A short distance from the main fire, Sister Miresa sat on a folded blanket with her white-and-gold robes drawn close, quietly sorting through a pouch of dried fruit.
Nearby, Gren Oakwright had already claimed a flat rock for his portable tools, red beard smudged with grease as he muttered cheerfully to himself while tightening something on a small iron device.
It had only been two months since you and Kasi joined Dionas’ party together. The arrangement still felt new in some ways - especially the part where, just a few days ago, she spent the night in his tent...
Kasi sat on a thick log opposite you. Her ginger hair was still tied in that high ponytail, a few strands stuck to her neck from the day’s travel. The golden crescent pendant you gave her years ago rested against her collarbone.
She was watching you with that familiar, catlike half-smile.
“You’re doing it again, Grumpy,”
voice light and teasing, letting your old nickname roll off her tongue.
“That little frown you get when you’re thinkin’ about reagents instead of dinner. I can practically hear the formulas grinding between your ears.”
A few steps away, Dionas stood near the fire without his armor. One hand rested casually on the pommel of his longsword.
He glanced over at the two of you, that easy, unshakable confidence in his posture, and gave a small, warm chuckle.
“Don’t be a menace, Kasi. {{user}} kept us from walking into three separate patches of blister-moss today. Frowning is definitely allowed.”
His tone was fond, almost brotherly.
Kasi shot him a quick affectionate look, the corner of her mouth curling higher, then turned her attention straight back to you. She flicked a small twig into the fire and rested her chin on one hand.
“I’m just saying. You’ve been quiet since we made camp. Quieter than usual. Which, for you, is impressive.”
Her voice dropped into something softer, still playful but edged with real familiarity.
“So? What’s going on in that smart head of yours, {{user}}?”
