why bother with wine when gin bears you the same grin

On account of her occupation, Tataru had become rather skilled at perceiving things that most wouldn’t even think to glance at twice.

Through various upkeep of many a record, vetting potential recruits, and pleasant chat that delved into whispered rumors that traveled through the grapevine, there wasn’t much that Tataru wasn’t privy to. 

So, it should have been of no surprise that when it pertained to matters of romance, particularly romance regarding the Scions, Tataru was swift in her efforts to learn all the ins and outs of the situation at hand.

Truth be told, at first, she found herself ecstatic. Talks of love were always a nice break from their usual chatter, and oh how Tataru adored nothing more than to see the way eyes softened and hearts quivered, the sweetest of tales and praises adorning each breath spoken. 

(True adoration, she’d like to state, shuddering when she remembered some of the types that Thancred, unfortunately, drew in from time to time. And, while those kinds of romances—if they could be called such—made for interesting conversation in their own right, the damages they left behind were headaches Tataru could be without.)

However, though Tataru prided herself on her intel work, it was Thancred who was the first to note when Krile Mayer Baldesion began to present the beginnings of a budding passion blossom, a portrait of a maiden in love whenever she found herself lost in thought.

When Tataru asked him if he knew anything else—has she given so much as a name?—Thancred shook his head. Their companion was often private when it came to such matters, and in the beginning, Thancred and Tataru thought it best left alone.

But curiosity won them over in the next minute when they caught sight of Krile, a pretty blush on her face as she made her way back to her scrolls.

They began their inquiries with gentle prompts.

“Who here doesn’t dream of the days they can be swept from their feet and danced about such fine scenery with new echoes of love?” Tataru would ask between missions. 

“To share life in such intimacy with others, how kind the thought is,” Thancred would say near the window, appearing lost in thought.

“Pray, that the gods grant mine brittle soul another, so thou shan’t ever taste the wickedness of hunger echoing in the chambers—” 

(Without question, it was one of the last times Tataru would ask Urianger for assistance on such matters.) 

Krile was kind enough to pretend she wasn’t aware of their intentions. She graced them with answers composed, brushing back a strand of her hair, a smile painted on her face. Regardless of offerings of tea or ale, gin or wine, her lips never spilled a name.

Several moons passed, and Tataru couldn’t help but notice that Krile’s expressions began to change in recent days, her demeanor more subdued than before. She wondered if it had to do with their questioning, but Thancred told her that those were the signs of longing followed by a painful romance.

Concerned by who could have caused such emotions in her dear friend, Tataru was almost tempted to list the names of all those she knew, but Thancred warned her that rushing such matters would lead them nowhere.

(Besides, if Tataru required a list of names, he already had one on his person, updating it as the days went.)

“For all we know, it could be you,” Tataru sighed, swinging her feet as she checked the records for the evening. The numbers were off in some areas, some greater than others. She rolled her eyes when she saw who was in charge of those transactions. 

Thancred drank his tea slowly, “I doubt the gods would ever be so kind… And I know better than to harm such treasures now….”

Tataru nodded, too caught up in comparing the numbers to pay him much mind. “Blast that Estinien! Makes me wonder if it’d be in our best interest to assign him a watch, lest he waste the coins so carelessly—” she jumped when Thancred shot up, a revelation on his face. “T-Thancred?”

“Hm,” he nodded. “I do believe I have unveiled our mystery.”

Her brows knitted together, but when Thancred began to move, she scrambled off her chair, racing after him. “W-Wait, Thancred!”

They found Krile at her station, several tomes opened with placeholders, the Lalafell deep in thought as she examined the text. 

“Miss Krile.”

She looked up, Thancred greeting her with a two-finger salute, Tataru not far behind, a thin veil of sweat on her face. Krile raised a brow, bowing her head. “Good evening, Thancred, Tataru. How may I be of assistance?”

“Forgive the bluntness of my inquiry, but, as the source of intel for the Scions, I—” Tataru lightly slapped his thigh, and he nodded, correcting himself, “We would much appreciate it if you could be so kind as to grant us an answer.” He kneeled down and gently took Krile’s hand. “We do so out of the kindness in our hearts in wishing our companions to remain unharmed should matters go awry.”

Krile looked at Tataru, who coughed into her fist, trying to clear her throat. “We don’t wish to pry, b-but…” she wrung her hands together, “Thancred, would you?” she said, still not up to speed.

“Miss Krile,” he lowered his voice, “Is it Estinien?”

Tataru’s eyes widened as Krile blinked.

“Rather forward when the situation calls, aren’t you?” Krile shook her head, pulling her hand away. She held it to her chest, a downcast expression on her face. 

Thancred lifted Krile’s chin toward him. “It pains the spirit to see a maiden so heartbroken.”

“Heartbroken?!” Tataru shrieked. “Why, that no good arse!” She placed her hands on her hips, fuming. “The moment he steps through that door—hah! Wait till I get my hands on—”

“It’s nothing of the sort,” Krile said, her hands folded on her lap. Though she smiled, her eyes remained dim. “The fault is my own for believing in such talk.”

Thancred and Tataru shared a look. “Talk?”

“...I’ve no chance when it comes to such matters.” She shook her head once more, turning back to her station. “Forgive me for the trouble I’ve caused.”

“Worry not, Krile,” Thancred rose to his feet and gently began to usher Tataru away, placing a finger to his lips when she looked about ready to protest, “The fault lies with us.”

Ever the expert on his heroes, the two went to Alphinaud.

“Krile and Estinien?” He blinked, the pen paused mid-stroke. “Did something happen?”

“That’s exactly what we’d like to know!” Tataru said, arms crossed and huffing, her bangs fluttering slightly with the movement.

Thancred sighed, “I am as curious as you are, but please, do bear some patience, Tataru,” and then turned to Alphinaud. “Have you by any chance noted anything in particular about their recent encounters?”

Alphinaud hummed, holding the pen against his lips. “There was one… about a fortnight ago, I believe,” he cleared his throat, and then, in a deeper voice, “Damn that Baldesion woman! My every waking moment cursed!”

If Tataru wasn’t mere moments from marching off to rip the Elezen’s hair out, she might have laughed at Alphinaud’s poor impression of Estinien. “He said such things to her?!”

“Heavens, no!” Alphinaud said with a wave of his hand, “But he was muttering it while heading out for a mission.” He returned to his papers and sighed, his shoulders drooping. “Perhaps Krile might have overheard it? For all his charm, I am afraid that when it comes to language, Estinien’s tongue hardly has trouble lashing out such remarks.”

Thancred crossed his arms, leaning against the bookshelf. “It would appear so.”

“I’ve never seen her get this down before,” Tataru mumbled as she glanced out toward the hallway, wondering if Krile would be interested in a stroll. “Truly, love remains one of the cruelest things….”

Alphinaud stared at her with wide eyes. “Love?”

“Sir Alphinaud, if I may ask a favor.”

They turned to Thancred, confusion on both their faces. 

“Sir?” Tataru questioned, curiosity tinting her tone.

“Favor…?” Alphinaud asked, hesitation strung through his words.

They were approved for two weeks in Kugane, linkshells and luggage in hand, the only condition that they return should the situation call for it.

At first, Krile insisted that it would be in their best interest that she remained at her station; after all, the documents and scrolls needed to be sorted out. But, with some gentle persuasion and Alphinaud agreeing to act as her stand-in, Thancred and Tataru were able to convince Krile to step away from the convoluted papers.

Before departing on the ship, Thancred handed Tataru two keys, bidding the two maidens a time well spent.

“You’re not joining us?” Krile asked as Tataru double-checked that all the needed documents and passes were on hand.

Thancred bowed. “I am afraid I have other matters to attend to,” he smiled, Tataru raising a brow when she thought she saw an added softness to the corners of his mouth before Thancred turned to her, a more familiar smile in place. “Tataru, a moment?”

Once Krile walked off, Thancred leaned in and spoke in a hushed voice, “You remember the plan, correct?”

She nodded, holding her thumb up. “Operation: Feel Good has begun!”

Thancred made a face. “Feel Good?”

“I think it suits the plan rather nicely.”

The captain called out to announce that the ship would be departing soon, and Thancred sighed, pulling back. “I suppose it shall do for the moment. Remember,” he pointed to his linkshell. “A separate channel should you need assistance.”

Tataru smiled. “I do believe we’ll be nearing my area of expertise, so all should be fine and well.”

The ship began to depart, Thancred sending them off with a small wave before he disappeared among the crowd. The two Lalafell leaned against the taffrail, the sea breeze rustling their hair.

Tataru glanced toward Krile, noticing a forlorn expression on her face. She took a deep breath and clenched her fist.

Fear not, Krile, she thought as birds called from high in the sky, A warmed bedside and filled stomach will ease the ails in your heart, even if for a mere moment.

Kugane never failed to amaze, the city brimming with life as always.

As they made their way toward the Bokairo Inn, Tataru made note to visit the Bazaar, eager to seek out which vendors would help spare a few coin here and there.

“It’s marvelous,” Tataru said cheerfully, the inn within sight at the end of the path. “Care to visit Umineko once we’ve settled in?”

Krile smiled. “Umineko would be most wonderful.” She hummed as they continued their walk. “Perhaps we should visit Orn Khai afterward. I do believe he mentioned a fondness for the dango there.”

Once they arrived at the inn, Tataru handed the attendant their baggage, the hostess at the front welcoming them with a warm smile. Tataru handed Krile her key, which earned her an arched brow.

“Separate rooms?”

“We fi—Ah,” Tataru coughed into her fist, fanning her face, “I do believe the sea has shaken me more than other times, haha.” She held two fingers up. “Our vacation spans a fortnight. Who knows what treasures or adventures we may encounter in such time?” Tataru swayed from side to side, humming. “And, I know some folk that may call for a visit.”

Krile raised her eyebrows, eyes wide. “Oh my.”

Tataru ushered her out the door, “Yes, yes. But first, Umineko!”

Orn Khai had been delighted to see them again, more than happy for their gifts.

He inquired about Estinien, but Tataru changed the subject quickly, signing to the dragonet that she would tell him their current situation in due time. After a few drinks and pleasant tales exchanged, Tataru decided to visit the Bazaar.

Initially, she had asked Krile to accompany her, but the Lalafell politely declined the request, saying she wished to retire to her room once she finished her rice wine. Though a bit worried, she agreed, letting Krile know that the linkshell would be open for communication should she need anything.

The cool air outside felt nice against her flushed face, Tataru sighing pleasantly as she made her way toward the Ijin District, still clear-headed enough to spot a good deal. As she walked in between the crowds, the bag of coin swaying slightly at her side, she glanced at the folks and landscape that surrounded her, hoping that the time spent here would help Krile out, even if for just one night.

When she arrived back at the inn—a few gil richer than before—Tataru almost choked on her spit, staring wide-eyed at the front.

Standing in the entrance was an Elezen that was practically the spitting image of Estinien—save for a detail here and there—the man making pleasant conversation with Krile. Tataru stumbled before deciding to hide behind a post, curious how the scene would unfold.

The man bowed, lifting his head to smile at Krile, who giggled and curtsied in return. He spoke, his words inaudible from this distance, and Krile’s brows rose. She cupped her cheek and gazed up at the man through her lashes, her words reddening his face, the man stumbling backward and fumbling over his words.

Tataru couldn’t help but puff up with pride. It would take a lot more than a fancy word or two to sway Krile of all people. She hummed, wondering if perhaps that was a reason her friend was drawn to Estinien. She thought about her own current affair and snorted.

She’d never let that man know she thought of him that intimately, his ego big enough as it was. She could already imagine him, crystal clear, taunting her about it. Tataru scowled and waved her hand, trying to clear the sound of his laughter from her mind.

She returned her focus to the inn just in time to see the Elezen leading Krile back inside, his face glowing as bright as a bomb. As tempted as she was to walk in and see how things would possibly play out, Tataru decided to head toward the Hostelry once more, figuring that Orn Khai could do with her company for a while that evening.

Not but an hour had passed when the door slammed open, the patrons staring toward the entrance. Tataru raised a brow when she noticed it was the same Elezen as before, albeit more sorry-looking. The man stumbled with a sniff, making his way to a table, sitting down and slumping over the wood and burying his face in his arms. 

“A rather common sight,” Orn Khai said with a tsk. “Though one is to wonder if they could be added to a menu of sorts?” The dragonet said playfully, “Oh, I jest! Merely a jest!” He said when Tataru turned to him.

“No, perhaps you have an idea. Hold on, a moment, please,” she said, getting off her chair and heading toward the sobbing mess. “Excuse me, hello? Good sir, I do beg your pardon!” She tapped her foot, waiting for the man to lift his head.

“Huh? O-Oh,” he said, wiping his nose with a wrinkled sleeve. “Are you here t-to serve me?”

“I should hardly think so! Though, if I may ask,” she said with a finger held up, “What of that Lalafell you were with earlier? She’s my—”

“KRILE,” the man shouted before covering his face, sobbing loudly. Tataru took a step back, unsure of how to respond. She raised a hand toward her linkshell, trying to determine whether she should call Krile or Thancred first, when the Elezen lifted his head again, waterfalls pouring from his eyes. “Am I not good enough? Am I too inexperienced for such a goddess? Oh, Krile! Oh, lovely KRILE!”

Tataru looked toward Orn Khai, the dragon tilting his head, appearing as lost as her.

Eat him, he mouthed, at least he’ll be moist.

Gross, Tataru responded, relieved when a server came to her rescue, the Au Ra rubbing the Elezen’s back and offering him wine. With a quick farewell to Orn Khai, Tataru contacted Krile through the linkshell and headed in her direction.

The Tasogare Bridge was emptier than usual; the illumination from the distant lanterns gave the place a melancholic feel. 

It was there that Tataru saw Krile, the Lalafell peering through the bridge and into the water, lost in thought. 

“Was… forgive my boldness, but was he,” Tataru wrung her hands together, “Awful in that department?”

Krile laughed, the sound dead. “Oh, I wouldn’t know. I could hardly do more than kiss the lad.”

“Oh… is that so?” Tataru asked as she joined her side, gazing at the city. 

“Tataru?”

“Hm?”

“Thank you for everything,” Krile closed her eyes and placed a hand over her heart, “Thancred and you both have my sincerest gratitude.”

“...Krile?”

“Yes?”

Tataru laced her fingers together, bowing her head as she asked quietly, “Will you be alright?”

Krile blinked. And then laughed, covering her mouth. “Oh, dear Tataru, this isn’t the first broken heart I’ve suffered. No, no,” a distant but fond look entered her eyes, “All shall end well. Though, who shall achieve such happiness first, I do not know. You needn’t worry on my behalf.”

“I suppose you have a point… B-But,” she leaned toward Krile, “If you need us to put him back in his place for such words, don’t hesitate to give the command!”

“Words?” Krile tilted her head. 

“His… those things he said….” Tataru trailed off with a frown. “Was it not by his curses that your mood dampened?”

Krile raised a brow. “If anything, I believe I hold more power to fell Estinien with words.”

“Then,” Tataru faced her fully, “Whatever disheartened you so?”

Krile smiled sadly. “A few of the scrolls I was briefing through held discussions regarding romance,” she sighed, turning her head. “I am afraid some accounts of folktale myth may have led me to believe such things hardly possible beyond mere physical pleasure. Or, at the least, not between two so different as him and I.”

Tataru snorted, speaking without thinking, “That never seemed to stop Nero with all his senseless babbling.”

Krile looked at her, a teasing gleam in her eyes. “Oh? Nero, is it?”

Tataru burned red. “W-Well, i-it’s,” she swayed on her feet, covering her face and waving a hand, “He likes to tease, I’m sure you’re aware! All his jabs and jest, little frustrating things here and there! And… and well,” Tataru wrung her hands together, heart beating loudly. “S-Surely, he only means it to irk me when he talks of marriage.”

“Marriage?” Krile asked in awe.

Tataru swallowed, nodding. “He tends to say, ‘Hah! Wouldn’t your gods laugh at such a union? Why not test the theory?,’ among other things,” she cupped her cheek, mumbling into her palm. “...his body may make mine sing, but oh how his words jumble my heart.”

“It’s a feeling that accompanies love rather well, don’t you think?”

They turned to see Thancred, the man saluting them. “Evening, fair maidens. How goes the night?”

“Thancred!” Tataru gasped. 

“Ever the one for delightful appearances, aren’t we, Thancred?” Krile asked, scooting closer to Tataru as Thancred moved to join them. “Sightseeing, weren’t we, Tataru?”

“Hm? Oh, yes, sightseeing among other matters….” Tataru trailed off, thinking aloud, “I thought you had other matters to attend to?”

“It would appear my duties led me here, and oh how blessed I was, graced by such fair maidens on a night so young,” he said with mirth. 

“One wonders how you never tire from such charming acts, Thancred,” Krile said, mirroring him. 

“In the right company, these acts are but a second nature,” he said in such a way that Tataru couldn’t help but turn to him and blink. He caught her stare and held a finger to his lips, a silent request.

She opened her mouth to say something—Thancred, is it possible that you…? Were we wrong when we guessed someone else first…?—but a flash of familiar, pale gold in the corner of her eye caught her attention. She rubbed her eyes and examined the tops of the passing travelers’ heads. 

“Was that…?”

“Everything alright, Tataru?” 

“Perhaps it’s mere exhaustion from such a long voyage,” Thancred said, but Tataru could see the tension in his body, ready to move at the first sign of danger. He inclined his head toward the inn. “Grace me with the honor of escorting you ladies back?”

“I forgot a bargain!” she said, shaking her head with a laugh, already making her way toward the crowd. “Thancred, please take Krile back. I’ll join her shortly.” The two stared at her, and she waved her hand, trying to reassure them that it was nothing of dire consequence, Really, it’s just a bargain!

With that, Tataru pushed through the crowd; fists clenched tightly. 

“Oh? Playing my nursemaid now? Such a desperate attempt for attention, but I suppose I shouldn’t expect much more from a barbarian such as yourself.”

“And I’ll have you know that—”

Thancred crossed his arms, sighing. “Speak his name, and a demon appears.”

Nero and Tataru could be heard clearly over the crowd, the quarrel sounding more and more affectionate with each jab thrown. 

Krile couldn’t help but giggle. “My, what an interesting pair. Hm?” She looked at the hand Thancred outstretched to her, “What’s this?”

“I believe I was requested to escort you.”

She snorted, brushing her fingers over his hand before curling his fingers back to his palm. “I’m afraid the mission has changed.” They could hear the crowd murmuring, trying to steer clear of their companions. “Perhaps it would be in the best interest to keep a close eye on those two?” She started in the direction of the inn, Thancred following. “My, is the reward worth that much?” she teased, holding onto her hood as a strong wind passed by.

“At times, a stroll is reward enough,” Thancred shrugged. “My duty shall carry me in that direction soon enough. Besides,” he glanced back. “A woman in love is an unstoppable force.”

“Oh, is that so?”

Neither said anything for a moment, their boots clicking against the stone.

“....Thancred, a question, if I may?” She could feel him look at her. “Forgive me in my moment of uncertainty, but,” she tugged at her sleeves, gaze downcast, “Do you suppose it foolish to still hope for such things with him?” Krile could feel her gut twist, the wind cold against her hot cheeks. “I-I—Forgive me, the question I know has no clear answer and, w-well it is rather silly I suppose—”

“Krile.”

“Yes?”

The inn was a few feet away. 

Thancred kneeled and placed a hand on her shoulder. For a moment, Krile couldn’t help but imagine Galuf in his place, consoling her.

“To hold the honor of your heart…” he sighed quietly, continuing. “The gods granted you with a gift," he pressed a finger to the center of her forehead. “I do believe the least they could do is grant you a favor, should you so desire.” He stood back up, stretching. “Well, I bid thee a most wonderful night.” 

“Wait! Thancred!” 

“Hm?”

Krile rubbed at her eyes. “Thank you,” she smiled brightly, “Though, I do say I found myself almost swooning just now. Well, goodnight, Thancred,” she said with a wave, suddenly feeling silly at her current state. “Until next time!”

Thancred watched as she entered the inn, waiting till she was out of sight to sigh, staring at his hand. “Until next time….”

Tataru showed up at the inn a few hours later; face dusted red and with a new set of earrings. At Krile’s questioning gaze, she burned as bright as a bomb, switching the topic to shopping. The Bazaar was good at stocking new wares, and wouldn’t it be in their best interest to see where the Scions could get a better deal for their gil? And, of course, gifts to repay their companions for allowing them their brief respite. Not to mention young Alphinaud himself would no doubt be delighted at receiving a handpicked gift from Krile, herself, don’t you suppose?

Generously, Krile held back on any teasing remarks, almost afraid that Tataru would explode from the gentle prompts and—oh? Is that a ring on your finger, Tataru? Could it be he has the other—

They were able to spend a week in Kugane before they were contacted to return, something or another about particularly sensitive information that needed several minds to review.

Krile thought it a secret blessing, more than eager to return to her work. Though the first night with that poor Elezen fellow hadn’t gone far—who they ran in to near Kokajiya, the man greeting them and wishing them well—she felt considerably better after her talk with Thancred and sightseeing with Tataru. 

With their luggage a few onze heavier—Tataru’s possibly even a ponze after a particular run-in with Nero that made even Krile blush at the sweetness—they made their way back to the headquarters, small, pleasant chatter carrying them along the way.

“I do hope Alphinaud enjoys his gift,” Tataru thought aloud, “Mayhap I should have found him a charm instead.”

“Worry not, Tataru,” Krile said, her luggage swaying at her side, “He knows well not to reject such kindness.” She smiled, patting her chest. “Though I have no qualms about reminding him, should that be the case.”

They shared a laugh, the building coming into view.

“I only wish I knew what to have gotten for Thancred.”

Tataru blinked at her. “Thancred?”

Krile nodded. “His words rang true, clearer than any fables that placed me in doubt.” She glanced at Tataru, her expression gentle, “You both have my sincerest gratitude.”

Tataru’s eyes watered. “A—”

“Ah.”

They turned to see Estinien standing at the entrance, the Elezen appearing mildly uncomfortable—more so than usual. Tataru narrowed her eyes when she saw the slightest hint of red on his pale face, the color more pronounced when he spared Krile a glance.

“Good afternoon, Estinien,” Tataru said, mildly surprised to see the man out where anyone could strike up a conversation.

“...afternoon.”

Krile raised her free hand, an offering of peace. “You needn’t worry about a chase. Unless, of course,” she laughed into her hand, “You so desire.”

Estinien almost seemed to shudder, his hand tight on his bicep. “I can assure you, I desire no such thing.” 

She curtsied, “Well, then, Estinien, I believe we shall—”

The two Lalafell blinked at the bag that suddenly dropped before them, Estinien appearing tenser than before.

“...what’s this?” Krile asked.

Estinien refused to meet their curious stares. “...I do not require it.”

Tataru dropped her luggage so that she could stand at her full height, hands firmly on her hips. “Estinien! What have we said about leaving inventory and undesirables here?”

He almost flinched, but instead, his face pinched. “....” 

Krile raised a hand to her head, and Estinien stepped forward. “Damn you, woman!” he said in a panic, “Blast the Echo! You need it not to see an apology laid before you! Or have you relied on such power for simple things?!” He clenched his fist tightly and inhaled deeply. “I shall take my leave.”

The two Lalafell watched as he began to march off when Tataru decided to call out to him. “Estinien, are you by any chance shy?”

He ignored her.

“Estinien!” she called once more.

He paused and turned to Tataru. “What.”

Tataru laughed. “Were you aware that it’s considered a blessing to encounter a blushing youth on the doorstep? Why, I almost confused you with Alphinaud!”

“Goodbye.”

“Ah, no wait Estinien, it was merely a jest!” Tataru said in between breaths, clutching at her stomach. “All out of fondness, I assure you.”

“Then cease your affection. I do not want it!”

Krile opened the bag and found it heavy with squid. She looked toward the retreating Elezen, who appeared ready to jump, especially if it meant escaping Tataru. “Estinien!” she called out to him.

He glanced at her. “Save your taunts.”

Krile shook her head and walked back over to her luggage. “I’m afraid I have none at the moment,” she opened a flap and took out a small bag. Tataru and Estinien watched as she opened it for them to see, “But it appears we had this in common.”

Inside was seared squid.

Krile laughed. “I suppose it does make for a delightful gift. Though, I must say,” she looked back at the bag Estinien had left. “I do not believe I have ever eaten one raw.”

Tataru gave Estinien an incredulous look. “I don’t wish to complain, but—”

Estinien’s face reminded Krile of a setting sun, the man’s embarrassment palpable. “Then don’t,” he said, marching back toward Krile.

Tataru shrugged, having had her fill of fun.

Krile smiled up at Estinien, handing him the bag of seared squid. “A gift from Orn Khai.”

He took it carefully. Their eyes met, and he turned back around, the tips of his ears red. “...thank you,” he called from over his shoulder, leaving with a strong, graceful jump.

“My, my, Estinien is rather shy, is he not?” Tataru said as she gathered her bags. 

Krile nodded, staring at the bag of raw squid. “Rather endearing, don’t you think?”

Tataru touched her ring and made a face. “Only for some,” she sighed, “Though, now I can’t help but wonder about Thancred….”

“Thancred?” Krile questioned.

He appeared next to Tataru, gathering their bags. “Always of service,” he bowed his head, to which the two curtsied in response. “Especially to fair maidens.”

“Ever the charmer, aren’t you, Thancred?” Krile laughed, matching his steps as they moved inside. Tataru trailed behind, observing them. Their conversation was becoming inaudible, the distance growing.

Tataru hummed, the small signs she had only seen in passing clear as day from here. As they made their way toward their quarters, she wondered which way the gods would favor.

“In any case,” she said to herself quietly as she brushed a thumb over her ring, “May happiness find them well.”