Jovari the Blue

Chapter 41: Leah's Feelings

Kastali Dun

Leah laughed as a spray of soapy water shot up into the air. Saffra swore under her breath, but it was too late, there was already water covering both their gowns. "Well, I tried," Saffra said, looking at the large pot that now bobbed in the big tub of sudsy water.

They were washing dishes now that breakfast was over.

She lifted her forearm to brush a strand of hair from her face that had come free, then together with Saffra and Jocelyn, they fished the large pot and maneuvered it over for easier washing. She went back to the remaining stack of plates, cleaning each with a soapy cloth before handing them off to Jocelyn to dry.

A group of people passed by and thanked them for breakfast, their eyes lingering over her the longest. It had taken a little getting used to—everyone's stares. Pink hair hadn't attracted too much attention back in Esterpine. Sprites were eccentric, some sporting unique hair colors of their own. Hers hadn't exactly shocked them.

What concerned her more was what she'd do when it started to grow out.

"They're just curious," Saffra said, noticing the way she watched the gawkers as they slipped past.

"What? Oh." She handed another plate off to Jocelyn. "Maybe I should just let my natural color grow out. It will attract far less attention."

"Nonsense!" Saffra hunched over the large pot, scrubbing. "I think bright hair suits you. I'd almost find it weird, now that I'm used to seeing it on you."

"Well, unless I can find more hair dye, I probably don't have a choice."

"I'm sure we could concoct something." Saffra hesitated, expression turning thoughtful.

"Saffra is excellent at magical brews," Jocelyn explained. "I bet she could make you whatever you need."

"Do you think you could make it purple instead of pink?" She sucked her lower lip between her teeth.

"Certainly. I'll have to experiment, but I'm confident I can come up with something."

"Come up with what?" Claire appeared and all of them paused.

"Hair dye," she said, taking in her friend's appearance. "You look better. Did you sleep okay?" She'd be lying if she said her bestie hadn't looked extra frazzled lately. It was a relief to see her looking slightly less exhausted.

"I did."

"Good!" She hesitated, then added, "Sorry I didn't come see you this morning. Saffra and Jocelyn looked a little frazzled and I wanted to help."

"She was a great help," Saffra said, finally wrestling the pot out of the water and back onto the table where she could dry it.

"No need to apologize. Hey...can we take a walk? Just the two of us?"

"Of course." She quickly dried her hands then looked at Jocelyn. "You'll be okay?"

"Certainly, I can handle the rest of this. You've already been a great help."

She couldn't help the soft smile that spread across her lips. "Good. I'm glad."

Linking their arms together, they said goodbye to the others and set off through the cavern towards the emptier areas around the perimeter. She caught sight of the command center, King Talon and several others, including Jovari, hovering over the giant table of maps as they discussed strategy. Claire followed her gaze and sighed.

"How are you holding up?" She bumped her bestie's shoulder.

"Oh, I'm managing," Claire said. "I was actually going to ask you the same question. You've seemed distant lately."