A World Without You

by Skylily Romances

Elizabeth Arcana, halfway to her 30s, is sick of her life. Her discovery of a certain game and of a certain vampire brought her joy. Enough to abandon her real life to spend more time with him, get to know him, and even love him. She wakes one day to be IN the game, thinking it a dream, only to find it to be very real! Her fantasy love was about to get a little more personal.

8. Chapter 7: Ashamed, Guilty, or Both?

Eliza's POV

She felt the sun glisten on her face before she got blinded from it. A beam of light shines through the rubble as it casts down on her. She opens her eyes, squinting as the light stings them. Once her eyes adjusted, she was confused by her surroundings. Until she remembered what transpired before she accidentally fell asleep.

She had a bad dream, but she couldn't remember what of…

Whatever it was, it terrified her… Especially when she was around a certain elf…

Woke up to discover she did some embarrassing things in her sleep…

Like saying Astarions name unknowingly…

and he heard it…

She instinctively tried to keep away from him for some reason…

But then he said something unexpected…

It was extremely nice of him to say…

Just from remembering what he said gave her immense joy…

Astarion: 'I know who I need to stay away from… and for as long as I've known you… You have never been one of those people…'

A smile creeped on her face, as she remembered the warmth of his touch on her wrist.

Unfortunately, it couldn't last, her fears were too strong as she pulled away once again…

His expression was blank when she did, but she could have sworn she saw his eye twitch a few times…

He even flopped on his bedroll pretty hard, he seemed pretty angry somehow… but it turned into a pout as he stared up at the stars…

It made her smile and she tried not to laugh at how adorable he looked…

She finally got to her feet, her body felt stiff from the hard ground she got up from. Eliza dusted herself off as she tried to recall when she fell asleep.

She came here to calm her raging mind, finding this glowing glass that looked to be a mirror…

She looked into it once more, and found herself staring into it with her thoughts…

Even in the light it glowed brightly…

It wouldn't show her reflection, no matter how much she interacted with it last night. Even now there was nothing to be seen when she looked into it. It had to have some sort of significance. She knew it had a purpose, but she couldn't find out what…

So, she got comfortable last night while she watched the colors and flow of the magic within it. She then used its light to help her see while she filled in more pages of her little book full of memories.

She finally filled in some pages in the front with pictures of her other friends…

While she added a new addition to an entire section in the back of the book that was dedicated to Astarion…

With his new pouty face while looking up at the stars or grumpy expressions while reading a book being her favorites as she stared at them for hours on end…

She didn't know why he held those looks but he looked cute while doing it…

The rest was a blur… So, she must have drifted off without noticing.

She looked down to see the very book, wide open on a page with his very face… The one of him smiling while he held his book.

With a smile of her own she closed the book and held it close to her side.

She took a moment to close her eyes and breathe the fresh air as she heard the birds sing their morning tunes.

She could almost say she felt relief that she didn't experience anything negative the second time around.

Luckily she didn't dream of anything terrible, and got some much needed rest.

She also couldn't remember having dream either…

So, she didn't know if she dreamed at all.

The bard still felt sleepy somehow…

How late did she stay up?

Did she get enough sleep?

Eliza felt stiff and sore, but she could almost feel relief…

She couldn't for long, however, because of the terrible thoughts that plagued her when she was awake..

All these deep feelings of dread that won't go away…

Dreading the day…

Worried about her choices…

Or if they will be her own…

No matter how hard she wanted to do good…

Something inside of her won't let her…

It won't even let her enjoy the first deep breath of the morning as her stomach lurches….

She could be hungry…

But it doesn't feel like normal hunger pains…

What were normal hunger pains like?

Did they always feel this dreadful and agonizing?

She decided it was best to start the day instead of getting depressed once again. She opened her eyes, made her way out of the ruins, and walked across a log over the river back into camp. Everyone was already up and preparing themselves for the day before for their leader led them. All packed and ready to move, the wizard bounces in place excitedly. His voice was eager and a little anxious to get going once he spotted her walking closer.

Gale: "Good morning! Oh man, I am ready to get adventurous! I got everything I need… I must say though, I was a little worried to wake up and find you were nowhere to be found. Then the pale fellow mentioned you spent the night in those ruins, was it cozy?"

She paused for a second with a small shake of her head. She stretched and groaned with pain in her reply.

Eliza: "Mmn… ugh… Not in the slightest. I think I slept on a rock wrong…"

She walked over to her things and kneeled down for her bag to pack the essentials. She heard him chuckle to himself before his next response.

Gale: "Why sleep in that creepy place?… or… what's left of it, anyway. I highly doubt it was safe to sleep in there, but I guess you like to live on the wild side. Was your bedroll too soft or something?"

Her face grew red as she felt a pair of eyes on her. She looked up to meet them and was met with the familiar ruby red.

He was standing near his tent with his bag at the ready.

He was holding his usual book but…

He wasn't reading it…

He was staring right at her….

His expression was empty, but she could see his curiosity as his eyes bore into her. She could tell that wasn't just Gale's question, Astarion wanted to know that answer as well.

Eliza gulped nervously as her mouth began to water from the sudden dryness within it. She looks away swiftly and returns her attention back to the conversation. Doing her best to ignore the rogue's stare.

She grabbed herself an apple to eat for breakfast. She had to eat it before it went bad and at least attempt to calm her raging stomach. But decided it was best to eat and walk rather than eat and talk. So, she saved it for now.

Her reply wasn't very informative but it was an answer nonetheless. It was at least something to keep the wizard from asking any more questions. Attempting to use his eagerness to leave as a means to end the conversation entirely.

Eliza: "Or something… I was having trouble sleeping so I went exploring around the camp. I found something in those ruins that caught my eye, nothing too interesting though. But then, I made the mistake of getting comfortable and I fell asleep in there by accident. Anyway, are you excited for today? You look ready to go."

With a swift nod, his smile was wide, and his stance was tall. He was definitely ready and just like she hoped, he completely forgot about the previous topic. He spoke enthusiastically as she got her things on her back and back up to her feet.

Gale: "Absolutely! I can't wait to see what kind of trouble we will get in together. With pleasure - lead on, oh gracious leader."

His head takes a small bow as he extends his hand in a gesture. The act made her pause for a moment. She noticed how he didn't say it with sarcasm…

It wasn't a joke… and it wasn't a lie…

He meant it…

She could hear it in his voice…

The way he looked at her…

The way he spoke to her before was caring and thoughtful…

He genuinely enjoys her company, when she felt like she didn't deserve theirs.

But, in the end, it made her happy regardless as a smile forms on her lips and she walks ahead of him. The rest gather together, she wishes them good morning, but can't seem to get her words out for a certain elf…

So she says nothing more as she turns to leave camp and the group follows her as she leads the way.

She sees Shadowheart waving goodbye as they leave and returns it with an enthusiastic wave and her smile wide. Eliza catches a genuine smile from the half-elf as it begins to form on her face and her cheeks flush pink, she tries to hide both as her hand cover mouth…

It was cute, so it made the bard laugh as she returned her focus to the road ahead. They leave the camp and head on the path that leads back to where they left off the day before.

Eliza could feel the eyes on her as they continued to walk in silence.

Her heart was throbbing in her chest as she tried not to be bothered by it. She nervously eats her breakfast to fill the intense silence of their morning walk.

Now that she knows how she feels about him, it's even harder for her to not be phased by his presence…

She somehow knew it was his ruby eyes that were burning the back of her skull with his glare.

She couldn't understand why, did she do something wrong?

She couldn't look him in the eye before, but now it's all she wants to do…

But she shouldn't…

If she dares to look, she will just rip her eyes away from him again or stare awkwardly at him…

So, she didn't acknowledge his stare and focused only on what's ahead of her

If she wasn't careful, he might get the wrong idea…

She didn't want him to think she despised him, but she didn't know how to face him without telling him the truth…

And the truth was…

She liked him…

A lot…

but she couldn't say a word about it…

He was in danger because of her emotions, so it was best that she kept her distance.

At least until she got her emotions under control, and he would be finally safe…

Unfortunately, she couldn't help but wonder if that day would ever come…

---

Astarion's POV

(Moments ago)

He wakes up in fear as he feels the warm sun on his skin.

After a moment of realization that he wasn't going to burn, he calmed down.

All those years he spent avoiding the sun were still buried deep in his bones.

It feels unnatural to be waking up to it like it was normal…

After so long of spending his life avoiding it…

But now that he didn't have to fear it, he took a moment to enjoy its gentle warmth.

Bathing in its light with a peaceful sigh.

He then realized how a certain person almost felt like the warmth of the sun.

They could be sweet yet firey.

Gentle or deadly.

Someone he felt he should avoid deep in his bones…

But found that he craved her bright warmth more than anything…

He caught himself looking over to the empty bedroll next to him. He remembered her going to the old ruins before his exhaustion caught up with him.

It wasn't long before soneone else noticed her disappearance.

The wizard began to panic when he woke up to find her missing.

Astarion rolled his eyes as he gave the man what was needed to shut him up. It worked, the human wanders off satisfied for now and begins to gather his supplies for the day.

But secretly he wanted to be right...

He hoped he was right and that she was in fact still in the ruins…

He hoped she didn't run away…

From him…

She looked at him last night like he was dangerous…

Like he would tear her apart…

When he wanted to do nothing of the sort…

Maybe a nibble or two, but nothing too extreme…

He hoped that he wouldn't have to chase her down and talk some sense into the woman…

He was giving her five minutes before he went on a full on hunt for her.

The gith could care less as she went to her tent to gather her things.

He attempted to do the same, until his eyes caught a glimpse of pink as it wandered out of the ruins.

He gave a sigh of relief thoughtlessly…

Her hair was a mess, she held a tired expression on her face, and she rubbed her back like it caused her discomfort.

Even with her face twisted in pain, her hair being all over the place, and the groggy look in her eye.

She looked absolutely adorable…

…

How can she do it?

Why was her presence so effective?

Even from this distance he found himself enamored by every little thing she does.

She hasn't used any magic on him or slipped him a potion…

That he knew of…

If she did… He was losing his touch…

or she was a master at sleight of hand and trickery this entire time…

But then, why does he do this?

Why does he get so distracted he completely forgets what he was doing?

Just one look as she stretched her arms out to the sky and her voice uncomfortably groaned…

The world around him just disappears…

Surely magic can't have lapses like this, he would be all over her if he got charmed or poisoned…

It would be more dramatic, completely irresistible, and he wouldn't have this much control over his body…

It's close but not so extreme…

Then… What else could it be?...

What was she doing to him?

He finally focused enough and grabbed all his things. He tried to do some light reading as he waited patiently for them to finish…

Something he would have tried to completely forget if it wasn't mentioned at all…

But then the wizard went and opened his mouth and said something that's been plaguing his own mind.

Why did she spend the night in those ruins?

Why didn't she return to her bed?

It was her dream, wasn't it?

What did she dream about?

Was her dream about him?

Was that why she said his name?

When most people say "It's not you, it's me" it's usually the opposite of what they mean…

Did he hurt her in her dreams?

Is that why she was too nervous to be near him?

Why else would she not return to her own bed?

Was it because it was too close to him?

She noticed his stare in her direction, but he didn't change his gaze.

When her eyes met with his, it took everything in him to not be affected by her stare.

He felt his chest tighten and mind went blank.

She looked at him only briefly but it felt like ages…

Until her eyes turned away sharply and her face twisted to a sour look.

He released a breath he didn't know he was holding as his chest began to sting ever so slightly.

Did she… hate him?!

What did he do to her in her dreams to have her acting so… cold…?

Where did her warmth go?

Her fire?

She was hiding it… but why?

He eyes her closely as she continues to talk with the wizard. Only giving him something he needed to hear but not what he wanted to hear. It wasn't a lie but it also wasn't all of the truth. She gave an answer that didn't lead to more questions, ending the conversation completely…

Clever girl…

There was more she wasn't telling them, she was hiding something…

He could tell…

She has never held any secrets intentionally since the day they met, until now. Unless all of who she is has been an act….

But… who would fake being so… well… her?

Now he was all too curious to find out what it could be that she was hiding.

For a brief moment he found himself angered by the sudden sweetness going on between her and the wizard. The way he looked at her, how she smiled when he spoke to her…

Annoying him momentarily as she led the group onwards.

What got the wizard all worked up this morning?

He was staring at her more than usual.

Although, the rogue had no room to think anything negative…

He caught himself watching her too much. In fact, he was ferociously staring at the back of her head like a creep.

He couldn't be more obvious…

It was worse than the wizard…

But- he didn't care…

This secret she was keeping had him all over the place.

However, that didn't bother him nearly as much as her behavior these next few hours.

Before they left she wished everyone a good morning at the camp, even to the gith who only scoffed in response…

But completely avoided saying it to him…

She didn't acknowledge him or show that she felt his gaze as she led the way back to where they left off the day before.

She sound of her munching on an apple filled the silence in between their footsteps and the morning birds.

Somehow irritating him more…

He was even frustrated after remembering her actions from last night…

She's been acting strange ever since that damn dream…

What did she dream about?!?!

He shouldn't be this upset over things so small, but it bothered him regardless.

She acted normal towards everything else…

but kept acting strange around him…

She then proceeded to gather any valuables along the road, as any other person would.

But, any time she met his gaze or stood too close to him she would create a larger gap between them or look away within seconds of their eyes meeting.

She was avoiding him intentionally…

and it was driving him mad…

What he said last night, did it mean so little to her?

Did he make a fool of himself for nothing?!

He hasn't been acting like himself lately…

For the first time in forever he was sincere to another person...

And yet - she kept on treating him like he was an illness she didn't want to catch…

And it was infuriating him beyond belief…

But he kept it to himself as she continued to dig up a treasure chest from the dirt with her newly acquired shovel.

Then her head shot up as she looked off into the distance. The bard then alerted the rest of the crew as she spoke. Grabbing the contents of the chest in a rush.

Eliza: "I hear shouting up ahead! They need our help."

He heard it before she did but he was planning to ignore it…

But not her…

She already had her mind made up so he couldn't argue…

She might not even listen…

She was the leader after all…

If they waited there would probably be something valuable afterwards and they wouldn't have to get involved…

But then he'd miss out on all the action…

What if there was blood and gore?

…

He convinced himself…

So, they might as well go.

Without a thought he spoke up, and he made sure she heard him as he attempted to seize her attention.

Astarion: "We should check it out - but… do be careful…"

He was serious; he wanted to make sure she wouldn't jump into danger like she always did. He was strong and full of energy from the boar he caught last night. So he could take care of himself and didn't need her to blindly risk herself for him…

Or for anyone else…

She turns to meet his gaze, and he thought perhaps that he reached an understanding.

His eyes stared into hers for a moment, only for her attention to snap back ahead and she didn't say another word.

It was almost like he didn't say anything at all!!!

… Now… Now he was angry…

But he used it for the fight ahead, instead of lashing out at her for her odd behavior…

---

Eliza's POV

The way he looked at her made her weak in the knees…

The sincerity in his voice, she could tell he meant it when he said those words to her.

She wanted to say something or tell him anything…

but nothing came to mind…

She worried that if she attempted to reply, she wouldn't even form a word that existed…

He was so beautiful she couldn't think straight…

The distance thing wasn't working…

She still wanted to be close to him, and it hurt her with each step she took further from him…

With each word she never gets to say to him, it kills her slowly from the inside.

But she had to pay attention to what's ahead of her, she had to stay focused.

He couldn't be the most beautiful thing in the world anymore…

She had to stay away so he could be safe…

So he could live…

without her… in case she couldn't be here forever…

It was best not to get too close…

For the sake of her heart…

And his…

The shouting grew louder as they approached the top of a high slope. She looked down at three people waving for assistance from the wall covered in vines.

She realized it was a door to a gate, and she already knew the name of the place before anyone said a word. They shouted to the tieflings that were guarding the gate from above.

Aradin: "Open the bloody gate!"

Kanon: "Nobody gets in. Zevlor's orders."

She didn't know why but she already had a feeling she didn't like this particular human.

Aradin: "That pack of goblins will be on us any second!"

Another tiefling appears above the gate, he speaks as he looks down at all the commotion.

Zevlor: "What's going on?"

Aradin: "Goblins are on our tail. Open the gate, Zevlor. Now."

Zevlor: "You led goblins here?! Where is the druid?"

The man plucks an arrow from his companion's shield showing proof of their attackers. Hoping to convince them faster.

Aradin: "Please! There's no time!"

He throws the arrow to the ground, and right when he did…

His statement became true.

There was no time at all.

A loud howl came from a large mouth filled with sharp rows of teeth. Snarls, growls, and roars escape it as it alerts its pack of what it found. It's eyes screaming for blood. Its massive body and razor sharp claws look ready to kill.

Zevlor: "By the nine hells. Open the gate!"

The guard rushes to open the gate, but by then it's too late. Goblins rush in behind the gnoll pulling back their bows releasing a stream of arrows. They hit the top of the gate managing to kill the guard that tried to open it.

Zevlor: "Kanon. No!"

The gate begins to hurl to the ground. The three at the bottom try to stop it with their hands. But their strength wasn't enough to hold its weight as it slams back to the ground.

They turn around to see the bloodthirsty pack charge in ready to spill more blood.

The three prepare themselves for battle as their leader shouts in distaste.

Aradin: "Shit. Form a line!"

The two with their melee weapons charge ahead, the one with the bow stays where she stood.

The goblins charged forward. One of them prepared to launch another arrow. Until a blast of crackling magic takes it out causing the goblin nearby to pause in shock.

???: "Damnable roach."

Eliza gapes at the scene before her. A smile slowly forms as she watches him jump from stone to stone, entering the battle with courage and bravery. Excitement fills within her as she mouths the words that come from him next.

His blade knocks the sword out of the goblins hand in one fell swoop of his rapier.

Wyll: "Provoke the blade…"

The rapier strikes right through the goblins chest, as its face contorts in pain and blood spills from its chest. The warlock takes his grip on the goblins shoulder and rips out the blade. With a spin he points his sword out to his next target. The blood dripped profusely from his blade.

Her voice whispers the line as he speaks it, both sharing wide grins.

Wyll: "... and suffer its sting."

Eliza: "...Wyll."

Her voice carries in a small whisper, only loud enough for her to hear. Her body filled with a new type of devotion and without another thought she grabbed her rapier and raced into battle.

The tiefling leader rushed to the large horn that stood at the edge of the top of the gate. With a deep breath, he blew into it as the sound echoed throughout the field. Eliza felt as if a form of magic surrounded her, giving her more health and energy than she had before. She looked down at her feet to see runes circle around her and her allies' feet.

A goblin that must be their leader shouts out to its comrades in arms, giving his command while he charges forward and makes his attack.

Za'krug: "Scouts - get to the high ground!"

A goblin hopped itself onto the ledge at the top of the hill, its eyes watching closely to the gate. So it didn't notice the danger that came swiftly from behind. By the time it did notice, it was too late as her rapier sliced through its eye without a shred of guilt or remorse from her. Jamming her blade deep within its skull and then ripped it out as the body collapsed to her feet. Her vision grew red for a moment, she was close to the edge of breaking once more.

Her eyes locked on to the warlock across the battlefield. Hoping he could stay out of the crossfire if she lost control.

Unfortunately, her red vision distracted her from the goblin that hid down below as his arrow flew through the air and pierced her thigh. She doesn't even flinch from the pain, in fact, she reveled in it as she gained her control once more. Her disadvantage somehow became her advantage from the attack. Her eyes still watch the battle below ignoring the goblin entirely. Trying to picture her best course of action as the world moves forward.

The goblin leader's blade swings but misses the human in front of him barely.

Za'krug: "Raiders - charge the bastards!"

He misses once again with another swing and the man dodges it.

The human held a smile in triumph from the goblins lack of aim.

With a hearty laugh the goblin looks unaffected from bringing no damage to the man. He only gave a sharp whistle and a point of his finger. The man's confidence disappears as a gnoll charges forward and the leader's cry echoes out.

Za'krug: "For the Absolute!"

The gnoll chomped its jaws down on his club, and with a swift swing it threw him onto his back. The man desperately tries to get to his feet, backing away from the creature in slight fear. The guy with the shield steps forward to protect their leader, makes a strike, and barely grazes the gnoll as it takes a few steps back. The lady with the bow launches an arrow at the bugbear, and pierces its arm.

The goblin below her was preparing to release another arrow in her direction. Until a different arrow flies by her, catching her attention as it strikes the goblin right between the eyes and it falls dead to the ground. She turns her gaze back for a moment to see something she has never seen on his face before.

His eyes were cold and empty, his eyebrows were furrowed, and his lips were curled downwards.

Astarion looked very determined…

and very serious…

He wasn't in a good mood from what she could see…

His arms remained stanced with the bow in his hand, his hand reaching for another arrow as he kept his eyes on the battle below.

Her vision returns to it as well, after she reminds herself that she can't watch him the entire time…

Even though she wanted to, it wasn't the best idea.

The man below gets back to his feet and swings his club with all his might knocking back the gnoll momentarily. It shakes its head and roars in its furry. A goblin takes a swift movement with the staff in its hand and launches a pile of grease to land on the ground surrounding the three in front of the gate.

They look to their feet in worry as they peer back at the enemies ahead of them. The lady with the bow had no chance as her foot slipped out from under her before she could fire an arrow in their direction. The other two struggle with their footing as the bugbear comes in with a swing of its mace. Knocking the man with the club backwards. He managed to keep himself up as he slides over the grease bumping into his friend with the shield...

They collapse together and lie on the ground helpless…

The warlock jumps down from the rock and strikes down the nearest goblin with his blade.

As the goblins close in on the small group and Wyll comes in behind them. An idea comes to Eliza as she turns swiftly to the wizard.

Eliza: "On my signal, shoot that grease spot with a fire bolt."

He looks between the object of her command and back to her in confusion.

Gale: "On what signal?"

Eliza: "You'll know it."

He gave her a quick nod, his demeanor was confident in her plan regardless of its context.

The gith rolls her eyes and glares at her with distaste.

Lae'zel: "And - the rest of us… What do we do?"

Eliza: "Stay here - If things don't go the way I hope… There's no need for any of you to put yourselves at risk for a plan that might not work… If things do go wrong- whatever you do, don't let those goblins get past that gate. Let only one life between us be taken today…"

They all stare at her with wide eyes…

They know exactly what she was asking them to do…

Eliza: "It has been an honor to have met you all. I have been truly blessed these past few days… I really hope things don't go wrong… "

She doesn't give them any more details as she turns around and walks toward the ledge looking down at the ground below.

The world seems to almost slow down for a moment as her mind swirled with thoughts of her decision.

Eliza only had one choice for every moment of her life…

She knew what she wanted it to be right now…

She wished for things to go well, that today wouldn't be her last day…

Eliza had so many more she wanted to experience, more time to learn about herself and the wonderful people around her…

She hoped that this wasn't her goodbye to them…

She had so many more things she wanted to say to them…

She wanted for everyone to stop fighting, and to get along somehow…

...but that wasn't going to happen…

No hope or wish could fix it… only action…

No matter how much she didn't want to fight or risk hurting anyone...

It would make her a coward if she did nothing...

So, she had to get involved. Eliza didn't want anyone else to get hurt if it turned out to be a mistake…

The only casualty… would be herself…

Hopefully she could take a few of them with her before she leaves this world and lighten the load for the living.

She knew what she needed to do, but her body rejected the thought.

Punishing her for feeling the need to be so selfless with a wave of nausea…

All for wanting to save a life rather than watch it leave their eyes…

She wanted to do something!

There were 5 goblins, a bugbear, and a gnoll left. Up against 3 defenseless people and a bunch of tieflings that don't know how to fight to guard the gate.

They didn't stand a chance if they brought more!

None of the goblins could live or they will kill everyone...

If they lose, the grove will be lost… and all the innocent lives within it will be slaughtered…

If not from the goblins, it would be from themselves…

There were snakes in the henhouse…

Something dark is at play among them, trying to turn them on each other…

She didn't remember a lot but there was one thing she understood more than anything…

Darkness will always try to snuff out the light…

When all she wants is to bathe in the light…

Other people must understand what this feels like, and if they do, she wants to help free them…

Eliza was tired of her darkness…

Sick of letting something else take away her wants and desires.

This is who she is, who she wants to be…

She won't let this thing take her soul!!!

Her desire to save lives rather than take them fought to overpower this dark urge…

And by the gods - she will fight every second of her life if she has to!

A hero was who she wanted to be!

To be someone to look up to…

Someone to rely on…

Someone who is thought of as kind and just…

Someone that people were happy to be around…

Maybe her desire could be considered selfish…

But she wasn't going to sit around and do nothing!

The least she could do was die a hero!

Her eyes glare down at the scene of the battlefield with a newly unbound fixation.

It wasn't looking good down below and she needed to act now.

The goblins were ready to strike them down.

She has to get their attention somehow.

Without another thought words came to mind and so did a tune in her heart…

With a quick move she grabbed her violin, preparing her hands exactly where they needed to be. Ignoring her body's rejection of her decision to intervene.

Eliza ignored the voice behind her as he spoke in frustration, she had utmost concentration on becoming a distraction…

She interrupted him with the echoes of her instrument.

Right before the goblin leader could swing his blade down on them, a dramatic tune suddenly fills the air violently.

Seizing everyone's attention below.

Everyone stopped moving and all eyes were on her…

Her song began to fill the air as her violin played delicately between her words, filling out space in-between with the melody.

Eliza: "Something has changed within me…

Something is not the same…

I'm through with playing by

The rules of someone else's game…

Too late for second-guessing…

Too late to go back to sleep…

It's time to trust my instincts…

close my eyes…

and leap…"

She did just that, she shut her eyes, and trusted the fall as her feet stepped off the edge.

She ignored the warnings of a voice and jumped down. She heard their shouting from behind her, but ignored them and the pain as it shot through her ankles from the impact. The thud of her feet cause a dramatic change in the air, as the goblins stare at her like a crazy person.

She continued on with her plan without hesitation. Her violin began to hum with her voice as it increased in power with each word.

Eliza: "It's time to try defying gravity….

I think I'll try defying gravity…

And you can't bring me down…"

She stepped forward, each goblin she walked by had a determination to make their strike her last. Each aims to kill but she dodges each one as her speed increases with her song and pace.

Eliza: "I'm through accepting limits…

'Cause someone says they're so…"

With a fly of an arrow or a swing of a sword, she ducks and jumps over each attack.

Eliza: "Some things I cannot change…

Until I try I'll never know…"

With a smile and a twist her body barely missed the next blade that aimed for her torso.

Eliza: "Too long I've been afraid of…

Losing love I guess I've lost…

For a moment, those words sting. They make her think of something that she may never know.

She may never know love…

Because of who she is…

The person she feared…

She was afraid of what another version of herself could do…

To the person that she loved…

How would she know what it was if she found it anyway…

So maybe her nexts words couldn't be more true…

Just in time, she catches a glimpse of an attack from her left side.

Eliza: "Well if that's love-"

Quick to react with her crazy speed, with her violin she manages to use it as a shield from a close call. The strings scream violently after being scrapped by the metal of the goblins sword. Causing all the goblins around her to cover their ears. The rest of the song becomes acapella as the violin rips from her grasp.

Eliza: "- it comes at much too high a cost!"

The violin hits the ground and she discards it, moving forward as her speed increases to a sprint.

Not the swing of a mace…

Eliza: "I'd sooner buy defying gravity."

… or the chomp of teeth…

Eliza: "Kiss me goodbye, I'm defying gravity."

… can manage to deter her demeanor or song.

Her speed quickly turned into a run.

Eliza: "And you can't pull me down!"

She nearly dodged a strike from the goblin leader's sword as she ducked to the ground and slid herself right between him and another goblin.

In a flash of a second she saw a wave of shock on his face, she gave him a playful smirk and wink that turned his shock into rage. Using her speed, she lands on the grease and slides herself across the spot. Managing to grab the human and his other friend. They all slide across the grease towards the other end, where the ground was safe and dry. She quickly gets to her feet and tries to run over to aid the woman still on her back. Until a hand grabs her arm, stops her, and a voice shouts angrily at her.

Aradin: "Are you crazy?! Why did you do that?!"

She ripped her arm from his grasp as she grumbled loud enough for the two to hear.

Eliza: "I'm trying to help! Unless you want to face a horde of goblins single handedly on a grease trap - be my guest. But if you want to live, I suggest you listen to me and let me try to save you."

Aradin: "What good is your singing gonna do!? We are sitting ducks now! We don't have our weapons, you idiot!"

They looked back to the crowd of goblins who cautiously stepped closer as they stared wide-eyed between them and the grease. She saw the weapons lying on the ground along with her rapier that was glistening in the sunlight on the other side of the trap…

Shit…

She didn't take this into account before she got the idea…

She was so hyped from the song and managed to get herself all the way here without a scratch…

Maybe she should have been paying better attention…

And had a better grip on her weapon…

It was too late to fix it now, all of her hope was left in the hands of three…

Three she knew she could trust.

She just had to keep up with her end of the plan…

There was no other way around the only way to them was through the trap itself.

The hesitation was clear on the goblins' faces as they considered coming after them.

Nothing a little taunting couldn't fix. Her mischievous smile causes the leader to stare daggers into her very soul.

Eliza: "My Life: Part 12 'The Boring Opponent!' "

Her words cut deep enough to piss him off and he looked back at her with malice as she continued.

Eliza: "What's the matter? Scared of a little slip and fall… And here I thought you were ruthless killers. I guess we take the win for the day."

The leader growls with disgust, his eyes fuming with a new fire.

The voice behind her growls low with his own frustration.

Aradin: "What are you doing?!"

The goblin points his blade at her as he gives his command…

Za'kurg: "Why you little- Get 'er! I want to cut that smile right off her damn face! Ya sung yer last song, pest! I'll show ya borin'! Let's see if I can make a songbird scream…"

---

Astarion's POV

(Moments before)

After witnessing the scene before him, quite enjoying the show with the handsome warlock...

He then heard her faintly as she whispered to herself. He doesn't hear it at first, but then he hears a faint sound of a word…

...Will?...

Then she charges ahead without another thought, she takes down a goblin swiftly and cleanly. Her stance held high and confident, as she stared off into the distance paying little attention to her surroundings. Then suddenly an arrow pierced her leg, and she didn't even move or react to the action.

Did she feel any pain?

She never reacted to it like everyone else did.

She brushes it off like it never happened…

She didn't even remove it, or retaliate…

Like it couldn't even bother her…

It was like she wasn't even alive…

Or maybe she could just handle her pain well…

Either way, it was another mystery that will continue to drive him mad…

Angry for smelling her blood and feeling the ache of his never ending hunger once more...

The bard wasn't even paying attention to the creature, her eyes hardly left the battle...

She continued to put herself in harm's way without a care, causing his anger to burn hotter than before.

It bothered him…

But less about the blood... and more because she was so careless...

Within a few moments the goblin prepares to use her lack of attention to its advantage once again. Before the creature could draw back his bow, he drew back his.

The arrow flew before he could even think of releasing it.

His body moved before his mind caught up with him.

He watched as the arrow landed right where he aimed and happily witnessed as the life left its body.

Unfortunately… even in its death, he found himself unsatisfied….

The goblin dared to harm her once again and it didn't even get the chance to suffer from its injuries.

Its death was a mercy kill.

Because if it would have lived, he was going to make sure it experienced agony before it left this plane of existence…

But now he won't get the chance…

Why was he so passionate all of a sudden?

The battle moves on below and within minutes his panic rises to a whole new level…

A grease spot is now on the ground surrounding the people below. He already knew that it would mean the end of those people below if they stayed there.

And so did she…

He could see her mind at work, he could tell she was ready to intervene.

With a turn of her head, she told the wizard exactly what he was worried about.

He could see the determination on her face…

And of course she planned to put herself right in the middle of it.

What did she plan to do with a pile of grease and one fire bolt?

If those people are on it they will burn to a crisp…

Does she plan to-...

No…

She couldn't….

She wouldn't…

Would she?...

…

Yes…

Yes… She would…

What does she mean 'stay here'?

What does she mean 'if things do go wrong'?!

What does she mean 'only one life be taken'?!?!

Just don't go at all!!!

Let them die!!!

She then said something unexpected…

Something painful to hear…

He hated every second of this feeling…

He wanted it to go away…

Why was this woman doing these things to him?!

How dare she!

How dare she say goodbye like this!!!

This was absurd!!!

Why would she do something so risky?!

For them?!?!

He shouts out to her hoping she would spare a moment to listen. When he speaks all she does is pull out her violin.

Astarion: "Whatever you're thinking - don't. you. dare! They aren't worth putting yourself in immediate danger-"

The sound of the strings echoing within her instrument overpowered his voice.

Once all eyes were on her…

Words he never expected to come out in a musical tune leave her lips…

Words that make him stare at the back of her head in awe…

The strength in words just from being given a melody had power over the ears, mind, body and soul…

The sight is almost magical as musical notes faintly glow in an array of colors behind her…

The music is different from her usual songs.

Instead of a slower or sweeter song…

This had a faster pace and filled the air with a dramatic mood for action.

She was fighting with her music.

Could this be considered a battle song?...

He thought it could…

Her voice was her direct attack as it captivates all eyes on her effectively…

He couldn't believe the effect a song could have on one person if they dared to listen to the words…

Then her words became literal…

Without warning, the moment she leaps off the ledge fills him with dread. He calls out to her, his expression held in shock as she ignores his call…

Astarion: "Eliza! - What the hells? Are you mad?!"

Her feet landed on the ground harshly, he could hear the cracks in her ankles as she ignored everything that was thrown at her. His words, her pain and the evil glares in her direction, like she couldn't be bothered. All of their attacks only strike the air or ground as she manages to slip past every one.

All while singing her song…

She continued even from the loss of her instrument. Her song loudly fills the air until she gets past the goblin leader.

She slides over the grease pile so quickly he couldn't believe his eyes.

Everything she did…

Just to save people who probably won't even thank her later…

Her determination defied all logic and laws of nature…

For strangers…

Doing exactly what she said…

Defying gravity…

Breaking every rule that could tell her that what she just did should be impossible…

For a bunch of nobodies…?

His anger is even stronger than before as he glares down at her from where she stood.

His words leave him thoughtlessly in a frustrated tone.

Astarion: "That idiot! What is she thinking? She's going to get herself killed! We can't just stand up here, we have to-"

Before he could charge after her, a hand lands on his shoulder stopping him momentarily. The obnoxious voice he heard finds a way to help him think rationally.

Gale: "It might look insane, but it's not a bad plan… If it all goes right, of course. It's up to us to make sure it doesn't go wrong. We should put our trust in her, same as she did for us. She is doing this the only way she knows how to - in order to keep us safe, to save those people, and the lives behind the gate. So, right now, she needs us here. Focused and ready for her signal or to aid her if necessary. We will be here to make sure she doesn't die. Let's try to find a way to get that warlock's attention without alerting the goblins. He doesn't know her plan and might make it worse for her."

As much as he wanted the wizard to be wrong, the rogue saw no other way to get her out of there now.

Unfortunately, he had no choice but to trust in her plan to go right.

She had her life in the hands of an obnoxious wizard, a bloodthirsty githyanki, and a handsome rogue…

What could possibly go wrong…?

The gith stands restless in her position, eager for carnage. He couldn't rely on her arrow to miss the target, when she would aim to draw blood.

He could tell by the way Eliza looked over at the warlock with worry in her eyes, she wouldn't want the man to think they were his enemies…

He realized it was up to him to try and make sure her plan stays on course.

With the next arrow lodged in the bow, all he had to do was draw back its string. He aimed near the warlock, who stood ready to attack the goblins from behind. With a deep breath he released the arrow and it flew through the air…

With a swoosh and a thud it landed in the ground close to the warlock's foot. Exactly where it was intended. The man looks down at it then back in their direction. As the wizard signals for his attention, he tries to tell the man to stop and make his way towards them instead.

After a few looks back and forth between both groups, despite the confusion on his face, the warlock seemed to understand.

He got the message, ignoring his better judgment to trust a bunch of weirdos instead. The human tried to silently sneak away from the goblins, luckily keeping out of sight.

Eliza managed to taunt all the goblins forward as the panic began to tighten in his chest.

The goblins struggled to keep themselves up and continued to slip with each small step they took. Some of them fell to the ground while others kept their balance.

He found his hand gripping onto his shirt over his chest, the thuds from within causing his mind to swirl erratically…

He silently begged for her plan to work as he watched them inch closer to her with anticipation.

With a shimmer from down below he notices a familiar weapon on the ground…

It was Eliza's sword!

She was defenseless!

The fool! How could she drop her damn weapon!?

Then a voice grumbled irritability behind him, grabbing his attention.

Lae'zel: "Tas'ki… This is ridiculous."

The rogue's head turns swiftly to see the wizard is distracted by holding the gith back. Her eagerness for battle didn't take kindly to sitting and waiting for the plan to succeed or fail.

The rogue tried to regain the wizard's attention, knowing he was essential to her plan.

Astarion: "Now! You need to make the shot. She can't protect herself!"

The wizard grunts between his words as the giths strength overpowers him.

Gale: "She… hasn't given… the signal yet."

Astarion groans irritability in frustration.

He turns back to them to see the goblins inching closer, as the bard hastily tries to get a woman to her feet. Eliza steps away from the grease as she manages to get the others to gather behind her, their backs to the gate.

The last goblin steps his foot in the grease trap, and just before the leader could reach her he slips and falls on his back in frustration.

They needed to do something now, where is her damn signal!

Astarion turns his head swiftly after he hears a thud come from behind and watches as the wizard falls to the ground. The evidence showed that the gith knocked him out with her fist held high and remained clenched.

Astarion: "Shit!... Why would you do that!?"

She only responds like her answer should have been obvious.

Lae'zel: "I refuse to sit around and watch… He got in my way… What else does it look like?"

He growls with frustration and gets down to his knees quickly. The rogue tries to wake the damn wizard. But, no matter how hard he shakes him…

The human is out cold…

Damn weakling!

How can humans be this pathetically weak?!

Astarion's head shoots up as he looks back to see the goblin leader already to his feet.

And right in front of her...

The leader stepped out of the grease without a weapon in hand, thankfully. He was speaking but his voice was hard to hear from far away…

But then…

Eliza's voice sings out her tune once more…

She managed to get a few verses in, her smile and stance was proud and strong…

When others would show fear or cowardice in her position, she did the opposite.

He admired her strength as a smile found a way to form on his face…

In that brief moment, he saw her gaze turn to him. When their eyes met, her smile was bright and warm…

Her voice was sweet…

They didn't hold this gaze for long…

But that second felt like ages…

Only for both of their smiles to disappear in a flash from what he witnessed both sight and sound…

He heard the thud echo through the valley.

He watched as the force brought her to her knees…

As she takes a blow from the goblins fist across the face…

He didn't know this feeling… but he craved violence…

To his surprise, her smile remains…

She sang again, her voice was faint but still held courage…

Only to hear another thud echo louder this time as she crumbles to the ground…

He didn't know how to describe this new feeling… but he hated every second of it…

Each strike made Astarion's insides lurch and scream for blood…

Then he heard the disgusting creatures laugh at her…

Making him want to slit all their throats and hear them choking on their own blood instead…

She only came back with her song and a smile…

The bard's strength continued to show as the leader of the goblins tried to destroy it…

Only becoming more enraged as her smile remained…

He wanted all of them… to burn…

He looks back at the warrior with pure hatred in his demeanor…

Astarion: "Are you stupid or something? Why couldn't you just stick to the plan!? This would never be happening if you had just been patient!"

Lae'zel: "Her plan was flawed. One fire bolt can't destroy them all. Why should I sit around and watch her get herself killed?"

With an aggressive sigh and a deathly glare, his anger sores to new heights as he lets his words be free without a filter. He didn't hold back in the slightest. He manages to ignore the bard's angelic voice as it carries louder than ever before…

His main focus remained on insulting the gith for her idiocy.

Astarion: "Oh, I'm sorry, you're not stupid. You're a moron! She was planning to blow them up all at once using the grease! Now she can't, because you didn't trust her. She never should have held her faith in you. This is what she gets for saving you! You stupid Githyanki, it's like this every time with you people! 'Kill first, ask questions later'… You do realize that if she dies, it's your fault. I blame you!"

Without another word the warrior takes out her bow and draws it…

Aiming it right at him…

Her anger is visible, he could see how effective his use of words were.

He had her attention…

but it could be his very last second alive…

He had only one chance…

To plead for his life…

Beg for mercy…

Convince her to lower her weapon…

Or accept whatever happens next…

But then he heard something unexpected…

A scream coming from the goblin leader…

He peaks a moment to watch him fly in the air before he rams into two of his lackeys.

The sight made him laugh…

Loud enough to make the gith look too… but not as loud as he wanted to…

She threw him like a ragdoll!

It was incredible to see…

The vision made him smile…

Her stance was tall, her smile was big…

He even heard a laugh escape her…

He was proud to see all of it…

To hear her voice never change…

It's still strong, even stronger now than before…

It captures an audience, same as it captures his entire world…

Nothing bothered him, he feared nothing other than death…

But... the thought of never seeing that smile ever again…

Terrified him...

It disappeared every time he tried to catch a longer glimpse…

That smile is who she is…

It was who she truly was…

And it made her glow…

But now the goblin was all too ready to end it all…

To destroy that light…

The angry creature was getting back to his feet, grabbing his weapon, and making his way back to her…

But she didn't move a muscle.

She only continued with her song once again…

On her last note it carried loud and wide beautifully…

Her voice reached his ears and somewhere else...

It made him feel warm in places he hadn't felt in centuries…

It only made him more inspired to do something about it…

But he couldn't do that with the angry gith still ready to commit murder because of some things he said…

Suddenly a familiar scent finds its way over to him from the breeze, a smell he knew all too well…

A smell he could never forget, it always found a way to draw his attention or drive him mad.

A distinct substance he craved and so desperately wanted a taste of, but now it only sent him into a pure panic…

Her blood… stronger than before...

Nothing else came to mind when he caught a glimpse of her…

His eyes lingered only for a second to see she had little time left…

The leader was ready with his sword at her neck…

So, instead…

Astarion doesn't move as he eyes return to glare the gith down…

He doesn't show any fear….

Without another thought, he only uses his words to find a way to reach the gith…

In hopes it was enough to change her demeanor with his sincerity.

His voice was almost calm but filled with fire…

Astarion: "Please, we can fix this… Don't let her die… She saved your life before, right? The least you could do is return the favor… She is much more useful to us alive… But we have to act now!"

The giths eyes widened for only a second…

Her anger changed to a face that became unreadable..

Then suddenly their leader's voice shouts out…

Eliza: "Let there be light!"

The gith only spares another second to pull the string back tighter,

Then her voice comes in a chilling tone with a roll of her eyes…

Lae'zel: "Chk… It was a terrible signal anyway…"

She grumbles as she pulls the string back enough to where it looked like it would snap the bow in half… For a moment he thought he was done for...

But then she moved its aim high in the direction of the battlefield.

His eyes watch her aim closely, he follows its line of fire, and he instinctively knows where it led.

He turns his full attention back to Eliza. Her lips were bleeding and her cheeks were all red from the beating she took.

The goblins inch closer and the leader holds his sword high. His blade is ready to end her life with the final blow…

His voice then whispers in a panicked tone as he notices where the arrow would land if the gith missed…

Without another thought his body moves before he could think not to. His mouth shouting out to her in warning…

Astarion: "Oh no… Eliza - look out!"

With quick haste, he barely made it in time. The gith releases the arrow but it doesn't carry a single flame as it flies high above the crowd.

---

Eliza's POV

(Moments before)

She quickly gets the woman to her feet, pulling her out of the grease and closer to the dry land close to the gate. She whispers to them hastily.

Eliza: "Quick - get behind me."

They do as they are told, but their leader remains doubtful.

Aradin: "This was your plan?! To piss them off and trap us here?! You didn't save us, you led us to our deaths! I should have never trusted you for a second, you devil!"

She ignores him as she watches the warlock backing away from the fight and keeping his distance. The others managed to get his attention and draw him away from the fight. Now all she had to do was wait until they all were where they needed to be.

The group of goblins struggled to keep their balance. The gnoll and bugbear follow suit, barely keeping themselves flat on their feet. The leader loses his footing, dropping his weapon, and falls flat on his back with an angry shout at the sky.

Za'kurg: "Gahhh - Damnit!"

His fall was rather comical to her, she found herself giggling causing him to rage even further.

Za'kurg: "You dare laugh at me! I will show ya yur place, ya lil' pest! Get me oveh' there, now!"

He demands the goblin next to him to boost him up. It does as it's told as their leader tries to get to his feet.

As the last goblin steps both his feet within the trap.

Everything was in place, all she needed now was to-

She looked up to see Gale nowhere in sight…

Panic ensued only for a moment, she then realized she had to buy some time…

Once he stood upright once more, all the rage deep within the goblin leader pushed him to get closer to them.

Luckily, he forgot his sword…

His foot takes a step on solid ground as she tries to keep calm, cool, and collected.

It wasn't just her life on the line…

The goblin lifts his gaze away from his feet and a sickly smile forms on his face, he then speaks.

Za'Kurg: "Not so funny now, is it?"

She reaches for her rapier only to remember it's not there, on the other edge of the grease pit she saw it still glistening in the sun…

Taunting her…

Her panic escapes in a cursed whisper.

Eliza: "Shit."

She kept her feet planted on the ground, using her body as a shield between the goblins and the people behind her.

Her body protects not only them, but the people behind this gate…

They all counted on her…

She promised herself she'd save them and she wasn't going to go back on her word.

The goblin only laughs at her futile attempt. But then realized he wasn't carrying a sword, he looked back to see the other goblin holding it. He decided to use this time until it was returned to him.

Za'kurg: "Where'd yer smile go? All out of song, songbird? Ya must see how pathetic yer attempt really was… Yer not 'alf bad, I'll give ya that. Com'on then - ya might as well finish the song while ya still draw breath…"

Perfect… Just the distraction she needed…

Her smile returned only to taunt him, the goblin's smile slowly disappeared as her words filled the air confidently…

Eliza: "Unlimited…

My future is unlimited…"

All the creatures stop in place to give a listen, doing their best to keep their balance as they hear her sing. She only steps closer as her voice increases in volume. Only angering their leader further from her lack of fear.

Eliza: "And I've just had a vision,

Almost like a prophecy..."

Her stance was tall as she almost towered above the goblin with her arms extended out and her demeanor calm as the goblin showed slight fear. She looks up for a small moment to see no sign of Gale yet.

But she did see almost a smile on a very beautiful face….

He looked uncomfortable from where he was positioned, trying to look back at her while he is facing away with his hands up in surrender.

What is happening up there?

She had to buy more time...

Her voice comes out smooth and longing hoping her word could help in any way...

Eliza: "I know, it sounds truly crazy-"

Suddenly a fist smacks her hard across the face. The impact was hard enough to make her stumble to her knees from the sudden attack.

She heard as the goblins giggle at her downfall, and snickered from her voice getting silenced.

She couldn't blame the goblin entirely, she should have been paying attention…

If the bard would have been, she wouldn't have gotten punched…

But now her body is surging with bloodlust and revenge from the disrespect…

She would be putting anyone at risk if she let it gain control…

What if her target wasn't an enemy?...

What if she couldn't come back from her actions that were out of her control?...

The only thing keeping her together, however, was the arrow that remained lodged in her leg…

Focusing on it as her backup in case she would lose control…

But she refused to let it get to that extent…

She had a reason to fight harder…

A reason to be stronger…

A smile to see longer…

She definitely wasn't prepared for it…

But that didn't mean she couldn't go on…

She fought to keep it together and managed to succeed…

Her smile is wider than before as her eyes lock with the creature in front of her.

The goblin had a look of triumph that turned to shock…

It was hard to see straight but she kept her ground as she tried to return to her feet.

Eliza: "And true, the vision's hazy-"

The goblin went from confusion and then back to anger as he swung his other fist harder. This time on the opposite side..

Knocking her onto her hands and knees. She began to taste blood.

They all laugh and cackle at her pain and struggle…

Completely forgetting about their own struggles or surroundings…

Exactly what she needed…

Her body is screaming at her to fight back and rip them apart…

The red slowly fading into her vision…

But within a single moment she snatched it back as she heard traces of a voice…

A voice she cared for…

Who was about to give away their position…

Before the goblin leader could turn his head, she snapped his attention back in seconds from her sudden determination and confidence. Its power succeeded to cause confusion and disbelief throughout the battlefield.

Eliza: "But I swear, someday I'll be…

Flying so high defying gravity!"

If it was possible, the goblin was angrier.

His fist swings again, but this time she catches it, her hand gripped tightly on it.

Focusing her rage and holding it with a new type of power…

Eliza: "Kiss me goodbye, I'm defying gravity!"

The goblins' angry face slowly shifted between frustration and confusion. As her voice continues to carry confidently her smile creates fractures in her enemies concentration.

Eliza: "So if you care to find me

Look to the western sky!"

She begins to get to her feet and her other hand catches his fourth strike… His face twisted between panic and worry as his hands were held tightly in her grasp. His arms began to come up with her…

Eliza: "Has someone told you lately…?"

Her hands lift and raise him off the ground, he squirms and shouts demanding to be released. Only for her to stand tall, as he kicks angrily in her grasp. The other goblins begin to panic and they try to get to their leader quickly. Her eyes lock with his, he freezes as his head levels with hers. The gleam in her eye made him nervous.

Eliza: "Everyone deserves a chance to - fly!"

His eyes widened as she swung him around her with force and tossed him back. He screams out as he flies in the air and collides into two other goblins, knocking them down.

They all grumble with frustration, the creatures nearby try to hold back laughter. The people behind and above her chuckle to themselves, she even heard a hearty laugh come from Wyll.

She looks up to see a smile wide on his face.

Her smile returned tenfold, as she laughed along with them. She then continued with her performance, all eyes returning to her. Even the hateful glare from the goblin leader.

Eliza: "I might be flying solo…

But at least I'm flying free…

To those who ground me

Take a message back from me!

Tell them how I am defying gravity!

I'm flying high, defying gravity!

And soon, I'll match them in renown…"

The goblins struggle to get to their feet. Their leader was determined to break her spirit and her voice. Their eyes lock once more, as her song becomes enriched with all her might. Her voice executed the perfect pitch and power making her body shiver from the vibrations.

Eliza: "And nobody… in all of Faeûn…

Nothing that they can say or do…

Is ever gonna bring… me… down!"

They all stare wide eyed as her vocals echo around the valley like a stadium stage. They get enamored by it's grace and beauty.

Except for one who was eager to end it all.

He snatches a sword and gets on his feet, he stays on them long enough to charge forward slowly. She had just enough time to finish her song.

Eliza: "Bring.. me… down!...

Ohhh!!!"

Her range was enough to capture wide eyed stares, the leader paused only for a breath but caught himself almost enjoying it himself…

Until he shook himself out of it and used his remaining energy to place himself on solid ground…

Her song was over and silence was filled in around them.

The leader tried to catch his breath in between his slurred speech.

Za'kurg: "I'd like ya… If ya weren't... so damn annoyin'!… The show's over, songbird… Let's finish this!..."

She starts to back herself closer to the gate only to be stopped as he swings his sword at her leg. Her vision was still a little hazy, and her body was still sore from this morning. She didn't sleep much last night. So, she didn't have time or energy to dodge it. The slice was just enough to make her fall to her knees, she tried to collect herself only to freeze as the cool metal of the blade graced her neck.

Za'kurg: " Just 'cause I'm curious… Do ya have any last words?... But, I swear - if it's just another song, I'll kill ya now."

To be honest… he's not that bright, he could just kill her now…

But he's giving her more time.

Giving her the chance to keep her plan on track.

Her eyes look into his without fear, her smile returns as she mumbles in certainty.

Eliza: "Not a song… but a few particular words perhaps…"

His eyebrows raise in curiosity, his followers lean in with their own forms of interest.

She was too close to the line of fire but it was worth the risk…

Now was her only chance…

She hoped they were ready…

She gave her signal, but tried not to make it too obvious of her intention as she shouted loudly out to the sky.

Eliza: "Let there be light!"

But… there was nothing…

Nothing happened as the goblin leader stood tall and ready for blood.

Uh oh…

He only laughs along with his followers.

Looking down at her with disappointment…

He raised his blade high above his head as he spoke.

Za'kurg: "That all ya got?… Really?... What a waste… Oh well - now... to finally show ya the true power of-"

He didn't get to finish as a voice shouted out from above the valley.

A voice she knew all too well…

"Eliza - look out!"

The warning gave her time to look to the sky and see an arrow fly in their direction. It didn't carry any flames but she saw exactly where it was going to land.

Za'kurg: "Hmm?"

The goblin turns around halfway, in his distraction she manages to scoot back a little before an arrow flies past him and lands in between them. The end of the arrow was mere inches away from her torso. The tip right in ground between her knees.

It was a close call… for both of them…

They both stare down at the arrow in silence.

Then a laugh escapes him as a smile creeps back on her face. She takes the opportunity in his distraction to use what she had on hand to bring the plan back on track as the goblin spoke triumphantly.

Za'kurg: "Was this a part of yer futil' attempt to stop me?! Hahaha! Ya thought this could save ya-"

His eyes look up at her as she swiftly rips the arrow from her leg and the ground. Holding one in each hand as she quickly took to action. He didn't have time to react as her hands aimed right for his eyes and the arrows pierce directly within them.

The goblin howled in pain, his sword clatters to the ground as he reached for his eyes desperately clutching the arrows in his horror…

He backed himself into the grease trap, slipping onto his back once more.

She couldn't admire her work for long. She realized how close to the trap she was after she heard a voice shout.

"Ignis!"

With quick haste she ran in the direction of the gate and she told the others to get as close to the door as they could.

Without question, they do as they are told.

She used herself to shield them once more, covering her eyes as they faced the greenery and wood of the gate.

Within seconds a wave of heat blasts the group of goblins covering them with flames as they shout and howl in pain.

Her body shivers and aches after hearing the deathly screams behind her, but she refuses to look and give this urge the pleasure of seeing it…

She didn't want to give it the satisfaction…

Even if they deserved it, she didn't want to watch…

The goblin leader screams his last cry…

Za'kurg: "Curse you, songbird! The Absolute will bleed every last one of ya!"

Within seconds there was silence.

She turns around to see only the bugbear and the gnoll remain standing, as the rest perished within the flames.

Her allies take action as they handle the last of the enemies.

Wyll was quick with a blast of his magic. The rest rained arrows down on them, as the flames dealt the last of the damage on the enemies.

Soon the flame dissipates as their corpses lie in the pile of ash.

They all give a sigh of relief in unison as the tiefling leader shouts from above.

Zevlor: "That was the last of them. Inside - all of you. More may follow. Open the gate!"

The gate then finally opens for them as they all hilt their weapons and rush inside. Eliza stands where she stood, still a little dizy from all that happened…

Doing her best to remain cool and calm, she tried to not enjoy the sight of their corpses…

She felt triumph… But she also felt ashamed…

She shouldn't enjoy the smell of charred flesh this much…

She then notices as Wyll takes a moment to stop and grab the violin and her rapier off the ground. He carried it over to her as he eyed her curiously.

He then spoke in administration as he handed her the items and she took it with a low bow in respect.

Wyll: "Well done - that was quite the show… Your song… I've been impressed by many before, but that was unlike anything I've experienced. I didn't know what to expect or how that battle would go, but it definitely wasn't that. As a witness to what you did, it was all inspiring! You have spirit and you sing very beautifully. This was your plan, I take it?"

For once she was confused by kind words, they were unfamiliar to her.

Did she perhaps inspire him enough to talk to her?

Either way, she was glad to be appreciated…

She gives a small nod and a smile, he returns the smile with one of his own. He then reaches into his bag and gives her a healing potion with his reply.

Wyll: "This isn't much, but considering the injuries you sustained to keep us all from our own, you're gonna need it more than I… That was very brave of you to step in like that… Thank you for your help. These people will live to fight another day - thanks to you."

His hand rests on her shoulder for a moment as he gives her a smile in gratitude.

He doesn't give her the time to respond as his hand leaves her shoulder and he rushes in after the rest and disappears from view.

Her smile never left as she watched him leave. She felt as if her world was slowly making more sense. The pieces she was missing were slowly coming together.

With a quick swig of the potion her wounds healed up nicely. The gash on her leg didn't fully heal, but her head felt clear and so did her vision.

She was then snapped back to reality as the sound of heavy footsteps stomped towards her. Hands then grip tightly onto her shoulders, spinning her around to face them as a voice shouts angrily down at her. Her eyes met with a furious pair of ruby ones.

Astarion: "What in the hells is the matter with you!? Why would you risk your life for complete strangers? You could have been killed! Do you want to die?! Do you have a death wish?!"

She looked around the angry elf for a moment to see the wizard and the warrior approach behind him…

Gale held a hand on his cheek as he stared down at her with worry and regret…

Lae'zel only stood there with her arms crossed as she watched the show unfold. Unfazed by the discoloration around her one eye. While staring daggers at the back of the elf's head…

Eliza then noticed the red marks that were lined around Astarions throat…

What in the world happened up there?...

How did they all get hurt?

Why are they staring at her like that?

Why are they staring at each other like that?

The only two that hold any guilt, anger, or shame were the men that stared at her with that look in their eyes. The gith only remained calm and unchanging with her death glare.

Eliza tries to give an explanation instead of asking those questions, but only gets interrupted by more angry spurts.

Eliza: "They could have died, was I supposed to sit back and watch-"

Astarion: "YES! That's what any sane person would do! Running away or watching is better than dying trying to be a damn hero!"

---

Astarion's POV

He was angry… beyond angry…

He couldn't believe how angry he could get.

All because of this damn woman and her ridiculous ideas!

How could she be so reckless?

Things could have ended up way more badly than it did!

And she had the gull to be smiling like that…

She had the nerve to stare at him like she did…

Looking like she was trying to read the situation, with the way she stared down at his neck…

The worry became clear on her face…

She didn't have the right to be worried!

Not after the worry she put him through!

He wanted to scream!

He wanted to tell her how much he hated sitting there and watching her take on everything by herself.

But then she took all the anger away from just one simple question…

For the first time since they met, he could see anger visible on her face.

Eliza: "What if it was you standing here, would you still ask me to stand by and watch?"

He stares down at her in shock, he didn't realize how tight his grip was on her shoulders until he released her. She didn't bat an eye, but he knew it should have hurt with how much his nails probably dug into her skin.

He took a step back as his brain swirled with the answers he needed to say…

But none that came close to what he wanted to say…

He was struggling to even hold onto one answer, for it only became a question after..

If it were him that needed help…

He wouldn't stop her…

or would he?

His entire argument before was to tell her not to risk her safety for another person…

When he was guilty of it himself…

He risked his safety… for her…

Twice…

However… He hated the idea of her doing that for anyone…

Not just himself…

But… Why did he feel that way?

Why care if she put herself in danger?

Why did he feel hate for every living thing that dared to harm her?

Why did he even get angry?

Why did he even argue?

Why was he so… protective…?

Was it for him…

or for her?

If she didn't ask that question he would have been giving her a lecture.

To tell her to not go wasting her time for something that wasn't profitable in the end…

He would explain to her how getting herself killed trying to save someone who can't save themselves was foolish…

But…

Considering that he couldn't follow his own advice…

Did he have the right to tell her?

How could he tell her to not risk her life for him either?

When he would want so desperately to be saved…

Or would he?...

She could die trying to save his life…

Would he still want her help?

Wait- why does he care so much?

Why not just let her be the selfless hero she wants to be?

He could just tell her- "Well, darling - I'm one of a kind. I deserve to be saved."

But he couldn't even do that…

Why was he thinking about it so hard?

It should be an easy question with an easy answer…

But it wasn't… He never thought so hard about something before.

Why does it bother him like this?

He could always keep his emotions in check before.

He would always be ready with an answer, but he was all over the place today.

Why can't he just give her an answer!?

it should be simple... but it isn't...

He remained silent as he managed to bring himself back to what was in front of him…

He watched the anger slowly leave her as she continued with her statement.

Eliza: "What if they were people like you or me? Would you still tell me to walk away? Even if you told me to, I couldn't do that… For as long as I draw breath, I will never stop caring for others that deserve it... I understand how hard it can be to trust what other people think or feel based on their actions. But, it was my trust that got us this far… You were a stranger once, but now you're not… You even tried to kill me when we first met… and yet - you remain by my side. All because I cared enough to think like I do. I chose to trust you, I still do and as you can see - we are both still alive. Are you going to tell me I was wrong to trust you now?"

He found himself speechless. He couldn't fire back a retort.

She was… right…

Except for one thing, she said she cares for people that deserve it…

That meant for him as well.

He could tell just from the multiple times that she put her life on the line for him…

She always kept him out of harm's way, and as more evidence shows, she never held an ill thought towards him either.

That he knew of…

He might never know the thoughts she has had about him in their time together. But, from the way she always looked at him, he could tell she was only concerned about his safety rather than her own…

She said so herself, she trusted him since the day they met.

She cared for him, even when he didn't care about her…

But…

How could he deserve it?…

He was no better than the goblins…

If she would have thought at all like he did…

She would have done the same thing he would have done when they first met…

Even if she didn't think like him, all she had to do was read his mind and see all the memories of everything that he ever did…

She couldn't see it from the surface, all she saw was a pretty face... but if she had dug deeper…

She would see how he wasn't worthy of any of her trust...

Eliza would have left him for dead on that damn road…

But she didn't…

Which was foolish from the start…

She didn't even have a threatening demeanor when they first met…

She looked like she didn't have a thought between her eyes…

The way her body nervously tensed as soon as their eyes met…

The way she looked at him was as if she was standing in front of a god…

The way she stumbled around with a goofy look on her face…

She didn't look like a threat at all.

But, he went and threatened her anyway…

She could have died and yet she didn't fight back…

She even said it herself…

She felt at peace…

And was ready to die…

Even then…

She chose his life over her own…

Because she trusted him…

…

Why?

…

He couldn't tell her she could trust him…

Because… it would be a lie…

And - for some reason, he didn't feel like lying to her…

It almost seems as if she doesn't believe for a second that it could be a lie…

Even if he tried to convince her, she wouldn't believe a word of it…

She trusts him to not bring her harm…

But… if he didn't have this worm in his head…

He would have taken her back to Cazador by now…

And if she would have ever become a danger to him back then…

If she was the one holding that knife…

He would have ended her life without a single shred of remorse…

His choice would have been for himself over anyone else... every time…

Thats because he wouldn't have known her yet...

But now… He didn't know if he could…

Now that he knew her...

He couldn't imagine laying a hand on her anymore…

Not unless it was a gentle hand…

...

Wait a damn minute!

Why does he do this?!

Why does he think like this?

Why does he remain by her side?

Was it because she offered protection?

Was it because she would risk her life for him?

That doest make sense anymore…

Now, he felt like it wasn't a valid excuse…

In the end, he couldn't stand the sight of her in danger…

Then… was it something else?...

When he didn't respond, she only continued as he listened once more. Stunning him completely, giving him exactly what he needed to hear but not at all what he wanted to hear…

Eliza: "It can be easier to kill a stranger than a friend, but you must meet a stranger for them to become a friend… If you watch enough, you can tell who is friend and who is foe. It's in their actions, not just their words. These "strangers" defended the gate, not only for their own lives, but for the people behind it as well. From that alone - I already knew my choice. If it came down to my life or a stranger's… I would want someone to do the same for you guys if they saw you was in danger… These goblins, however, were the opposite. They were heartless enough to kill innocents without a second thought… They only saw how another person's life or death could be their gain, they didn't hold shame or guilt for their actions. They would abandon their own people if it meant life or death. I will never show mercy or mourn them, because they will never do the same for me... But If I just stand by or run away, it makes me no better than the heartless… If we all thought like they did, there would be no one left to save… No one left to live for... Everyone would be dead, because no one cared enough to save each other from people like them. If you abandon everyone and just let innocent people die, it's the same as holding the knife to me… If you were like that - in the end, you'd be all alone and bitter from hating the world. You'll never truly understand the meaning of love… Because all the good people would be gone and there would be no one left to show you how good it feels to love or be loved."

Her words pierce him like a knife, the blade aimed high on his chest as he felt a twinge settle there. For once someone's words melt his mind as he completely forgets everything around him…

As her words cut deep into his soul…

If he had any soul left within him…

She just found it… and she made a direct attack that left him speechless once more.

He knew she was right...

None of what she said could be considered a lie…

Because every single bit of it was the flat out truth.

And he knew why it affected him this time…

It's because he realized the harsh truth about himself…

The truth he always found a way to just ignore…

She didn't say it directly…

But her words couldn't be more true of a statement about him…

Of his true nature…

All he had to do was rearrange the words…

There was no "If he were like that"

The fact is, he was like that.

Astarion was exactly like them...

He would kill or abandon anyone without question…

He thought that everyone's life had a purpose for him, whether by wealth or protection, otherwise they were useless to him…

That's how everyone else treated each other so he joined the crowd...

He never held shame or guilt for his actions…

He would have abandoned this group if it meant life or death…

He was no better than the heartless…

He thinks just like the goblins…

…He did anyway…

All lives were meaningless before…

Shame and guilt were foreign to him some time ago…

He could leave someone for dead without a second thought days ago…

He normally knew immediately if it came down to his own life vrs theirs…

His life... vrs hers…

Now… he wasn't so confident in his answer…

He did save her after all…

…Even at the cost of his own life…

Twice…

And he did it without thinking... twice…

So, he had no right to judge her…

No right to lecture her…

No right to be angry with her at all about this…

When he was guilty of the act as well…

Guilty of much more than that…

And yet…

Somehow, he earned her faith and loyalty…

He earned her trust and protection…

He did very little to earn it…

He treated her poorly and thought of her as a means to an end at one point…

He tried to kill her…

After something like that, how could she trust him?

Nobody would trust the person that tried to kill them…

Except for her apparently…

He felt unworthy to have any of it…

What is this feeling, was this shame?

Little did she know, she couldn't trust him one bit, because he knew what he would have done…

Was this… guilt?

They may have been fleeting thoughts at one point, but he knew himself more than anyone…

At the very moment when he held her in his arms, the moment they met…

He would have ended her life then and there..

He wouldn't have felt remorse…

He would have walked away without paying any respect to her remains.

But now…

He hardly knew himself at all now…

After only a matter of days from getting to know her…

His answer kept changing…

If he was in the same position now as he was back then…

Would he do it?

…

Could he kill her?

…

Could he guarantee to himself that he wouldn't feel worse than this after her death?

…

Could he leave her corpse lying on the road for all to see as her lifeless eyes stare into the void?

…

Or… would he give her a proper burial…?

…n…. o….

Would he… mourn her…?

…n-no…

Would he forever be cursed with pain from never seeing her smile again…. till the end of his days?…

…No…

All because he ripped away someone like her from this world?...

… NO!!!

He was NOT becoming soft!

He refused!

The death of that woman could never amount to the pain he endured for centries!

He was heartless for a reason!

He grew selfish and ended up alone on purpose!

He would never feel guilt or remorse for the heinous acts he committed…

If you live forever, why suffer with tedious emotions?

Someone like him didn't need it or have the time for it, so he abandoned emotions entirely.

He had to, so it wouldn't eat at him for the rest of his immortal days…

It was all so that he wouldn't get hurt by crueler beasts than the heartless…

He did it to protect his heart from the monsters that creep in the night…

Who do worse things… then kill…

Death would be kinder than his "mercy"...

If Astarion didn't do what he was told, he would have suffered a worse pain than the last…

Each time was a new form of torture, a new game to play…

All of it… just to see what could make him scream the loudest…

All while making sure he could still live on...

for tomorrow's torture…

If Astarion could survive him at a fraction of his worst…

He couldn't imagine any pain that could be worse than a day with Cazador...

But, he highly doubted it could ever be over the death of… some girl…

He had to get a grip, this was a pathetic display of weakness.

He didn't need love…

Love was a lie…

Love doesn't exist…

Anyone that dares to think it does, is a fool.

If love existed, he would have found it a long time ago…

He never met a soul he could truly trust, other than himself.

And he doubted that would ever change…

Her words might be powerful, but her actions held more…

They will speak louder than anything she could ever say.

She will show her true colors the moment he shows his.

The bard said so herself.

Someone like him won't get her mercy...

He will never be what she sees in him…

She probably will never be able to understand it either…

He was used to being alone anyway, he didn't need...

...friends…

He is different from them…

He is too damaged to be saved…

Astarion believed he was far too broken to ever be loved…

...Or to love someone in return…

He decided it was best to forget about this and move on…

He didn't know how long he was silent for but it seemed like the world kept on going without him…

He finally snapped back into reality and ended up completely confused as to how he even got there…

Next thing he knew he was a witness to someone getting knocked out by a raging tiefling…

---

Eliza's POV

(Moments before)

She didn't know why…

But his words angered her…

How could he tell her to do such a thing?

When she imagined it was him standing here instead of those people…

It only angered her further…

She knew her question would make him think, but she didn't think it would to this extent…

He didn't say another word…

His mouth would open every now and again, but nothing came.

He looked lost within his own thoughts.

She said exactly how she felt, but half expected him to come back with something hurtful or witty.

But when she continued it only got worse, as he shut down completely. He stares off into the distance completely unresponsive.

He didn't even acknowledge anyone else as they spoke.

Gale: "Wow… I… I thought you were smart… but this… I never would have expected this… Today has already been an interesting day, and we haven't even made it to lunch yet… This morning, you did the impossible - I think you broke him honestly."

The wizard stared at her fondly as he spoke with a soft smile. Until his attention turned to the rogue as he remained silent…

Completely unresponsive still…

The gith finally forms a smile with an actual sigh of relief in her reply.

Lae'zel: "Indeed - the pale one finally learned silence… About time."

The wizard steps around the elf, takes in the rogue's blank stare with curiosity, and waves his hand in front of Astarion's face.

Nothing happened. He didn't even blink, let alone respond…

Gale: "He almost looks frozen in time… You didn't cast a spell and he didn't get charmed… Hmm… I wonder what got to him to affect him to this extent. It's like we aren't even here for him at all. He's in his own little world."

She stares at him with worry, his eyes remain dead to the outside world…

Eliza: "W-Was I too harsh? Did I say something upsetting?"

The wizard places a hand on his chin as he ponders in thought, trying to give a diagnosis to his state.

Gale: "Absolutely not, all of it was perfect as it was. If anything, what you said was exactly what he needed to hear. His mind must be trying to catch up from all the rapid thoughts that came from it. We just don't know when he will come out of it. He should be fine though. Maybe if we are lucky, he will still follow us in this state… It's best we get inside, they won't hold the gate open for long. Let's try walking in and see what he does…"

They walk forward while staring at the elf in curiosity… He remains in a daze but his feet move as he stumbles behind them. Slowly catching up with each step they took into the grove. They were far enough inside to where the gate began to close behind them.

They all stare at him with curiosity as he continues to be off in his own little world. However, he remained close by as they walked forward. Enough to where they stopped looking back at him entirely as they walked deeper along the path.

Except for Eliza, who continues to watch him with worry.

She wondered what could be going on in his head that made him look like this…

So empty… So lost…

Alone in his head with no one to reassure him if they were negative thoughts.

What if she did break him?!

What if he was hurting from the things she said?!

Was he still angry with her?

Did she have any right to be angry with him before?

What got into him anyway?

Why was he acting so strangely before?

Why was he so upset?

Why was he thinking so hard over what she said now?

Did she say something out of line?

Will he be alright?...

Her questions get interrupted by the shouting from ahead of them… The argument heated more and more as they approached.

Zevlor: "There are children here, you fool!"

Aradin: "We was running for our lives."

Zevlor: "You led them straight to us. And you let them take the druid, too. Unbelievable!"

She approached them, but didn't even get a glance in her direction as they stared daggers at each other…

Anger fuming between them enough to where she was completely invisible.

She decided to speak, trying to ease the tension between them.

Eliza: "What's unbelievable is the goblins are gone and yet there is still a fight going on. Is this really necessary?"

Aridin: "And who the hell are you again?!"

The snap in his attitude irked her the wrong way…

Recalling how he called her a 'devil' before...

Her gaze turned into a glare at the human.

She saved his life and he still acted like this towards her…

What is this guy's deal?

Good thing someone else spoke up for her, otherwise she would have given him one hell of a morning because of that attitude.

Zevlor: "Show some respect! This woman saved your pathetic life."

Aridin: "Well, I didn't ask for any goddamn help."

Her insides lurch and twist, but this time, she was highly considering releasing some anger of her own…

Not to go too far, but just enough…

And she had a feeling she wasn't the only one…

This man wasn't just getting a glare from her now, she peaks over to see two more stare intensely at him.

The wizard looked pretty annoyed by his demeanor.

The gith looked ready for blood as per usual, she was hoping for the outcome however.

Astarion was still off in his little world…

Her mind cools only for a moment. Her thoughts drift to worry.

But whether she was paying attention or not there was a fight about to occur with or without her.

Her attention returns to the conversation as the tiefling bites back a retort.

Zevlor: "Please. You were begging me to open the gate. Anything to save yourself, you coward."

The man's eye twitches, ready to release his unbridled rage.

Until hers decided to come first….

Her fists clenched tightly as her anger boiled to the surface…

Her realization of his true intentions finally dawned on her…

She could see it on the human's face, no shame or guilt… Just hatred for the tiefling.

Elisa: This motherfucker… wasn't protecting the gate…

He was only protecting himself.

The ungrateful twit led the goblins here in the first place, but he wouldn't accept the responsibility.

Instead he disrespected the people that saved his life… and pointed the blame...

She knew she didn't like him from the start for a reason.

She put her life on the line for a coward…

For a racist bitch...

That made her very angry.

Her vision almost turned slightly red, but she held it back just enough…

She found a way to release the anger in one full swing.

A shout escaped her lips as her fist swung fast and hard. He only had time to look at her in shock before her fist connected with his face. Knocking him out cold…

Her shoulders heaved as she calmed her intense breathing, and her hands remained tightly clenched. She stares down at his unconscious body without a shred of guilt for what she did. Drowning the thoughts of crushing in his skull with her foot. In the end, the bard protected the gate, so she didn't regret her actions. The only regret she felt was the fact she thought for a second that he was a decent person…

She should have trusted her instincts...

They were never wrong…

The tiefling speaks once again, his shocked face turns to her as he begins to go in protection mode and ends the conversation with a stern shout.

Zevlor: "That's… That I suppose. The goblins have found us. No doubt, the beasts will be back. We need to pack up and leave. Immediately."

From there on, her anger left but was replaced with this feeling of dread once again…

The day played out familiar and yet somehow unpredictable…

So much keeps happening or changing, she doesn't know how to keep up with these familiar places and faces.

She pondered on the conversation at the gate with Wyll…

Or the fight with the goblins…

How can she know what is supposed to happen but then know when there is something new?

Was there a part she was playing somehow?

Did she do something out of character?

Was she changing things slowly?

Was it from what she keeps doing?

Her will and determination make her do incredible things, but were they good or bad changes?

She had no idea why she felt like this…

With no recollection of where or when she has seen a place like this…

No idea how she knew all these peoples names before they even spoke to her…

Or any clue how she felt like all of it shouldn't be this real…

But then…

She forgot all her fear, doubt, anger, and worry from just the feeling of someone's gaze…

How when her eyes landed on a smile of a certain rogue, that was finally out of his daze…

The way her heart would dance just from a single glance of his proud expression, how it made her feel…

She couldn't help but be sad if all of this was somehow...

not real…

---

That's all for now!

The song is 'Defying gravity' but the lyrics were inspired from a cover by Idina Menzel. I imagined the song more fast paced and intense. Almost like a battle song, with more drama and flare coming from a violin being played by a master violinist. I love musicals. So, I might add more references to them especially if the lyrics fit in the storyline. I hope you've enjoyed the journey as much as I have.

Until next time, my lovelies!