{|ACIV:BF|} Over and Out {1-on-1 rp}

The assassin girl had run off though Charlie didn’t get a good look at her aside from the fact that she had some ink on her arms and some messy brown hair. Anything more was obscured by white smoke. He allowed that girl to get away when he heard Mia shouting at him, if she was still here than there wasn’t a need to chase after the assassin. Nah, he’d had his fun for the day.

When the smoke cleared Mia was still standing there, leaning against the building and looking quite shocked. The color had drained from her face even. If this hadn’t been so serious Charlie might have teased her about it though he held his tongue. Mia might just snap at him and try to run away if he didn’t.

“Why?” he echoed, blinking slowly. “Because they were going to take little poppet away.”

More than that it would be leaving the Templars at a loss if the assassins got their hands on Mia. Charlie wasn’t about to face the consequences of letting that happen and once word spread about this he knew Mia might be moved for security reasons. If the assassins tried this once they’d surely try again; the only question would be as to when they would get brazen enough to.

“I’ve told you before, those assassins are rat-bastards, you can’t trust ‘em!” Charlie reasoned with a shrug. It didn’t seem to do much for Mia’s nerves however.

It would take quite some time to get her to come with him, back home. Even then Mia seemed to be keeping her distance from him, casting furtive glances all around. Charlie wasn’t sure why he felt a pang in his chest about that and he wasn’t sure how he was going to fix things. ’Surely she can’t be mad forever,’ Charlie reasoned.

----[x]----

She was already worn out before they’d set this plan into motion and she wasn’t at her best. Her feet felt heavy as she ran even when she heard no one giving chase. Karissa couldn’t let herself be caught, this wouldn’t be like the first time she’d been here. She had hidden the Piece of Eden from the Templars and was aligned with the assassins; no doubt they’d only torture information from her if they had the chance.

She clutched at her shoulder the entire time and dodged around people who looked at her funny. Her heart was hammering hard in her chest and she wasn’t sure where Daniel was. At this rate she just wanted to go back to Tulum, to forget this whole voyage out here and what had happened today. Even then she dreaded having to recount what had happened to Ah Tabai.

Someone calling out to her caught her attention and she blinked up to spot Daniel rushing to her side, already moving to help her walk. Her legs might not have been injured but it was getting hard to walk because of exhaustion and the shock.

“That brat showed up, shot me,” she told Daniel. Karissa ducked her head, hair hiding her face from view. If she could just sleep the next few days away, that would be better. “She’s not gonna come willingly…”

She let Daniel lead her the rest of the way. Occasionally he seemed to be trying to talk to her but it didn’t make much of an impression. Karissa was lost in her thoughts more times than not, broken away from them by pain when the wound throbbed or was jarred particularly badly.

At one point Karissa was sure she must have asked to go home to Tulum as soon as they could, sounding something like a child, but she received no answer. Or maybe she did, Karissa wasn’t hearing a lot of the things around her, too engrossed by other worries and thoughts.

Charlie had to press for her to follow initially. Even after, she kept a distance from him. She didn't let on that the one he shot was Karissa. That could only spell trouble for the woman if she did.

The days passed slowly after that. Mia couldn't motivate herself to do much. If it wasn't the thought of what Charlie had done, it was back to what Karissa had said. Her mind was muddled and confused. Often times, she'd wake at night and cry herself out until she fell asleep again.

She hadn't felt this isolated in a long time. It was clear that Charlie was taking concern to this. Mia wasn't sure how to respond to him. Not after what he'd done.

She sat at the window, gazing outside for a long while. Her thoughts drifted once again. Mia couldn't shake them no matter how hard she tried to. A heavy sigh left her as she laid her head against the glass.

"How did it end up like this?" she muttered to herself, "What am I supposed to do?"

She had no answers for either question and it wasn't as if she was getting any from the empty room. She closed her eyes, feeling exhausted. Once again, she was wishing for things to return to normal. It was a simple wish and one she knew would never be granted.

----[x]----

The weeks had passed slowly for Ah Tabai. Things went on like they normally did. Training was regular, activities were always the same. Still he couldn't shake some amount of worry that wormed it's way back into his head.

When he had received word on what had happened on the ship, a pang shot through him. The legends were confirmed to be true. He'd willingly put her in that situation.

For the time being, Ah Tabai had shoved it aside. When Karissa returned and they could speak, then he'd make sure she understood. Or at least, he prayed she would.

After that, it was just a matter of regulating routine. The month seemed to pass slowly regardless of what was going on within Tulum. Word of the ships return was a relief.

He glanced up when he spotted several of the crew returning deep into the village. He spared a smile, approaching them.

"You look glum, Daniel," he pointed out carefully, watching the man pass by.

"Things didn't got exactly as planned. I'd speak with Karissa if I were you. No one can really get through to her."

Ah Tabai's gaze fell onto the female at that warning. Indeed, she hung her head low and looked worse off. There was no sign of a happy face or her friend. From it looked like, the only success was the relic, if he could even call it that.

"How are you, mi'lady?" he greeted, hoping that this might pick her up a little. No doubt, they would have much to speak of.

Charlie didn’t know what the problem was. When he’d asked Mia just ignored him or shook her head even when he pointed out that he couldn’t help if he didn’t know what was going on. It had to do with that assassin girl and he regretted going after the others that had stalled him.

’What had she told Mia?’ The thought concerned him, especially so if it meant Mia was going to turn traitor. She was growing comfortable with him and might’ve been more inclined to share information with him and the other Templars. Now he was back to square one, maybe even farther. Mia had long since locked herself in her room, especially so when she’d been told that her living arrangements were being assessed and would most likely change in time.

When he knocked on her door he received no answer and today had been no difference. Charlie had heaved a sigh and gone out to the front porch, the rickety wood creaking beneath his boots. What more could he do? It wasn’t like he had any idea what’d been said while he’d been fighting off those other assassins.

Eventually Charlie heaved a sigh and took to scaling the side of his house. It wasn’t too hard, not with all the practice he’d gotten over the years with it. He’d always been a rambunctious child and climbing places he shouldn’t had been one such thing. Now he put those skills to use.

Before he’d even reached Mia’s window he could see her peering out of it. The pane of glass was still closed, probably to make it quieter in there or to keep bugs out. It was hard to say right now. Nonetheless Charlie reached up to rap his knuckles on the window carefully and grinned cheekily when she started, blinking at him as if he was some monster.

----[x]----

Despite being eager to get off this ship and away from the wary and hostile looks Karissa was one of the last to exit the ship when they reached Tulum. Instead she’d busied herself with making sure she had what she’d originally brought with her. She’d gone over these things time and again until Daniel had come to see her off with him, even then she’d dragged her feet a little. Part of her was afraid that everyone around Tulum would mimic the attitudes of those on board after she’d picked up that relic.

She’d followed far behind Daniel, eyes cast on the path. She could hear familiar sounds around Tulum from animals to people. They did little to calm her and it wasn’t until Ah Tabai’s voice rang out did she glance up. It was a brief affair as a pang rang through her chest and she cast her gaze elsewhere.

“I’m…“ The pause that followed was one that Karissa took to mull it over. Saying she was fine wouldn’t do much good, she was apparently easy to read and Daniel had said he’d sent word back by carrier pigeon when she’d gone mad. Finally, Karissa said, “Tired. I’m just… tired.”

It wasn’t until Ah Tabai gestured for her to lift her gaze did Karissa do so. She respected Ah Tabai too much not to even when she’d rather not. She was glad that her hair was long enough to fall into her face, hiding away that damn eye that started this mess.

’That’s not true. The Piece of Eden you picked up started it,’ she thought. She pushed it away quickly after.

“Mia’s still in Havana. I… I couldn’t convince her to come,” she admitted softly, unsure of what else to say. Ah Tabai seemed to be intent on studying her as it was. It took several seconds before Karissa realized she’d taken to clutching her shoulder, the wound in need of cleaning and the bandage changed.

Mia's thoughts were clouded. She didn't like the idea of being re-located somewhere else. Everything was already unfamiliar to her. She was doubting what she'd seen in the last couple of months.

She didn't know what to do with herself. Had she made the wrong decision for herself, the right one? It all seemed so foggy. She couldn't really tell for herself.

Mia blinked when she heard the rapping on her window. It hadn't taken her long to find Charlie had climbed up wall so he might catch her attention. She had ignored the knocking on her door, after all.

She stared down at him for a long moment. That cheeky grin would have been something that eased her days before. Now it only made her wonder. Regardless of that, she got up and opened the window.

"What are you doing?" she asked, her tone flat. She was surprised at how groggy she sounded, "You'll hurt yourself Charlie."

She stepped back, allowing him to slip inside. The last thing she wanted was him falling because she didn't let him in.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai waited on Karissa to speak. She seemed exhausted, broken even. It hadn't taken him long to put the pieces together. Her friend was not following, there was a heaviness surrounding the crew. Anyone would have been blind not to realize how badly the condition was.

Eventually she did speak up. Her voice sounded quiet even then. Ah Tabai recalled when she first arrived here. She'd never been this bad before.

"I see," he answered, "I suppose that would be a given."

He motioned for her to lift her head. He couldn't stand it hanging so low. Ah Tabai wouldn't inquire as to why. It might have been her eye at this rate. He'd read the letter that was sent. Things hadn't gone so well.

"I assumed as such," he said when she spoke of her friend, "That is another matter to be attended to, mi'lady. You do not look so well."

She clutched to her shoulder as if in pain. Ah Tabai motioned to follow him. He would take her to where he resided most days. She was clearly injured. He would take a look if she didn't mind it.

"We can speak in private, mi'lady," he finally offered, "You look as if you need to be off your feet."

Charlied waited as Mia blinked at him, looking marginally surprised as she did so. It wasn’t like she’d ever seen him climb up the side of a building before, she probably hadn’t expected him to do just that. ’Well, you were ignorin’ me,’ he reasoned silently at that thought. Charlie didn’t quite like being ignored and having so many days go by with just that happening had ground on his nerves, a feeling of hurt seeping in along the way.

It took Mia a while but she eventually opened the window, allowing Charlie to more easily and safely hang from the sill. He could stand to do this for a short while at least, maybe then she’d stop being so holed up like this. When she mentioned hurting himself Charlie risked waving a hand dismissively at that.

“I’ll be fine. You though? Nah, you aren’t doin’ so great, poppet,” Charlie noted. He waited then, resting his chin on his arms and feeling like a little boy at the dinner table, trying to peer over the top of the too tall furniture.

Even when Mia moved back a little, giving him enough room to come in Charlie remained hanging there for several minutes. He could only guess that’s why she’d moved anyways, maybe she just didn’t want to be near him anymore. That thought hurt more than Charlie thought it would, a great stabbing in his heart leaving a little concerned.

“C’mon, where’s that smile, eh?” The prod did little good though no one could blame Charlie for trying. At least he didn’t think they could.

----[x]----

Karissa didn’t know what she’d been expecting from Ah Tabai. The understanding response she got surprised her nonetheless, on some level she’d been prepared for disappointment or worse. In a way the lack of it made it worse and she found herself at a lack of words.

Confusion sparked in her, pushing away some of the other feelings she’d harbored for the duration of the voyage back. Ah Tabai was taking this all well, motioning for her to follow him. Maybe he’d already assumed the worst, Karissa couldn’t say. She was quiet for a moment even when she started after Ah Tabai, her feet feeling heavy.

“Oh, umm… if you say so,” she finally managed to say. Karissa couldn’t deny that she’d rather be sleeping now, at least then she’d be able to forget about all of this.

There wasn’t that familiar weight around her neck anymore, no necklace there to toy with. The vial she’d had there, a gift from Mia, was now somewhere on the sea floor. Karissa regretted throwing the thing over the side of the ship on the way out of Havana but there wasn’t much more she could do about it now. That old gift from Mia was long gone now even when she’d rather have something to toy with in her hands while she tried to piece herself back together again.

It wasn’t a long walk to where Ah Tabai led her. Along the way Karissa noted a few curious looks their way but nothing more, it wasn’t too strange to see someone injured around here either by accident or having received one from a freshly finished mission. It left her and Ah Tabai uninterrupted for the moment.

Charlie didn't come inside her room instead favored dangling out her window. It was a strange sight but she thought nothing of it. This was just how Charlie was.

His words were quick and she felt a bit of a pang run through her. The days that had been bothering her for several days hit her again. She rubbed her forehead, her frown tightening.

"I guess I'm not..." she muttered in return. She was worse for wear and they both knew it. Mia still wasn't sure how to respond to Charlie however.

She glanced at him when he prodded for a smile. She couldn't bring herself to do it, feeling so glum. Those worries came about once more. She shuffled her weight, looking at something else.

"The assassin..." she finally started slowly. Her voice sounded a little flat, "She said that you're only kind to me to gain information."

That had only been part of what was bothering her. Mia couldn't get over the fact that he'd shot Karissa. From what she could tell though, he didn't even know who it was. She shook her head after that, stealing some amount of courage.

"So is that it?" she pressed, "Do you really care about me or are you just using me to gain information for the Templars?"

----[x]----

He knew the weight that was on her shoulders was heavy. Not only had she discovered what the Misfortune Children were really feared for, her friend had not come with her. Ah Tabai didn't ask to go into detail. Not out here where there were others to witness it.

He allowed her inside first. She would find a place where she could be comfortable. Ah Tabai was already grabbing fresh bandages and something to fight infection.

"I suppose you were injured in Havana?" he asked, sparing her a glance, "How is your shoulder, mi'lady?"

Only when she had explained did he sit down. He motioned for her to pull her hand away from the wound. "I will re-dress it, if you do not mind."

Ah Tabai studied her for a moment. She seemed to avoid looking at him fully. Was she ashamed of herself or was it something else? He could only wait on her to speak up on the matter.

"If you need to speak of it, I will listen," he said, "I am not angry at you, mi'lady. These things, they happen."

He was aware on the grip the Templars had on her friend. That had been two months to convince her to sway to their side if need be. It was a disappointment but there was little they could do unless they were taking her by force.

When she answered it was just a little louder than a mumble and Charlie had to strain his ears to hear her. He resisted shaking his head at that, something like that might just make her shy away further. It was already enough of a problem as things were and Charlie was going to at least try and not make things worse. Of course that was if he could help from putting his foot in his mouth.

Charlie didn’t get much time to say anything before she decided to speak again. He listened attentively, noting that even when she sounded so lifeless she was still choosing her words carefully. Perhaps his long silence that followed didn’t help matters either.

Finally, he shrugged. “Well, poppet, I could tell you that it’s all lies but I really don’t think you’d believe that no matter what the truth is.” It was a simple answer and one he felt was true enough. If she believed this assassin’s words after how many months she’d been at Charlie’s side—no matter how good or bad those times had been—then the doubt had to have been there to begin with anyways.

His arms were beginning to grow sore from holding up his weight though he didn’t pull himself into her room yet. At this rate she might very well snap at him and start throwing things. She had yet to show that kind of a temper but Charlie would rather be safe rather than sorry. Besides, it wasn’t too long of a drop down to the ground from here. It wasn’t like the house was big.

“’Sides, isn’t that the same of anyone you meet?” he finally offered.

----[x]----

It wasn’t a long walk to the hut Ah Tabai called his own, not when they were already more or less in the heart of Tulum when he’d approached her. It was a quiet walk, leaving Karissa to her thoughts again and she found her gaze had drifted downwards yet again. She wasn’t sure when that had happened, or maybe it had been a gradual thing.

Ah Tabai speaking up was what broke her from those thoughts and she blinked at him like a deer in headlights for a second before nodding wordlessly. He was already fishing out a roll of bandages, perhaps prepared for worse than a gunshot, before she’d finished telling him that it was a simple wound. Still, gunshots in this time period were pretty nasty things even if society had yet to truly harness the power of firearms.

“No, I-I don’t mind,” she managed to say, moving to sit with Ah Tabai where he would have easy access to the wound. The bullet hadn’t passed through though it had already been fished out long before they’d left Havana despite the rush they’d been in; Daniel had seen to that.

She was quiet for a long moment after he pressed for her to say something. It was almost a relief to have something else to focus on, feeling a little embarrassed at having to remove her top for Ah Tabai to clean and redress the wound. At least her back was to him and she could easily cover her front with her clothes while he worked, she reasoned trying to feel a little less bashful about it. When her wound was jarred it helped to banish that shyness at least. Only when she’d done this did she shake her head, still feeling no closer to having an actual answer for him.

“Thank you, but I’m not even really sure where to start,” she finally mumbled. There was much on her mind and she had no idea how to even vocalize all of it, whenever she thought of trying the words seemed to fail her.

Mia stood rooted in her spot, waiting on him to answer her. Charlie was quiet for a long time. That unnerved her a little. Did she ask something that was too much? Or was it something else.

When he finally did answer, she glanced at him again. For a moment, she mulled over the passed few weeks. From their little arguments, prods, to the admittance of his jealously when she commented about Hilary Flint.

Maybe she'd been doubting too much. Maybe Karissa really was wrong about his intentions.

She shook her head, watching him again. Mia wasn't quite sure what he meant by his last comment. Was everyone really like that?

"What do you mean?" she asked.

For a long moment, she paused again. She debated telling him the truth about who he had harmed. It was obvious Charlie didn't recognize her at the time. She heaved a heavy sigh.

"You shot Karissa..." she finally said, "You shot my friend..."

----[x]----

Karissa had looked a little hesitant on the matter but eventually relented in allowing him to dress her wound. He figured it wasn't too bad otherwise she might have been worse for wear. Ah Tabai found relief in that much.

He sat down behind her, glancing over the wound. It didn't look so bad. Someone had seen that the bullet was removed and the wound cleaned. From tugging the old bandages off, he was able to examine it clear.

"Start where you wish," he replied, "Or simply speak of what is on your mind."

He left her to mull over those words, instead favoring studying the tattoos on her back. She had many of them hidden away, most rather elaborate, far beyond what people could do here.

He read over the words on her back carefully, mulling over them. Only afterward did she start to dress the wound. Ah Tabai guessed that those words might have had some meaning to her.

"The tattoo on your back," he brought up instead, "Do they hold meaning to you? That is an interesting bit of words to brand yourself with."

Mia didn’t seem to know what to make of his words. Charlie watched her expression, imagining all the thoughts that must be flitting through her head now. It was quiet in that time, at least between them. Below and around him Charlie could hear all kinds of sounds that came with living in Havana—none of those noises meant anything to him right now.

When she finally asked for an elaboration Charlie shrugged. “Just what I said, someone sees a guy and they walk up to him ‘cause they want something. Could be somethin’ innocent like friendship or could be somethin’ more selfish.”

That was the way Charlie had always seen it anyways. It didn’t matter to him if he was being used when he thought of it like that so long as he got something out of it in the long run. The world would be a much simpler place if everyone thought that, at least that’s how Charlie felt on the matter.

Mia was quiet again for a long time but when she spoke it wasn’t to say what Charlie might have expected her to say. His eyebrow rose, as if of its own accord, at this new information. ’So her little friend’s gone assassin, eh?’ he mulled.

With another shrug Charlie said, “Oh, well. She was trying to take little poppet away.” This might have been the wrong thing to say, he realized that a second after he said it.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai had waited patiently before he’d started on removing the old bandages, his movements seeming careful. As he worked he answered her. Listening to him speak now reminded Karissa of just how much she had loved hearing him talk, a strange sense of calm washing over her as she listened. She wasn’t sure how he managed it but sine she’d stepped foot in Tulum just listening to Ah Tabai seemed to help calm her.

Despite this words still failed her even as she tried to think of where best to start. Perhaps there wasn’t a good start. It was sometime after Karissa thought that did she begin to lose focus again though not necessarily into her own thoughts.

Ah Tabai’s touch was gentle as he’d gone about cleaning the wound and inspecting it. A prod here or there caused it to throb angrily but otherwise he did little to agitate the area. After he’d seemed to have finished with that task he lingered still however, causing Karissa to grow curious. His light touch was still there though it had halted, something Karissa found she didn’t quite like. She’d grown a little fond of the feeling even if the situation that called for it wasn’t ideal. It wasn’t until he’d spoken up again did she realize what had caught his attention.

“Well, yeah,” she started slowly. This was probably the first time he’d asked about her tattoos since the assassin insignia one she’d sported had been showed to him.

For a moment she debated saying more. If nothing else it was a distraction from everything else. Before she’d come to a decision Ah Tabai had finished redressing the wound—it had been small and didn’t need quite so much to hide it away—his hands dropping from her shoulder and back then. It was then that Karissa leaned backward, tipping her head up to blink up at him.

“I don’t like the idea of regretting any of my tattoos, so… I try to make them mean something to me,” she admitted, realizing it was probably the first time she’d told anyone that.

Mia studied him as he explained his words. Even then, she couldn't make sense of them. Maybe it was her muddled mind or his process in thought. She couldn't quite say. Instead, she merely shook her head.

"I don't understand..." she finally replied, trailing off.

She glanced elsewhere, finding her mind no less clear at her confessions. There wasn't much she could do. There were still many regrets and worries in her head.

Charlie's words struck deep. She glanced at him again, a hard frown tugging at her lips. Still, she couldn't find any reason to argue with him. Karissa had come to take her to Tulum. No doubt she hadn't imagined Mia's resistance.

"It doesn't matter," she finally replied, her gaze falling to her feet, "I doubt she'll want to see me again as it is."

She'd always agreed with the assassins. Knowing Mia had decided to stay with Charlie probably crushed her. Mia understood that and it weighed on her more than she wanted to admit.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai finished with dressing her wound, pushing the old bandages elsewhere for the time. He would clean the rest of it up later one. Her wound hadn't bled too much after it had been cleaned initially but it still looked uncomfortable.

"That is the best I can do for now," he explained, "I recommend staying away from the water. A bit of salt water will burn, no doubt."

He'd seen some make that mistake. They'd forgotten about a deep wound or tried to ignore it. Jumping in the water was the last mistake they made before they ran back out. It was a painful experience.

"I would imagine you chose carefully," he replied, "The words on your back, they certainly hold much meaning."

He studied some of the others. There were many of them, one that he caught on her leg. She seemed proud of these images all over her body. Many would have been, proudly showing them off.

"What do some of these others mean, if I may ask mi'lady?" he inquired, studying the ink.

Briefly, Ah Tabai wondered how whoever had done them managed to get splash of color in some of them. He'd never seen anything like that. Dark, black ink brandishing some was all he'd ever witnessed.

Charlie didn’t know what he’d hoped for but at least she wasn’t pushing him out of the window. He pulled himself up, swinging his legs inside though did not come in any further. Instead he remained seated on that windowsill. If she started throwing things at him he’d rather have a quick escape and she’d locked that door.

No matter how confused she was Mia was at least thinking though she didn’t look any better. He wasn’t sure anything he said was going to fix that, if he was honest with himself. It really did look like he was back at square one with her and that thought hurt.

Now wasn’t the time for brooding about that though.

“Well, not much to do about that!” He ignored the look he got for that. “Can’t fix anything now that the rat bastards’ve run off, you know.”

It really was as simple as that. Perhaps the next time they met Mia might be able to sway Karissa to the Templars but if not then it might be easier to dispatch her entirely. Charlie would just have to wait and see, he wasn’t even sure if he was going to still be watching Mia after this. Word had yet to be sent to him and he could only assume decisions haven’t been made yet.

“Why get all broody about this anyways? You’re not makin’ things easy on yourself,” Charlie prodded.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai had announced when he’d finished the task and followed up with a few reminders. It wasn’t a lot and really, Karissa was in no mood to go jumping into the ocean soon anyways. This topic didn’t last long before it had shifted to her tattoos. This preoccupied Karissa and she was grateful for it. It had been a long voyage back with her thoughts and feelings over what had happened.

She didn’t feel a need to tug her shirt back on just yet when she was still covered, or perhaps she was too preoccupied to think of it just yet. Karissa latched onto this conversation as it was, glad for something to keep her mind off of things. Maybe that was what Ah Tabai intended, she couldn’t be sure.

“Yeah, designing it took a while too,” she admitted further. The tattoo artist had only been able to do so much after all and it as this that Karissa had to work around though it had turned out for the best she thought.

When Ah Tabai questioned more about her tattoos a bit of flattery wormed its way into her. Not many asked about her tattoos, not unless it had been Mia. She shook that away before it could worm its way into her head and settle there with all the other things Karissa had taken to dwelling on lately.

“Well, the dragon is one my sisters and I all got together and this one—“ She paused to show one on the inside of her arm, a homage to another game entirely. “—was from another story, the character was African and the word means ‘warrior’.”

She’d leaned back to show off the ones on her arm a little better, the other keeping her shirt pressed up against her chest for the time being. If Ah Tabai minded that she’d leaned back against him he didn’t show it, if anything he seemed more curious of the ink she was showing him than anything else.

Charlie's attitude wasn't something that she was unfamiliar with but it ground on her. It hurt more ways then she could explain. She crossed the room, sitting down onto the bed.

She felt dizzy with emotions again. There was a lot she was fretting over, one thing after another. His announcement days earlier certainly didn't help. Knowing that she might end up somewhere different with someone else crushed her.

"Have you heard anything about if I'll be moved?" she asked instead, resting her chin in the palm of her hand.

The thought itself hurt deeply. Mia already knew why. Despite her initial anger toward him for harming Karissa, she still cared for him. That wasn't hard to shake. He had his misgivings. Everyone did.

"I don't have anything left," she finally explained, "All I have is you..."

Mia didn't want to leave if she could help it. She stayed because she wanted to be near him. Things might have gotten desperate, she might have had another down, but she didn't want to leave. She wasn't even sure she had a choice in that matter at all.

----[x]----

The talk of her tattoos seemed to settle her a little more. Ah Tabai was glad for this. If it kept her mind off of what had happened, he couldn't find reason to worry. She needed someone to support her for the moment.

Already, she was showing him her arm, explaining what each little piece of work meant. Carefully, he reached out, letting his fingers trace the symbol that meant 'warrior'.

"You seemed inspired," he brought up, letting his hand fall back into his lap, "Did any of these others come from a story or were they of your own invention?"

He would have been lying if he claimed they didn't interest him. He found himself rather intrigued by what she had to tell of them. As she went on, he made sure to lis

ten to every detail. When she was in the midst of explaining, someone entered the hut quickly.

Daniel's voice rang out,"Oh," "Apologies. I didn't meant to interrupt."

Ah Tabai could here Daniel clear his throat awkwardly. A chuckle left him as he glanced up at the other assassin. He looked as if he'd walked into something worse.

"No need," Ah Tabai replied, "We were merely speaking of lighter things."

Charlie watched quietly as Mia finally sat down on the bed. There was no way he had to tell if she was getting better or not, from the looks of it he’d say ‘no’ though. It was a strong urge to shake his head though he did his best to resist it. Mia might take that the wrong way and get worse again.

There was little surprise when Mia asked about her living arrangements. It was a topic of concern, even for him. Charlie could not resist the sigh that escaped him then.

“Nope,” he admitted simply. “Draggin’ their feet on that matter.”

While Charlie expected silence as a response what he got was something different. His brow furrowed as she admitted what she thought and his heart seemed to skip a beat for some reason. Shoving that to the side—he could mull over that later—Charlie tried to think of how best to reassure her. She’d have tons of stuff no matter where she was, that was for sure. She’d be treated fine wherever the grand master decided to have her placed.

Maybe it was more than that, he realized. Mia didn’t seem too materialistic, after all. That thought made things hard, it’d be difficult to pick her mood up if that was the case. Charlie was starting to come to a loss as to what to say or do about all of this.

“Well… not like we had you goin’ out and meeting folks,” Charlie pointed out. Maybe if they did that she’d be less broken up now; Charlie kicked himself for that.

----[x]----

There was a stretch of silence that passed was a comfortable one. Ah Tabai had taken to tracing the shuuja tattoo, his touch gentle. It was all too soon when he dropped his hand back to his side. He still seemed thoughtful about what he was being told and Karissa left him to those, waiting patiently for him to say more.

“That’s the first I’ve heard that said,” Karissa told him, feeling a little flattered by it. She gestured to the rabbit tattoo on her leg then and carried on; “This is the only other one that came from a story but I designed it too.”

She continued on, trying to explain the story of Okami as best that she could though without visuals Karissa wasn’t sure if she was getting everything described right. All the same Ah Tabai didn’t seem to mind, instead he listened patiently even when she’d moved on to talk about a different tattoo. Karissa liked telling him these things, she found, especially when it kept her mind off of everything else.

This was interrupted partway through Karissa’s explanation of a little clover tattoo by the hut’s door opening a familiar voice already ringing out before interrupting itself. Karissa blinked up at Daniel who stood in the doorway, looking a little sheepish at walking in on nothing. Karissa glanced down and resituated her shirt, as if any of her chest had been in view at all. ’Oh…’

Ah Tabai seemed to take it in stride as he chuckled, waving away Daniel’s awkward reply. She took the time to twist around, trying to keep her back to Ah Tabai and Daniel as she tugged on her shirt finally. It wasn’t like she had any more tattoos hidden under it to show Ah Tabai now anyways. Still, her face was feeling warm now.

“Mentor was asking about my tattoos,” Karissa provided, glad that her hair was long enough to shield much of it from view.

Mia's heart dropped a little at the news. No word just left her a little more anxious on what news might come. Sometimes she wished it could just be done with. If it was quick and painless, she could at least prepare for the aftermath that followed.

"I see," she finally replied, her tone a little glum.

It wasn't as if she was being transferred to some prison. Still, that's what it felt like. Some place else with someone new? She didn't care for the thought at all.

She glanced up at Charlie, judging his reaction. For a moment, he almost looked unsure of himself. Mia didn't read into why. If there was some reason, maybe he'd bring it up in time.

Mia gave a little shrug in response to his words. "It wasn't as if I showed much interest myself," she added. Most days when they wandered, she didn't stray far from his side.

She say and brooded over the possibilities for a moment. Shifting, she listened to the creak of the bed. If things were going to change than their time might be limited.

"I know it sounds strange," she started, if a little hesitant, "But...could I stay with you tonight? I don't...I don't want to be alone anymore."

In all honesty, she was afraid of being on her own too much longer. While she isolated herself, she knew it wasn't doing her any good. Mia couldn't stand it anymore. Angry or not, there was no point in making herself feel worse. Especially so if she wasn't going to be seeing him anymore.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai took a lot of interest in the stories behind each little image. She put deep meaning in them, even those that already had a story. Her reasons behind them were so intriguing.

Before she could go on. Daniel had entered. The awkwardness in the air was thick. Ah Tabai shook his head, chuckling a little. Karissa had quickly put her shirt back on, turning away from them.

"Yes," he added, "She has quite a few interesting ones."

"Is that right?" Daniel replied, "We didn't have much time to talk of such things. You certainly have some secrets left to be unraveled, hmm?"

It was obvious that Daniel was trying to brush off his awkwardness. Ah Tabai waved it off rather easily. He found himself close with Karissa, some amount of fond feelings buried deep despite his loses in the past.

"Is there something you needed?" Ah Tabai asked.

"I just wanted to make sure Karissa was alright," Daniel said, motioning toward her, "We've had it rough but I believe Karissa had suffered the most..."

Having only heard a little of the story, Ah Tabai could believe it. He knew there must have been some heartache, returning without her friend. The trip had been worse than Ah Tabai expected. He didn't speak up on that matter however.

Nothing seemed to do much to help Mia’s mood. Charlie could only wait in the silence that followed, judging her reaction carefully. It was hard to see in here with how dim the lighting was. Mia hadn’t lit any candles or oil lamps and he was blocking one of the only windows into this room, the curtains drawn on the other. Perhaps she’d been trying to sleep all of this off in the days that had passed.

Eventually she did answer, admitting that she was partly to blame for all that too. Charlie didn’t let it show but that was a relief on his shoulders too. Part of him thought he’d screwed up royally. Perhaps the decision the grand master would make would be lighter if he realized that…

“Well, just gonna have to work on that, poppet,” Charlie said with a shrug. There wasn’t much more he could do about it and besides she was too broken up over this whole thing. If she’d branched out maybe that wouldn’t have been the case.

Charlie sat quietly again, bobbing his leg up and down. He was a little antsy if he had to admit that to himself. Still, he composed himself as best he could, years of practice coming in handy for that. He might not be the calmest person in the world but he could at least keep his bearing.

When she spoke up next Charlie found himself surprised. He would have thought that she’d want nothing to do with him when he’d attacked her friend. Maybe she was more vulnerable than he thought.

“I don’t see why not,” he answered finally.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai was calm for something that could be so easily misconstrued, Karissa supposed that came with age. Daniel seemed to appreciate this too, even as he scrambled to gain his bearings back. It was a little surprising to her to find that Karissa had composed herself quicker than he did—she guessed it had something to do with how she knew nothing had been happening.

Only when her shirt was back on did she turn around again, still seated near Ah Tabai. She wasn’t too eager to get moving around even if she did need to get ready to start training again once the injury healed all the way. There would at least be plenty of time to try to occupy herself with learning via books or word of mouth.

“I guess you could say that,” she relented. Karissa wasn’t much to look at, at least she didn’t think so but then maybe that was just her opinion on the matter.

When asked Daniel mentioned why he’d come looking for them. The reminder stabbed deep though she tried to ignore it. That endeavor proved to be a difficult task after she’d finally managed something to take her mind off of things, even if it was only briefly. Karissa supposed it couldn’t have lasted forever.

“I’m just… tired,” she said, ignoring the look she received for it. It was the same excuse she’d used time and again as the days had passed. Karissa had little doubt that Daniel was tired of hearing it by now. “I’m sorry if I’ve been worrying you…”

It was a little strange to think these two were trying so hard to help her through this. Karissa was used to being left to her own devices, well aware that she was difficult to deal with when she got upset. The change of pace wasn’t so bad though, it made her feel a little more accepted and cared for after everything that had happened.

It wasn't Charlie's fault that she hadn't exactly explored when she had the chance. That would have given her manner of meeting people as well. Instead, she remained stubborn for many weeks. After that, she let Charlie lead.

She wished she would have been a little less difficult. She wouldn't have been if she knew this was going to be how things ended up. Of all things this Misfortune's Children business was giving her, it could have at least hinted her on what would happen with Karissa.

"I'm sure we will," she answered a little softly.

Mia rubbed at her forehead, her head throbbing in pain. She was glad the curtains were drawn, leaving the room dark. She'd tried so hard to sleep but it never seemed to come.

When he finally answered her, she spared him a tired smile. At least he didn't outright deny her request. Mia didn't want to admit how hurt that would have made her.

"Alright," she finally replied, "Thank you, Charlie."

That request was probably confusing to him. She didn't want to go into detail unless he needed on. Maybe he'd come to his own conclusions. She couldn't tell at the given moment.

"I'm just so tired," she finally carried on, "But I can't sleep."

----[x]----

Ah Tabai glanced back toward Karissa. She seemed to flinch when reminded about what she had endured. He hoped in time, that could be put behind her. She was not a monster. He knew that more than herself, it seemed.

He waved Daniel off rather easily. The young man was concerned for Karissa. Ah Tabai was happy to hear that. At least someone would be looking after her in these troubling times.

"You look exhausted," Daniel replied, concern flickering passed his expression, "You should rest soon. You need it."

"I will see to it that she does," Ah Tabai said, "I believe she merely needs to clear her mind, yes?"

Daniel nodded, a smile slipping onto his lips. It held a knowing kind of look to it. Ah Tabai didn't make a comment on that smile, there was no need to. He had an idea of what Daniel was thinking.

"Well, I'll leave you to it then," he said, "Good evening to you both."

Ah Tabai waved to Daniel's goodbye. No doubt they would talk more some other time. Ah Tabai needed to hear about what had happened on the ship in more detail. Instead, he shoved that aside and turned to Karissa.

"I apologize," he said, sparing her a small smile, "Perhaps we might pick up where we left off? Or would you rather rest, mi'lady?"

Mia didn’t sound too sure of this plan though there was little Charlie could do about that now. Maybe if he was lucky he’d still be able to watch Mia and be with her on occasion, at least he hoped so. It was a hope he kept to himself however; there wasn’t much point in worrying Mia further with all of this soppy business that had swept over him today.

Carefully he stood from the windowsill, approaching her bed. The mattress sunk under his weight as he removed his hat and hung it on the bedpost. It hung at an odd angle and looked to be in danger of falling off completely though he didn’t bother to fix it. If it fell then it fell, there were more important matters to attend to right now.

“Don’t worry about it, poppet,” he murmured, leaning back and using his hands as a makeshift pillow. “Just lay down, all right? Most we can do is try.”

If nothing else he’d be here even if she didn’t get any sleep but he’d rather she try. She looked dead tired, dark circles under her eyes. If things weren’t so serious he might’ve taken to teasing her about them.

“If you can’t sleep we can just lay here and talk,” he promised.

----[x]----

She must have looked worse off than she thought if Daniel was agreeing that she needed to rest this time. Karissa couldn’t deny that she was tired, any sleep she’d gotten on the way to Tulum had been restless, filled with bad dreams. When she was awake Karissa didn’t care to try to recall any of them if she could help it.

There was little time for her to respond, Ah Tabai had beat her to it, promising Daniel that he’d see to things for the time being. She didn’t have to wonder long about that smile Daniel spare them—it was the type of smile that had an all-knowing implication behind it. Her face felt a little warmer at that, recalling the time he’d confronted her about her less than clandestine feelings for the mentor.

All the same she spared a half-hearted wave as Daniel left, closing the door behind him. Karissa had to wonder what he was making of all of this before Ah Tabai spoke up. She blinked at him, offering a small shrug afterwards. She had missed talking to him since she’d been away but she hadn’t realized just how much; still, she needed her rest too.

“I should probably try to sleep…” She rubbed at her arm, not bothering to move just yet. Karissa didn’t fancy another night alone, left to those memories distorted all the worse by her dreams. “… I’d rather not be alone though…”

Maybe he could guess why and if he could Karissa would prefer it that way. She wasn’t exactly fond of admitting it any further, feeling like a little kid in some way already.

Charlie was quiet for a long few minutes. She couldn't bring herself to ask what was on his mind. He'd gotten very quiet in these passed few days. Even his efforts to get her out of her room had dulled, his voice not holding the same teasing tone as it had before.

Whatever was on his mind seemed to be pushed aside for the moment. He started toward her, quickly laying on her bed. Mia looked down at him as he got comfortable. He was extending quite a bit of effort now and for that, she was grateful.

She felt her cheeks warm a little. The room was still dark so she had doubts that he could see it. It took a moment before she laid beside him.

"I wish it was so easy," she said quietly, "But I'll try."

He was right in that regard. All she could do was try. Maybe she'd have a different result with him so near. She hoped that was the case.

Mia took to toying with his sleeve just for something to keep busy. If she drifted to sleep like that, she wouldn't have minded. He was warm and for once, she didn't mind the heat. She'd felt cold for several days, a familiar feeling when she was distressed.

"Why'd you want to be a pirate, Charlie?" she finally asked in favor of keeping the conversation going. She hadn't asked much about his past as it was. Maybe it would help clear her clouded mind.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai let her think over what she wanted to do. She had a freedom to do whatever she wanted. If she didn't want to sleep, he wouldn't force her to. For all he knew, she could have many things on her mind.

The tint on her cheeks was finally fading. The way Daniel had smiled must have gotten through to her easily as well. Then again, maybe it was something more. He didn't inquire on it.

When she finally came to a decision, he nodded in response. What he hadn't expected were the words after.

"Have you been having nightmares, mi'lady?" he inquired.

This wasn't so much of a surprise to him. The Misfortune's Children were said to be plagued with dreams. They had no control over them, simply had to live with those dreams. He couldn't imagine something like that.

Ah Tabai rose to his feet, motioning toward her. Ordinarily, he wouldn't extend this kind of forwardness but with Karissa, it was different. There was something about her he'd grown fond of.

"Come," he said, "If you can not sleep alone, you will stay here for the night. I am sure you might find some restful sleep here."

He knew very well that she took some kind of comfort out of his presence. She needed that now and he wouldn't deny it. This was the only thing Ah Tabai could offer in the ways of comfort.

He spared a quick glance back down at her. "Well?" he prodded, "You are not bashful, are you?"

Mia hesitated about trying to get some sleep but she wasn’t doing herself any favors staying up like this. If Charlie had to he’d sleep with her like this every night if it meant she had an easier time sleeping. He couldn’t deny that he liked the idea of her snuggled up into his side either though that seemed inappropriate right now, at least when Mia was so vulnerable it was inappropriate and Charlie knew it.

Eventually she’d lain near him, reaching out to tug and toy at his sleeve. Charlie didn’t mind this even if it made it hard to get lost in thought. If it kept Mia happy then he’d allow it, for now she needed something to pick her up.

“Eh?” He blinked at her for a minute before he shrugged. “Who wouldn’t want to be? There’s all that loot to get and the freedom, what’s not to love?”

He let her mull that over for a moment. This was the first time in a long while she’d asked about his motives; then again she’d had a lot of other things to do and think about too. The quiet in the room was a relief; things had been rough in the past few days. Mia might need this moment to help her along.

Charlie would need to try to convince someone to see to it that he wasn’t cut away from Mia entirely. Part of him just wasn’t sure he’d even be able to take it well much less Mia. This was something that he’d keep to himself however. There were other arguments he could make, such as Mia being most familiar and friendly with him, to try to get his way even if it was only a portion of it.

“Why, what do you wanna be?” he wondered, glancing her way.

----[x]----

When she peeked up at Ah Tabai through her hair she thought he looked a little surprised. It didn’t take him long to piece things together however. Karissa’s eyes lowered to the table, still clutching her elbow lightly as if this helped to shield her from admitting it.

Finally she nodded. “Yeah, I have…” She probably didn’t need to have said this out loud but it felt like she should. Ah Tabai was someone she could trust even if he’d sent her after that relic.

Ah Tabai rose from his seat then, the old thing creaking as it settled into place. Karissa found she could only blink up at him in surprise as he gestured for her to follow. ’What?’ This thought was the only one that floated through her mind even as he waited for her to follow. Rooted to the spot Karissa still wasn’t sure she’d heard him right.

Her heart lurched, the feeling of butterflies fluttering in her stomach accompanying it as Ah Tabai urged her on. If she wasn’t mistaken he almost sounded playful about it too. It took her a moment but eventually she nodded timidly, rising to her feet and stepping closer to him.

“Are you sure you don’t have anything else to deal with?” she wondered, feeling her face warm a little. She quite liked the idea of sleeping next to Ah Tabai, the idea alone sending butterflies flitting through her stomach, though she was aware he was an important and busy man. Evening had yet to even set as it was.

She liked to think that his gaze had softened a little as she neared him though Karissa couldn’t be sure. It might very well have been her imagination for all she knew. Besides, she didn’t want to get her hopes up about anything.

Charlie was quiet for a short time. The silence was strangely nice. She wrote it off as he was still with her despite how quiet it was. Most days, she had no companionship due to her own emotions, isolating herself away as if that would fix it.

When he finally spoke up, answering her question, he seemed surprised that she asked. The answer was very simple. Mia had to constantly remind herself that in these times, freedom was the most idle. Many people turned to piracy because of that simple fact.

She hummed in answer, mulling it over. In some regard, she supposed that was idle for him. She couldn't quite see him in the quiet life. He turned the question to her after, leaving her silent for a long few moments.

A shake of the head finally followed. Mia didn't have nearly as a glamours answer as he did, not that it was much. Times were very different in her era.

"I never knew what I wanted," she finally answered, "So I just skirted about life on a minimum paying job and barely got by most weeks."

There were more complicated matters on that. Things like education costing too much with little pay off and the like. She didn't want to get into too much detail. There was no need to.

"I liked working with horses," she finally continued after a moment of silence, "But the area I lived in, there was never much need for a stable hand, so the biggest thing I knew about, I couldn't hold a job in."

----[x]----

Ah Tabai waited on her to mull it over. She had appeared surprised though why wouldn't she be? This was a bit out of the blue for the both of them. Silently, he liked the idea of someone sleeping beside him again. The idea seemed like such a far, foreign thing to him.

"I had assumed," he answered, "I wish you did not have to have those nightmares, mi'lady."

It wasn't hard to miss the blush on her cheeks. She appeared bashful over the idea but not at all denying it. Ah Tabai could see those fond feelings as clear as day on her face.

"It is alright," he replied, "I have nothing left to attend to. If I do, I will merely catch up tomorrow."

That seemed reasonable enough. Karissa had this about her. She seemed to believe she was troubling him at times. Ah Tabai didn't want her to think that was the case. He would make time for her, always.

Eventually, she pushed herself to her feet, approaching him. His gaze softened a little. She appeared so vulnerable, less confident than she had before. No doubt, all of this was taking a toll.

"Come now," he said, "There is no need to worry."

With that said, he led her off into his small room. There wasn't much here, Ah Tabai had need for little aside from a few possessions he kept hidden away. They were old memories to him and nothing more.

It was a simple matter of laying down, getting comfortable. Even then, Karissa still appeared hesitant. Eventually, she would lay with him. It merely took her a bit of time to gather the courage.

It seemed like Mia was taking her time thinking over his answer. Charlie didn’t know why she’d need to, it wasn’t like he was exactly insightful about it but all the same he let her take that time. She wasn’t in a good way right now and he’d rather not risk driving her further into isolating herself like she had. It wasn’t doing anybody any good like that.

When he asked about herself she was equally as quiet, probably thinking it over. Nonetheless she did offer an answer eventually though it wasn’t one Charlie was expecting. He scoffed a little, reaching out to wrap an arm around her shoulders.

“Well, horse girl, I’d’ve thought that a girl like you’d have it all planned out,” he admitted. Mia had seemed to the type to do that at least.

It was quiet again for a long minute though Mia didn’t seem too bothered by this. Perhaps she was using the time to think things through; Charlie wouldn’t be surprised to hear that she had a lot on her mind. If she needed the time to work through them all Charlie would give her that time whether he told her so or not.

“Maybe we can find a place with horses for you. No promises though,” Charlie spoke up again with a shrug. It was the best he could do right now and it might be enough to pick up her mood a little.

He’d at least make an effort to try to get in touch with the grand master before a decision was made. In truth, Charlie didn’t want to think about if he’d been too late. It was entirely possible preparations were just being made before they were told anything. Charlie’s heart seemed to skip a beat at that, more out of worry or maybe fear than anything else. He wasn’t exactly on board with the idea of Mia being moved.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai was quick to reassure her that there was nothing else he had to deal with that day or if he did it could wait. Even still Karissa couldn’t shake the feeling that he might be pushing things aside for the moment. Nonetheless she had no proof, just a feeling that she was monopolizing his time, and so she relented on the matter and spared a nod.

“If you’re sure,” she murmured, allowing him to lead her to his bed in a small side room.

Karissa glanced around, taking note of the fact that Ah Tabai didn’t seem to have much. She wondered if it was always like that or if he’d gotten rid of much from his younger years. The thought struck her that he might have kept only those things that meant the most to him if they did not have a use for him nowadays. She shook away any further thoughts that came to mind after that.

Ah Tabai had lain down before Karissa had even sat at the edge of the bed to remove her boots. Ah Tabai was always running about bare footed and so didn’t need to take the time to do this himself. If anything it gave Karissa the time to work up the courage to lie down next to his side, her heart hammering in her chest. It wasn’t like she had any experience with getting physically close to people, even if it was something simple.

Finally, she joined Ah Tabai at his side, shyly draping her arm over his middle. It might have been hot out but she didn’t mind so much right now, she was just grateful for the company. Maybe her dreams wouldn’t be so bad now, at least she hoped not. Karissa couldn’t recall the last time she’d had one and now they seemed to be all that plagued her in the last few weeks.

“Thank you,” Karissa said eventually. Already she felt a little less alone, and she found she liked the feel of someone this close to her. It was comforting in its own way and—if Karissa had anything to say about it—he fact that it was Ah Tabai only made things better, despite her initial shyness.

Mia couldn't help but let a small smile tug at her lips. She knew those words well enough. Most people expected her to be the one who had her life planned out. Some were always surprised to discover that was the opposite.

"No, not me," she answered, "I was lucky to remember most things in the morning."

She eventually braved wrapping her arm around his middle, tugging him close. His words would have normally left her excited. Instead, she still found worry.

Mia buried her face into him, feeling his warmth. "I don't want it," she finally said, "If you're not there too."

It wouldn't have done any good for her. She might have had all the horses in the world and they wouldn't make her happy. If he wasn't there for her to share them with, what good would it be.

"I don't want anyone else," she said, her voice cracking a little, "I don't want to be anywhere else. I just want you."

Mia knew she had no say in that matter. The most anyone could do was put in a good word. She could only hope that she wouldn't be pulled from his side after that. She was scared, the thought leaving her cold. Why did this have to happen the way it did? Of all times, when she finally grew comfortable, it might have been all for not in the end.

----[x]----

Karissa had taken her time, sitting on the edge of the bed. She tugged off her boots carefully, almost as if she was hesitant to even do that. Eventually, she joined him in bed. She pressed herself close, leaving a familiar feeling in his stomach.

At the given moment, he didn't think too much about it. There would be time to mull over these feelings later on. It had been a long while since he'd felt anything like it.

She seemed grateful for this. Ah Tabai was glad that he could provide any form of comfort for her. It must have been odd for her but she wasn't complaining.

"You are welcome, mi'lady," he answered, "I only wish to see you happy again."

Ah Tabai wouldn't have sent her if he knew the outcome. Then again, he wondered if she would have even listened to him. She was confident the day she left. He wouldn't have believed she would come back so broken.

He carefully wrapped an arm around her shoulders, as if testing the waters. He didn't want to do anything crossing her boundaries. He merely wanted her comfortable.

"I am sorry the mission had not gone the way we had planned it," he finally said, "I wish things had been easier."

Charlie hummed in answer when she mentioned her mornings. She’d always seemed a little out of it then, needing a prod or two to get into the hang of things. He didn’t get any more time to dwell on it before she’d buried her face in his chest and announced quite confidently that she wanted nothing else but him.

His heart lurched a little at that, torn on the matter. It wasn’t like Mia could just waltz around like normal and she was terrified of the sea, the very thing he’d set sail on eventually once he had his own ship. Awkwardly he patted her shoulder, uncertain about what to say now. He wasn’t one to just get tied down and this seemed like that was what was happening.

“Easy now, lots’a life to live, poppet,” Charlie argued. “Maybe you’ll change yer mind.”

Considering she only really spoke to him Charlie wouldn’t be surprised if that happened even if it stung a little to think about it. All the same when he set sail one of these days it wasn’t like she’d come with. Charlie wouldn’t say anything about that now, not when she was worse off like this.

“Aren’t you tired? Try to get some sleep, poppet,” Charlie offered. If nothing else it’d give him time to calm down, to think things through.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai’s admittance surprised her, sending a new swarm of butterflies fluttering in her stomach. It was a pleasant feeling amidst everything else and had been accompanied by a warm feeling in her chest. She could help but to smile a little, feeling better as he slipped an arm around her.

“It’s okay, we’ll fix it somehow,” she answered though she wasn’t sure how they would. Mia was in the Templar’s hold and unwilling to budge because of one man. It didn’t seem right but there wasn’t anything Karissa could do about that, as much she wanted to.

She took to distracting herself by comparing the color of their skin. His tunic was left open, displaying a good portion of his chest and abs as it was. At the very least it gave her something to focus on in the silence that followed. It was a little funny how she was a ghost compared to him even when she’d tanned considerably in the time she’d been here.

“Did I miss anything in Tulum?” she wondered after awhile. Idly, she took to toying with the fabric of his tunic.

Ah Tabai seemed to be mulling over the answer to her question. Perhaps he had to think of anything interesting that might’ve happened or maybe nothing had changed much since she’d been gone. Karissa wasn’t sure which one she preferred. In the end of things she guessed it didn’t matter much when she was at Ah Tabai’s side.

If nothing else a stable routine would help. If nothing were to go wrong Karissa could have the time to wrap her mind around everything and try to make sense of it, maybe piece herself back together again before she delved back into training as she had before.

His words hurt more so than he might have realized. Part of her was afraid of thinking about it. She knew that he had a calling to the sea. Mia had little intention in sailing. Wanting to be with him seemed like a toxic combination.

"I see," she muttered in return.

She couldn't find much else to say. Even if she had much life to live, who knew if she'd find anyone else. She was particular and when she had her heart set on something, she didn't give it up easily. Ruled by emotions, she was aware that was her biggest flaw.

"I suppose," she said when he mentioned her trying to sleep.

It wouldn't be easy. On the contrary, she'd been trying for days. Anxious and unable to settle her mind, sleeping seemed far from her. There was the matter of the dreams as well.

Regardless, she tried to relax, pressed so close to him. She closed her eyes and attempted it. If she did drift off, it would no doubt be a light thing and nothing more. She'd try not to complain. It was better than nothing, after all.

----[x]----

She seemed convinced that somehow it could be fixed. Ah Tabai wondered about the risks that might bring. Was she prepared for them? He could only wait and wonder on that front. There was little that could be done now.

Instead, he lay and listened to the silence. She took to toying with his tunic, perhaps to distract herself. In time, a normal routine would settle in. She would be distracted in that manner.

The silence went on in this manner before she asked about what happened in Tulum. He had to think on it for a bit, think of anything worth mentioning.

"There has not been much, admittedly," he finally explained, "Training has been going over well. Some of the younger assassin's are ready for more advance training."

When the thought about that, he glanced back toward her. She had spent quite a bit of time training herself. According to Daniel, she handled herself well.

"I have heard you have improved as well," he pointed out, "You trained so much, pushed yourself so hard. You make me wonder if there is something you are trying to protect."

That kind of motive could push anyone to try harder. If that was the case, Ah Tabai wondered what she was training so hard to protect.

Though he had tried to keep his discomfort unnoticed it didn’t seem like he’d done a good job of it, or maybe it was the way he was trying to rush her to sleep. Honestly she seemed even worse off than Charlie had imagined if she was getting outwardly clingy like this. It made him fear for what she might do if she was under someone else’s watch.

He shook his head at that. There were better men out there than he was, if she was under someone else’s watch Charlie had little doubt she’d grow to like him in time too. Mia was just stressed and worried, that’d make anyone get like this. At least that’s what he told himself.

’Some rest will do her good,’ he decided to himself. Still, he wasn’t sure she’d get that at this rate. The most they could do was try and if it helped to use him as a pillow then so be it.

“C’mon, no supposing,” Charlie teased all the same.

He took to tracing idle patterns over her shoulder with his thumb. It helped to keep him occupied from his thoughts and maybe to calm her down a bit more. Charlie wasn’t all that great with intimate things like this but he seemed to be doing all right. Maybe he wasn’t all that bad at this comforting business.

----[x]----

Though she claimed they’d fix it somehow she wasn’t sure it was possible. Still, Karissa would try to be optimistic about it. It was better than moping and brooding about it at least. For the time being she just needed to relax and rest though. Instead she chose to change the topic, to keep conversation going for the time being.

She waited patiently for Ah Tabai’s answer; there wasn’t any need to rush him about it. No one was coming to bother them after all. She wondered if all was just that calm in Tulum or if Daniel was taking care of things—he’d had that knowing look to him as he’d left in any case.

When she got her answer Karissa gave a little hum and a nod. ’That sounds about right,’ she decided. Karissa did wonder about any newbies that might have found their way here. There were so many people here already but everyday she’d been here it felt like Karissa was spotting someone else she didn’t know the name of. If that trend continued they’d be all right, at least she hoped so.

“Huh?” She blinked up at him, a little startled that he’d turned the topic back around to focus on her. Clearing her throat, she felt her face warm a little. ’Is is that obvious?’ “Maybe,” she admitted, burying her face into his side.

Karissa wasn’t sure but it sounded like Ah Tabai chuckled. Maybe it was funny seeing a grown woman being so bashful though she couldn’t be sure that was it either. In the end of it she supposed it didn’t matter much; she was close to Ah Tabai now and she loved it.

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