Lieutenant

Chapter 19

Time went by very slowly for the two girls. Things only became busier as more girls looked to them for refuge. Artemis didn't mind, this was what she'd hoped for, but with it came angrier monsters smelling the scents of possible prey.

A nightly watch had now been put into place. Duties and tasks were divided on a rotating schedule to ensure efficiency. The group was large enough now that Artemis found herself constantly busy with little time to socialize.

What was worse, she had her own personal hunting trips to take. Fighting monsters that weren't safe for her companions, especially considering how undertrained the newer additions were. This left Zoë alone to manage things, sometimes for as long as a week.

It was stressful but she managed and did enjoy the company of the others. They were all sweet independent girls with different personalities and strengths. Many of them thanked Zoë for seeing their value whereas others in their lives had not.

Only this was problematic as Artemis gradually grew more withdrawn to handle personal business and Zoë was swamped with responsibilities. It was unavoidable that after nearly six months both girls were easily irritated and seemed to be in perpetual states of dissatisfaction and grumpiness.

"Where is it today?" Zoë asked in brief passing with the goddess who had her equipment, which meant only one thing, another solo journey.

"The mountains," Artemis explained pausing just long enough to help Zoë carry the mountain of supplies to the far side of camp.

"Ah." Zoë nodded, setting the goods down and quickly assessing what needed to be replaced and repaired. "Be safe."

"Always am." With that Artemis was gone, unable to delay any longer. It had become their natural way of interacting. Zoë knew things wouldn't be as easy as they had been. She supposed that the honeymoon period of the relationship was over and not to be dwelled on. Business was business.

Of course, it wasn't entirely hellish. On certain nights when Artemis unexpectedly returned she found Zoë curled up asleep inside her tent. She'd be as quiet as possible and set her things aside before crawling into bed next to Zoë who was sound asleep.

Of course, the movement would disturb Zoë enough to stir her slightly awake and she'd more than willingly move so she was nestled snuggly in Artemis' arms.

Artemis would stay awake most of the night running a hand through Zoë's hair and occasionally pressing a kiss to her forehead or cheeks. She'd traced light gentle shapes on Zoë's skin until she could no longer stay awake.

It was rough that year after their first time together and neither was pleased but it was sufficient enough. Thankfully, the time came where they received a break.

Artemis requested Zoë's assistance on a particularly troublesome problem. Zoë left her designated second in charge and happily packed up her things to travel with Artemis.

"What is the trouble?" Zoë questioned as they set on their way.

"Something my father warned me of. Wolves, they travel through shadows." Artemis explained with a frown. Zoë nodded and, very subtle, reached out lacing their fingers together.

Artemis smiled faintly squeezing Zoë's hand. "Have you been alright?"

"Yes of course." Zoë nodded.

"I want you to be honest," Artemis spoke gently.

"I am. I just miss you, but I understand that priorities are more important." Artemis nodded in agreement and wrapped an arm around Zoë's waist.

"Thank you for accompanying me. I know I have been distant but I cannot help it. Know that I haven't forgotten about your own needs." Zoë felt a surge of admiration for the goddess. Always one to care for others' needs before her own. It was sweet and innocent in a way.