The air in Evan’s living room seemed to shimmer as the portal began to form, a soft hum resonating through the space. He’d grown somewhat accustomed to these magical arrivals, but his heart still picked up speed as he watched the swirling light coalesce into a glowing doorway. Lyrin stepped through with her usual grace, her violet eyes locking onto his with a warmth that instantly made the room feel smaller, cozier.

  “Evan,” she said softly, her voice lilting like the melody of a song. She wore her traveling robes, light and flowing but reinforced with subtle layers of protective fabric. Her silver hair caught the light of the portal, making her look ethereal.

  “Lyrin,” Evan replied, his lips curving into a grin as he took a step toward her. “You know, I’ll never get used to that entrance. It’s like you’re stepping out of a dream.”

  Her cheeks flushed a faint pink, and she smiled shyly, tilting her head. “And you’ve already mastered how to flatter me before I even say hello.”

  Evan chuckled, closing the distance between them. “Just telling the truth.” Without overthinking it, he reached out and gently took one of her hands in his. “It’s really good to see you.”

  Lyrin’s fingers tightened around his, her smile growing. “And you. I’m glad you’re ready. This mission will be... challenging, but I feel much better knowing you’ll be by my side.”

  Evan’s grin softened as he searched her eyes. “I’m here for you. For all of it. Let’s get this done together.”

  There was a flicker of vulnerability in her gaze, but she quickly masked it, stepping back and motioning to the portal. “Come, we should go. The Temple Guards are already making preparations, and Alara is overseeing the logistics. We don’t want to keep them waiting.”

  Evan nodded, grabbing his pack from the couch. It was heavy with modern camping gear—compact sleeping bags, a portable stove, high-energy snacks, and even a water filter. His new sword hung strapped across his back, and the armor he’d trained with was already secured to his frame. It wasn’t the most comfortable getup, but it felt solid, reliable. He’d learned to trust it.

  “Alright,” he said, his voice steady but tinged with anticipation. “Let’s do this.”

  Together, they stepped through the portal, the world bending and twisting around them before depositing them in Velanthor. The vibrant forests and golden skies greeted them like a painting come to life, the air rich with the scent of earth and magic. The camp was already bustling with activity—Temple Guards in their pristine white-and-gold armor moved with practiced precision, checking weapons, packing supplies, and exchanging tactical plans.

  Evan took a moment to adjust his pack and take it all in. “Every time I come here, it’s like stepping into another world,” he murmured.

  Lyrin smiled as she gestured for him to follow her. “In truth, I think you’re adapting quite well. Come, let’s prepare. I’ll explain everything as we go.”

  They walked toward the center of the camp, where a small cluster of makeshift tents had been erected. Evan spotted Alara barking orders in the distance, her fiery red hair catching the light as she waved a map at a group of soldiers. He made a mental note to avoid her for the moment—he wasn’t quite ready for her brand of “motivational encouragement.”

  Lyrin led him to a quieter area where their gear could be sorted. As Evan began unpacking his equipment, laying out compact camping tools and rations, Lyrin knelt beside him and began explaining the mission in more detail.

  “The Temple Guards are highly disciplined,” she began, her tone calm but serious. “They operate in tight formations, each member trained to complement the others. During a mission like this, they’ll focus on creating a defensive perimeter while advancing toward the objective. Their priority is the artifact and ensuring it’s retrieved safely.”

  Evan nodded as he unrolled a sleek, modern sleeping bag, glancing at her. “And me? What’s my role in all of this?”

  Lyrin’s gaze softened as she looked at him. “Your role is twofold. First, you’ll support the Temple Guards where needed. They’re formidable, but having someone with your tactical instincts and modern perspective could make all the difference. Second...” She paused, her cheeks coloring faintly again. “Second, your role is to protect me.”

  Evan blinked, momentarily caught off guard. “Protect you?”

  “Yes,” she said, meeting his eyes with a steady gaze. “I’ll be using my magic to assist the team—opening portals, healing injuries, and, if necessary, suppressing our enemies. But when I’m focused on casting, I’m... vulnerable. That’s why I need you. Someone I can trust to watch my back.”

  Evan felt a strange mix of pride and responsibility settle over him. He nodded firmly. “You’ve got it. I’ll keep you safe.”

  Lyrin smiled, the vulnerability in her expression giving way to something warmer. “Thank you, Evan. I knew I could count on you.”

  He gave her a playful grin, trying to lighten the moment. “So, does this mean I’m your personal bodyguard now? Should I start calling you ‘Your Grace’ or something?”

  Lyrin laughed softly, shaking her head. “Please don’t. That would be... distracting.”

  Evan chuckled, turning back to his gear. “Alright, no titles. Just you and me and a bunch of highly trained soldiers, storming a forest full of mercenaries. Easy day.”

  Lyrin’s laughter lingered in the air as they finished preparing. Despite the weight of the mission ahead, Evan felt a strange sense of calm. They had a plan, a purpose, and most importantly, they had each other. Whatever challenges awaited them in that forest, he was ready to face them head-on.

  —--

  Aurensvale was crisp and cool, carrying the faint scent of dew and the distant fragrance of flowers from the temple gardens. The golden spires of the capital rose proudly against the clear sky, their surfaces gleaming in the early sunlight. Evan stood by the edge of the cobblestone square, adjusting the straps of his pack as he glanced over the convoy forming up ahead. Temple Guards moved with practiced efficiency, loading supplies into wagons and securing their weapons. The hum of preparation filled the air, a mix of clinking metal, murmured conversations, and the occasional barked order.

  And then there was Lyrin.

  She approached from the temple steps, her silver hair catching the light like a river of moonlight. Her flowing green-and-gold robes rustled softly as she walked, her staff in hand, its glowing crystal faintly pulsing with energy. She spotted Evan and smiled, a gentle curve of her lips that made his chest feel just a little warmer against the cool morning air.

  “You look ready,” she said as she approached, her voice soft but carrying its usual quiet strength.

  Evan grinned, tugging at the strap of his pack. “As ready as I’ll ever be. Though I’m starting to think I’ve overpacked. Again.”

  Lyrin tilted her head, her violet eyes sparkling with amusement. “You mean to tell me you don’t need three different kinds of portable stoves and a collapsible fishing rod?”

  “Hey, you never know,” Evan replied with mock seriousness. “What if we need to camp near a river and the Temple Guards suddenly develop an insatiable craving for freshly caught fish?”

  Lyrin laughed softly, the sound like a balm to his nerves. “I think they’ll manage with the rations we’ve prepared. But I’ll admit, it’s charming how much thought you’ve put into this.”

  Evan smirked, leaning slightly closer. “So you’re saying you wouldn’t appreciate a surprise gourmet meal in the middle of the wilderness?”

  She shook her head, her smile widening. “I suppose we’ll see. Perhaps your preparations will save the day after all.”

  Their playful exchange was interrupted by the approach of Captain Deren, the leader of the Temple Guards. His polished armor gleamed in the sunlight, and his expression was as sharp as ever. “Lady Lyrin, Champion Evan,” he greeted them with a crisp nod. “The convoy is ready to depart. We await your command.”

  Lyrin straightened, her expression softening but taking on a more formal air. “Thank you, Captain. Ensure the guards remain vigilant as we travel. I trust you’ve reviewed the route?”

  “Of course,” Deren replied. “We’ll maintain a steady pace and rotate scouts regularly. The men are prepared for any surprises.”

  Lyrin offered him a nod of approval. “Excellent. Let’s not keep them waiting any longer.”

  As Deren turned to relay the orders, Evan leaned toward her, lowering his voice. “You know, you’re really good at that whole ‘commanding presence’ thing. I almost stood at attention myself.”

  Lyrin gave him a sidelong glance, her cheeks faintly coloring. “It’s not something I’m entirely comfortable with, but... it’s necessary. They look to me for guidance, and I can’t afford to falter.”

  Evan’s tone softened, his teasing replaced by sincerity. “You’re doing great, Lyrin. They trust you—for good reason.”

  Her gaze met his, and for a moment, the noise of the busy square seemed to fade. “Thank you,” she said quietly. “And I feel better knowing you’re here. This journey... it feels different. More dangerous, somehow.”

  Evan nodded, his expression serious now. “We’ll handle it. Together.”

  A flicker of vulnerability crossed her face, but she quickly masked it with a small, grateful smile. She gestured toward the convoy. “Shall we?”

  They walked side by side as the convoy began to move, the rhythmic clatter of wheels on cobblestone and the steady march of boots filling the air. As they passed through the gates of Aurensvale, the city’s bustling energy gave way to the open expanse of the countryside. Rolling hills stretched out before them, dotted with patches of wildflowers and groves of trees. The sight was almost peaceful—if not for the knowledge of what awaited them at the journey’s end.

  This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

  As they walked, Evan found himself glancing at Lyrin more often than he intended. She carried herself with such grace, her every movement purposeful yet unassuming. It was hard not to admire her.

  “What is it?” she asked suddenly, catching his gaze.

  Evan blinked, caught off guard. “What’s what?”

  “You’ve been looking at me,” she said, her tone light but curious. “Is something on your mind?”

  He scratched the back of his neck, feeling a bit sheepish. “Just... thinking about how different this is from what I’m used to. Back on Earth, the most I’d ever be responsible for was my kid’s science project or maybe helping to organize a company picnic. Now I’m walking with a convoy of elite warriors, to retrieve a magical artifact, and, oh yeah, trying to not get killed. It’s a bit of a leap, you know?”

  Lyrin chuckled softly, her expression warm. “You’ve adapted remarkably well, Evan. And for what it’s worth, I think you’re more capable than you give yourself credit for.”

  “Thanks,” he said, his voice quieter. “It helps having you around. You make all this... less overwhelming.”

  She looked at him, her violet eyes searching his face. “And you make me feel braver,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t know if I’ve ever said that, but it’s true.”

  Evan felt his chest tighten at her words, a mix of emotions he couldn’t quite untangle. He smiled, his voice soft. “Well, I guess we’re good for each other then.”

  They walked in companionable silence for a moment before Lyrin spoke again, her tone lighter. “Tell me about one of those company picnics. Were they as perilous as this journey?”

  Evan laughed, the sound easing some of the tension in his shoulders. “Oh, absolutely. There was this one time Steve from accounting tried to man the grill. I swear, I’ve never seen so many charred hot dogs in my life. It was a massacre.”

  Lyrin laughed, the sound bright and genuine. “Truly harrowing. Perhaps you should have brought Steve along—he might’ve intimidated the mercenaries.”

  Evan grinned, feeling a little lighter as they continued down the road. The journey ahead was long, and the dangers real, but in that moment, with Lyrin by his side, he felt ready to face whatever came next.

  —--

  The small town of Willowshade was a welcome sight after a long day on the road. Nestled in a valley surrounded by dense woodlands, it had the quiet charm of a place untouched by the greater conflicts of the world. The convoy of Temple Guards had set up camp on the outskirts, their white-and-gold tents forming neat rows under the soft glow of lanterns. The captain had insisted on keeping most of the guards outside to maintain discipline and order, allowing only Lyrin and Evan to take rooms in the modest inn at the town’s center.

  The inn’s tavern was warm and inviting, the crackle of the hearth mingling with the low hum of conversation. Evan sat at a corner table, the weight of his armor finally shed, replaced by a loose tunic and trousers that felt far more comfortable. Across from him, Lyrin sat gracefully, her silver hair shimmering in the firelight. She’d removed her heavy traveling cloak but still wore her flowing green-and-gold robes, her staff resting against the wall beside her. A faint blush warmed her cheeks, likely from the glass of honeyed wine she cradled in her hands.

  Evan leaned back in his chair, nursing his own drink—a dark ale that the innkeeper had proudly claimed was brewed locally. He studied Lyrin for a moment, marveling at how serene she looked despite the weight of their mission.

  “You know,” he said, breaking the comfortable silence, “it’s kind of nice to sit somewhere that isn’t made of dirt or rocks. Not that I don’t love the charming ambiance of the wilderness.”

  Lyrin’s lips curved into a soft smile, her violet eyes meeting his. “I admit, I’m grateful for the reprieve as well. Though I think the guards would call us spoiled for enjoying the comforts of the inn while they camp outside.”

  Evan chuckled, raising his glass in a mock toast. “To being spoiled, then. I’m not ashamed to admit I’ll take a bed and a hot meal over a sleeping bag and trail rations any day.”

  Lyrin laughed softly, the sound like a melody that seemed to ease the tension in his shoulders. “You’ve adjusted so well to this life, Evan. But moments like these remind me that you’re still tethered to your world—to the simpler comforts you left behind.”

  Evan tilted his head, his grin fading into something softer. “Yeah, I guess I am. But I wouldn’t trade this for anything. Being here, with you... it feels like I’m finally doing something that matters.”

  Her eyes softened, and she reached across the table, her fingers brushing against his. The touch was light, tentative, but it sent a warmth through him that had nothing to do with the fire or the ale. “You give yourself too little credit,” she said quietly. “You’ve already done so much—for me, for the guards, for this mission. You’re... remarkable.”

  Evan felt his cheeks heat, and he laughed awkwardly, scratching the back of his neck. “I don’t know about remarkable. I’m just trying not to screw things up too badly.”

  “I mean it,” Lyrin said, her voice firm but gentle. “You’ve brought something to this group that we didn’t even realize we were missing. Your perspective, your strength, your humor... it’s made all of us better.”

  Evan swallowed, her words landing heavier than he expected. He wasn’t used to this kind of praise, especially not from someone like Lyrin—someone he admired so deeply. “Thanks,” he said, his voice quieter. “That... means a lot.”

  They lingered in the warmth of the tavern a while longer, their conversation flowing easily as the hours slipped by. Evan found himself sharing stories of his life on Earth—Jason’s school projects, hiking trails he used to explore, the chaos of office potlucks. Lyrin listened intently, her laughter coming easily when he recounted particularly ridiculous moments, like the time he’d accidentally set off the fire alarm during a cooking experiment.

  In turn, she shared stories of her own—of her childhood in the temple, her early struggles with magic, and the first time she’d successfully opened a portal. Her voice carried a wistful tone as she spoke of the world she’d known before the war, and Evan couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness for all she’d lost.

  When they finally retired to their room, the inn was quiet, the other patrons already tucked away for the night. The room was modest but cozy, with a single bed, a small table, and a window overlooking the darkened town square. A faint chill lingered in the air, but the hearth’s embers provided a gentle warmth.

  Evan set his pack down near the door and turned to find Lyrin standing by the window, her gaze distant as she looked out at the quiet streets. The moonlight cast a soft glow over her features, making her look almost otherworldly.

  “Penny for your thoughts?” he asked, stepping closer.

  She turned to him, her expression thoughtful. “I was just thinking about how peaceful this town is. It’s hard to believe, sometimes, that places like this still exist—untouched by the chaos we face.”

  Evan nodded, standing beside her. “Yeah. It’s nice. Makes you want to fight harder to protect it, you know? To make sure it stays this way.”

  She smiled faintly, her gaze drifting to him. “You have a good heart, Evan.”

  He laughed softly, rubbing the back of his neck. “You keep saying stuff like that, and I’m going to start believing it.”

  “I hope you do,” she replied, her voice quieter now. “Because it’s true.”

  They stood there for a moment, the silence between them comfortable, charged with an unspoken connection. Then, almost hesitantly, Lyrin reached out, her fingers brushing against his hand. He turned his palm upward, letting their hands intertwine.

  “Thank you,” she said softly, her eyes meeting his. “For everything.”

  Evan’s voice caught in his throat, and he squeezed her hand gently. “Right back at you.”

  The room was quiet now, save for the faint crackling of the dying fire in the hearth. The warm glow of the embers cast soft, flickering shadows across the walls, giving the modest space an almost ethereal quality. Evan stood near the edge of the bed, unbuckling the last strap of his travel-worn boots. His hands moved absently, his mind still lingering on the moment they had shared by the window. Lyrin’s words, her touch, the way her violet eyes had held his—it all lingered in his chest like a quiet, steady flame.

  Across the room, Lyrin stood near the small table, her movements slow and deliberate as she removed her traveling robes. She wasn’t facing him, but even in profile, she was radiant. Her silver hair cascaded down her back, catching the faint moonlight that filtered through the window. As she slipped the outer layer of her robes from her shoulders, the fabric pooled around her feet, revealing the soft, flowing dress she wore beneath. It was simple, made of a light, silken material in a pale shade of green, but it clung to her in a way that made Evan’s breath catch.

  She turned slightly, glancing over her shoulder at him, and her cheeks flushed faintly when she caught him looking. “What is it?” she asked softly, her voice carrying a shy but curious warmth.

  Evan blinked, realizing he’d been staring, and chuckled awkwardly. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to... It’s just—you look... beautiful.”

  Lyrin’s lips parted slightly, her blush deepening as she turned to face him fully. Her hands rested lightly at her sides, fingers brushing the soft fabric of her dress. “You always say the kindest things,” she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. But there was no mistaking the way her eyes softened, the way her body seemed to relax at his words.

  Evan shrugged, stepping toward her with a lopsided smile. “Not kindness. Just honesty.”

  She tilted her head, her silver hair shifting like liquid light over her shoulders. “You have a way of making me feel... seen,” she admitted, her voice carrying a hint of vulnerability. “It’s... not something I’ve always been used to.”

  Evan stopped just a step away from her, his gaze meeting hers. “Well, then you’ve been around the wrong people,” he said, his tone gentle but firm. “Because you deserve to be seen, Lyrin. For everything you are.”

  Her breath hitched slightly, and for a moment, she didn’t speak. Instead, she took a step closer, closing the distance between them. Her violet eyes searched his face, as if looking for something she hadn’t yet put into words. Slowly, hesitantly, she reached up, her fingers brushing against his cheek.

  “Evan,” she said softly, his name on her lips like a prayer. “You make me feel... safe.”

  He covered her hand with his, his touch firm but tender. “And I’ll keep doing that,” he promised, his voice steady. “For as long as you’ll let me.”

  A quiet moment passed between them, their breaths mingling in the stillness of the room. Then, as if drawn together by some invisible force, Lyrin leaned in, her forehead resting lightly against his. Her silver hair tickled his cheek, and he could feel the faint warmth of her breath against his skin. His hands lifted almost instinctively, settling gently on her waist. The fabric of her dress was impossibly soft beneath his fingers, but it was the warmth of her body beneath it that held his attention.

  Lyrin’s hands slid down from his face to rest lightly on his chest, her fingers splaying against the fabric of his tunic. Her touch was delicate, almost tentative, but there was a quiet strength in the way she held him. “Sometimes I wonder,” she murmured, her voice so quiet it was almost lost in the space between them, “if Seralith brought us together for more than just this mission.”

  Evan’s brow furrowed slightly, his hands tightening ever so slightly on her waist. “What do you mean?”

  Lyrin pulled back just enough to look up at him, her violet eyes shimmering with something he couldn’t quite name. “I mean... you came into my life at a time when I thought I had nothing left to give. And yet, here you are, standing beside me, reminding me of the strength I thought I’d lost.”

  He swallowed hard, his chest tightening at her words. “Lyrin,” he said, his voice rough with emotion. “You’ve got so much strength. More than anyone I’ve ever met. If I’ve helped you see that, then... I’m glad. But don’t think for a second that it’s not already there.”

  Her lips curved into a soft, almost shy smile, and she leaned into him again, her head resting lightly against his chest. He felt her exhale, her breath warm against his skin, and his arms tightened around her instinctively. She fit against him perfectly, her slender frame almost fragile in his embrace, but there was an undeniable strength in the way she held onto him.

  For a while, they simply stood there, wrapped in each other’s presence. The noise of the world outside—of missions and danger and uncertainty—seemed to fade away, leaving only the quiet rhythm of their breathing and the warmth of their shared connection.

  Finally, Lyrin pulled back slightly, her hands still resting lightly on his chest. “We should rest,” she said softly, though there was a reluctance in her voice.

  Evan nodded, his hands lingering on her waist before he let them fall. “Yeah. Long road ahead.”

  She stepped back and turned toward the bed, her movements graceful as always. As she settled onto the edge, her silver hair spilling over her shoulders, Evan couldn’t help but marvel at her once more. She was beautiful, yes, but it was the quiet strength, the unwavering kindness, and the depth of her spirit that truly captivated him.

  As he joined her, sitting beside her on the edge of the bed, she reached for his hand, lacing her fingers with his. The gesture was simple, but in it, Evan felt everything they’d built together—trust, affection, and something that felt an awful lot like the beginnings of love.