Heir of Spring

Interlude

Tamlin tried his best to ignore the chaos occurring around him, and instead soak up the last rays of sun before the sunset, watching Asta play with some little faeries in the shallows of the lake. Their eyes met and Asta grinned, beckoning him over. He smiled but shook his head. The last of the building today had thoroughly exhausted him, and he was content to watch others enjoy themselves. Seconds later he had tiny winged bodies prancing around him, with Asta's head blocking out the sun.

"Come on, Tam. We need equal teams." She, with the help of the children, pulled him up and guided him into the lake until he was submerged up to mid-calf. The children were eager to have him on their team, desperate for the advantage of his size and strength. He eventually threw himself into the game, getting thoroughly soaked in the process. Somewhere in the fray, the sun fell behind the hills, and the group slowed into a standstill, the faeries shivering in the sudden coolness of the air. Asta ushered them out of the water, instructing them to find some warm dry clothes when they get home.

When the faeries had dispersed, Asta and Tamlin began in the direction of home. 

"You should be proud," Asta turned to him as they weaved through the trees. "Of this." She gestured toward the thriving town on the other side of the forest. The sky glowed slightly from the lights that hadn't ceased with the sun. 

"I don't know about pride, but-" 

"Aw, c'mon." Asta grinned. "You're allowed to be a bit proud." She nudged Tamlin, and he smiled.

"There is still more to do, though." 

Asta nodded.

"Although, I was hoping..." They reached the cottage in the clearing. "I was hoping you could do that 'more' without me for a while." Tamlin's head snapped to Asta.

"You're- you're leaving?" 

"Not for long." Asta's eyes widened at the terrified look on Tamlin's face. "I'll come back, it's just, I want to go to the Dawn Court." She sighed. "I've heard stories of the winged Peregryns and the healers who defy death itself." A dreamy look overran Asta's face at the mere thought of the far-off court. "I could go to make connections, for Spring." She looked hopefully at Tamlin. "Please?" She followed Tamlin into the dining room, sliding into the chair opposite him. He slowly nodded.

"Of course you can go to Dawn. But this... connections thing. It is not a priority." Tamlin smiled.

"Oh. What is a priority?" 

"You. Exploring. Go and do what you need to do. Your Court will be waiting when you get back."

Asta tried to find words to express her feelings but instead opted for a crushing hug.

"I love you." 

"I love you too." 

***

I'm sorry this is so short! It kinda just makes sense to finish this chapter here. I'm looking forward to writing about the Dawn Court! I'm also thinking of adding in some new characters, so feel free to dm me some character ideas/names!