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You expected it wouldn't be easy, you expected a possible ambush, and you thought yourself prepared. But things quickly went south. The fight got out of hand and you had no other choice but to run through the forest and hope you wouldn't die.
You allowed your legs to lead you whatever. There was no time to think as you held your hand against your lower stomach, warm red liquid soaked your armor and your hand. It wasn't enough to kill you, you hoped. It hurt like hell, even more as you ran.
But you couldn't stop. Not with footsteps not far from your own, voices yelling and mocking not too far behind.
You prayed for a miracle to save you from death.
But instead your face met the ground as you foot hocked onto tree roots, and you let out a loud hiss, when due to the fall you pressed your arm harder against your injury.
You thought it was your end. You were going to die covered in mud, blood, sweat and tears. All of this because you didn't notice them coming a few seconds in advance.
You begged under breath for a miracle once more. Anything so your life wouldn't end like this.
And as if your prayers were answered, he came.
The burglars stopped their pursuit immediately as he came into their view.
You looked up and through your blurry vision spotted a tall man. You couldn't make out much about him, but something told you he wasn't going to let you die like you thought you were going to just moments ago.
He took one look at you, his expression softened before he looked at the burglars and his expression changed drastically.
“You dare come to my forest to hurt innocents?” He asked, his voice unwavering. “Leave immediately, before I make you regret it.”
The burglars looked at one another and then laughed at the stranger's words.
“A garden fairy threatens us? Don't you have flowers to take care of?” One of them commented while others laughed at it. He grabbed the knife without a second thought and stepped forward.
But your savior didn’t hesitate. With graceful movement of his hands the ground shook and strong and thick creepers emerged from the ground, entwining themselves around the men so fast they had no chance to react and protect themselves against it. The man who dared to mock your protector dropped the knife as soon as the creeper emerged. None of the men could move, they could only watch as the stranger walked a little closer.
“I advise that you do not test my mercy.” He said, stepping closer to them. “If I ever see you here, running and trying to murder people, I will not hesitate to show you what my flowers are capable of.”
They looked at him, terrified and then all nodded, begging to be spared.
“I hope you learned your lesson then.” With a quick move of his wrist, the creepers were gone, and soon, gone were the burglars.
With them gone, the savior's attention was back on you as he quickly made his way back where you were laying. The panic rushed over him, eyes widening when he noticed the state you were in - losing so much blood from the mud covered wound.
“Do not worry, my dear. I shall take care of you.” He reassured you, although his voice was unlike before. It was shaky as if he was reassuring not only you, but also himself.
You glanced at him, although everything hurt and you felt incredibly weak you got a glimpse of the plump lips, long hair and dark eyes filled with worry before you passed out in the arms of your protector.
When you opened your eyes, you left surprisingly light.
You blinked a few times, adjusting your eyes to the gentle, dim light that seemed to come from the flowers that grew along the vines on the walls.
It was not a place you passed out in, you realized quickly. There was no mud, no blood. Just flowers, plants and insects of all kinds. Your eyes wandered over the interior, stopping at the shelves full of bottles of herbs and potions of various colors. A few beds remained in the room, along one saw the one you woke up in.
An infirmary, you recognized.
Upon slowly sitting up, you noticed a canary observing you. It tilted its head and saw you moved your hand towards it, it flew out of the room, chirping like an alarm. That reaction startled you a little. But then you heard a voice coming from outside a room.
“Awake, you say?” You heard a familiar voice. “Wonderful.”
The words were followed by the sounds of footsteps and then you saw him. Your savior from earlier, a gentle smile on his lips when he saw that you were indeed awake. And there was the same canary from a second ago, now sitting on his shoulder.
“It is wonderful to see you awake, my friend.” He spoke up, his hands clasped together. “How are you feeling? Any sharp pain?”
Your hand moved to touch where the wound was. Touching it was not the most comfortable experience, but it was much less painful than before.
“I feel surprisingly well, compared to earlier.” You answered and his smile grew.
“A little bit of magic goes a long way, as they say.”
With that, you moved to stand up from the bed, but a gentle hand on your shoulder stopped you.
“I do not think that is a good idea.” He said.
“I feel alright. I appreciate the help, really, but I believe I will be fine now.”
He raised an eyebrow at your words and his hand disappeared from your shoulder.
“Believe me, I do not wish to intrude and throw you off the track, but I know my magic.” His voice was firm, but not cold. “Give yourself a few days of rest before you continue your journey, that is all I ask for.”
You thought for a moment about this. He was a stranger, but he saved you and healed your wound.
After a little bit more thinking, you decided to risk it and trust him.
“If you say so, Mister. I shall stay and recover.” You sat back in the bed comfortably. “Perhaps I deserve a bit of rest after traveling for so many days without a break!” You gasped playfully, letting your hand fall against your forehead.
He couldn't hold back a laugh at your silly antics, which made you feel something funny in your stomach and you were more than sure it had nothing to do with the injury.
“A vacation is very much needed then.” He joked back.
His hand stretched toward the frame of your bed and the canary jumped onto it. “Rosie will make sure to watch over you as you recover. She is quite a gossiper, I hope you do not mind.”
The bird chirped at him as if accusing him of slipping her secret, in response he put his hands up in the air. You let out a small snort at that.
“A gossiper, you say?”
“Why, of course.” He shrugged like it was obvious after he put his hands down. “Who else could tell me all the juiciest details of what is happening in my domain?”
“Everyone has a role here, it seems.”
“Indeed.” He nodded. “So, I assume you must be hungry after sleeping for the past few hours. Maybe you would be interested in a stew? I made it myself.”
You nodded. “Something to eat would be nice.”
He clapped his hands together and went out of the room. Within less than a few minutes he was bad with a bowl full of stew for you. As he gave it to you, he sat on the small stool next to the bed, leg going onto another elegantly.
“I hope you like it, I was trying out a new recipe.” He explained eagerly, wanting for your thoughts on his dish.
You, obviously hungry, started eating. It was good but you could tell it was an experimental dish.
“It's good. Maybe add less salt next time?” You suggested and he nodded.
“I will keep this in mind.” A smile did not falter at your critique. “Who knows, maybe you could help me improve my cuisine?” He joked and you found yourself smiling.
The two of you were quiet for a while as you ate, but you were wondering about lots of things. What was this place? How long until your wound would heal? But mostly importantly - what was his name and who was he?”
“So,” you spoke up, finally done with your soup, holding the wooden bowl in your lap. “Shall I have the privilege of knowing the name of my savior?”
He waved his hand at you calling him “savior”.
“I simply did what was right. Any other person in my situation would have done the same.” He commented. “But yes, you may know my name. I am Niran Pruksamanee and it is a pleasure to meet you, my dear.”
You smiled and nodded, before you gave him your name. “I am ____________, and it is also a pleasure to meet you.”
You moved to shake his hand, but he stood up and gently grabbed your hand on his own. With a small bow, he gave your knuckles a kiss. “Pleasure is truly on my side.” He answered, eyes watching yours through his long eyelashes.
You didn't mean to blush under his gaze, but you couldn't stop it. You felt heat rise to your cheeks and hoped he wouldn't comment on it. And he didn't. Niran straightened his posture and grabbed the empty bowl from you.
“I believe you could use a little rest. Rosie will watch over you like I mentioned earlier.” He said. “If you need anything, tell her and she will let me know.” He gave you a small bow before he left the room.
You laid back in bed, your cheeks were still warm. It would be a lie to say something about him that made you feel charmed.
Rosie, who had the pleasure of observing the whole situation, looked down at you and chirped. Something in your gut told you she was teasing you for a bashful reaction.
The first two days you spent mostly in bed. Niran happily provided you with a book, so you wouldn't die of boredom whenever he couldn't accompany you and entertain you with his presence. However when he was with you, it seemed as if he didn't want to stop talking with you, curious about you, your journey and the destination of it. His eyes would light up whenever you were telling him about the details before he would ask more questions. It quickly became clear to you not many outsiders came to visit, which explained Niran's curiosity.
With that, the two days passed and after making sure your wound was healing properly, he allowed you to move freely around his domain.
Upon leaving infirmary, you were met with the quiet rustle of leaves and gentle rays as the morning came. Druids of the grove were starting their day, some already taking care of their chores while others engaged in conversations with one another. The place was peaceful, unlike ones you had the pleasure of visiting before. Niran stood next to you, watching as you took the look of the grove in awe.
“I am happy to see my domain is to your liking.” He commented with a gentle smile. “Anything specific has caught your attention? This place has much to offer.”
Niran observed how your eyes wandered around the place, from the small but cozy homes, to the now empty ritual circle in the middle.
“Perhaps you would be interested in seeing the heart of this place?” He asked and you looked up at him. You wondered what it could be.
With a gesture with his hand, he started walking towards one of the entrances which was covered by vines. You followed after him.
He led you on the stone pathway, grass and little flowers growing between them. He made sure to slow his pace down to walk next to you as the two of you reached a gigantic, crystal clear pond. The stones continued in the water, leading to a huge tree. You could feel a magic pulse from it.
Niran gracefully moved on the rock in water, before turning to you and stretching his hand so you could take it.
“We do not want you injured again, do we?” Your hand found his own. “I will not let you slip.”
He carefully moved with you by his side, helping you catch your balance when you lost it. Without much trouble, you found yourself in front of the tree, marveling at its size.
He gently tugged you a little closer, his hand still in yours.
“Can I…?” You asked and he nodded.
“Of course.”
Hesitantly, you touched the trunk with the tips of your fingers. You shivered as you felt the magic course through you and almost immediately you moved your hand away. A small chuckle escaped Niran's lips.
“It can be quite overwhelming.” He explained, looking up at the tree and his expression softened. “This tree is where magic in this domain comes from. Where my and my family's magic comes from.” He explained before looking back at you. “As long it thrives, the forest will as well.”
You hummed before speaking up. “Protect it at all cost, I assume?”
“At all costs.” His voice came out a little quieter as he said that.
You noticed how his expression turned solemn and felt the need to cheer him up a little.
“Based on how you got rid of those stupid goons, I think the tree is pretty safe under your care.” You lightly nudged him with a smile and he snorted at that.
“It was nothing, really.”
“Nothing? You got them stuck between your magic creeper and they were completely unable to do anything against you. I am more than sure they had their pants full!”
He laughed at that.
“I did what needed to be done. But do not mistake me for some blood-hungry brute. I do not thrive in violence. I much prefer peace.”
“Of course, the world would be a much better place if there was no violence in it.” You nudged him again. “But still, someone's really capable.”
Niran giggled, swatting your arm away gently.
“Stop nudging me.” Although he was protesting, his smile didn't disappear. “That is very rude.”
You shook your head. “Oh, so very rude!” You teased.
“Being mean to the man that saved you? Do you believe it to be a wise decision?” He stepped closer to you, crossing his arms over his chest and raising his eyebrow.
You felt bashful once more at him being the one to tease. He noticed and tilted his head. “Not so confident now, are we?”
You decided to play it off, swatting his arm gently. “It is… the magic in the air. I think it made me feel a little overwhelmed.”
“Oh, yes. Not used to the magic so strong, my dear?” He happily pretended to believe in your explanation. “Poor you! We should take you away before you get overwhelmed and you have spent even more time laying in bed all bored out of your mind!” He gasped, taking your hand in his and making his way back through the rocks.
You happily followed until one wrong step stopped you, a pained whimper escaping your lips as you doubled over, holding onto your stomach. Niran noticed it immediately and turned to you, his hand finding its way to your shoulder as he asked in a concerned tone.
“Are you alright?”
You shook your head, squeezing your eyes shut.
“No. It hurts.”
“I see. How about we go back to the infirmary and I heal you once more? It should help.” He murmured, giving you a moment to get yourself together before he slowly led you back.
When you were back inside, Niran helped you lie down. Another hiss escaped your lips.
“Shh… slow down. It is going to get better soon, you have my word.” He shushed you gently. “I need you to move your hand away from your stomach.”
He could see the fear and pain in your eyes as he gently moved your hands away.
“It will not hurt, although it might feel funny.”
With that, he moved his hand up and a golden flower started blossoming in his hand. Its shine enlightened the room, making it feel a little warmer than it was before. He then moved his hand to your stomach and you closed your eyes, unsure what to expect, you hoped it wouldn't be like Niran had promised.
And it didn't, you left warmth spread in your body, before it accumulated in your stomach and pain was gone. You let out a breath you didn't realize you were holding during the whole procedure.
“Better?” Niran asked and you nodded. “Good, I am very glad to hear it.”
“What was that?” Your eyes looked at his hand where the flower was not long ago.
“My powers. I healed them with you earlier after you passed out.” He explained with a soft smile. “Lay for a little while and perhaps later consider giving our healing baths a change.”
“Healing baths? You got everything here.”
Niran let out a soft chuckle.
“Indeed we do. I cannot recommend them enough. What more could one want after a long day?”
“Add a nice dinner?”
Niran nodded. “Oh, yes. Do not forget wine and we have a perfect evening!” Another sweet laugh fell from his lips before he looked at you with a little different expression. “A nice company always could make an evening even better.” He purred.
“Is that an invitation?”
“If you wish it to be. I will happily have a pleasant little dinner with you after you enjoy yourself in the baths.” He said, his hand moving gently playing with one of his little braids. “It would be a good way to show you where I live. I think you might like the interior since you enjoyed all the sights so far.”
The healing baths proved to be exactly what you needed. Hot water, herbs, incense and peace. What more could you ask for?
Although your body was relaxed, your mind was full of thoughts regarding the dinner and, of course, Niran himself. He seemed so excited about having you over, his eyes practically shining as he mentioned it. It was sweet, oh so sweet and you couldn't get the image out of your mind. You knew him for a few days, but you really enjoyed his company and already wondered where it would go.
You allowed yourself to stay in the bath a little longer before you left. After drying yourself up you got dressed and made your way to Niran's little home. It wasn't anything spectacular, just a little wooden home, with plants on the window sills and warm light coming from the inside.
Without waiting any longer, you knocked on the door.
“A moment, please!” A familiar voice called out from the inside. “Oh, Rosie, I wish you had arms to help me.”
You couldn't help, but giggle at the sight.
After a little moment, the door opened and Niran stood before. “You came.” He smiled at you before stepping back to let you in. “Please, make yourself at home.”
The inside was cozy, full of plants and art. You really could see Niran in this place.
“May I lead you to the dining room?” He asked, keeping it polite.
“Of course.”
With his hand on your back, he led you to the dining room and moved your hair to let you sit down.
“Thank you.” You smiled at him as you sat down, taking in all the delicious food he prepared for the two of you.
“You are welcome.” Niran happily moved to take the spot on the opposite side of you. “I hope you enjoy the food. I have taken your advice and I hope I did not go overboard with the spices.”
“We should see about that.” You teased him before you began eating.
The food was delicious and since last time, you would have said that Niran has improved his cooking. You could tell how much work went into it, but also how much love he put into it. It was almost like eating with someone very close to you, including the light conversation going on between the two of you.
“I am assuming you plan on leaving as soon as you regenerate?” Niran asked seemingly out of nowhere.
“I do. I have things I must focus on. Ones that will not be done by themselves.” You explained, not exactly liking the idea of leaving this place anytime soon. Even if you didn't spend that much time here, you already got used to it. And to the lovely man who made sure to take care of you.
“Perhaps I could pack you some food and potions before you go on your way?”
“You don't have to.” You reassured him, not wanting to be a burden to him. “I still have some food left in my backpack, you have nothing to worry about. Besides, you have already done so much for me, I would hate to use your hospitality.”
Niran waved his hand dismissively. “I reassure you, it would be a pleasure to make sure your journey goes as planned. And we have more than enough plants to share a few vegetables and fruits with you. It is no problem.”
“And potions? I also have a few of my own.”
“And so do we.” Niran said casually, before taking a sip of his tea. “A few potions going with you won't disrupt us. We can make new ones with a blink of an eye.”
“I still think it's too much. You have no reason to do any of this.”
Niran watched you for a moment, not saying anything as he let the tea down, but let his hand be curled about the warm mug.
“I admit then, that I have been enjoying your presence.” He finally spoke up. “You are a lovely addition to this place and even if I wished you could stay for longer, I respect that you have your own goals to accomplish. I simply wish to help you, even after you leave.”
“Oh.” You felt your cheeks warm up the same way they did when he kissed your knuckles when the two of you talked for the first time. “That's very sweet of you.”
“It is nice that you think so.”
Silence fell between the two of you, but it wasn't uncomfortable. You continued eating, so did Niran.
“Do you wish to stay here for the night? I would hate to have you sleep in the infirmary during your whole stay.”
“Your hospitality knows no boundaries.” You snorted, trying to hide how surprised you were at the sudden proposition.
“Maybe.” He mused. “But I have a free room upstairs and it has everything a lost wanderer could use.”
After dinner, he led you upstairs to the room he told you about. It had everything a guest room needed - bed, desk, bedside table and a small cabinet for clothing.
“How can I thank you for all of this?”
Niran thought about it for a moment. Then answered with that sweet smile of his.
“If possible, please come back and tell me about your journey.” You should have expected that answer.
“Perhaps, instead of me having to come back and tell you, maybe you could join me?” You proposed how Niran's expression changed. From happy to surprised in a second.
“Join you?” He asked to make sure he heard you right.
“Of course.” You shrugged, leaning against the nearest wall. “I would love to have you by my side. And to be honest, I am unable to think of a different way to thank you for what you did.”
He was quiet, having too many thoughts going on in his mind. A soft sigh fell from his lips as he moved to the window to look at his domain.
“I never really had a chance to go much outside the forest, much less travel. My family believes that it is best for me to stay and continue the tradition.” His gaze went to you, the smile you saw earlier was now gone. “They wish for me to stay here, ensure the domain stays as it should and the tree is safe from anyone and anything that may want to possess its powers.”
You walked to stand by the same window.
“But is this something you want?”
Niran shook his head. “No. I would love to see what the world has to offer. Maybe help those in need too, just like I had a chance to help you.” His eyes shined with pure excitement. But then went away, just as quickly as it came. “But they will not be happy. I can already hear the yelling in my head if I even mention it. How… irresponsible I am for wanting to leave, how I do not respect family values.”
You were quiet as he spoke, thinking of what you could say. Eventually, your hand found his shoulder.
“I think that you should go if you want what your heart wants. I am unable to imagine you staying here forever, like a bird in a cage. Especially when I can see how excited you are whenever I mention my journey to you.” He let out a quiet giggle at that. “I would be honored to have you by my side.”
A small smile returned on Niran's lips. He looked truly happy with what he heard from you. Before you even had a chance to react, his arms wrapped around you gently.
“Thank you…” He whispered.
“For what?” You asked confused.
“For giving me the courage I need.” He answered before he let go of you, his hands staying on your shoulders. “You are right. I should not be bound by their expectations. The world awaits.” He looked determined, as if your words sparked a fire in him.
“Even if the fight between me and my family ensues, I will not let that discourage me.” He added. “Now, if your wound stays the way it should, we can leave in two days. So start gathering your things, we shall have the journey of life!”
That caused you to giggle. Niran was quick to say goodbye after that, leaving the room. You could only assume what was on his mind, but you imagine him looking for things to pack at this very moment.
Upon waking up the next day, you realized you were alone. You expected to be greeted to the sound of Niran's voice coming from somewhere in the kitchen, but there was only a comfortable silence. Still a little sleepy, you left your room and made your way downstairs to the kitchen, only to be greeted by Rosie holding a small note.
The note was obviously from Niran, who informed you that he decided to let his family know of his decision. You could only imagine how it would go, based on what he told you last night.
Also he added “P.S. there is still some soup in the pot for you!”. With that, you warmed up the soup and ate it. In the meantime, Niran was back. You were quick to notice that he wasn't in the best mood.
“Hey, how did it go?” You asked and Niran sighed, running his hand through his hair.
“As expected, it turned into an argument. They are not happy with my decision, but I am still joining you.” He smiled as little as he looked at you.
“I'm sorry about that.”
“Do not be.” He waved his hand dismissively. “Maybe one day they might understand.”
You nodded, not sure what to say.
“Honestly, I cannot wait. I have a positive feeling about this.”
The next morning the two of you left the domain. Although Niran was obviously excited, you could see what his family said about his decision.
But just like him, you had a good feeling about this and couldn't wait for the future.