The peaceful air shattered as Eric descended the stairs with deliberate slowness, his expression unreadable. At the same time, Lucas emerged from the kitchen, his movements purposeful yet tense. The two men passed each other without a glance, their silence echoing loudly in the cottage. Lucas walked up the stairs while Eric entered the kitchen door.
Sensing the tension, Emily and Thalia exchanged a glance.
Thalia paused her crochet, letting out a soft sigh. "Something has definitely happened between those two," she murmured, breaking the silence.
Emily nodded, her gaze drifting towards the kitchen where Eric was using the sink. "Yes, they've been like this for days," she replied, a hint of concern in her voice.
'You could ask one of them?" Thalia suggested.
"I could try... But I need to speak to everyone. Could you call Lucas to come down here?" Emily requested.
Thalia nodded, dropping her wool and pins on the chair before heading towards the stairs to fetch Lucas.
Emily closed the book gently, her gaze lingering on the kitchen door as she stood up, a pensive expression on her face. She walked towards the door and entered the kitchen, where Eric was preparing food.
"So, what are you cooking?" Emily asked, trying to sound casual but unable to hide the concern in her voice.
"Just bread and meat," Eric replied, his tone neutral as he continued working.
"Did something happen between you and Lucas?" Emily asked, cutting straight to the point. "Since I went to the library, you two haven't really interacted."
Eric paused for a moment, his back still turned to her. He then turned around, his expression guarded. "Nothing's wrong. We should just concentrate on the mission and leave these forsaken Islands. These people..." He trailed off, his tone tinged with irritation.
"These people?" Emily repeated, stepping closer to him. "Eric, the Islands aren't all bad."
Eric's expression softened slightly. "You mean the Islands that made everyone in the village move to the north?" he asked sarcastically.
"Yes, but these people living here are like us. They're family, children who have lost everything," Emily said, her voice gentle but firm.
"We're here for justice," Eric reminded her.
"Justice for those who caused the unrest, not the innocent," Emily countered. "These Islands is home, a safe place, a community to them."
Eric fell silent, seemingly lost in thought. Emily took a step closer to him, placing a hand on his arm. "I have something to say to everyone. Will you come to the sitting room?"
"Emily," Eric called out, stopping her before she could leave the kitchen. "Do you see us as one of them? With our powers?"
Emily hesitated, then turned to face him fully. We were never aware of all this and our powers... We never faced the same things they did, that Lucas did. But we'll find the answers to the questions someday."
With a soft smile, Emily left the kitchen, Eric following behind her.
✨🌙✨
Emily sat on the floor of the cottage, surrounded by books and quills, her brow furrowed in concentration. Eric and Thalia watched her, seated on chairs nearby, while Lucas stood against the wall, his gaze fixed on the windows, lost in thought.
"Okay... Everything is arranged," Emily said, looking up with a light chuckle, her gaze moving to Lucas.
"Won't you sit, Lucas?" Emily asked a playful glint in her eye.
"I'd rather stand," Lucas replied, his tone blank, his gaze still fixed on the windows.
Emily smiled shyly at his response. Lucas had been distant since her visit to the library, and it bothered her more than she cared to admit. She looked down at her book with a slight frown, feeling a pang of hurt.
"Emily," Eric's voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
She looked up, her smile widening at his soft expression and thumbs-up, lifting her spirits. "I went to the library the other day and discovered something," she said, addressing Eric and Thalia. "We need to find a master urgently for you and Lucas. We need jobs."
"Why so urgent?" Thalia asked, leaning forward with curiosity.
"Lucas's fingers are a sign that he's losing himself to darkness," Emily explained, her eyes flickering to Lucas, who tilted his head towards her, his brows furrowed in confusion.
"What does that mean?" Eric inquired, exchanging a puzzled glance with Thalia.
"I don't know... The books never said what it's like. They just talk about how Hecate encouraged us to accept the parts of ourselves that have been hidden or repressed," Emily said, concern evident in her voice. "She said that our shadows are a vital part of our whole self."
"So, we need jobs," Eric summarized, his expression serious.
"And I won't be able to learn my North powers," Emily added sadly.
Eric and Thalia looked at her with furrowed brows
"I'll just be reading about Hecate... Maybe I can gain a thing or two," Emily said, trying to sound optimistic despite her disappointment.
"Will Hecate help with all these?" Eric asked, his expression critical.
"I hope so," Emily replied, a hint of uncertainty in her voice.
"We should go out and start searching," Eric suggested, rising from his seat.
"Great, I will be home alone," Thalia sighed, folding her arms.
"You have a school field trip soon, you're the one having fun here," Emily reminded her.
"I guess you're right... How I love my age," Thalia said with a wistful smile.
"I'll stay back. We can't leave Thalia on her own," Eric decided. "And I'm not comfortable... out there."
"Rude," Thalia muttered under her breath.
"Lucas and I will look then," Emily said, turning towards the door.
At that, Lucas walked out of the cottage, closing the door behind him as he waited outside.
"Hm," Thalia grimaced as she glanced at the closed door. Eric frowned in the direction Lucas had gone before returning his attention to Emily.
"Don't let him get to you. He's not an important person in your life," Eric said, placing his hands reassuringly on Emily's shoulders. "We're finishing these missions so you, me, and Mom can be together again."
Emily managed a weary smile, grateful for her brother's support.
✨🌙✨
I stood outside the cottage, my eyes fixed on the cottage that lined the street. I stared back at the cottage door expecting and anticipating for Emily to come through it. I sighed at the door still remained closed.
'Should I go check up on her?' I wondered, my mind racing with worry at her late arrival.
'I was being harsh earlier.' I sigh in my mind, 'She will be fine, I'm not a bother to her anyway.' I thought.
Suddenly, the door opened and I quickly averted my gaze from it trying to conceal my inner turmoil, Emily slowly walked to my side.
"Sorry for making you wait, Lucas. Needed to dress up." She said, giving me a weary smile.
"That's alright," I said, avoiding her eyes.
I noticed how her smile dropped, her eyes staring at her feet. As much as I would love to be reassured and comfort her, I can't.
'I need to finish these missions and leave Tauris and everyone. My presence isn't a peaceful one. Sorry, Emily,' I thought.
"We should head to the market square. There's a lot of options for us there." I said,
"Okay," Emily responded slowly.
✨🌙✨
I walked through the market square, a place teeming with the lively sounds and vibrant sights of countless stalls. Each stand boasted a rainbow of goods, from fresh produce to handcrafted trinkets. A nostalgic smile crept onto my face as I passed a familiar food stand, childhood memories surfacing. I glanced back at Emily, who trailed quietly behind me, her face downturned and lost in thought.
"Hello there!" A young teenager's voice pierced the air, startling both Emily and me. She stood before us, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Sorry for the scare," she chuckled. "But I can spot a new commoner from a mile away."
I frowned slightly, feeling annoyed at the interruption. "We have somewhere to be," I said, reaching out instinctively to grab Emily's hand.
To my surprise, Emily pulled her hand away, her attention fixed on the teenager. "Sorry about my husband, dear. He's been really distant lately," she said, her voice tinged with irritation, making me shiver. "What can I help you with?" she asked the teen.
"The Annual Full Moon Festival is coming up," the teenager said brightly, handing Emily a small poster. "It's the biggest event of the year here. Everyone in the Islands gathers under the moon—"
"The full moon?" Emily interrupted; her curiosity evident as her eyes widened. "You mean the moon cycle blessed by Hecate? The one where her magic is at its peak?" Her excitement was cute and infectious, a wide smile spreading across her face. "I've read about the full moon, but I had no idea people held festivals for it!"
The teenager nodded enthusiastically. "They do now, and it's a big event. There are moonlit dances, blessings, and even a special ceremony to honour Hecate. It's a magical night you won't want to miss."
Emily's eyes sparkled with interest as she glanced at me, clearly captivated by the idea. I couldn't help but smile at her bright and excited face, glad that she wasn't sad anymore.
"King Ronan will also be making a special appearance, along with other distinguished guests who helped build these Islands," the teen girl added. "So, make sure you show up... there are great moments to our culture." She giggled as she waved goodbye, running off to share the news with other people.
"Yes, I remember hearing about this festival from some merchants when I went to buy food," Emily continued, her enthusiasm unabated. "This is awesome! I need to read more about the moon cycle once we get back home." She rambled on, staring at the poster she held.
I smiled at the sight but soon sighed reluctantly as I remembered why we were here.
"We should go, Lucas!" Emily turned to me with a smile, holding the poster dramatically.
"We should get back to our task," I replied blankly, averting my eyes from her.
Emily's smile dropped immediately as she folded the poster neatly and kept it in her bag.
"There's a notice board over there," she said, pointing towards a large wooden structure plastered with various job postings.
I nodded and led us towards the board, scanning the various postings. Emily stood beside me, her eyes on the structure too.
"I can't believe we didn't notice the festival posters everywhere," she remarked, clearly trying to diffuse the tense air. "Do you know anything about the moon cycles, Lucas?"
I gave a noncommittal grunt, my eyes continuing to scan the notices. "No," I muttered, not wanting to engage too much in the conversation.
Emily let out a quiet sigh, her frustration barely hidden, as she stepped closer to the board to read some of the postings. "Here's one," she said, pointing to a flyer looking for extra hands at a bakery. "They're looking for help during the festival. This could be fun."
I glanced at the flyer, then at Emily. Her eyes were pleading, and for a moment, I saw a flicker of the joy she had when talking about the festival. "Alright," I agreed reluctantly. "Let's check it out."
✨🌙✨
As we got off the wagon, we began walking towards our destination. Soon, I noticed Emily's pace became slower, and she started lingering behind me. I stopped to see what made her stop immediately. Emily stood with a soft smile on her face, her eyes filled with unshed tears, fixated on the scene before her.
I turned to see what had caught her attention, and my breath caught in my throat as I beheld the garden of sunflowers. Stretching out before us, the sunflowers stood tall and proud, their vibrant yellow petals reaching eagerly towards the sky, to feel the warm embrace of the sun.
The air was alive with the gentle hum of bees flitting from bloom to bloom. Butterflies danced among the flowers, their colourful wings brightening the environment.
Above, the sky stretched out in a vast expanse of blue filled with fluffy white clouds that drifted across the horizon. The sun hung high overhead, casting its golden rays down upon the earth below and bathing the entire scene in a warm, ethereal light.
We should get moving," I said slowly and carefully, knowing that as much as I would like to stay and enjoy the beauty of the sunflower garden with Emily, we had a task to complete. I could feel the scene opening up a situation to interact and converse with Emily, but I knew I had to keep my focus.
Emily nodded frantically, letting out a shaky breath as she quickly rubbed her eyes, causing a furrowed look on my face. My mind was confused by her behaviour. Without meeting my gaze, she abruptly walked past me, continuing down the path. I followed quickly, standing just behind her.
✨🌙✨
We finally arrived at our destination: a two-story wooden cottage with grey glass windows everywhere. Chairs and tables were placed outside the cottage under sheds, and the place was decorated with flowers.
Through the windows, I could see an array of pastries neatly displayed. I watched as Emily hesitated at the entrance, her earlier anxiety seemingly replaced by a sense of calm as she took in the sight. "Okay, this is like a dream somehow, Emily," she whispered to herself as she reached for the doorknob, and opened it.
As we entered, a bell over the door chimed, announcing our arrival. A friendly-looking man greeted us with a warm smile. "Welcome to the Sunflower Bakery, how can I help you?" he asked cheerfully.
"I'm interested in the job offering. I saw a poster about the bakery needing some extra help for the upcoming festivals," Emily answered calmly, as I stood by her side deciding for her to do the talking.
"We do need some extra help," the man began with a large smile. "The King requested baked goods from us for the festival. I heard he has a sweet tooth." He chuckled.
"That's great! I can bake," Emily replied enthusiastically.
"You'll need to bake some goods for testing with me and a few other customers first. Then you'll be hired," the man informed her.
"Okay. So, which date should I come for the testing?" Emily asked.
"Right now. You have the kitchen and our ingredients to bake different goods," the man said excitedly.
"Right now?!" Emily's eyes widened in shock. I looked at her, worried about her reaction.
"Yes, come on. We don't have all day. The customers will be coming in soon." The man shoved Emily through a wooden door with a smile.
I couldn't help but feel a twinge of concern for Emily as she was thrust into the kitchen with little warning. Her eyes widened in shock, and I could see the initial panic flash across her face
"She'll be fine," the man said to himself as he turned to face me. "You never spoke. I'm guessing you're with her."
"Yes... I will go to her now," I said abruptly, feeling uncomfortable with the man's charisma.
✨🌙✨
Outside, the sun was making its final descent, casting a warm golden light through the windows. The bakery was alive with activity, with customers chatting animatedly as they savoured Emily's creations. Some sat at the wooden tables, enjoying their treats, while others lined up at the counter, eager to place their orders.
I watched Emily work, her movements graceful and precise. Her passion for baking was evident in every pastry she prepared, with flecks of flour adorning her cheeks and apron. Peace and comfort shone in her eyes as she tended to the customers.
I sat down and smiled brightly as I watched her attend to the customers, my mind at peace as I forgot all my worries. I sighed in comfort, enchanted by her skills and dedication.
Her laughter floated through the air like a gentle melody, and I was mesmerised by how her eyes sparkled when she smiled. My heart quickened whenever she glanced my way, and I couldn't help but notice how the golden light seemed to halo her like an angel.
"No need to make love with her with your eyes, lad," the man appeared beside me with a mischievous smirk, catching me off guard.
I felt my face flush and quickly averted my eyes, embarrassed to be caught staring. "That's inappropriate to say," I mumbled quietly, my voice barely above a whisper.
"You act as if you aren't married to her," the man chuckled in amusement.
The comment made me cringe as I remembered our undercover position. "Ah, ah!" I chuckled nervously, trying to play along.
"Well, time to close up the shop. Could you be of assistance?" the man asked politely.
"Of course," I answered, eager to shift the focus away from my discomfort.
✨🌙✨
As we closed the shop and gathered around a table, the man spoke up again, addressing Emily. "I'm impressed, Emily. Your pastries are loved by our customers, and the shop was bustling today."
Emily blushed at the compliments. "Thank you."
"Your pastries still need some adjustment, but so far, I think the King could be pleased with this," the man continued. "Welcome to Sunflower Bakery. You are hired."
Emily smiled softly, her hand stretching towards the man for a handshake. "Where should I start then?"
"Come here again tomorrow by dawn," the man answered.
Soon, water droplets fell from the sky as the windows were splashed with rainwater.
"It's raining," the man said aloud. "I can check if I have umbrellas for you in the back. I will be right back." The man suddenly stood up in search of an umbrella.
"Today was fun... I finally get to work in a legit bakery!" Emily remarked excitedly.
"I thought my tarts were always too sweet, but the customers loved them. Let's not even talk about the cupcakes, which I always seem to mess up," Emily rambled on, her face meeting mine.
"We still need to think about how much you are getting paid and in what intervals. We shouldn't waste too much time on this mission," I said abruptly, cutting her off.
Emily's excitement faded, replaced by a look of disappointment. "My apologies, Sir Lucas," Emily said sarcastically, her face turned towards the window.
I cringed at my harsh words, immediately regretting them. I tried to reach my hand towards hers but hesitated.
"Got it!" The man said, coming towards us. "Make sure you stay safe," he said, handing us the umbrellas.
✨🌙✨
As we stepped out into the rain, I walked beside Emily, feeling the tension between us. The sound of raindrops hitting the umbrellas filled the air, creating a sombre atmosphere around us.
As I walked, I glanced towards Emily, only to find her not beside me. Panic gripped my heart as I looked around, searching for her in the dimly lit path.
"Emily?" I called out, my voice laced with concern. There was no response.
Frantically, I scanned the area, my heart pounding in my chest. The rain fell heavily around me, blurring my vision and soaking me to the bone. I dropped the umbrella, the sound of it hitting the ground.
I ran through the paths, my footsteps splashing in the puddles, as I screamed Emily's name in a mix of fear and desperation.
Each call seemed to be swallowed by the rain, leaving me with only the sound of my own ragged breaths.
✨🌙✨
As I ran towards the sunflower garden, the atmosphere felt oppressive compared to before. The once vibrant and welcoming field now seemed heavy with sorrow. I saw a figure in the middle of the field and hurried towards it, my heart pounding in my chest.
As I got closer, I could see Emily crouched on the ground, her shoulders shaking with silent sobs. Relief flooded through me as I knelt beside her, placing a gentle hand on her back.
"Emily, are you okay?" I asked, my voice filled with concern.
I noticed her tightly gripping a picture, and as I looked over her shoulder, I gasped softly, recognizing the person in it as Casper.
"It was my fault," Emily croaked in despair, her voice barely above a whisper.
I felt a pang of sorrow and confusion. "What is your fault, Emily? Please, look at me," I urged gently, trying to catch her gaze.
Emily turned to face me, tears streaming down her face. Her eyes were haunted, filled with guilt and sorrow. "I... I urged Casper to leave Tauris that day," she choked out between sobs. "And he died. If I hadn't convinced him to go, he would still be here now."
My heart ached for her as she spoke, her pain palpable in every word. "Emily, you can't blame yourself for what happened," I assured her. "You wouldn't have known what could happen."
"He's gone... and now he is not here to see what I have accomplished. He always wanted me to share my baked goods... But I pushed him to leave. I made him go," Emily's sobs intensified.
"I know you would have done everything to help him, but you have to help yourself now, Emily," I said sympathetically.
Emily buried her face in my shoulder, her tears soaking into my shirt. "I miss him so much, Lucas," she whispered, her voice filled with grief.
"I know, Emily. I know," I whispered back, holding her tight. "But you can't blame yourself. Casper wouldn't want you to carry this burden. He would want you to remember him with love and cherish the memories you shared."
We stayed like that for a while, the rain continuing to fall around us. Soon, the rain slowed to a stop, and the moon cast its bright, white light upon us. Emily gently removed her head from my shoulder, her eyes puffy and red, our clothes soaked from the downpour.
As Emily pulled away, she rubbed her nose with the back of her hand. "We're a bit wet now," I remarked with a soft smile, attempting to lighten the heavy atmosphere.
"You've been distant with me," Emily began, her voice tinged with concern as she wiped away her tears. "What happened between you and Eric?" she asked, her gaze searching mine.
"We had an argument, but it's nothing compared to what you're going through. Let me help you this time," I said, standing up and offering my hand to her. She took it, and together we rose from the wet ground.
"Sunflowers were Casper's favourite flowers. They always seemed to brighten his day," Emily said as she reached out to touch the sunflowers.
"The same way you brighten mine," the words slipped out before I could stop them, and a blush crept up my cheeks at my unintentional confession.
Emily's eyes widened in surprise, a small smirk playing on her lips. "Well, well, Sir Lucas, I didn't know you were a charmer," she teased, her hand delicately placed against her lips.
I chuckled nervously, feeling embarrassed. "We can pluck some sunflowers to take back home if you want to," I said, changing the subject to ease my discomfort.
Emily gave me a warm smile. "I would love to."