The whole day was wonderful. Idri finally had Sooga off her back and more than enough space to possibly pursue… admitting. Idri would have to catch her when she was off her shift. She hadn't seen Pire all day, which was a tad concerning, but if Sooga was going to be hypocritical he might as well tail her himself. Idri wasn't going to work for that overbearing ass anymore. Once this mission was over, she was never going to speak to Sooga again.
The city guard finally changed shifts. Idri bounced on her heels with excitement and ran out to meet with Smaude. Smaude raised her head as Idri approached and gave a stifled yawn, scratching her neck.
"Afternoon, Idri." Smaude greeted at the end of her yawn. Her name through Smaude's lips were music to Idri's ears. So close to her dream, yet so far. She hesitated. Was she getting cold feet? A flash of fear crosses her brow before she cleared her throat and smiled shakily. Smaude gave her a confused look while combing through her hair.
"You good?"
"Yeah, sorry. I uh… was just wondering if you'd like to go to get a drink with me?" Idri asked, pointing her thumb over her shoulder. Smaude nodded with a lazy smile. It would take a lot for her to pass up a drink. Smaude and Idri saunter happily to the bar and pick seats in an isolated corner just to themselves. Perfect.
There were many drinks to choose from. Idri looked over the different names and hummed to herself. Smaude didn't even have to look. She always got the same thing, they knew her taste by now. They ordered quickly and turned to each other. Each was a bit hesitant before Smaude finally cleared her throat.
"This might be your longest visit." Smaude laughed a bit nervously under her breath.
"Yeah. Exciting, isn't it? Not even over yet." Idri said, nodding and turning her eyes to the table. They hadn't had this close silence together before. The closest they could get to a full and intimate date. The drinks are delivered and they start loosening up a little. Idri's stiff posture relaxed and Smaude's nervous silence finally opened to a little anecdote about the other guards. Idri loved hearing her talk. Her lazy drawl as she detailed her strenuous training and boring shifts. Her slight pout when mentioning her boss and her strict routine.
"How about you, Idri?" Smaude asked as she swirled her glass. Idri paused and shook her head. She didn't really do anything while waiting to meet with her. She had refused to even think about working in the meantime. Sooga had made it clear enough.
"Hm… alright. Then just tell me about yourself." Smaude said.
"Oh. Uh…" there wasn't much Idri could say without giving her too much information. She searched the table for some inspiration. She couldn't pass well as a merchant, she wasn't bulky enough. She never kept her weapons on her so "mercenary" was out too. Especially if Smaude felt the need to test the idea. Idri pursed her lips.
"Idri?" Smaude waved a hand in Idri's vision.
"Sorry, I got lost in thought, haha," she replied, knee bouncing anxiously, "I'm just a traveler. I go around and visit each of the villages every year. This one is my favorite so I make extra trips just to see it. And you." Not really a lie. Smaude nodded, happy to finally hear more about her closest companion. She waited for Idri to continue, but Idri wasn't sure what else she could say. She slanted her mouth.
"That's pretty much it."
"I see."
Idri felt bad leaving it at that. But she'd feel worse if Smaude found out. Idri shook that off and folded her hands on the table, leaning closer.
"I actually wanted to talk to you about something else…" Idri said with a smile. Smaude ordered more drinks for the pair and drummed her nails on the table. Her faint smile never left her lips. Now was her chance.
Once the air had cooled and evening fell, Idri had to leave the city to meet with her mentor and the target. Despite her beautiful afternoon with Smaude, she was still peeved at both of them. She had a job to do and she might as well get it over with. Even if it meant swiping the Sheikah's crap herself. Idri met them outside the city walls. Folding her arms, she cocked a brow in silent question to them.
"You'll have some free time with Smaude," Sooga started, tone daring her to question the rare opportunity, "Pire and I will be at the Bazaar if anything arises." Idri wasn't sure whether to be thankful for the dropped leash or pissed that it was only offered because Sooga was getting far too close. With her emotions in turmoil, she gave a cracking grin with tight-knit teeth. Pire frowned at the unnerving sight.
"Goody." Idri managed to force out.
"Do you have a complaint?" Sooga asked.
"Several. Can I talk to you? Alone?" Idri hissed, glaring at the target. Sooga shrugged, taking her away from the entrance where they had a bit more privacy. The second they settled for a spot, Idri swung at Sooga. Of course, her superior was too quick for her. He caught her hand and huffed a silent threat.
"Are you serious!?"
"I thought you'd be more excited about this news."
"I am," Idri grumbled, balling her fists at her sides, "but you have to see how this is so damn frustrating." Sooga's expression didn't change. Merely staring at her while she gestured between him and Pire with increasing exasperation. It seemed he either refused to see what she meant or was actually that oblivious. Idri couldn't fathom why she was ranked below this man. Sooga seemed to grasp it finally, or maybe finally chose to acknowledge it. He glanced back at that pest and cleared his throat, leaning in to speak low.
"I have a plan for recruiting her. And keeping her away from the city leaves her open and unguarded. Thus, if she refuses and gets wise I can dispose of her without a hitch." He explained. Idri mulled the new information over. That's certainly a solid plan… and assassination like that works best with fewer suspicious parties. So he'd be working and Idri would actually just have no leash?
"I see… uh…" Idri squinted at him, "I guess… I'll see you when you get back… but remember the deadline."
"I'll remember. Enjoy your week." He said before returning to Pire. Idri watched him go, still wary of his intentions. She wasn't sure she could leave it like this. Though she loved the free time with her favorite person, she was beginning to question herself. To question him. Where would she be without him to keep her focused and true to the clan? Where would her loyalty go?
