A/N: I've posted the first two chapters rather quickly, but the rest most likely won't be as fast. But before I really finalize this - should I continue? Yes or no?

Disclaimer: I only wish these characters were mine. As it is, only the plot variations belong to myself.

We broke apart quickly. Mel looked slightly stunned; I was full of irritation. I turned to face the guard who had interrupted us.

"Yes, what is it?" I asked quickly.

"A letter has arrived from the riding observing Remalna-City."

Inwardly, I sighed out of frustration. "Thank you."

Meliara walked slowly to the tent flap, but glanced back – was that a wistful look? – before exiting.

--

Organizing the journey north monopolized most of the next morning. I was buried beneath piles of papers, but couldn't seem to concentrate. I nearly kissed her. I groaned and let my head drop to the stack of sheets piled before me. Life! She would have let me. That thought itself gave me hope that I had previously convinced myself was foolish to believe in.I lifted my head from the papers, truly smiling for the first time in days. Regaining energy, I enthusiastically continued my reading.

--

By the time we had left the encampment, morning had swiftly become dusk. Traveling with such a large entourage, through unknown territory, was unwise in the best of situations. I knew I caused a quiet outcry when giving the order to leave a candle ago. No matter, speed is of the essence, not comfort.

The darkness had truly begun to fall when the first touches of rain fell. I subconsciously tightened my cloak, thanking whichever mage had the brilliance to produce a water repellent fabric. Our horses splashed through the muddy paths beneath, spraying many with unsavoury water. I distinctly wished the mud had the wisdom to shy from Mel – I did not want to face any increased irritation from the woman. In spite of our moment, she had steadfastly avoided my presence since. Even now, she rode behind me instead of by my side.

Well, I see I'm back to being loathed. I outwardly grimaced. Wiping an errant drop of water from my face, I quickly observed the surrounding warriors. Grim faced, edging in their seats, dripping wet –yes, I was not a popular man tonight.

"We go no further tonight. Make camp and rest, there is much travel ahead of us."

If they were not so disciplined, they may have cheered. I smiled and looked down, trying to hide my amusement from the crowd.

Stepping from my horse, I led the animal to the grass on the roadside. I watched tiredly as the animal chewed the sopping mess, wishing for peace that seemed to forever elude the country. I stroked the horse's mane, and leaned against the being. My energy was quickly fading. Thankfully, the men and women had been so desperate for shelter, the camp was nearing completion. I marvelled at their determination. The way I felt at the moment, I would much rather sink to the ground and sleep in the muddy ferns.

I felt a hand touch my cloak, feeling the fabric between fingers. I turned my head and looked with some surprise at Meliara.

"Water resistant cloaks. You should thank the mage who discovered that trick."

Uncontrollable laughter littered my mind – perhaps I am more exhausted than I thought. Realizing I had failed to answer, I looked up and met her questioning eyes.

"It was my saviour tonight, there is no doubt."

She smiled, rather tentatively it seemed, before she spoke once again.

"Flauvic will not stay long with his mother. He is hungry for power, and will not share it. Shouldn't we move directly against the residence?"

"I cannot risk further infiltration by these men. They would only aid the Merindar numbers, which I am counting on being diminished." I spoke quickly, and rather impatiently. I waved my hand briefly, negating any negative implication.

"Forgive me; I am not myself at the moment."

Her hand rested on my arm, flooding my skin with warmth. I yearned to grasp her hand, but did not want to resurface any previous anger. I still was not positive about her feelings, her reaction. I never got the chance to act upon my impulse, because with a lingering look, she disappeared to her newly constructed tent.

For the second time in as many days, I stood alone, left dawdling stupidly by the same woman. She is going to be the end of me. I shook the water from my hair and walked off to my tent, confusion inhabiting every aspect of my being.

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