The elf squinted at her. “You’re going to show a couple of strangers who can’t even admit that they’re dating to the city that they should’ve researched? You’re too soft, Tez.” “We’re not dating,” Juniper piped up. The elf’s gaze turned to her. “Oh, I see,” he replied smoothly. “Just sleeping together, then.” Juniper’s entire face went pink.
"There's no harm in that," the siren said with a small laugh. "We're not," Zerras replied quickly. "We're just friends."
“Then why didn’t you say so earlier?” the elf countered. “And why are you holding hands? I know elf culture, and that’s a marriage hand hold.” Juniper quickly dropped Zerras’ hand, looking upset. “No, it’s not,” she replied quietly. “You know that’s not true. It’s closeness, but it’s not romantic...” “But you want it to be?” the elf proposed, crossing his arms.
"Elves must not be very forward," she teased, resting her head on his shoulder. "We shouldn't press too much."
He kissed the top of her head, slipping an arm around her waist. “Well, someone’s gotta.” Juniper looked like she was about to cry. “That’s... that’s not...” She folded her arms, looking away quickly. “He’s blushing too, kiddo,” the elf said, tilting his head. “It isn’t all on you, even though you do have it bad.” Juniper didn’t look up, very deliberately avoiding anyone’s gaze.
Zerras put one hand on her shoulder, his eyes flashing. "It's not your business anyways. All we wanted was some directions."
The elf smirked, raising one eyebrow. “See? More proof. Who crosses an entire desert to go to a place they know nothing about unless they’re distracted by something else?” He turned to his companion. “It’s easy to be distracted when you’re flirting. Remember the light festival?”
"Well, yes. We're distracted by our adventure," he said with a frown. The siren laughed slightly. "I remember. What made you two go on an adventure together anyways?"
Juniper glanced up, her brow furrowed. “We just... wanted to.” “Because you enjoy each other’s company,” the elf said with a nod before standing, taking the siren’s hand. “We’ll take you, and you know what? We’ll give you free couple’s counseling along the way.”
Tez gave them a kind smile, trying to clear the air a little bit. "You guys might want to take the potion and get into the water. It could take some getting used to." Zerras looked mildly annoyed with the elf, but gave June her potion anyways.
She looked down at it, still frowning as she drank it. “First lesson in couple’s counseling,” the elf said, heading towards the water, holding the siren’s hand. “Appreciate your partner.”
Zerras did the same. It tasted salty and bitter, and they didn't feel any different at the moment. He looked to the elf. "I don't have to be in a relationship with her to appreciate her." Tez grinned. "Oh, good. First step is done, then."
“Not quite,” he told her as they waded into the water. “Be specific, my demon friend. For example, I appreciate Tez for her humor and her kindness and her seamless ability to smooth out my rough edges. Now, it’s your turn.”
They followed them and Zerras frowned, looking mildly uncomfortable. "I.. I appreciate June for her optimism, kindness, and her humor.."
The elf squinted, raising his eyebrow. “You stole two of mine, but it’s fine for a first attempt. Okay. Elf? Your turn.” June looked hesitant, frowning. “Zerras is very loyal and gentle,” she said quietly. “And he’s reflective and benevolent... I couldn’t think of a better companion.”
Zerras seemed embarrassed, looking down at her with a slightly flush. "I didn't just steal yours. I said them because I meant them."
Juniper seemed to be deliberately avoiding his gaze. “Still counts as stealing,” the elf said with a shrug. “Or, at the very least, it’s unoriginal. Right, Tez?”
She shrugged warmly, squeezing his hand. "There's only so many words, Row." Zerras looked down at June. "I'm surprised you called me benevolent. You're definitely the benevolent one of this duo."
She looked up at him. She had maintained at least a foot of space between him and her since the elf had called out their hand-holding, and she folded her arms defensively. “You’re good to me,” she replied quietly, her brow furrowing. “I’ve told you before that I think you’re wonderful.” “Unrequited love!” Rowan said with a gasp, looking down at Tez. “That explains everything!”
She laughed, looking back at them. "That does make sense." They were on the edge of a dropoff. The siren waded out a ways, her tail shimmering just under the surface. "The potion should take affect soon."
