Chapter 1

Part 1

I am sitting with Sherry in the common room between lectures, when she says, "You seem rather morose today, Poppy!"

I fake a smile, "I'm fine. I just had a bit of a clothing accident."

"What kind of accident?" I jump, startled at the sound of Jasper's voice. The first time I met him, I thought him the handsomest man I'd ever seen and with further acquaintance his serene smile has become an oasis of calm for me in this chaotic world, except, of course, when he's stealthing up behind me. Oh, I so wish we could add romance to our friendship, but I'd probably have better luck with Guy's actual shadow. "I erm, ripped my dress, it was one of my favourites."

"I must prepare for my next lecture. I will see you later." Sherry winks at me and leaves me to my awkwardness.

"Your cream dress with the sprays of flowers?"

I nod. Although I have no idea how he guessed.

"Perhaps I can repair it for you."

He's such a sweetheart. "That's really thoughtful, however I've already thrown it away."

"Is that all that troubled you?"

He's using his soft kind voice, although he must think I'm being childish. "No, I'm struggling to get my head around an assignment and have spent one too many nights researching the topic, which has messed with my sleep patterns and left me overly tired. But I'm sure I'll be ok once I finish it." And of course, I'm at an academy for mages, when I can't perform even the simplest of magical tasks. Other students can float heavy boxes, I can't lift a feather. I've even tried experimenting with a system of straws but can't imagine the repercussions of getting caught, besides I couldn't get that to work either.

"May I suggest a trip into town, it will give you some fresh air and a change of scene."

I'm allowed to leave this academy? I thought I was imprisoned here. "Is it easy to get to?"

"Yes. However, I am going there tomorrow on an errand for Prince Guy. I could escort you if you wish?"

Oh, happy days, a ultra-rare, maybe even a one in a lifetime, chance to spend time with my secret crush. "Thank you, I'd like that."

Part 2

Guy, that man is my nemesis. At first my inability to use magic annoyed him, now he thinks it's a fantastic excuse to burden me with impossible assignments. I look at the papers in front of me and groan.

There is a knock at my door, and happy for the forced break, I nod at my familiar, Prince, to open it.

Jasper walks into my room. "I trust you will not find it presumptuous, however I took it upon myself to recreate your dress. I hope I remembered it accurately. If you wear it, I can fit it properly for you."

As he holds up a replica of my dress, my self-pitying mood evaporates.

"Wow, thank you." I hurry excitedly to my bathroom to change.

When I re-emerge, warm magic engulfs me as the dress models itself to my shape, hugging me like a glove. I twirl around in front of my mirror. "It's perfect, even better than the original. Would you like to stay for some tea, as a thank you?"

For a moment he looks like he is going to say, 'yes.' But then he frowns. "Regrettably, I still have chores to finish. Perhaps another time."

I decide to wear the dress for my trip into town and am rewarded with a smile from Jasper. "I'm glad I fashioned the dress to your approval."

I smile back shyly because of his gaze on me.

The walk into town is a pleasant one, Jasper is knowledgeable about just about everything and the journey flies by. When we arrive he cautions me, "Miss Poppy, I advise you to remain amongst the shops, some of the back alleys are maze like, it is very easy for a newcomer to become lost within their streets. Once you've finished looking around, please wait for me in the coffee shop over there."

"Ok. I hope you manage to find the things for Guy."

I have a great time wandering around the shops. As I'm about to head to the coffee shop, I see a group of stalls decorated with the Luxurian colours.

One is selling a myriad of potions, most of them sound dubious to be honest, however a sparking glass bottle decorated with purple flowering vines steals my attention. Its label promises 'Sweet Dreams', I could really do with some of that. At this point anything is worth a go, without a decent night's sleep I will never complete Guy's assignment to his satisfaction.

Part 3

Jasper arrives at the café as I do. "Please allow me the honour of purchasing you some coffee."

"Thanks, that would be lovely."

Coffee this late would normally be inadvisable, however I have my special potion for tonight.

Jasper orders and we sit at one of the tables. He explains about the nuances between coffee beans and the brewing thereof while we wait. He makes it sound so interesting. I must have such a crush on Guy's nerdy and way too attractive valet. His eyes flash, quickly replaced by his impeccable valet face.

"Erm, Jasper what were you thinking?"

"May I enquire as to why you ask?"

"Because you had a predatory look, like you were a wolf and I a rabbit."

Jasper chuckles. "Oh I'm most sorry, I may have been looking at you, however I was anticipating the cakes." He glances around the café. "And here they are. I trust you will find they complement this variety of coffee extremely well."

"Wow, you're right. They taste amazing together."

We arrive back to the dormitories so late curfew has already begun and Jasper has to sneak me back in.

I give Prince a hug and he snuggles sleepily in my arms. "I'm sorry I got back so late."

"Yawn, as long as Milady enjoyed herself with Master Jasper."

"I did, a lot thank you." We'd stayed chatting in the coffee shop for ages, then Jasper gave me a tour of the town at night, it felt like a date; if only...

Once in bed, I unscrew the lid of my magic sleep potion and swig it down. Immediately my eyelids feel heavy, and I collapse back against my pillow. Relief overwhelms me. I'm positive that I'll be completely refreshed to tackle Guy's assignment tomorrow.

Part 4

I'm in a clearing in the woods at the back of the academy. Vines with pale purple flowers twist around the trees and glow in the moonlight. It's the same flower as those on the sleeping potion's bottle; is this a dream? It must be a lucid one at that. How exciting, I take a good run up and launch into the sky. I drift up high, soaring over the treetops. Yay, who needs magic? Although I guess I did take a magical potion.

I can see Jasper entering the forest from the town. That man can walk as stealthy and quietly as a cat. And I'm fairly sure he enjoys making me jump at the sound of his voice. Revenge is in order. I float to a clearing that we passed through on the way to town and wait. I'm a bit worried, in my experience dreams are fickle things and it may not be Jasper who emerges but Guy or some other scary magical beastie.

Ha-ha it is Jasper, I drop down behind him. "Boo!"

I like to think I made his heart skip a beat; however, I have nothing to show for this. He turns around calmly. "You'll have to try harder than that." He winks at me in a decidedly flirty fashion.

As this is a dream I pull his face down, reach up on my tippy toes and kiss him on the lips. When I pull away, he's lost his inscrutable valet face and is looking surprised. I grin in triumph.

"Playful, I've never seen that look on your face before; I like it." He presses his lips against mine with such passion that I gasp, enabling him to deepen the kiss. He pulls away, leaving me feeling so dizzy I'm forced to cling to him. Once my breathing calms down Jasper resumes his kissing, this time slowly and deliberately, where his lips touch me, my clothes melt away; what magic is this?

Part 5

The world twists and I'm in a red room lying on a bed with Jasper on top of me. Dark purple vines twist around the furniture. Of course, this is a dream, and my dream Jasper has nothing in common with the real one bar his looks. Otherwise, he wouldn't be able to pass me in the corridor without giving me a quick caress at the very least. He kisses me again with lust fuelled intensity, his eyes burning with desire.

Jasper pauses. I pout in consternation, making him laugh and stroke my cheek. "You make the most adorable, expressions you know."

I hear a knock at the door and Guy bellowing, "Jasper."

He sounds even more irritated than normal. Jasper groans and pushes himself up with his arms. I cling to him, for him to stop now is actually worse than Guy barging in and seeing us. Jasper gives me a light kiss on the bridge of my nose. "I promise to hurry back, please release me."

I do so with a sigh. As he moves across the room his body turns into dust twinkling in the morning sunlight and I'm in my own bed. I could cry, I want my dream Jasper back so badly.

On my way to a lecture that evening I see Jasper walking alongside Guy. His eyes sparkle on seeing me, as if wickedly amused. He quickly replaces the look with his valet face. However, it's too late, that sparkle has reminded me of my dream.

"Miss Poppy, is something the matter?"

Oops I was staring at him. "Oh sorry, I was just feeling jealous of Guy having you as a valet, and wondering if there is anything you're not perfect at."

"I would not presume to call my tea making perfect yet, Grayson still has a lot to teach me…"

"False modesty, I have drunk your tea you know." I ponder a second. "Although I do prefer your coffee…" but your kisses…oh Jasper your insanity inducing kisses.

Guy becomes impatient with our chit chat and barks, "Come, Jasper!"

Jasper gives me a low graceful bow and follows after his master.

My heart is all in a tizzy. That sparkle in his eyes on seeing me, would I be wrong in thinking that Jasper has grown to think of me in an amorous way too?

Chapter 2

Part 1

I trudge down the corridor heading back to my dormitory. Pale purple vines curl around the paintings on the wall. How strange, perhaps some student's spell has misfired.

Jasper is up ahead. "Is all well, Miss Poppy?"

I pull a face. "No, I still haven't finished your boss's assignment."

"Would you like me to help. I can make some coffee and we can look at it together?"

"Thank you, I'd really appreciate that."

I sit on Jasper's settee and sort my papers out, as the delicious smell of fresh coffee permeates through the air. He places a cup in front of me and I take a sip. "Mmm. You are definitely coffee king."

Jasper gives me a genuine smile; it makes him look extra handsome. "So, what does Prince Guy want you to do?"

"Write a thesis amount of words on fire, and then he expects me to light this piece of paper. But I can't. I've been told that it's all about visualization. But it's no good, I can't feel any magic. It's like some people can wiggle their ears, I can watch them, I can imagine myself doing it, but I can't do it myself because I can't even feel the muscles that I'd need. Does that make sense?"

"Hmm." Jasper sips his own coffee and thinks. "I have an idea. You can give magic to others with a kiss can you not?"

I nod

"Well, if you would allow me to kiss your hand, you may be able to feel the flow of magic into me."

"Ok, it's worth a try."

Jasper takes my hand in his and brings it to his lips. As he kisses me, I swear my heart stops beating. I've had less of a reaction to other men kissing me on the lips.

"Did you feel anything?"

Just my cheeks flushing. "I didn't feel any magical power. You haven't lit up either. Erm, I think you have to kiss me on the lips."

"May I."

I nod.

Jasper kisses me and it is complete bliss.

"Mmm…" He draws away with a massive red aura flickering around him. This isn't going to work; his kisses are too distracting. Dark purple vines curl over his headboard. Similar to the light-purple ones I saw in the corridor. The potion bottle had both shades twisted together. Is this another sweet dream? I assumed the potion would be a one night only thing.

"Oh, I've just remembered, when I arrived here Fenn lit up like a Christmas tree when he touched me. If I take of my choker…" I unclip it. "My magic should flow into you from holding hands."

Jasper pulls of his gloves which is surprisingly erotic. His fingertips touch my palm. How can that feel so intimate? My body heats as he laces his fingers with mine and begins to glow even more brightly.

"I can certainly feel your power flowing into me, can you feel anything?"

"My hand seems warm from your touch but I'm not sure if what I'm feeling is magic."

"Hmm." He contemplates again. Then he removes his jacket and shirt. "My body will be cooler than your lips. It may be easier to detect your magic in bursts, you could try kissing various parts of my arms."

This is such a cool dream, and his plan makes sense. If only I had the guts to suggest it to him in real life. I press chaste little kisses up his arm with the intention to torment him. He remains annoyingly stoic.

"Is that working, Miss Poppy?"

Who was I kidding. All I'm doing is tormenting myself, I have a burning desire to kiss his neck, his delts, his chest, his abs…. "Erm not really."

"Why ever not?" I'm pretty sure from the teasing quality to his voice that he knows full well, why not.

And this is a dream, so it doesn't matter if I tell him. "I can't concentrate while your slim toned torso is right in front of my lips…"

"Ha-ha, let's try it the other way around then. Close your eyes and I'll press kisses to your arms."

My arms are already bear, as I'm wearing a short-sleeved blouse, so no more undressing. He's probably right. I close my eyes and try my best to concentrate. His kisses ignite tiny fires along my arm, across my shoulder and up my neck. His lips linger on my ears before heading down my body and nuzzling just below the top of my blouse.

My heart is pounding, and it dawns on me that he is messing with me. I open my eyes. "Jasper, stop your teasing."

"You wish me to stop kissing you?"

"No, I don't think I could bear that."

"Then I shall continue." He smirks, slowly loosening the ribbon on my blouse. As soon as he presses his lips back to my skin, I'm lost.

Part 3

I force my eyelids open, feeling like I really did spend all last night being intimate with Jasper… way too intimate with Jasper. I colour at the thought, who knew my imagination was so inventive. And how am I going to survive the next hour without Jasper's touch, when all I want is for him to make love to me again and again. I must pull myself together.

Ok I can do this. I've walked down this corridor countless times and not run into the avarian double act.

Jasper and Guy turn the corner up ahead, of all the worse luck. Memories of being with dream Jasper burst into my mind, making me blush furiously. But there is no way Jasper can know what my subconscious had us doing together. I should relax and greet them as normal.

Jasper smiles back, valet mask firmly in place, Guy ignores me. All pretty normal, everything is normal, no worries.

"Prince Guy, you should invite Miss Poppy to your chamber for tea, sometime."

"Why!?"

"Usually couples spend time together…"

"She's mine, I don't need to court her."

Oh, I have totally misjudged things, Jasper has only been being nice to me because he thinks I belong to his master. I feel stupid and hurt. I frown at him before using my coldest and most dismissive tone. "Please keep out of my affairs, they have nothing to do with you."

I turn back to face Guy. "You're wrong. I am not yours. I don't belong to anyone. I'm a person not a vase."

Guy glares at me. It's scary, however nothing bad follows that look, and I've survived plenty of frost from him in the past without any ill consequences to my person. So, I stare right back. He might be a privileged spoilt prince with no social graces, yet he's also a very handsome man. Luxurious lashes, perfect skin, I kind of get where the Avari Aficionados are coming from. It's a bit like a rollercoaster he scares you, yet at the same time you know you're safe. I get out a notebook and narrate as I write the date, time and place.

"Oooh, thank you, that is one top rate glare. Your fan club are going to be ever so jealous of me. Yay, even better your discombobulated look, I think it's by far your cutest expression."

He looks like he's about to explode so I blow him a kiss, ignore Jasper completely and continue walking to my lecture. The hurt look on Jasper's face is at the forefront of my mind, I do not feel good about myself, I'm meant to be his friend.

Part 4

I need to stop dreaming about Jasper, considering he doesn't feel that way about me. I ask around and Tino kindly offers to escort me to town. First, he takes me to a bread shop, because he'd heard they were selling some new types of fancy rolls and thinks Lynt will like them. Next, we pass the café Jasper, and I went to. I remember Jasper saying you could buy beans their too. "Hey Tino, I want to buy a treat for Jasper, I'm afraid I said some unkind things to him…"

"Ww..why would you do that?"

"Because I misconstrued some of his actions and fancied myself in love with him. When he made it obvious that he didn't feel the same way, I was upset. However, I value Jasper's friendship highly and don't wish to lose it. Which coffee beans do you think he'd like."

"Master Jasper has a fondness for rare delicacies, hmm..." Tino peruses the beans on offer. "Here it is, this is from the highest mountains in Avari so it grows slowly and there are only a few bushes. Just a little is harvested each year and as they select only the best beans, it tastes silky and mellow with no bitter aftertaste."

"Thank you that sounds perfect."

Next, we walk to the harbour. To my disappointment the stall I bought the potion from has vanished. Tino explains that every so often a market from a particular kingdom will come to the Isle of Colde but only for a brief time.

"What is it that you wanted to buy?" Tino is lovely but I imagine he'd go into a complete tizzy if I told him about my dreams.

"Erm it's more I bought a potion, and I wish to cancel its effect."

"Might I enquire as to what the effect is?"

"Erm, no it's too embarrassing."

"Oh, of course it was a potion from Luxure… Please forgive my intrusiveness…" He's blushing it's so cute. Once he's regained his composure he suggests we purchase a general counterspell potion. I acquiesce, that sounds like the perfect solution and that such things exist, a handy thing to remember for another time.

As we return to the academy, we see Jasper. "Miss Poppy," he gives a curt bow, "if you don't mind, I require Tino's assistance".

"Of course. Please excuse me, Miss Poppy."

I watch them go and allow myself a shiver. Jasper said my name so coldly, it seems the coffee gift idea is too late.

Part of me was reluctant to let the dreams go, now my mind is made up. I swallow the general counterspell before going to bed.

Part 5

I hardly recognise myself in the nightclubs mirror. My hair has been piled up and I have a pretty feather fascinator. My dress looks divine as it softly drapes over my body. It also looks incredibly expensiveness. The figure-hugging effect reminds me of how Jasper improved my favourite dress, leading me to believe that it was chosen my Jasper, paid for by Guy.

I get a flash back of Guy saying, "Remember you are an heiress as stupid as you are wealthy. This should not be a challenge for you."

Thanks Guy

A man sites next to me, and hands me a cocktail, its glass has vines etched into it. I'm dreaming again but not of Jasper, which causes a sharp pain to stab at my heart. Instead, I'm with this man with equally red eyes, and a rougher, albeit good-looking appearance.

"Sorry to have kept you waiting," he says.

"No problem." I sip my cocktail. It's only a dream I don't need to be careful.

"Oh here is Sir Dardede."

Another man sits next to the first and asks, "Has she the money?"

Oddly I know that I do. "Yes, however I wish to know how it will be used."

"You have a gripe with Guy, do you not?"

"Who doesn't?"

They both laugh.

"He spurned me," I hear myself saying, "my money wasn't good enough for him! Who does he think he is."

Dardede says, "Aquia will be much more manageable."

Personally, I doubt that. Aquia adores Guy. And I'd hate to see what Guy death would do him. Regardless, Aquia may be kind-hearted, but he wouldn't be a pushover. If he was thrust into kingship, he would do what he thought was best for Avari and not listen to these idiots. I feel inwardly furious for him. "How will it be accomplished?"

"That is not a conversation for public. Let's retire to our hotel."

I follow the men outside, along between the buildings and into an alleyway, where dark vines climb the darker walls giving off their own ethereal purple glow. The first man grabs hold of me from behind, I struggle fiercely. Magic binds me. Dardede smiles and stabs a blade into my stomach. Blood stains my beautiful dress as a force pushes me immobile to the ground. Dardede grabs my bag, and they saunter away. I'm in no pain, but even so how is this meant to be a sweet dream?

"All right there, Miss?" Jasper takes my hand and pulls me along. Jasper with short blond hair and no glasses. Odd because I thought he'd said he'd mistaken a tree for Guy without them. "Time for your debrief."

"Where are we going, Jasper?"

He pauses to place a finger on my lips. "My name is Sirius, do try and remember."

Chapter 3

Part 1

He tugs me into an inn, winks at the barman and drags me upstairs, but instead of a desk and chairs all the room contains is one large bed. His wink at the barman now disturbs me "Bring women here often?"

"Jealous?"

"No!" Although I am, one hundred percent.

"Good, because I've 'debriefed' numerous people in this room for my master."

He pours us two drinks and raises his glass to me, "To a job well done."

"But they took the money."

"And now we can trace all their contacts."

I sip my drink. Jasper knocks his back, pours himself another and knocks that back too. "You and Guy can sleep together safely tonight."

"It sounds like you're the jealous one."

"I'm not."

Oddly I know that is just as much a lie as the one I told when asked a similar question. "You have no need to be. I don't sleep in Guy's bed and never will."

Jasper pulls of his shirt. "Then let's begin your 'debrief'."

This is definitely not a sweet dream. I pull two daggers from underneath my skirt and brandish them at him. "Just try it, see how that goes for you."

"Or you could begin mine, either is fine by me." Jasper lies on the bed and the deep purple vines curling up the bedposts grow to encompass his wrists.

The mischievous look on his face is completely adorable. It is tempting to play his game; I want to see how long he can last before he has to magic those vines away. However, I harden my heart. I'm meant to be cross with him.

"I thought you had questions to ask me." I sit on the edge of the bed.

He exhales softly "Why are you angry with me?"

I lower my eyes. "Because you would hand me over to Guy, without a second thought. Because I gave you my friendship and in exchange you messed with my heart and hurt me. It's you I want Jasper, only you."

The vines vanish. Jasper pulls me onto the bed, rolls on top of me, and kisses me so passionately, that I care about nothing so long as his body is flush to mine.

Part 2

I lay satiated in Jaspers arms.

Prince calls to me, "Milady!"

I feel my body fragmenting.

Jasper tries to hold me tighter; "Please stay."

I clutch at him as well, to no avail.

His thoughts follow me. "I hurt myself more. You will find another, one more worthy of you. Whereas I will remain forever wretched. Farewell Poppy, my beloved one…"

Prince bats my cheek with a soft paw. "Please wake up Milady, or you will miss your lecture."

I haul myself from bed and look in the mirror; a zombie looks back. I reassure Prince that I'm ok and semi-conscious make my way along the corridors. Someone firmly takes hold of my arm and I halt. Jasper steps in front of me. "Miss Poppy, are you still having trouble sleeping."

I try and open my eyes fully and fail. But why bother to pretend, real Jasper only cares about Guy's belongings, not me as an individual.

"Whatever is wrong."

"I've made a massive mistake," My eyes fill with tears, and I hastily advert my gaze.

Jasper pulls me into his arms, and I rest against him. At this moment it would be easy to confuse dream Jasper and the real one, the sense of rightness I feel in his arms is an illusion and I mustn't forget that.

"I have a little while before his highness returns from his morning outing with Ertl. Why don't you come back to my quarters and explain. Hopefully I'll be able to help."

He is very clever, so the offer is a tempting one, and he doesn't need to know who I've been dreaming about. "Thank you, however I need a prop from my room. Can we go to mine instead, please."

Prince isn't around. He must be off playing with some friends, which is lucky because I wouldn't want him hearing this conversation. "When I went into town with you, I bought a sleep potion. Its effect has lasted several nights now, and the dreams leave me exhausted not refreshed."

"The market from Luxure!"

"Yes. It promised dreams sweeter than an amatoria night whatever that is."

Jasper's eyes bore into mine and his voice deepens. "During an amatoria night, when the moon glitters like a ruby in the sky, dreams of great passion and sensuality featuring the dreamer's unrequited love abound."

I blush, the label was not lying then.

"Are they the sort of exhausting dreams you've been having Miss Poppy?" He sounds amused.

Part 3

"I take your blush for a yes. May I enquire as to who has inspired your yearning."

"No, you may not, because I don't want to dream about them, and they have never demonstrated any romantic inclination towards me."

"Really! I'm struggling to think of a person who hasn't."

With surprise I look straight into his crimson eyes. "Pardon?"

"Haven't you noticed all the princes dancing around you, offering their time, their resources..."

I scowl. "That's not out of affection it's out of lust, for my power that is. And it's not all the princes. Toa and Roy obviously want my power for their kingdoms and Lynt wants to stop the others fighting over my power. But although Fenn wishes the same as Lynt he can't be bothered, and Guy thinks I'm already his so can't be bothered either, unless scowling is his version of being sweet and accommodating. As for Rio, the only thing he lusts after is food."

A horrible thought enters my mind, "Are you valets any better?" Tino, Grayson, Knight, Violet, Thoma I can't imagine it at all, they are all too honourable. But Jasper I think he'd do anything for Guy. Was my dream so wrong having him confess to the lengths he would go to for his master? My heart aches. "Your kindness is just a trap, a second chance for Guy to ensnare me."

"Oh, how cynical. Do you really think that of me?" A coldness has entered his voice making me shiver.

That was quite the accusation I made, based on what, a dream? His question warrants a considered answer. But what can I say, he was nice to me to lure me to Guy's side, fact. He doesn't appear hurt, more annoyed and now there is only ice in his gaze. "That you would seduce me and take me for a paramour so that he could use my power? Yes, I do."

His lack of denial feels like a body blow.

"Jasper!"

"Would you prefer me to lie to you?"

I shake my head too emotional to speak.

Part 4

Jasper's gaze softens. "So, it's lucky for us both that you appreciate how handsome Guy is and I'm sure with time his excellent qualities will endear him to you. Returning to your current problem. Whoever you are dreaming about will never know, so there is no need to feel guilty..."

He picked up on my guilt, which is scarily astute. I can only hope he has no idea of the feelings he's elicited in me, considering how lucky he feels at not having to be my paramour. Perhaps a joke should dissuade him from that idea, if he's had it. In a teasing tone I ask, "So, you'd be fine if I were dreaming about you."

"How could I be anything other, whilst in a state of blissful ignorance. I suggest you enjoy the dreams while they last. Certainly, I would if given that opportunity," he half smiles ruefully. Suddenly his red eyes bore into mine "Would you mind?"

"Mind what?"

"If you were the muse in a passionate dream of mine." His lips curl fully as my face heats and my heart beats wildly. I'm not sure my subconscious was wrong about Jasper at all. The man is a tease and a flirt, when he's not being the perfect valet.

"Stop teasing."

He chuckles, confirming my suspicions. "So, tell me about these dreams you've been having?"

I frown at him.

"The more information I have the easier it'll be to help. You need not go into salacious detail."

"Well, erm in thee first one I was flying above the forest, and I saw this man, I kissed him, and he kissed me and I guess it would have been sweet if it had stopped there. Perhaps what passes for sweet to a citizen from Luxure and what passes as sweet to me are two entirely different things."

Jasper has turned serious. I expected him to be amused, perhaps even chuckle instead he says, "And the next?"

"Well, a man was trying to help me feel my magic by kissing me, but we had a different end game in mind. Although funnily enough it did help in real life. I do have an awareness of my magic now."

Jasper's face has become completely inscrutable. "And the next."

I hang my head feeling thoroughly miserable. "It wasn't sweet at all." Just the memory makes we want dream Jasper. The Jasper who asked me to stay, who called me beloved. Embarrassing my eyes fill with tears again.

"Can I see the bottle?"

I pass it to him. His fingers stroke over the pale and dark purple flowers decorating the bottle. "You drank all of this."

I nod.

"That may be a problem, you were only meant to take one measure." He unscrews the cap and eases out a hidden cap that obviously rations the potion.

"How many portions are in the bottle." I can hear my voice shaking.

"Please do not worry I will sort this out for you. Can I take the bottle."

"Of course. Thank you."

Part 5

Jasper hastens to Fenn's room and knocks impatiently on the door. Fenn opens it and smiles coquettishly on seeing his drinking buddy, guessing that some amusement is to be had. "In such a desperate hurry to see me? Whatever can you be in want of? One of my famed sensual massages perhaps?"

Jasper ignores the jibes and hands over the bottle. "What do know about this potion?"

Fenn chuckles. "Unusual to see you perturbed. Hmm let's see..." He admires the beauty of the bottle, running an elegant finger over the embossed flowers before reading the label and asking, "Surely you can read as well as I?"

Usually, Jasper can easily best Fenn however he can think of nothing bar his mission. "It's imperative that I stop the dreams. I would value your help."

Fenn hands the bottle back and shrugs. "Refrain from taking the potion."

"All of it was drunk in one go, the dreams occur night after night and there must have been a fortnights supply at least."

Fenn gives Jasper his most salacious wink. "How intriguing. This is a popular potion in Luxure, there has never been a call for a counterspell to nullify its effect. I suggest you enjoy them, while they last. Whoever are you dreaming of?"

Jasper frowns at him, refusing to be drawn into his friend's game. "That's not important, and I would if they were enjoying them too."

"Then don't fall asleep lying next to them with your bodies entwined. You have to be close for the effect to work."

"Not with this batch."

"Oooh yes, I noticed it was a new . I haven't tried that particular vintage. Each drop is spelled to give a certain dream, you know. What dreams have you shared so far?"

"I know you jest."

Fenn sighs theatrically. "You are no fun at all. None of the potions have that strong a magic, for obvious reasons. Perhaps your infatuation's magic amplifies the affect as she sleeps, hmm. It would explain her exhaustion. Seriously, though, I assumed you'd be more of a gentleman when it comes to Treasure."

"I did not say…"

"You didn't need to." Fenn points to the vines on the bottle. "When the vines are pale, the drinker is in control of the dreams, when they are dark their partner is. The aim is to get both vines entwinning together for a mutually enjoyable experience. Obviously if you don't sleep at the same time, you cannot share dreams."

Chapter 4

Part 1

Jasper returns to my room, in the evening, with a lovely little glass bottle. "I brewed this myself and can guarantee its effectiveness."

"How much should I drink?"

"All of it, I prepared the exact amount." Jasper is a difficult man to read, yet there is a faint shiftiness about him.

Seeing that in anyone else, I would thank them and assure them I would drink it later, then tip it down the sink as soon as they left; however, I trust Jasper. I take a sip, "Wow, it's so fruity and the tea you've added balances it perfectly. If only all medicines tasted so delicious."

The following morning, I awake feeling refreshed and head to the refractory with a spring in my step. Sherry is there with Thoma and Rio. I sit next to her and she draws closer to me and whispers. "You're looking happy, how are things progressing with Jasper?

I'm taken aback. "I have no idea what you're talking about."

"You went into town together, no?"

My best friend is far too perceptive of my feelings it seems. I glance at the others. Luckily, they are far too absorbed in a conversation about the merits of different cooking oils to pay us any attention. "Well yes, but he was looking after me for Guy."

"But he never shows an interest in anyone."

Only being interested in my magic, doesn't stop him and Jasper from thinking I belong to Guy; however, I can hardly tell Sherry that. "True, however my red eyes mark me as Avarian and make him feel responsible for me, I guess." I turn the topic onto the first lecture of the day for me, which is magical herbalism, and is being taught by Sherry's brother, Roy. Being an A-rank I reckon she should have some tips.

As I head in the direction of the lecture hall, I encounter Jasper. "How are you feeling this morning?"

His obvious concern, touches me. "Lots better. Thank you so much. And I feel as ready as I'll ever be to redo Guy's assignment, I only wish he'd given me at least a hint as to where I'm going wrong."

"Would you like me to have a look at it with you? I'll be free late afternoon, as Guy will be busy teaching a lecture."

I smile to myself at my eagerness to accept his offer, it seems I can cope with unrequited love as long as I can spend time with him, sad I know. "Thanks, I'll make you some coffee, I bought some new beans in town that … oh I guess you prefer to brew your own... it will taste so much better..."

"That doesn't mean I won't gratefully accept your offer. Although I trust you didn't buy the packet from the same stall as your sleeping draught?"

"No, I didn't."

Jasper chuckles at my haughty voice, before bowing elegantly and going on his way.

To my delight, Jasper arrives at my room with a plate of freshly baked biscuits. We make the coffee together, and I wish again that we were a couple, that we had many more such cosy moments in each other's company to look forward to. We sip our coffee and smile in unison. Tino was right the coffee is amazing. I bite into one of the biscuits. "Mmm, these go with the coffee perfectly, it's as if they were made for each other."

"I'm glad they are to your liking. I value your friendship too and would equally hate to lose it." He smiles sweetly, as he drops Tino in it for grassing me up.

Part 2

Days pass without either dreaming about or seeing Jasper. I miss him as a constant ache.

Almost as if thinking that conjures him up, Jasper turns into the corridor looking unexpectedly dishevelled. He passes Guy some sheets of paper.

Guy tuts at him. "Not these, I need the assessments for my next lecture."

"My sincerest apologies. I will fetch the correct items immediately."

Now that I'm closer I notice Jasper looks dreadful, his skin is dull and his eyes puffy. Making my heart lurch. I hurry after him and walk into Guy's quarters because Jasper has left the door open. He's starring at stacks of paper. Looking at one then another in confusion.

Guy is taking Sherry next, but not Rio, Aquia or myself so it must be an A rank lecture. I look at the names on the papers. "I think it's these ones. I'll take it to him; you should sit down for a bit." Jasper remains standing. I take him by the arm pull him over to Guy's settee and push him down onto it before grabbing the papers and hurrying back to Guy.

"You're papers."

Guy takes them without a word. Papers delivered I run back to Jasper. He is polishing the table, but his head keeps nodding forwards. I take him by the arm again. You need to sleep; I'll clean-up for Guy. Where is your room.

"It is through that door, although I am fine."

"You are not fine." I snap. I'm feeling upset, confused and a little scared. "Please."

I manage to drag him into his room and pause, unnerved. I've never been in it before and yet it is identical to his room in my dream. But it was a magic dream, therefore I push the oddity to the back of my mind. I help Jasper take of his jacket and remove his skewwhiff tie for him. Having removed his shoes and socks too, he obediently lays on his bed and I cover him with his sheet.

His eyes close and his face softens into breath-taking beauty. I frown, Guy must be overworking him.

I find the cupboard of cleaning stuff and set to work. I intend to make Guys chambers every bit as sparkling as I'm sure they are by the time Jasper has finished with them.

Part 3

"What are you doing?" Guy barks at me.

I pause one hand holding the jar of polish the other pushing the cloth against Guy's bedside cabinet. It should be obvious. So, he doesn't mean what am I doing but why.

I return his glare with interest. "You've been over working Jasper, he is completely exhausted. So, I'm doing his chores for him while he sleeps. I've made your bed, polished all your furniture bar this one, mopped your floors and cleaned your windows." I am exhausted and everything aches. "Do not disturb him, if you want anything else done, I will do it."

I'm lifted into the air, floated through the door to his bedroom and plonked down on the other side.

"No one enters my room." This isn't Guys natural anger at everything, this is several grades above.

"Oh, erm I am really sorry, Guy. I had no intention of intruding on your personal space. I was merely trying to…"

At my genuine contrition, Guy clicks his teeth. "Jasper is even more of an idiot than you, his tiredness is completely self-inflicted."

"How, why is he so tired?"

"You'll have to ask him."

"Ok, I will." I smile, loyalty goes both ways between Guy and Jasper. "Can I get you a coffee. Jasper has taught me how to make it."

Guy gives a long-suffering groan. "If you must."

Part 4

The following day once my lectures have finished, and I've completed the days assignments in the library, I go round to check on Jasper. I find myself peering at his face for signs of fatigue and frown. "Guy says he hasn't been overworking you and I'd have to ask you why you're so tired?"

"A private project of my own." Normal Jasper, no doubt, would easily get away with his lies. However, sleep deprived Jasper is easy to call out.

"Tell me."

"Guy said you cleaned his apartment yesterday."

"I told you I would, it was pretty time consuming though, I have no idea how you manage to get that done for Guy and all the other things he wants you to do."

"He said you were concerned about me."

I'm surprised, I don't think of Guy as a peacemaker. "I was, I am. So please don't lie to me Jasper."

"You want me to be completely truthful?"

"Yes." I think.

Jasper goes over to his sofa and sinks into it. "I know your dreams featured me."

He sounds so certain. But he can't know that, mustn't know that. I go on the attack. "You promised the truth, yet you jest."

He looks contrite and lowers his eyes from mine. "I had the same dreams. I thought they were mine."

For a moment I can't reply, can hardly think as emotions rather than thoughts fight within me and my face heats. Finally, sense takes control. Can Jasper and I truly have had identical dreams? Surely not. "I don't believe you."

"In the forest you dropped down behind me and said, 'boo.' I was startled but schooled my expression before winking at you and saying you would have to try harder. So, you kissed me, quite chastely to be fair, however it still aroused a desire to tease you in revenge, so I kissed you back as unchastely as I could. Until I had you leaning against a tree with your leg over my shoulder, shall I continue?"

My heart is beating so hard, he must hear it. "No, erm, you don't need to…" I feel mortified.

Part 5

"Fenn said that it takes two asleep at the same time to share dreams. In the same bed normally, however your magic is bypassing that requirement and I assume causing your exhaustion come morning. I wished to spare you any more... unpleasantness…" Jasper expression is one of guilt and sadness.

"It wasn't unpleasant, just overly intimate considering you're not into me like that. But if all it takes is to fall asleep at a different time to you, then I will take that hit. It was me who was stupid enough to drink the potion after all, it was me who was foolish enough to develop feelings for you, and I don't have Guy to look after in the day."

Jasper peers bewildered up at me. "You didn't find the dreams disagreeable? But you seemed so upset when you told me that the last dream hadn't been sweet."

I lower myself onto the sofa next to him, I don't want Jasper feeling bad. "I was sad because it was only a dream. That you wouldn't call me beloved in real life. Worse you wish I was Guy's."

He sighs. "What I do or don't wish regarding your relationship with Guy, doesn't change the reality that you are his."

"But you're his, so if I'm yours, that wouldn't change that reality either. So, what would you prefer, Jasper?"

"Fenn said that the vine colours show that I hijacked your dreams and made them my own. My true desires are obvious, as is my affection for you. But how can I hope for you to feel the same way. I thought I was dreaming so I did what I wished without restraint. Those dreams are not how I'd have liked our first few times together to have played out."

"We haven't had a first time. Those were merely dreams. You haven't even kissed me in real life yet."

Jasper moves his lips slowly towards me and gives me the sweetest of kisses as I wrap my arms around him. We smile at each other as we pull apart. Then Jasper yawns.

Yawning too, I glance at his clock; it must have taken me longer to complete my work than I thought. "How about we do it properly. Lay in the same bed and hold hands so that we can have sweet dreams together."

"Is that what you want, sweet dreams?" Jasper has that teasing note to his voice again.

I lace my fingers with his and squeeze him. "However spicy, a dream with you in it will always be sweet."

He chuckles and leads me to his bed. Laying snug in his arms, I close my eyes. I have never felt happier as sleep claims me, and pale and dark purple flowering vines twist together to frame a doorway…