Legacy of Fire and Sand

Chapter 14: Paranoia and Distraction

The morning sun crept into Ashara's chambers, casting long shadows over her restless form. She lay awake, the threat from the letter gnawing at her peace of mind. The weight of her lineage and the danger it brought with it were becoming unbearable.

Nymeria stirred beside her, waking up with a sleepy smile. She reached out, her fingers lightly brushing Ashara's arm. "Good morning," she murmured, her voice still heavy with sleep.

Ashara forced a smile, turning to face Nymeria. "Good morning," she replied, her voice soft. "Did you sleep well?"

Nymeria nodded, her eyes brightening as she scooted closer, her hand resting on Ashara's waist. "I did. But you look like you haven't slept at all."

Ashara sighed, feeling the tension in her body. "Just a lot on my mind, Nymeria. It's nothing."

Nymeria frowned, her hand gently caressing Ashara's side. "You can tell me anything, you know. I want to help."

Ashara leaned into the touch, her heart aching with the desire to confide in Nymeria. But the risk was too great. She couldn't put her lover in danger. "I know," she said softly. "But some things are better left unsaid."

Nymeria's eyes searched Ashara's face, her concern evident. She leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to Ashara's lips. "Whatever it is, we'll face it together."

Ashara nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude. She needed to stay strong, to protect the people she cared about. "Thank you, Nymeria."

The two women got up, dressing quickly. Ashara needed to focus on her work, to distract herself from the fear that threatened to consume her. As they made their way to the common room, Nymeria stayed close, her presence a comforting anchor.

The brothel was already bustling with activity. Ashara threw herself into her duties, serving drinks and entertaining clients with her usual charm. She flirted with practiced ease, her laughter hiding the turmoil within.

"Here, drink this," she said, handing a flask to a client with a teasing smile. "It's better than that pisswater you have."

The woman raised an eyebrow, looking skeptical. "I just drank it, and I don't do poison, Princess. That's a woman's way... but perhaps you could prove your drink is safe by taking the first sip yourself?"

Nymeria, watching from nearby, giggled at the exchange. Ashara glanced at her, winking playfully before returning her attention to the client. "I can't say the same about myself," she retorted with a grin.

The client chuckled, taking the flask from her. "You're a bold one. I like that."

Ashara laughed, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Boldness is a necessity in my line of work, my lady."

As the day wore on, Ashara continued to charm her clients, using flirtation as a shield against her fears. Nymeria stayed close, their touches and whispered words providing a constant source of comfort.

In a quiet moment, Ashara found herself alone with Nymeria in a corner of the common room. Nymeria leaned in, her hand resting on Ashara's thigh. "Are you sure you're alright?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.