border and his Honour with it.

Then, stale blue eyes widened in recognition.

“O-Oh, of course. Pardon me.” He stepped aside in a submissive gesture. “May you have a save travel.”

And that they wished as well, as the trio hastened their journey to the nearest royal palace.

Chapter Text

Katolis – Present

Another morning comes without any changes in her routine. At least, that is what Amaya thought. It started off the usual way, with sunlight forcing her out of a comfy bed and one healthy portion of breakfast making her somewhat energized to brace the day.

That was a mere two hours ago.

Now, she is greeted with a vision that has haunted her dreams as of late. Whether it be in her nightmares or the exact opposite. It is a surreal scene, and Amaya cannot seem to convince herself to believe it. The dumbstruck woman considers slapping herself to check if she is, in fact, dreaming.

The caffeine has not worked out yet, so she is definitely not. Dreaming, that is.

Oh right. She sees three figures standing tall and proud in front of her. One slightly more in front than the other two, with her hands on a set of broad hips and her costume decorated with more gold and bronze. Dark red locks cause a stark contrast with her golden markings, indicating a Sunfire warrior of high rank. At least, that is what Amaya was told during her days in Lux Aurea.

Of course she knows who she is shamelessly gaping at. Months have gone by without any wavering thoughts or feelings. Especially the latter will probably be her downfall, tearing her apart from the inside out. Just like now. The nervous thudding of her heart already reveals the fact that they know and yearn and keep yearning. And it certainly doesn’t help that the visitor seems just as awestruck and mesmerized.

.

Because indeed, admittedly, Janai fairs no better. She appears still and unmoving, just like concrete. She ogles and looks the shorter woman straight in the eye, searching for what seems to be a silent confirmation. Approval. An indication that she made a good choice coming to Katolis.

That she made a good choice coming for her general.

So far, she hasn’t had any success. Yet.
The confused and utterly shocked look on Amaya’s face betrays nothing. No spark of that much-needed approval or appreciation. Don’t tell me I’ve travelled all that way for nothing? For naught?

Well, it is never for naught. The Golden Knight and soon-to-be-Queen made sure of that.
As luck would have it, their treaty plans had not yet been initiated. And for that she just found a suitable representative. One she could introduce to the Katolian royals and will function as a bridge between the two regions. Someone she could introduce personally…
That was when she started the ball rolling. One written proposal and subsequent sign of approval later, she had packed and fled the Sunfire Palace. For the sake of their interregional trade.

Sure, Janai, keep telling yourself that. That it was for a greater purpose. Making excuses that would only suit a coward. Admit it, you didn’t have to come here. You just wanted to see, wanted to be with… the one that is like a Sun to you.

It all began with the gaping hole in her heart, starting from the day she left Lux Aurea. The endless pining, the letter from Gren. The aching, the feeling that something is amiss. I realized that she’s the one that sets me aflame.

Shaking herself out of her trail of thoughts, Janai shifts her focus to Amaya’s expression again. No changes have transpired during her internal dialogue, she discovers. The blank, colour-drained poker face had remained. The sight makes Janai’s chest tightened in want, in determination. It makes her square her shoulders while picking up her calloused and dry hands. She just has to undo this spell they are subjected to.
Two hands start moving in a simple ‘hello’ to break the ice and unfreeze the human before her.

The sign was halfway done when a movement catches her eyes. Janai remains silent, determined to complete her action. It is the sudden yet comfortable, warm weight against her own frame that stills her eight fingers. O-Oh flames. The blush creeping up her face is readily accompanied by a spike in her heartrate.

When two arms circle around her broad shoulders, slowly drawing her in, she automatically finds the sides of a slender waist. It is Amaya she feels, she breathes and just senses. A wave of relief and joy washes over her. After all, she’d always wondered how it would feel to be in her arms, to be nestled in one of her all-encompassing hugs.

It is an experience she knows she will never forget. And would do almost everything for in order to receive it again and again and again.

Lost in the scent of strawberry and sunlight, Janai buries her face in the crook of Amaya’s shoulder. Strong arms tighten their grip on her torso, and a low, content humming tell her more than a thousand words. Side by side, they sway in a delightful reunion.

.

.

Blink. Blink.

When did that happen?

Shyly, Kazi eyed the very much, very openly and intimately embracing duo. Racking her brain to trace back the last of their encounters, they could not recall a moment that seemed quite like this. However, in hindsight… The two of them were always drawn to each other. Like a moth to a fiercely burning flame. First as archenemies, then as sparring partners, confidants, friends. They had grown closer and closer as time went by, with plenty separations to make their hearts grow fonder.

But this development?

It felt like something else entirely.

The scholar could only imagine how this situation came to be. Their help as a translator was no longer needed in private settings after all. And thank the Solar Deities for that!
Still, they had seen their budding friendship – or whatever this is – blooming from up close. Both Gren and Kazi had earned front row seats in the drama called ‘Janaya’, as the human lieutenant liked to phrase it.

They figured the two women were more alike than they would care to admit. Both are level-headed, incredibly stubborn but oh-so caring and driven by emotions. They value family, honour and success by effort and effort alone. Speaking of… Kazi remembered the joys of teaching the Golden Knight the art of finguistics. Though they would definitely like to forget the awkward instances during which their flirting made them a literal intermediary. They vividly recall the flustered faces, including their own, that appeared time and time again.

The sudden thought of another awkward moment was pushed away in the darkest pits of Kazi’s memories. O-oh my, it would certainly explain their flirting and aimless fighting…

Back to the here and now, Kazi could not tear away from the rosy bubble that was Janai and Amaya. They  just couldn’t, even if they wanted to. Their blushing intensified with each silent caress and squeeze.

It all checked out indeed…

Lux Aurea – 1 week ago

It wasn’t until the arrival of Ezran’s letter yesterday that Janai decided to just give in to her gnawing feeling. Gren’s plea had already played with her heartstrings, but now that the young nephew of Amaya has joined the call of help, Janai felt downright guilty.

It also strengthened her suspicions about the real urgency of their words.

Fact is, Amaya is not doing okay. That much Janai gathered. Very becoming of a hardened general, she thinks and acts like she is, but close friends and family know better. Gren and Ezran know better.
Apparently, they seemed to think Janai is the one destined to solve it all together. Gren ensured her that Amaya had wanted to write her and reconnect, but simply did not know what to say first. Ezran convinced her that the woman was clearly waiting for a sign of mutual interest, as she herself could not take the first step. Poor boy, Janai had thought upon reading that aunt Amaya was behaving all ‘weird’ and ‘spaced-out’ since their return, only being cheered up by hugs, exotic flowers and sparring matches.

He then all but invited Janai to their home and fix the situation. And what did Gren mean by saying that Amaya ‘left something behind in the Sunfire Palace’? The words kept circling in her head.

Doubts about the accusations and suggestions remained. Janai seriously questioned her ability to magically uplift Amaya’s downtrodden mood. I mean, why would Amaya be wishing for them to meet again? Why would that solve the problem?

Judging Gren’s and Ezran’s colorful stories, she had an inkling as to why, yet dared not say it. It was more than enough to kept being reminded of the brown pools of mischief and fondness. And honestly, she was afraid to address the feelings behind them, and what consequences they could have.

And there would definitely be consequences, as they may then probably, very likely, feel the same way. Hypothetically, of course. If only I…

Fighting another whelm of heat and anticipation, Janai took a deep breath. Remember what Khessa said. Remember that your destiny lies elsewhere. Her mind travelled back to the letters that lay on her cold bed. To the words penned down in there, their call to action. To a toothless smile that has become a constant vision of her dreams.
Well, she might be the one that changes my destiny, though.

Janai was no fool. She heard the rumors whirling around the Sunfire Palace, about herself and her sudden change of character. More softened, more open, less headstrong and conservative. She had always been an enabler, now reformed into a harmonizer as well. And her people were shocked to see the transformation happening real-time, even more so when in close proximity to a certain general.
Janai knows what she wants, who she wants, and that was plain visible on her face. Apparently. Based off the circulating gossip, the palace workers clearly thought she had found her forever light. And an impossible one at that. No wonder it was the talk of town, and has been since the Battle at the Storm Spire.

A Human and an Elf. A general and a knight. Royals yet fated opponents. It was a summation of differences and difficulties and hinder. Yet the obstacles that were once there – under Khessa’s reign, before the battle – were slowly diminishing. There are trying and lobbying to make the impossible possible.

Yes, she thought, standing up. Why can’t I follow my own light, my own path? Why can’t I turn this into an opportunity, like I always do on the battlefield? Creating my own win-win situation. Why do I let the past define me, and determine my future?
Then, a harsh realization struck Janai. Khessa could not ridicule her choices, not anymore. Humans are not disposable, not to her. And she was done letting that part of her identity be influenced by her late sister.

I’m sorry, Khessa. I have no other choice. I fell too deep.

She had half a mind to call for Yana. Then, she took up her pencil. There was no time to waste.

Katolis – Present

The afternoon had gone incredibly well. After time and manners caused the two woman to reluctantly separate, they had stepped away from the embrace to make acquaintance with the other travelers. Amaya, having the home advantage, had seemed unshaken and almost-proud of their little moment. Janai appeared somewhat more flustered and distracted.
She masked it well and quick enough, as she proceeded to introduce both Kazi and Yana, her intended representative. Two curt handshakes later, they slowly advanced to the throne room in which Ezran would welcome them.

It was on the way that Yana started rambling in rapt enthusiasm. “Hey Kazi, do you know? Is hugging a normal greeting here? Or rather, are handshakes? Is hugging perhaps only for intended soulmates?” Kazi was quick to shut down the innocent questioning, dismissing her curiosity with a story about friends and shared histories. Yana accepted it with a confused look and glance at the duo leading the tour.
Her expression held nothing to Janai’s fiery red that she wore until they set foot into the throne room.

The bouncy child king apparently had been waiting for them, as had Gren, and Amaya felt utterly betrayed. How dare they have kept this from me? Pfft, how pathetic and desperate do they think I was? The subsequent glare that was thrown immediately vaporized the smug looks from both initiators. They would deal with her wrath later.
Meanwhile, the group had shared polite greetings and introductions before continuing their tour around the castle. This time, Ezran and Ophelia led the Xadian officials through the stone-clad corridors while sharing their culture and heritage with the visitors. It also meant Amaya was relieved off-duty and walked side-to-side with a certain Sunfire Elf, never leaving her side.

Though the human general was definitely planning to give Gren and Ezran a piece of her mind later, she secretly rejoiced the arrival of the Sunfire trio. Her heart hadn’t stopped hammering in her ribcage, and the tingling sensation from their first eye contact has not yet faded. And their embrace, oh Heavens. She could keep talking about that for the upcoming hours and months and maybe forever.

That made her remember the talking that they had to do. Their moment had been nice – very nice – while it lasted, but it left Amaya to wonder where she stood. It seemed that Janai was just as happy to see her, and keep her close in her arms. God, those arms. Anyway, it made her wonder whether her own feelings were reciprocated by the affectionate Elf. If that were true….

But first the afternoon was dedicated to politics, responsibilities and agreements. The whole affair was kind of funny, as Amaya saw Janai visibly struggling as well. Though nobody had seemed to notice, she did. After all, Janai had never escaped her sight during the past couple of hours. Amaya didn’t want her to, not after the agonizing and depressing period she had experienced without the red-haired woman.
Okay, maybe she was a tiny bit desperate after all…

Her companion didn’t seem to mind the attention. The rest took notice and stayed mum. Just the occasional raise of an eyebrow and confused whisper.
Also Ezran had seemed surprised by her aunt’s antics, not having seen this near-clingy behavior before. Caring and affectionate, yes, but this? Now he was a hundred percent sure that Aunt Amaya has a soft spot for the Xadian warrior.
Gren, on the other hand, was anything but subtle. Once he spotted Kazi, the two immediately started rattling and plotting a scene of sorts. At least, that is what Amaya suspected. And judging from the lip reading she could manage to do sporadically, this was indeed the case.

That dorky goofball. Makes me want to smack his head and mess with his ginger hair.

The intended representative, Yana, was a pretty and youthful Sunfire Elf. Incredibly chatty also, and really curious to learn more about Katolian customs. She was taken to Gren and Ezran immediately, asking away and never letting the conversation fall silent. Amaya thought that Janai made an incredible choice with her – what else did she expect – and she could see the young diplomat gladly taking residence in the Katolian kingdom.

And then Janai. That lovely, perfect and attentive Janai. Just like her, the taller knight could not seem to tear her gaze away from Amaya. She seemed worried, asking about her well-being and checking on her constantly. Their silent conversation completely ran past the others, as they communicated by signs and touch alone.

Amaya knew they needed to talk; have that talk. It couldn’t happen that afternoon, which was fully scheduled for political affairs. Therefore, it wasn’t until the sun has set behind the mountains and the wine has been brought out that Amaya tried to shoot her shot.

[[J-A-N-A-I?]] she asked as soon as they were sitting on a secluded couch, nearby yet slightly further away from the chatting group. [[Can we talk?]]

Chapter Text

Katolis – Present

Decorative lights illuminated the lounge with yellow tints. It made the persimmon of Janai’s eyes shine in a golden glow, reminiscent of the streaks that were often painted on her cheekbones. Amaya fought an irresistible urge to keep staring at it for the rest of the evening.

However, there were more important topics to address than the lovely twinkle in her eyes. It had been brooding for the entirety of the day, and honestly, Amaya could not stand to live in this uncertain limbo any longer. She found it unbearable to not lay out the truth bare and open to the woman that had possessed her thudding heart.

The brunette placed her glass of red wine on the table in front of her. [[J-A-N-A-I?]] she asked as soon as they were sitting on a secluded couch, away from the group of chatting diplomats. [[Can we talk?]]

Said woman was leisurely nipping on her own drink as well. Amaya never pegged her for a wine drinker, but then again, it wasn’t as if she knew a lot about the Elf either. That is what should change. It’s… I just want to know all about her. All of Janai.
The wine was as red as the locks that fell alongside a set of pointy ears and massive golden headpiece. Amaya could not steer away from the sight of burgundy lips touching the crystal glass.

Oh Heavens, how deep I’ve fallen already.

Janai regarded the general with an amused and anticipating smile. Her patience had also run out hours ago, but she did not want to stir up the tour and formal affairs. Even though it was mostly meant for Yana and the involved Katolian diplomat, Ophelia, Janai knew the importance of her role. The role of a future leader.
Still. It did not mean that she wasn’t curious about Amaya’s reasoning behind that pleasant welcome. The warmth of their embrace – with strong arms keeping her grounded and secured – lingered on her mind and skin.

The gentle reply of [[“Of course. Always.”]] was therefore the only answer she could give.
Anything, always. Forever.

When Janai put down her own glass, lightly stamped with that awe-inspiring lipstick, Amaya shifted her body towards her. The two women were almost touching, the distance between them infinitely long.

The Sunfire Elf didn’t fare any better, admittedly. She had just stopped short from free falling into the deep browns of her companion, and berated herself for her unrestrained eagerness. That is why she opted for the safety of her own hands, who had settled themselves in her lap. If spoken words could not convey the intense emotions she had been feeling towards the woman, then her eight fingers would. Ahem. Either way, the silence – one way or another – was killing her slowly, softly.

[[“We should definitely talk about this morning.”]] Janai told Amaya, which was met with a resolute nod from the latter. [[Definitely… yes.]] Apprehensive gestures marked a stark contrast with the burning message brooding in her eyes.

And what was with that rosy hue that had spread over Amaya’s pale cheeks? What if… flames, it would mean the world to me if she feels the same way I do. At that thought, Janai’s own dark complexion flared up in a fiery redness. Her smile became a little wider, a little more giddy. No, now is not the time to turn into a useless mess. Now is not the time to let your doubts and insecurities hold you back.
It provided Janai with one last push to fess up first. [[“I, I had to go see you.”]] Recipient eyes widen at the blunt admission. [[“Gren, and Ezran, they…”]]

Amaya was quick to spare her the explanation. [[I know, J-A-N-A-I.]]

The stern and frustrated look that Amaya got in response sent blissful shivers down her spine. A piercing gaze then seemed to map every inch of her tingling and vibrating frame. She hated how much she liked it.
[[“How are you feeling?”]] Janai softly spoke. It shook the brunette out of her internal monologue. Right.

[[Better. Now that you’re here, it’s better.]] she signed truthfully. Because that was nothing but the truth.

Whispered words of “Amaya” and “Oh” were followed by a deep sigh. Two fingers pinched the bridge of a tanned nose. The deaf woman observed the frustration on Janai’s face, the defeated movement of her hands. Her smile was completely gone.
It was not supposed to be like this – not after her truthful confession – yet it was. Amaya saw confusion, resignation, and she could only watch in mock silence as the vision of her dreams addressed her.

[[“What is this we are doing?”]]

Dear God, we’re really going to talk about this. [[What do you want this to be?]] the brunette questioned, honestly curious about the answer. Even more so because she knew what she wanted herself. An us. I want there to be an us. Enjoying each other’s company, just being with each other. And… I want there to be more. Janai and I, together. More than now, more than anything.

Amaya searched for Janai’s gaze and instead found her looking at her with a glazed over look. She was simply mesmerizing, Amaya once again realized. Her heart leaped and bounced in nervosity.
Silent seconds ticked by. At some point, it simply became too difficult for Amaya to contain herself and reign in her emotions. These weeks, months, this period of pining and pining and aching. She became undone.

[[Because I’m not sure I can be just anything with you.]] she added, her hands moving with doubtful gestures.
[[Not friends…]] Janai’s breath hitched. [[… and not allies, not with everything we’ve been through.]]
Unconsciously, the two women gravitated closer and closer together. Knees touched knees.
[[Not like this.]] A single tear escaped as Amaya rambled on and on.

“Mhm… “ Janai hummed, contemplative. Then, warm hands touched the sides of Amaya’s pale cheeks, rubbing her skin in a tender caress. Janai’s thumb removed the lone tear with one loving stroke, when bronze met gold. Both sets of irises were illuminated by the evening glow. Two hearts were thumbing frantically against their ribcages. At the same time, their meaningful looks made them more hopeful than ever.

Thump. Thump.

“Me neither.”

It was nothing short of a hushed whisper. And when her soft lips touched Amaya’s, she swore she was in Heaven. Oh… oh.

Needless to say, it was reciprocated with the same softness and thousandfold intensity. The last of their harsh exteriors were melted through the warmth of lips and intermingling breaths.

I love you. I love you, their hearts sang in unison.

.

.

Some say it feels like fireworks, but when Janai dared touching those irresistible lips, she felt like home. She doesn’t remember how long they were sitting there, lost in their own world and thoroughly distracted. Minutes? Hours? The Elf swore she would have liked it to be forever; she had just discovered her new favourite place, after all.

Right here, in Amaya’s arms.

Unfortunately, at some point, they had to break apart and catch their breaths. Lips swollen, cheeks flushed. Utterly infatuated.
And now, Amaya’s dazed browns were staring lovingly into her own. Maybe it’s time to create our own destiny, was what Janai thought in that very split second. She mulled over it, lost in thought, but never leaving the warmth of their embrace. When Amaya tenderly laid one hand on top of hers, silently asking to get out of your head, you dummy, she decided to share.

“You know” she spoke, before breaking loose her slender fingers. [[“As Sunfire Elves, we are always drawn to one and one person only. Our personal Sun, our forever light.”]]
When she noticed she had Amaya’s full attention, she continued. [[I never got a chance to really be with anyone. Honestly. Being the Golden Knight, the Queen’s sister, it was all too much. Too much for anyone to shoulder, for them to be by my side.]]

No one can compare to you. No one can understand me like you do. Not before, not now.

Amaya’s thigh brushed against her own as she repositioned, her eyes trained on Janai’s gestures. [[K-H-E-S-S-A, my sister… she told me that I was destined to serve the people of Lux Aurea. To be strong and independent.]] Their eyes found each other, and Janai thought she saw a flash of sorrow and sadness.

[[But I… I think you’re mine. My forever light.]] Flames, I don’t want to live another moment without you.

Janai’s mind briefly travelled to an earlier question. She then grabbed the calloused hands of the brunette, forcing the woman to read her lips. “No matter what, I want to have this. You, me, an us. If you let me, I’ll… I’ll be yours until my Sun fades out.”

Her dark eyebrows knitted together in a determined crinkle, and Amaya melted at the sight. When four fingers found the edge of her left shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze in silent support, Amaya made up her mind.

[[In Katolis, we… we have a similar thing. Legends speak of soulmates, of people destined to be with each other. ]] The furrow slowly transformed into a hopeful expression, yet Amaya grew hesitant. She had to be truthful, she told herself. Because the fact is… [[I didn’t want to believe in such connections.]]

[[And I still don’t.]] After a thoughtful second, Amaya brought up her hands for a second time. [[But then again, I always hated Elves. And now I… definitely don’t.]]

“I know you did hate Elves. Me -”

[[Everything changed when I met you.]] The once-again ruthless interruption stilled the Sunfire woman, who had retracked her hand a moment ago and kept a somewhat polite distance. It turned out to be a futile attempt, as Amaya had other plans.
No, Amaya shifted a little closer, searching and yearning to feel that warm contact once more.

Oh Janai, I am starting to believe in such connections. I want to –

[[You might be the person that comes closest to being my soulmate. Or, what is it… my forever light?]]

“Forever light, yes.” Janai whispered in a daze.

[[Well, it sounds wonderful, J-A-N-A-I.]]

The grins and soft kisses that followed where sweeter than her beloved strawberry tarts.

Moonshadow Grove – 1 week ago

“How is it going with your Aunt?” Rayla asked on a random evening, the two of them lounging on the sofa in Ethari’s home. They had just finished dinner, and were relaxing after a long day of training and mastering the Moon Arcanum. The Elf’s hand was leisurely stroking the neck hairs of her boyfriend, who had been staring into nothingness for the last thirty-or-so minutes.

It was evident that Callum had something else on his mind, and Rayla was keen on finding out what that was. She had an inkling what it is about, though, as she asked her question with a soft lilt.

Callum had stirred from his slumber, surprised by the enquiry. He always compared the relationship between Rayla and his aunt to a cat and a dog. Over the past few months, they had come into contact on several occasions, but never did they grow very close. Part of the reason – Callum suspects – is that his girlfriend remained intimidated by the strong-built woman’s stature and attitude. Especially considering the special bond she possesses with the two brothers, who had grown dear to Rayla as well.

“Uhm, Ezran says Amaya is still acting weirdly. She pretends she’s fine, but Ezran can see through her I-am-always-fine-thank-you-very-much façade.”

“Hmm -” Rayla absent mindedly continued her ministrations, allowing Callum to formulate his next sentence.

“I think she feels lonely. After Mom’s death, she had to be there for us, be the leader of the Standing Battalion, be the unyielding force on the Breach… it, it was a lot. I’ve never seen her rest, only visiting us on one of her patrols and inspections. But now that the war is ceasing, there is a void, I guess. With no one to turn to.”
To aunt Amaya we’re still kids after all.

“Ah.” was the understanding reply of his girlfriend. “But wait, what is Ezran going to do about it? I can’t imagine him going on a quest to find that woman a friend.” The air quotes were followed by a snort, purple irises twinkling in amusement. Rayla was definitely having a field day with this.

“Well, that Sunfire lady – Janai – is scheduled to arrive in Katolis in a week. Apparently Gren ánd Ezran had been pushing for her to join the representative officiation. With letters and such.”

Not knowing how this was related to the topic of conversation, Rayla scrunched her face in confusion. “And, what about it?”

“It seems Gren, Ezran and even that sign language translator – you know that Sunfire Elf Kazi? – think something is blooming between them. And no, I don’t mean a buddy-buddy budding friendship.”

“…”

“I heard some of the stories. And I wouldn’t say it is a love-at-first-sight type of situation, but more of a slash-slash-oh-your-eyes-are-beautiful-up-close kind of development.”

With one raise of her left eyebrow, Rayla chastised her boyfriend silently. By the Lunar deities, what is he talking about now?

“Well, I just hope that aunt Amaya finally found her soulmate and will start living her own life now, happily and content. Maybe that Sunfire lady will be good for her – no, I so hope that she will become happy with her.”

Uh-oh. A mischievous grin appeared on Rayla’s face. She definitely needs to interrogate the general on this matter. Not ever disregarding the livelihood and happiness of her maybe-future aunt-in-law, of course.

This is gonna be fun…

Katolis – The next day…

Gren teasingly bumped his shoulder into Janai’s, being way too comfortable to her liking. “- what were you and Amaya up to yesterday? May I congratulate you two already?”

Suddenly more awake, flushed bright red, the Elf shot back a curt reply. “What exactly are you talking about, Gren? And as for congratulating… what for exactly?”

“Don’t play coy with me, Janai – “ the muttered It’s Golden Knight for you stilled his banter slightly. “You and Amaya were awfully close yesterday. Touching, pining.”

“…” if looks could kill, the redhead would be murdered in cold blood upon blurting that statement.

“And some good-ol’ lip-to-lip connecting, if I may add.”

“You may not, Lieutenant.”

Soundly clearing his throat, Gren recovered from the verbal blow. “Well, then I’ll just say you look like a lovely couple.” The smug grin made Janai’s blood boil in frustration.

“What do you thin-“

“And speaking off, your other half is right behind you. Have a good remainder of the morning, bye!” As abrupt as his entrance, the Katolian man made his retreat. The Sunfire knight sighed. He even added a little wave, the dunce.

Janai had not long to relive through that subtle torture, as a set a two arms circled themselves around her waist. Upon sensing a familiar warm body collide with her back, she felt her cheeks rise in temperature. Yet nothing else besides butterflies swarmed her mind when soft lips touched the edge of her jaw.
The giddy laugh that eventually escaped went vibrating through her taut frame, signaling Amaya that she made her lover a very happy person. Lovers, that we are. Together they basked in her morning light, slightly swaying to the tune of their reciprocated feelings.

It was very good morning, indeed.

Chapter Text

Katolis – After the confession

It was a strange feeling for both women. Feeling vulnerable, exposed. During their lives, their insecurities had to be locked away to make place for mile-high walls of dominance and superiority. They were to be fearless, not emotional nor empathic or even remotely close to catching feelings.
Especially if those feelings were for someone across the Breach…

In the end, it was bound to happen eventually. Inevitably, they had caught a serious case of forbidden butterflies. It came with the constant confrontations and provocations, with a surprise turn-around and encounters packed with meaningful conversations. Everyone saw it happening. And even if no words were said at all, people clearly noticed they understood each other on a fundamental level. Add to it the lingering gazes and affectionate touches cloaked in the form of a spar, and their future outcome was set in stone. Slowly but gradually, with each and every rendezvous, the two warriors in question began to realize it as well.

It marked the start of a very deep fall, sudden and devastating. The past few months have been a bumpy ride, with ups and downs and hundreds of miles of separation. Communication had been a serious issue, and was responsible for most of their fall-outs. Yet, their similarly strong personalities and mindsets and especially feelings had prevailed. In the end, their connection survived and made them stronger than ever.

And so, here they were. Post-confession, the two of them were silently observing the sunset on Amaya’s favourite spot: on top of the Eastern watchtower with a mesmerizing view over Katolis. Side by side, never breaking their connection. Entangled fingers,  encircled frames within trained biceps. Happy and content, they silently watched over the Human kingdom.

Janai turned to face Amaya, reluctantly leaving their comfortably warm and long-lasting embrace. Utterly gob smacked by the turn of events, she had wanted to pinch herself and realize this is a neverlasting dream. One she will wake up from, leaving her more heartbroken than ever.
She looked straight into a set of mirroring irises, displaying a similar set of emotions. And oh-so like Amaya – as she had discovered while in Lux Aurea – she directly, forwardly pinched her own cheek. To check if she’s not dreaming herself.

To Janai, it was the most endearing sight ever.

She couldn’t help but giggle. Turns out they were both living in the unthinkable. Admittedly, while Janai still felt the softness of Amaya’s plump lips against her own, she had been unable to accept this as a reality. Up until now, that is. The grimace and wince that Amaya gave at torturing herself with a mighty pinch opened the pathway for her acceptance. This was real, very real, and Janai was suddenly overcome with elation.

[[A-M-A-Y-A]] she signed soon after, capturing the attention of the woman next to her.

A raspy hmm indicated that said woman was listening. It spurred Janai on. [[“How do we want to do this?”]] gesturing to herself and Amaya. [[“I-I mean.. I want you in my life, so bad and…”]] she stuttered over her gestures and words while being caught up in her thoughts. [[“I want this to work. Us, to work.”]] She just hoped she emphasized her unexplainable need for Amaya enough to get her message across.

When two hands stilled Janai’s movements, a sense of calm washed over her. Deep brown opals reassured her of their reciprocated feelings and insecurities. Janai could only utter now: “I’m soon to be Queen of the Sunfire Elves.” And then a soft “I can’t abandon Lux Aurea, my love.” 

The subtle hint of a grin shone through Amaya’s features at that nickname. She had let loose of her hands and trembling fingers to answer resolutely. [[I know.]]

[[“S-so how, then? How will we make this work?”]] Us? was the silent addition, which Amaya understood perfectly when she assured her newfound love. [[We’ll make it work.]]

Janai wasn’t fully convinced still. “Make it work how? It’s not going to be easy, I will have even less time after my coronation. And with your nephews…”

The browns that continuously peered into the Sunfire Elf’s halted her ramble. Her erratic heartbeat slowed and calmed, as Amaya repeated the same sentence over and over again. [[I know. We’ll make it work.]] Like a mantra, like a song of hope. As much as it made Janai all uncharacteristically mushy inside, she liked to think of herself as pragmatic, realistic. She had to make sure.

.

The huff from Janai blew a few strands away from Amaya’s face. “That doesn’t make any sense, love.” The emotion irradiated from her golden knight both frustrated and assured Amaya. Frustrated at Janai’s insecurities, at her own inability to make these sorrows go away. She totally understood her concerns – they were scarily valid, after all – but was Amaya so wrong to dream of a perfect future? Part of her dream already came true, and that was more than she had wished for. Then again, she was greedy for more. More of Janai, more of the happiness that she had found in her soulmate.

The assurance that Janai had fallen just as deep as her, made her voice a promise once more. [[I know. But we’ll find a way. I… I will stay in Lux Aurea often. As often as I can.]]
And make no mistake, Amaya was convinced they will make it work. But the reality was clear as day. The way to happiness will twist over sacrifices, and this is the one thing she could start with. For her own selfish happiness, and that of Janai.

“But…” oh, and the way Janai’s lips trembled in a last attempt to be strong. Without thinking much, Amaya sprang into action. She surged forward, connecting their lips in a fiery promise. Their movements in sync, their thoughts and feelings aligned.

Then, she looked the love of her life – oh Gods, is it too early to admit this? – square in the eye. Swollen lips, flushed cheeks and disheveled locks of red made Janai look angelic in the Katolian sun. [[Along the way, we figure it out. J-A-N-A-I, along the way. Trust me.]]

And that Janai did, after a few reassuring kisses. The warmth of Amaya’s arms grounding her, her head in the crook of Janai’s shoulder, shielded away from the Katolian fresh breezes.
A new wind started blowing. We’ll find a way to make it work.

Weeks were swept away by time, until …

.

.

Lux Aurea – Coronation day

Janai really felt the massive livery collar weighing on her shoulders. It was difficult to readjust the royal jewel due to its heaviness and size, but she tried nonetheless. Just like her fingers could not stop fidgeting with the seams of her military gown – she was restless. The reflection of a white gold headpiece stares back at her as she experiences a déjà vu.

Coincidentally, ten years ago, it was her dear sister that was about to be coronated.

And now it is her turn. Janai sighed, uncomfortably shifting under the gravitational force of the extravagant adornments. Maidens were frantically squabbling, tiptoeing around her and making sure everything is perfect for the ceremony to come. The soon-to-be Sunfire Queen couldn’t wait for the day to be over.

Talking about waiting… where is she?

Surely, getting ready yourself wouldn’t take that long, wouldn’t it? Janai twitches her left cheek when a cold smear of white gold paint was applied to it. Everything became more efficient when done by yourself, she muses. Ironically, this very day marks her own loss of self-sufficiency and independency. And regrettably so.

When the last of the facial paint was applied, Janai rose with a foreboding reluctancy and walked to the nearest mirror. Her reflection stood tall and proud, her expression sober and serious. Mentally, she braced herself for the next few, long hours.

.

From behind her, the set of massive metal doors creaked open. It made Janai turn a one-eighty, expecting a certain someone to step through it. She was seriously disappointed though – to her own beratement – when it turned out to be Ezran.

“How far are you in getting ready, A-Aunt Janai?” He peered around the opening, his bouncy curls moving around his crown in a playful fashion.
Aunt Janai. It had been a new and unexpected development ever since she and Amaya have formally announced their courtship. From all the reactions and comments, the adorable “Will you become my Aunt, then?” is the one question she will never forget.

Ignoring the surprised looks from her personnel, she genuinely smiled and addressed the young King. “Ah, Ezran – ” she spoke affectionately. “– you have an impeccable timing. I’m good to go.”

A slight pause fell in the room. Following Ezran’s curious gaze, Janai couldn’t resist to add. “Have you perhaps seen your Aunt Amaya? I’m waiting for her to escort me to the throne room.”

The glint in Ezran’s eyes became pronounced at that. “Actually…” he stepped into full view “… allow me to announce your escort for today. All the way from Katolis, here is… High-Commissioner Amaya!”

Janai mused at the young boy’s antics, which fortunately hadn’t disappeared under the weight of his royal responsibilities. And of course, at the sudden announcement, she focussed herself at the entrance through which she will finally welcome her forever light.

The sight that pleased her vision in that second stole her breath for a moment. The robes that elegantly fell around the womanly figure of her love was awe-inducing. The piece had Katolian ánd Lux Aurean influences, to honour both cultures and their people. It warmed Janai that she had chosen to make such a statement at this formal affair, as if to say: “I belong to both lands, and will represent you as such.”

The shock wore of gradually, just as Amaya stopped ogling how Janai’s royal attire fitted the frame of her flame. Janai’s expression did inspire Amaya to comment teasingly, though. [[Lucky you, being able to check me out before this ceremony, ain’t I right?]] She winked, swaying her hips a bit upon walking towards her beloved Elf.

Ezran shook his head at his Aunt’s antics, and made his retreat to join Callum and Rayla in the throne room. Janai, on the other hand, didn’t register the meaning until seconds later with widening eyes and a mighty blush. [[“Oh shush, love. You know we are not at that stage yet.”]]

With a peck and a playful shove, they met in a loving welcome. And after complimenting each other’s outfit and make-up excessively, Amaya held out her arm in a courteous invitation. Silently asking her to join her.

Entirely vibrating with love and belonging, as well as a silently promised yet, Amaya felt a heated arm link with her own. An equally loving look was thrown her way, their touch exchanging much-needed reassurances.

Look Khessa, I finally found my destiny.