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

Mia was quiet, listening to his breath as she tried to match it with her own. It was, in some sense, a comfort. She could hear his heart beat and it calmed her own. She closed her eyes on several occasions, trying to drift off.

His fingers drew patterns into her shoulder. It kept her mind off of other things. On occasion, her thoughts still drew to her worries. How could she shake them so easily?

He was doing what he could and she appreciated the extent. If she drifted off, it would be a miracle. She never once wanted to sleep so badly.

She shifted, trying to get more comfortable. Despite the warm air, it seemed like it didn't reach her. She felt cold, even her fingers felt icy compared to the rest of her body.

"I'll suppose all I want," she finally answered after. There was no usual teasing in her tone. She was too tired, too worried for that kind of thing.

Mia swiped out her eyes. They burned a little in response to the motion. She'd long since cried herself out. There was no point in that anymore. "I just want to sleep..."

----[x]----

Karissa appeared thoughtful about what he'd mentioned on the newer assassins. She'd seen quite a few of them, being one herself. Sparing with a few of them at the time, Ah Tabai had noticed their progress often. He tried to keep an eye on everyone.

After he had spoken up about her progress. He chuckled a little bit when she appeared shocked by his words. Had he caught her off guard on that? It wasn't something hard to miss, after all.

"Did you not notice it yourself?" he inquired after a moment.

For all he knew, it was an absent minded thing. Perhaps she was merely the determined type. From where he stood, it seemed much deeper than that. If it was merely a guess, then perhaps he was wrong.

It was almost strange to see such a softer side to her. He'd been so used to this silently determined young woman. She took up any challenge without complaint and even when she struggled, she simply pushed herself to do greater.

"Maybe?" he echoed, feeling her bury her face into his side, "Now you are merely puzzling me. Or perhaps I am reading too much into it, hmm?"

The silence stretched on for a few minutes giving Charlie time to calm his thoughts. Now that Mia wasn’t being clingy, pouring her heart out in such a raw way Charlie wasn’t as on edge. He wasn’t the kind of guy to just settle down with someone and start a family—he would have thought that Mia had figured that out. It seemed she depended on him far more than he originally thought.

He shook his head, glancing at her when she spoke up. Her words weren’t any louder than a mumble but Charlie made them out easily.

“Then do all your supposin’ and get some rest,” Charlie told her softly. “You need it. Everything else can come later.”

Not once did he stop his ministrations on her shoulder. She hadn’t asked him to stop so Charlie could only guess that Mia liked or appreciated the action. After several seconds of silence passed he offered another shrug.

“Or you could keep talkin’, just promise me that you won’t get all sappy on me, all right?” Charlie half-teased, glancing down at her. She didn’t seem to appreciate that stipulation but Charlie wouldn’t worry about it too much right now. He was doing all that he could for her without stepping into territory that left him uncomfortable.

----[x]----

Karissa offered shrug and answered, “I guess I haven’t.” It didn’t seem as if this topic was done yet however as she chose to bury her face into his side.

At her next reply Ah Tabai seemed to grow all the more curious, prodding for answers. It had been awhile since that had happened, most times they’d talked he and Karissa had taken to trading stories as they wandered Tulum. It’d be nice to do that again when she got some rest.

A smile spread over her lips despite herself, hidden from view for the time being. It was almost cute that Ah Tabai was confounded by her simple answer. Only a few seconds passed before she lifted her head, meeting his gaze with hers. She wasn’t sure how to answer that and so chose the first thing that came to mind in that moment.

“Maybe,” she said again after a moment. “Or maybe you’ll see later.”

She wasn’t sure what all had changed with her and Mia being here. For all Karissa knew the situation with Walpole and later Edward Kenway might never happen at all or, if they did, they might change radically. Karissa had to be prepared, especially so if it might end up endangering Ah Tabai further somehow. She wanted to be able to prevent any of that if she could.

Mia couldn't take much appreciation out of his words. It seemed like he was more inexperienced than she was, if only in regards to those emotions. Mia merely hummed in response and left it at that.

Sleep was fitful, as it usually was. She managed some but not enough to fight off fatigue or headaches that plagued her during the day. She wished for medicine that could knock her out or quell the pain but in this time, there was no such thing.

Mia was cautious on what she said to Charlie now. There was not talk of harbored feelings. In some regard, she wondered if it had been a good idea in the first place. Being attached when she might be pulled away seemed foolish.

She sat in the living room or at least, the excuse he had for one, toying with a thread on her shirt. There had been no word on her living arrangements or if she'd be moved or not. Her stomach twisted in knots at that thought.

Due to high risks of the assassin's possibly finding her out and about, they mostly stayed in his home. She didn't quite mind. She still felt too tired for the hustle and bustle of Havana.

She sighed, leaning her head back against the chair. It throbbed dully. She closed her eyes in hopes to will the pain away. It seemed the only thing that she could do for the time being.

----[x]----

She looked thoughtful but then again, she normally was. He found that thoughtfulness was something he'd grown fond of. While he didn't outright admit it, he liked to watch it from a distance.

He had felt the playfulness in her tone. Warm spread through him, finding himself a little proud that he'd drawn it out of her. She'd been so down. Knowing that she'd smiled was something of a comfort.

"Perhaps I will," he teased back, working odd patterns into her side.

Eventually, she fell into a fitful sleep. Often times, when he woke briefly, he could hear her mutter or groan in her sleep. It had been cause for worry but he would not wake her for such things.

A few days passed slowly in that manner. Karissa still looked tired but she'd at least improved a little. Ah Tabai took notice a small group who would avoid her. He simply waved them off, deciding to speak with them later.

"I certainly hope the days have gotten a little easier," he pointed out one day, "You look as if you have recovered a bit."

There was a little spring in her step. Perhaps getting back to training had done some good for her. It offered her a distraction when she most needed it.

The days that followed didn’t improve Mia’s mood much. Charlie kept them inside most days, straying only as far as the porch unless they needed something. From the looks and sounds of things it didn’t seem as if any of the assassins sent to retrieve Mia had stuck around however. It was this that led him to debating things.

She wasn’t up for learning anything like map reading but perhaps going to the beach would do her some good. Some fresh air could help clear her mind and she did want to learn to swim. Maybe all she needed was something to take her mind off of everything.

Entering the front room he watched Mia for a minute as she picked at a stray thread on her clothes. Charlie shook his head at this. ’She’s worse off than I thought. Damn…’ With that thought in mind he crossed the room and tapped her shoulder.

“Up for a little adventure, poppet?” he offered. The surprise trip to the beach might be enough to break her of this depressive state, at least marginally.

Charlie waited, shifting his weight to one leg and holding out a hand for her to take. Mia seemed to be eyeing him skeptically, perhaps wondering about the change of pace. Charlie wouldn’t admit that seeing her like this was starting to get at him too. The last thing they needed was the two of them being morose lumps, that was for sure.

He grew worried the longer it took Mia to answer him. ’Maybe she’s going to tell me off,’ Charlie thought briefly. The thought was pushed aside quickly after; now wasn’t the time for that worry. If it happened then he would deal with it then.

----[x]----

The days passed more easily for her with Ah Tabai there to distract her from otherwise destructive or depressing thoughts. He had a way about him, able to keep her mind from things when he had the time to spare. Karissa didn’t point it out but it seemed like he always tried to make time for her. If that was the case she wasn’t sure how she’d ever be able to repay that sort of kindness.

Settling back into the old routine of training helped as well. Her shoulder still ached at times though it was immensely better than when she’d first gotten shot. It was at least well enough that she could go about training without fear of worsening her shoulder.

All of this would have been enough to keep her from dwelling on things if not for several people who took avoiding her and casting wary looks her way. Perhaps they still expected her to snap or to go out and find the relic, wherever Ah Tabai and Daniel had hidden it at. She could still feel the tugging in her that tried to make her go towards it, to find it. It was easier to ignore when she was busy.

“Hmm?” She blinked around to spot Ah Tabai approaching her, his foot falls silent on the beaten path. At the mention of the old wound Karissa placed a hand over her shoulder, rolling it carefully. “It’s still sore but I can get back to training without a problem now.”

She was aware that probably wasn’t what Ah Tabai had been referring to entirely. Her mood had picked up considerably though when left to her own devices or particularly bothered she grew broody still. This wasn’t always so unusual however and so long as she wasn’t allowed to brood for too long she would be fine. Karissa wondered if Ah Tabai had picked up on that.

Mia flinched a little when she felt her shoulder being tapped. She blinked up, wide eyed for a moment. Charlie stood by, already asking her a question.

For a long moment, she wasn't sure of what he'd asked. It all came back into focus a little after. She leaned back into the chair, looking down at what she was doing not a moment ago. It wasn't as if it had been much.

Eventually, she offered a shrug in response. "I don't see why not." she replied quietly. It wasn't as if she was being productive here.

She pushed herself up from her seat, still feeling a little weighed down. Brushing passed him, she waited on him to lead on. She didn't have it in her to do much else. Even if he'd offered, she didn't want to push him into any discomforts.

Mia shuffled her weight then, waiting on him. She wasn't really sure what he might have had in mind. There were no hints in these passed few days, holed up in his house. The sudden change of pace was jarring, nonetheless.

----[x]----

He had broken her concentration and thoughts in favor of speaking with her. It was good to see her spirits up. Ah Tabai had been worried when he saw her so broken. She didn't want her to do anything rash. She was important to him.

He studied her for a long moment. She seemed to have healed fine, physically at least. Whatever was deep in her mind was another thing entirely.

"That is good to hear," he answered, "I am glad to know that your physical wound are healing."

It was the emotional ones he worried most over. Not only did some of the people here remain wary of her, she had lost quite a bit during the journey. Nothing could replace that. He could only offer so much in ways of help.

"How are you faring, wounds aside, mi'lady?" he continued, motioning toward her.

If she was feeling well, he wouldn't worry so much. While he hadn't said much on it, he'd grown fond of her. They were harbored feelings, almost too hesitant to act on anything of the such. Things had not worked out well in the past, after all.

While she didn’t seem thrilled at the idea of going outside she at least got up and followed him. Charlie didn’t say anything more as he headed outside. He walked swiftly, forcing Mia to quicken her own pace to keep up. He didn’t want to waste time getting to the beach and Mia didn’t seem eager for a conversation to pass the time.

It took some time to reach the sandy shore though Charlie made sure that Mia stayed close. At one point he’d reached out to grab her hand, making sure she didn’t get lost in the crowds. In her state of mind he couldn’t be sure she wouldn’t just let herself get swept up in it all.

Charlie gestured to the ocean, the sun glinting off the water in a fashion Charlie might’ve called pretty. He spared a cheeky smile at Mia and said, “Ready to get your toes nibbled on, poppet?”

He waited, hoping she wasn’t about to tell him off. She had once asked to be taught to swim and if it helped improve her mood he’d do it now. The day was nice and the water would be a relief from the sun beating down on them and the sticky humidity. Even still Mia didn’t seem too eager about it now, he had no doubts why that was.

“Well? Say something, please…” he urged.

----[x]----

Karissa nodded and smiled in thanks though she wasn’t particularly fond of the mention of just the physical wound. She had a feeling he’d been wondering more about her emotional state though had tried to head it off. It seemed Ah Tabai had other ideas, maybe he was just that worried that he wanted to check for sure. Though she hated the topic Karissa couldn’t fault him for that.

“I’ve been better,” she admitted hesitantly. “I’ll be fine though, I promise.”

Ah Tabai seemed to study her, perhaps trying to figure out if she was lying. So long as Karissa had things to do to ignore her dark thoughts and some of the attitudes of those around her she was sure it wouldn’t be long before she could put this all behind her. At least she hoped so. The nightmares she had weren’t helping however.

“I wouldn’t object to a little company though,” Karissa hinted. It was the bravest she could ask for now even if she’d rather be pressed against his side again.

All she could do then was to wait and see what Ah Tabai had to do or if he had time to spare yet. He had yet to turn her down when she outright asked for his company but then he seemed to take it upon himself to seek her out often as well. If she was honest it got Karissa’s hopes up a little.

She rocked on her heels as she waited. Though she liked spending time with him she’d understand if Ah Tabai was busy and had only been checking on her.

Charlie had kept a quick pace, barely slowing down so she could catch up. At some point, she practically had to jog to catch up. When she was struggling, he'd taken her hand in his and led off so she wouldn't get separated.

It hadn't taken her long to realize where he was headed. The glistening of the water caught her eye easy. For a long while, she wondered why he was going out of the way to reach the sea.

The answer came when he finally stopped on the sandy beach. He had some intentions to teach her how to swim. Her heart lurched a little in fear. Instinctively, she crossed her arms over her chest as if something was going to strike her.

When he pushed for her to speak, as if he needed some reassurance, she shuffled her weight. "Are you sure this is a good idea?" she asked.

She didn't sound so confident though she normally wasn't. She worried more about her state of mind at the given moment and whether she'd find herself strong enough to swim.

"I wouldn't exactly say I was strong at the given moment..." she reasoned. The look she received made her sigh. She shook her head, giving up on the matter. It was better then sitting in the house. "Alright, alright. I'll do it. But if I get tired, I'm not staying in."

----[x]----

From the sounds of it, she'd be fine in time. That was merely all that he could wait on. Time healed some things slowly. He hoped it was the same in Karissa's case.

"If you are certain," he answered carefully.

He had looked for any hint of a lie in her words. He didn't see any however. Perhaps she had dealt with something like this in the past. If that was the case, it was just repeating something old. She might do better in time.

When she spoke up about company, he spared a nod in response. He drew a little closer, comfortable where he was. For the moment he was free.

"I can spare the time," he answered, "If mi'lady does not mind it."

If anything, he seemed to pick up her mood considerably. He wanted to keep her happy if he could manage it. She did well when he was around.

"Have things been well for you?" he inquired after a moment. Some days they merely talked. He noticed that it calmed her. If that's all it took, he would gladly provide.

Charlie waited, trying not to get frustrated when Mia didn’t speak up right away. He was doing this for her after all, even if he was a little wary about all this business with her wanting no one but him. She hadn’t done anything to make him worry about it since and so he tried not to get concerned about it now. Maybe she’d just said all that in a moment of weakness he reasoned.

“’Course not but sittin’ around isn’t doin’ you any good,” he scoffed in answer.

Mia wasn’t getting any better and it was grinding on his nerves steadily. If he had to break a few rules to fix it then he would. It wasn’t like he was out of trouble yet anyways; why not add a bit more to the fire? Charlie would live.

“Besides, you wanted to learn, didn’t you?” Charlie pointed out. This seemed to be enough to make Mia agree though she was quick to point out she’d get out if she grew too tired. Charlie didn’t see a reason to argue against that, maybe she’d get more sleep if that happened.

Charlie started for the water’s edge, kicking his boots off and tossing his hat and coat down next to them. He didn’t want to loose the hat and his boots and coat would just weigh him down. He waited for Mia to join him noting how she was taking her time even now. He resisted a sigh at that.

“C’mon, poppet, I’m not gonna let you drown,” he teased a little.

----[x]----

Her smile grew a little when he stepped closer, saying he had some time to spare. Daniel was busy and she didn’t want to go bothering anybody else while they were training or going about their shift on watch. Having Ah Tabai nearby left her feeling more at ease even when she had a lot on her mind.

“Of course I don’t mind,” she admitted. “I like talking with you.”

It was the most she would confess to right now even if Daniel seemed to think she should put herself out there. Karissa wasn’t that brave, not with things like this. For the time being it was enough to just be spending time with him like this.

Karissa thought about his question. Things were all right, as much as a normal routine could provide, though there were still problems. She couldn’t have expected things to just go back to normal, not after what had happened with the relic… No, those wary attitudes and the cold shoulders were deserved she felt.

“They’ve been all right,” Karissa said finally. She couldn’t be sure if Ah Tabai believed that or not but she wasn’t about to kick up a fuss about things.

She gestured for Ah Tabai to start them off on a walk. She didn’t mind where they went so long as they were moving. Tulum was large and there always seemed to be something new to see, at least if someone took the time to look.

Charlie didn't appear too pleased with her hesitance. She would have normally snapped at him for that but she didn't have it in her. Honestly, she was tired. She'd only come out for something to do rather than sit in his house for days on end, waiting for word.

She eventually relented. Charlie moved closer to the waters edge, tugging off his boots and jacket. Mia shuffled her weight before she pulled her own boots off. She tugged off her cotton shirt, an old undershirt she'd kept laying underneath. Most nights, that's what she slept in.

Still, she hesitated even as Charlie prodded her to move forward. Mia cleared her throat, scrunching her nose a little at his words.

"Sure you would," she answered, trying to tease him. Her tone didn't have it's usual bite to it.

Eventually, she followed after him. The water was cold on her ankles though she wouldn't have time to dwell on it. Charlie was wading deeper into the water even if Mia followed slower. At her waist, she felt rather vulnerable there and stopped again.

"You're sure nothing comes in this shallow?" she asked, aware of how tense she might have looked, "Don't lie to me Charlie. I don't like liars."

----[x]----

He spared her a smile when she mentioned that she liked speaking with him. The words made him feel warm. He hadn't felt in such a way in a long time. Those old memories were buried deep and he'd rather keep them there.

"Well that is certainly good to hear, mi'lady," he answered, "I find myself comfortable with your company as well."

Those she was close to in Tulum were busy most days. Training rarely ended for newer recruits and Daniel oversaw to a lot of them. No doubt, Karissa would find herself lonesome some days. He had hoped her friend would return, quelling that loneliness.

"I am glad to hear it," he replied after she'd answered his question. He had to wonder how true the words were however. "I do not wish to see you in any kind of distress. I am honestly relieved you have recovered so well."

The way she had looked returning here, so broken, he didn't want to see that again. There was no doubt much on her mind. If it ever helped to speak, he would listen.

"I do not suppose you have been swimming as of recent, hmm?" he teased lightly, "I certainly hope you are not too deprived of the ocean now."

It took Mia some time but eventually she followed after him, stripping off her own boots and over shirt. Charlie waded in to his waist before he’d turn and watched as Mia picked her way carefully after him. Each step she took was careful and deliberate looking, perhaps wary of any crabs or something. Charlie waved off her attempt at teasing him, it was better than nothing at least.

“Nothin’ that’ll do any damage to little ol’ you,” Charlie half-informed and half-teased her. “’Sides, I can just stab anything that’s hiding around here.”

He’d left his flintlock pistols at the house so there was no risk in getting the gunpowder wet but there was a knife he had on his person just in case. No harm would fall to Mia while he was around. Charlie was positive they wouldn’t run into any of that though. These shores were pretty clear of most animal life considering all of the activity by the nearby docks.

“We aren’t going any deeper than where you can keep your head above water anyways, poppet,” he promised. If she couldn’t swim very strongly she’d at least be able to stand and save herself that way, Charlie would just need to keep a feel for any under currents that might be dangerous. “Trust me a little, eh?”

Mia seemed unsure about that though Charlie tried not to take offense to that. If her friend had helped her doubts along that was natural. That thought hurt a little more than Charlie thought it should.

----[x]----

Her smile grew when Ah Tabai spared one of his own, admitting that he was comfortable around her. That warm feeling spread through her chest, helping to push any other worries or troubling thoughts she had at the moment aside. She wondered if he realized that.

“Well, that’s a relief,” she joked.

Meeting his gaze, Karissa waited for him to carry the conversation forward. He’d asked about her wellbeing again, perhaps worried that she’d relapse at any moment. Honestly, it was a real concern he should have and she knew it. Karissa couldn’t keep at this forever, mostly at night when she was alone and plagued with nightmares did she have trouble trying to calm down.

She kept that to herself for the time being. Night was one thing; Karissa could at least try to enjoy the day and her time with Ah Tabai.

Karissa bit her lip when he mentioned how well she’d seemed to recover. Now seemed like a good time to be brave and take Daniel’s advice from weeks ago but… She shyly glanced up at Ah Tabai.

“You’ve helped a lot,” Karissa admitted, unable to bring herself to say anything more. For now this was enough.

Ah Tabai pointed out the lack of her swimming since coming back, a teasing tone to his voice. She tossed him a look for that, though the small smile betrayed her. She wouldn’t have taken him for the teasing type and yet Ah Tabai took to just that every so often. It was rather refreshing.

“You’ll just have to make it up to me later,” she teased in return.

Mia's heart raced a little as they waded into deeper waters. She recalled the time when she'd nearly drowned. She fought to push the memory away. It was in the past. She didn't want it to hold her back anymore.

The water was clear and below, she could see just about everything on the sandy floor. Mia had to admit to herself that it certainly was a sight.

Her gaze fell back onto Charlie when he tried to tease her a little more. The usual tone wasn't there. Through the passed few days, it wasn't. Neither of them had been up for that kind of thing, especially not Mia.

"I'll take your word on that," she replied. In that moment, she meant those words. The ocean was big and she felt very small already.

Even as he asked for trust, Mia wasn't sure how far to extend it anymore. What Karissa had claimed still stuck in the back of her mind. Could she really extend trust to him.

The thoughts were broken when she felt the water reaching her shoulders. She felt her heart skip a beat and a gasp left her. Calm waves bobbed against her skin, leaving a chill running down her spine.

"It's pretty, I guess," she mentioned, running her bangs out of her face, "But I suppose we might as well start, right?" If anything, it would pass the time. For the moment, that's what she needed the most.

----[x]----

The words seemed to do her some good. A small smile tugged at her lips. They seemed rare most days. When she was lost in her thoughts, he rarely would see her smile. At those times, he wondered where she retreated to in her mind.

He would not continue with the topic. If she claimed she was well, then that's how he'd leave it. She might need to speak on it later on, when she felt a little more at ease with everything.

It was a pleasant surprise to hear that he had managed to help her so much. Ah Tabai had merely stayed near when she needed someone. Anyone could have managed that.

"I am honored to hear it, mi'lady," he answered, sparing a small smile.

When she answered him again, he chuckled a little. A shake of his head followed. It didn't so much surprise him, that little taunt. In some sense however, he wouldn't mind making up for the lack of swimming.

"You will have to tell me when your wound has healed," he said, "I would not mind another swim with you. Perhaps we may find more shells."

If anything, that would give her something to look forward to and plenty of distraction. Her mind was no doubt clouded at times. Ah Tabai wished to see it cleared and her happy again.

Every time Charlie glanced at Mia she seemed more and more wary and frightened. Her eyes seemed glued to the sandy bottom before they were chest deep in the water, the waves lapping up higher. He made sure that she had more than enough height to keep her head well above the waves however, just in case.

He waited for her to say something, well aware that it might take some time. Mia was intent on observing everything around them from the sand to the rocks to the seaweed. None of it would reach out to nibble at her toes tough she didn’t seem to believe that.

“If you don’t mind, I wanna see what you’re capable of first,” Charlie said, reaching up to scratch at his head. “I can’t help where you’re goin’ wrong until I know what it is.”

Mia seemed unsure of that too. Charlie pushed his own hair out of his face, the wet hair sticking to his forehead afterwards. He paid this little attention.

“If you can’t keep your head above water just stand up, all right?” he pointed out. “We aren’t going any deeper than this—promise.”

The water tugged at his pants and shirt, making him sway slightly. Charlie didn’t let this deter him, standing tall. Mia still didn’t look sure of herself or about this but Charlie tried not to get bothered by this. He wasn’t about to let anything happen to her, he wished she’d see that.

----[x]----

It looked to Karissa like Ah Tabai took some measure of pride in her answer, knowing that he’d helped her along a lot in the last few days that had passed. It wasn’t something that either of them dwelled on, instead moving on to a new topic altogether. It was nice, just standing around and talking like this like nothing had gone wrong.

“I’d like that,” she said. Karissa didn’t make any kind of mention that she carried the shell he’d found and given her before, tucked away in one of the pouches at her belt. It might’ve been a simple thing but it reminded her of him.

She could hear all sorts of sounds around them from birdcalls to more professional assassins aiding the younger ones in their training. There never seemed to be a truly quiet moment in Tulum. Even at night Karissa could hear all sorts of wildlife though it did little to distract her when she was troubled.

Shaking her head, Karissa said, “So, you have some time to spare right? Do you wanna go cloud watch or something…?”

It felt a little goofy asking something that simple but she wasn’t going to go jumping into the salt water and aggravate her wound. It was almost healed but it would sting all the same. Still, she’d like to spend some time with Ah Tabai.

Mia wasn't sure what she was supposed to do. The concept of swimming was something foreign to her anymore. She recalled things she did as a child but those were mostly with something to float with. That was until she slipped through one.

He instructed her to show him what she could do. The concept was so foreign to her but she did what she could. Like he had claimed, her head never went under the water.

Her hair was wet and her lips tasted like salt. If anything, she remembered that salt water helped her float. That was somewhat of a comfort.

When he was satisfied she paused. Her cheeks felt hot with embarrassment. This was the first feeling she'd felt aside from depression in days. She glanced downward, clearing her throat.

"When I was a kid, we had swimming classes," she explained, "But I was never good in those either. I've never been that strong in the water..."

That much was true. She knew simple work would make her muscles ache after this. If anything, maybe that would get her a good nights sleep.

----[x]----

Karissa seemed to relax a little more now. He was glad to see it. The worry nagged at him often, especially so when she withdrew into herself. He didn't want to see worse things come from all of this.

She seemed to like the offer to swim again. Ah Tabai looked forward to it. Seeing that almost childlike wonder when she swam was something of a treat. Karissa really had softened him a little.

"Then we have a plan for a later day, mi'lady," he answered, "I look forward to it."

Her shoulder would take time to heal. Rushing into something such as that would only hurt her. He would rather see her well before enjoying something so simple.

She mentioned something about watching clouds. Ah Tabai chuckled a little. They were such simple things and yet she looked happy to suggest the idea. Perhaps it would be a good idea. A lazy afternoon wouldn't hurt anyone.

"I do not see why not," he answered, "That seems like a quint thing to do. Is this what you did when you were home, mi'lady?"

He could only assume some of her activities really. The stories she told were strange ones but enjoyable. Ah Tabai loved listening to them.

Charlie waited, wondering if Mia was going to chicken out and head back to the shore or not. She seemed to peer around herself as if still sure that there was some kind of sea monster snaking around her, ready to snap her up at any minute. If this were any other time Charlie might’ve gone under to pinch at her ankles as a joke.

Eventually she did start swimming. Her head never went under though she did seem to have trouble keeping her legs afloat and she bobbed rather comically. When Charlie went under to check her feet barely touched the bottom, sand kicking up when her toes got close to it.

For several minutes this went on until Charlie signaled for her to stop. Mia seemed happy about that at least, standing at her full height. The water lapped at her shoulders and her hair was plastered to her forehead much like Charlie’s was.

“Well, you don’t seem to be goin’ out on a ship so you don’t need to be strong at it,” Charlie offered with a shrug. It was hard to imagine Mia taking any kind of swimming classes though. “’Sides, you asked to learn, remember?”

At the very least she seemed distracted from her worries and that was enough for the moment. Charlie wasn’t sure if that would tide them over for long though. It wasn’t a thought that he wanted to dwell on for long.

----[x]----

That warm feeling that Karissa was growing fond of spread through her again. If she was being optimistic it almost sounded like a date of sorts. It was a thought she shook away; it wasn’t one she should be thinking about when she couldn’t even work up the courage to admit those feelings out loud to him.

“Good! I’ll let you know when my shoulder’s healed up then,” Karissa promised.

When she proposed they go cloud watching if Ah Tabai had the time, he laughed. It was a subdued laugh, one that wasn’t intended to mock her. The sound of it made her smile a little more broadly.

She hadn’t expected the question that followed, however. It had been a while since last he’d asked about her time, wondering how things would change in the following centuries. Swaying side to side, a childish thing that she took to now for lack of anything better to do, Karissa thought about her answer.

“Well, not really. I mostly stayed indoors playing those games I told you about before,” she admitted after some time passed. It wouldn’t be hard for him to believe, she thought. She’d been way paler when she’d first arrived here in Tulum, the telltale marks of someone who stayed out of the sun after all.

Charlie looked thoughtful about it for a moment. He offered his thoughts on the matter. Mia still wasn't so sure. Anything could happen. It wasn't as if she had to stay in Havana.

"You never know what might happen," she answered. 'Or where I might have to go.'

Mia left the statement silent. She didn't want to burn any bridges with him. By all means, she might have done enough damage as it was. Now she could only wait and see if she might be relocated to a different island or further.

"I think I'd just rather be prepared..." she finally continued.

Whatever thoughts still lingered, she pushed into the back of her head in favor of listening to Charlie's instructions. She learned through visual example, so watching him helped. Mia knew she'd never been a strong swimmer but just keeping her head above water without trouble would no doubt be a great aid.

She wasn't sure how long they would spend like this. Eventually, Mia would get the hang of it, favoring actually swimming under the water rather then breaking the surface. It wasn't so hard, not after she'd gotten over her initial fear.

----[x]----

She looked ecstatic with the idea of swimming again. He had an idea that she might have grown a little restless. She could train but with her wound, it wasn't nearly as well as she used to. Ah Tabai hoped she wasn't pushing herself unnecessarily so.

"I look forward to the time when it has," he answered, sparing a brief nod.

If he could have helped it, he would have rather not seen her injured at all. According to the story, however, the one guarding over her friend acted hastily. If she was given a little me time, Ah Tabai liked to think it wouldn't have resulted in such a wound.

She swayed a little from side to side as if mulling over his question. Ah Tabai waited on her patiently. There were times when she had to think about an answer before actually giving one.

He nodded in response. The answer didn't quite surprise him. She had been the pale looking sort when she had first arrived here. In the beginning, she burned more then she did tan.

"Well, you will have time to attend to such pleasantries now, hmm?" he prodded lightly. If anything, she had suggested it and looked far from objecting the offer. "I admit, I have never spent much time watching the clouds pass however."

From the sounds of it, it wasn't as if she had either. For the both of them, it would be a nice experience to share.

Charlie only offered a scoff and a shrug in answer to her statement. He liked to think he had a little bit of sway with the other Templars nowadays. If he was really persistent then Charlie might even have a bit of a say as to what happened with Mia. He would have liked to think that Mia had some faith in him but it seemed she hadn’t.

“Whatever you wanna call it,” he relented. Honestly, he liked swimming every now and again, despite the fact that it annoyed him when his hair stuck to his face. Maybe Mia would come around to liking it too.

He took to showing her some of the simpler strokes, the ones that he favored and then examining her trying to mimic him. It seemed to do her some good at least; she looked less troubled when she was swimming. If he had to guess Mia had just needed something to take her mind off of things.

After awhile Charlie took to floating lazily on his back, staring up at the sky. The sun was bright, its rays broken up only by the clouds that drifted by. All the same it was a nice day out, the occasional breeze cooling him off.

“Hope you’re still not getting’ all broody over there,” Charlie called out when he heard Mia gasping for air. She’d taken to diving underwater more and more the longer they were out here. It was a little funny though considering the way she’d been so vehement against the ocean and what was in it before.

Charlie spared a glance her way. She looked to be thinking things over and he had to resist rolling his eyes at this. Mia never seemed to be able to answer something like that without thinking about it first.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai was patient with her while she mulled over her answer. It was a simple question but sometimes she had to think about how to word things. Just because she could tell him all sorts of things that would come around in the future—assuming she and Mia’s being here didn’t ruin anything—that didn’t mean she could do so in a way that would be understandable to him. Because of this she sometimes fretted over her choice in words or answers. Ah Tabai never seemed bothered by this however.

She was glad when Ah Tabai spoke up, mentioning that she had plenty of time in the world to just sit around and enjoy simpler things. Karissa couldn’t deny that that was true. So long as she wasn’t busy training or trying to spend time with him or Daniel at least.

“It looks like it,” she agreed. “Do you know of any good places to watch the clouds from?”

If Karissa took the time to think about it she could guess at a few areas. Tulum had much to offer, especially high places to find but Ah Tabai knew this place better than she did. Though she’d found some good high points herself she was sure that if there was a good place to kick back and relax to cloud watch then she was confident that Ah Tabai would know of it.

Only when Ah Tabai had started them off would Karissa speak up again. She didn’t want to distract him while he thought about where he could lead her after all.

“Say, Mentor… does my red eye bother you…?” It was a thought she’d had a few times when she couldn’t sleep. There were enough people acting wary of her and avoiding her because of it and it was quickly becoming a real cause of worry for Karissa.

Mia didn't try to put too much stock in his reaction. If he was hurt by what she said, he didn't voice it. Mia couldn't be sure of how much faith she could put in Charlie. Not after what Karissa had said to her.

The rest of the time was spent either learning or simply swimming. Often, Mia would dive down to look at the ocean floor. She picked out an odd shell or two, ignoring how here ears popped on occasion.

At one point, Mia had seen something shimmer, catching her eye. She had broken the surface, wiping her eyes before she dove down again. Digging through the sand a little, she managed to pick out the object before heading back up again. She took in a deep lungful of air before looking down at the object.

Her heart dropped as she recognized what it was. The vial she'd given to Karissa for her birthday lay in the palm of her hand, now abandoned by her friend.

Charlie seemed to pick up on her silence right away. Maybe it was a habit at this point. She'd certainly been in his company enough for him to pick up on habits.

Mia was silent for a long moment, thinking about what to say. She closed her hand around the vial, shaking her head. She spared him a small smile though, there was no real heart in it. "It's nothing important," she finally answered, "Nothing at all."

For a short while, she continued to dip into the water, thinking things through. She tried to clear her head, breaking the surface again. She brushed her hair out of her face.

"Charlie," she finally called out, "I'll tell you anything you want to know about where I come from. Maybe a little later in the evening, after we're back home."

----[x]----

Karissa looked to be mulling things over. He would give her all the time in the world. There was no need to rush her into speaking of certain things. He was a patient man. She could take the time she needed.

If anything, she seemed to appreciate that fact. By the looks of things, she considered her options carefully. He just hoped in time, she might open up a little more.

"I believe there may be a few places, mi'lady," he said, motioning for her to follow after. Somewhere high, above the water would be a good place.

She was glad to follow after, quiet however. Ever since she came back, Karissa often lapsed into silence and deep thoughts. Ah Tabai couldn't quite blame her with how the mission had gone.

When she did express her concerns however, her admittance surprised him a little. He paused for a brief moment, studying her expression carefully. Did she really believe something so simple would bother him?

"Of course not, mi'lady," he answered her honestly, "And why do you feel it would?"

Ah Tabai didn't like to admit that some people within Tulum would avoid or speak ill of her. Despite that, human nature took hold. It did happen and no doubt, it hurt. Those who she had trained with not long ago might have turned their back on her now.

"You are worried? You have no need to be. I will not be so easily swayed by something so simple," he reassured, "You are still you, yes?"

Though Charlie had taken to lazing around, floating on his back as Mia swam, he still glanced around to keep an eye on her every so often. She was getting better but that didn’t mean anything. One strong undertow could be all it would take to sweep her under and out to sea.

All seemed to be well as the time passed. Mia was getting some fresh air and some sun after weeks of keeping herself cooped up like she had. If nothing else he figured it might improve her mood a little, make it easier for her to sleep. Exercise was good for that sorta thing in any case. Charlie found that it had never failed him at least.

Eventually he asked how she was doing. Swimming could take a lot of a guy much less someone like Mia who’d been sluggish for so long. She didn’t say much, instead keeping whatever she felt or thought to herself. Curious, Charlie righted himself, digging his toes in the sand as he eyed her carefully. She had her hands on something, the chain of it dangling from her hand but whatever it actually was was hidden from him.

“Okay… if you say so,” Charlie relented after a second or two. He offered a shrug as well though he might have been ignored entirely.

He wasn’t sure what to do when it got quiet again. Whatever Mia’d found left her broody again despite the fact that he’d been trying to prevent that. Charlie had enough of that and tiptoeing around all the time to avoid upsetting her further. It seemed like that wasn’t quite done yet though.

It wasn’t until Mia spoke up did he snap out of that thought. He wasn’t eager to go back home and deal with a broody woman again who might lock herself away into her room some more. For a second, Charlie wasn’t sure what to say. She’d been so careful when he prodded her about information and now she was offering to give him what he wanted?

He shrugged again. “Well… all right then! Why the change of heart, poppet?”

----[x]----

The quiet wasn’t so quiet, not really. Places like this always had noises to fill in conversational silence whether it be the leaves rustling in the wind or from animals in the distance. It made it easy to be lulled into thought however, at least Karissa thought so. Maybe it was only because she’d grown so used to them after weeks had passed, she couldn’t be sure.

She jerked out of those thoughts, surprised to find that she’d been thinking about that day that changed things. Why couldn’t she remember? That fact bothered her thought no answers could be found. Instead she turned to something that could be answered, something that bothered her more than it should.

Though she was a little frightened of what expression might be waiting for her Karissa still managed to bring herself to glance up at him when he didn’t answer right away. It looked like he was surprised, his brow furrowed almost delicately—something that surprised her. Ah Tabai might be old but he certainly wasn’t delicate by any means.

Her heart seemed to skip a beat at the question that followed his answer. Feeling like her mouth was full of cotton, Karissa didn’t know quite how to respond. Part of her knew to expect those questions when she’d asked hers but hearing them out loud was almost daunting.

Before she could form an answer Ah Tabai had continued, reassuring her. Though she still balked at answering—Karissa wasn’t even sure she really had one—a warm, grateful feeling combated it away a little.

“Y-Yeah… I’m still me,” she agreed finally, attempting a smile as she did. Karissa wasn’t very sure that it looked very happy though. “I was just… curious. It bothers me a little and all.”

Really, it was amazing how quickly she’d begun to detest the very color she’d once favored most. The sight of red left her recalling her eye and the blood that had been on her hands on that ship. It left her a little sick thinking about and Karissa expected it always would.

Mia didn't quite know what to do with the necklace in her hand. The chain dangled from her palm. A wave or two would make the thing bob in the water before receding again. She didn't imagine it would hurt that bad, some silent comment that Karissa had left behind.

She toyed with the vial a little bit before finally deciding to slip the thing around her neck. Tucking it under her shirt, it would at least remain out of sight for the time being.

Charlie's words were simple and to the point. Lately, there had been a lot of that. Mia's mood hadn't helped. So easily driven to tears most days, she didn't do much talking. She knew that made him uncomfortable so she mostly did that kind of thing in private.

After she'd mentioned that she would tell him anything he wanted to know, Charlie was quick to question it. After the months spent tiptoeing around the subject, of course he would.

"Karissa's not coming back for me," she explained as she fastened the chain, "So there's no reason for me not to tell you. The only reason I was keeping quiet was for her. She's made a point. She won't be coming back for me."

Of course, that didn't mean other assassin's wouldn't. Charlie had already expressed her importance to the Templars. Being what she was, she knew fully well that another in the assassin's hands would no doubt give them great advantages.

Before he could go on asking anymore questions, Mia spoke up, "I don't think I want to talk about it anymore."

If Karissa was cutting ties in this sense, then Mia figured there was no point in fretting over it. She'd just have to worry about where she ended up now. Burying any guilt would be difficult for her. She knew if she wanted to move on and somehow accept this life, that's what she would have to do.

"I won't be able to explain everything," she finally plowed on, running a hand through her hair. Her bangs still stuck to her forehead in places, "Some of them, I can only really draw. And this isn't going to happen in one night but I'll tell you everything that I can remember."

----[x]----

For a long moment she looked as if she didn't know what to expect. Ah Tabai had mostly been surprised himself that she would ask him such a thing. He had little doubt that her episode on the ship left a weighty feeling on her shoulders. It wasn't as if he didn't see her as human, however.

The thought worried him. As much as he hated to admit it, there were some who were going out of their way to avoid her. Those who had been injured on the ship had spread the news. That in and of itself only spread fear.

It seemed the children of misfortune were right named. Even in this place, where he had hoped the Brotherhood would accept her, there were more shut doors than open.

Those troubling thoughts broke when she finally did manage to speak up again. Her words were a stumbled mess, something he wasn't so used to seeing. Despite that fact, she at least looked a little lighter.

He spared her a small smile in return, motioning to continue following after him. They had only stopped to get that out of the way. Now that the air was clear, she could relax a little.

"It is a troubling matter," he agreed with her, "And I am ashamed to know that some within our ranks would hold such contempt toward you."

There were times when he caught her ducking head or covering her red eye all together. It left him a little sad to know. He really did hope she wasn't ashamed of herself or what she'd become.

"Do not fret over it. That will do you little good," he pointed out as he picked his way up one of the hills. Foliage was easily brushed aside as they scaled a little higher, "I would certainly hope that you are not ashamed of yourself either, mi'lady."

It was all assumption on his part. Ah Tabai had a number of years. He'd learned to observe others. In that regard, he liked to think that he could pick up on Karissa's thoughts and moods as well.

Charlie watched as Mia took to tucking something around her neck, hiding it beneath her shirt. Whatever she’d found left him curious though Charlie felt that if he asked she’d dodge around the answer. He resisted shaking his head at that; Charlie hated that sorta thing though there wasn’t much he could do about it.

All the same she was talkin’ while she took to that task and Charlie listened intently. Mia was speaking carefully, soundin’ like she was picking her words. This time he did shake his head, a sigh escaping him.

“Well, so much for all that then,” Charlie offered, unsure if that was even the right thing to say. She’d been close to that other girl after all and she sounded depressed already. “If that’s what you want though…”

He’d learned over the weeks that if she wasn’t gonna talk nothing would pry information from her. It made things difficult and was probably why it was taking so long for anyone to get back to him as to what would happen to her. Maybe now he’d be able to sway them into keeping her here in Havana near him. It’d make things easier at least.

“Well,” Charlie started to say before pausing. What should he say next? A few seconds of deliberation passed before he spoke again. “I take it you’re done with the swimmin’ thing today, huh?”

It was a wait for Mia to say anything after that. Maybe she was thinking about it or maybe she had been hoping for him to say something else. Charlie tried not to cringe at what he’d said. It sounded rather lame to his ears.

----[x]----

They’d come to a halt when Karissa had asked about her eye and she was a little antsy to get walking again. At least that way she wouldn’t feel like she was being scrutinized. When she did meet his gaze he seemed more worried, perhaps curious too, rather than anything else; because of that Karissa tried not to hurry them up and appear impatient or rude.

When she did answer him, admitting that her own eye bothered her, Ah Tabai gestured for them to start off again. Karissa happily did so, glad that he did not ask for an elaboration. She wasn’t so sure she would have been able to explain.

Karissa shook her head though Ah Tabai wasn’t looking her way now. She didn’t want to pass blame onto others, not when it was her who’d gone down to fetch that relic alone, without anyone else in the diving bell with her. Looking back on it now, she really should have asked if anyone could have come underwater with her.

“It’s fine, I’d rather not make a fuss about it,” she answered finally. It would only reflect badly on her if she tried to force a change somehow. In the end of things Karissa hoped things would settle and go back to the way they were before the trip.

Her gaze strayed here and there as they walked up the beaten path. Ah Tabai clearly knew where he was taking her though Karissa wasn’t too familiar with this area of the island. Still, there was much of it she hadn’t ventured to given the wildlife that she knew lurked around here. There wasn’t anything she could see hiding in the trees or bushes though when Ah Tabai spoke again Karissa turned to glance at him again.

She shook her head finally. “Don’t worry about it.”

Charlie's words were simple. He really had been tip toeing around a lot of things as of late. He picked his words carefully and made sure he didn't step on her toes. In some sense, she appreciated the gesture.

"There isn't much I can do about it," she finally answered him, "I guess it's just time I stop fighting against it all."

As much as she hated to admit it, she had little power to change anything with Karissa now. Mistakes were made and that was that. Spending so much time sulking over it was becoming tiring. In some sense, finding the necklace was some weight off her shoulders. She could make some decision to move on.

"I'm sorry. I've been difficult for a long while. I'll try to make things better," she finally added.

She held out some hopes that would at least grant her some way to stay with Charlie, if not nearby. She still had a hefty amount of worry of who she'd end up with, if anyone at all.

Again, Charlie tiptoed around his words. She shook her head, starting to wade out of the water. Swimming had sapped whatever energy she had left. She knew she might sleep now.

"I'm just pretty tired, is all," she answered, "I might actually be able to sleep tonight."

Mia knew if she didn't, she'd at least work on some of the drawings she mentioned. She would rather have them done and in Charlie's hands sooner rather then later.

----[x]----

She was a little quieter, leading to some worries on his mind. Despite what she claimed, he did wonder what she thought about all of it. Karissa was genuinely a decent person. There was no reason she should have been treated any differently.

He allowed her time to think things through before she answered. There was no reason to rush her. Anytime she wanted to talk, she could always seek him out. There were a few others she could always turn to as well.

Her words were short and to the point. She didn't want to dwell on it any longer than she had to. In some sense, Ah Tabai couldn't blame her. Dwelling on such things could only make them worse.

"Simply give it time, mi'lady," he finally answered, "They may come around."

Through the foliage above them, he could see the sky. They were closer to the cliff side now that he spared a glance around. He kept an eye and ear out for any dangerous wildlife.

"I worry about you," he mentioned after she spoke up again, "You were not well when you returned. I worry that you may slip back into that state."

Karissa bottled certain things up, he noticed. While he didn't want to push her into speaking about things that she didn't want to talk about, it was hard to watch her so depressed. Nothing had gone according to plan, as unfortunate as that was. Now, there were less people she had to rely on and no friend that knew how to help with these moods.

As he left that hang in the air, he pointed toward the break of foliage. That was where they were headed.

"It is up here. I am sure you will enjoy the sight," he said, sparing her a small smile.

Though she didn’t sound very happy about her conclusion she did sound rather certain about it. Charlie couldn’t argue that even if he wanted to. That other girl had been a problem after all, keeping Mia from fully committing to the Templar cause by Mia’s own admittance. Now things would be easier on them both.

He held out his hands in a mock shrug as he took to heading towards the shore. He was starting to feel a little burnt out here, something he hadn’t felt in a long time. If this was how he was feeling he could only imagine the burn that Mia might be sporting later. “Well, no use stayin’ ‘round here then,” he pointed out.

Clapping a hand over Mia’s shoulder he steered them towards the shoreline. The waves lapped up against them both lazily, as if calling them back to continue the lazy afternoon. Charlie didn’t let it bother him much, instead he kept them on track to fetch their shoes, his jacket and hat. They’d been abandoned for a long while on the sand and he was glad to see that no one had attempted to wander off with them.

“That’s what I like to hear!” Charlie cheered; he was certainly glad to know Mia might actually get some sleep. He was a little loathe to admit he’d been worried about her. It was a strange feeling when, for so long, he’d been focused on only himself and his gain.

Once he was out of the water he took to shaking away the drops that clung to his arms and pants. His clothes were soaked through and he took to wringing water from his pant legs for several seconds. Even then it barely made a difference though he didn’t seem to mind afterwards. Instead he snatched up his dry clothes and waited for Mia to be ready to head off with him.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai was quiet for a moment after she’d spoken though when he did speak again he held out hopes for the assassins under his care. Karissa wasn’t so sure about his assessment though. Some might come around and others might hold onto their fears about her. The pull of the artifact hidden away was still strong and when she had little to occupy herself with it became distracting. All it would take is a mistake…

She shook her head. Karissa couldn’t let that happen, at any cost.

Telling him not to worry about it, to just let things happen as they came didn’t produce the reply she’d expected. Karissa’s heart leaped, butterflies flitting through her belly as she blinked up at Ah Tabai. There was that warm, comforting feeling in her chest again, a feeling she was growing more and more fond of each time it arrived.

Her thoughts flitted back to that conversation she’d had with Daniel on the ship. Should she try and make a move? Uncertainty left her debating on that even now. Ah Tabai was much older than she was after all and he didn’t seem very inclined to see anyone romantically… Or was she blind to anything that indicated as such? Daniel had seemed sure of what he’d said all those weeks ago.

Karissa had opened her mouth to say something, anything, before Ah Tabai gestured ahead where a patch of sky could be seen past the trees and bushes. Mouth closed, she glanced back at him when he spoke to say they were near the place he’d picked. Karissa returned his smile, glad that such a heavy topic was behind them for the moment. It wasn’t like she’d had much to say to it all.

“I’m sure I will,” she agreed.

It was a short walk further to reach the cliff top, the trees thinning out as they went to reveal the sky. Puffy white clouds puttered on by, obscuring the sun every so often. They were all sorts of shapes as they wind pushed them by and in the distance the ocean stretched out as far as she could see, glittering in the sunlight.

Picking her way closer to the edge she sat down several feet from it, resting her arms over her knees. It was cool up here, the breeze stronger now than in the trees and down by the beach. Karissa found she didn’t mind this too much.

Charlie looked a little lighter with her admittance. She hadn't expressed much after all. Maybe this was a relief for him. He wasn't the type to tiptoe around things so much. She knew that very well.

Again, his words were simple. It was as if they were putting it away for the time being. Mia would rather it be that way. There was no point in dwelling on all of it. Not with how everything had happened.

His hand was warm on her shoulder. Mia didn't read anymore into it than what it was. She had more or less left things lie. Maybe things would work or maybe they wouldn't. In the end, if she was hurt she decided she'd just have to deal with it.

When he spoke, the relief in his voice was easily apparent. She blinked at him. That had been the loudest he'd spoken in days.

"Honestly, I'm surprised I just haven't passed out at this point," she had stated. Even when there was a lot muddling her mind, she still managed some sleep. It was just never enough.

Sand stuck to her feet as they reached the shore. It wasn't something that bothered her anymore. She to her clothing the best she could. The heat would make it dry eventually. Scooping up her over shirt, she slipped that on quickly. Her undershirt clung to her body. Modest as she was, she felt more comfortable now that the cotton shirt was over top.

"You still look tired yourself," she pointed out just to try and keep conversation going. She didn't like to admit it, but her throat hurt a little with some strain. It wasn't as if she had been doing a lot of talking in the passed week or so, "I guess that's a little bit of my fault too. You don't hide some worries as well as you might believe."

There was a bit of teasing in her tone. Mia took a little pride being able to read some of his moods. It was honestly a little flattering that he did worry or took some care when he spoke. It filled Mia with warmth that she found hard to ignore.

----[x]----

Ah Tabai glanced over her shoulder down at her. The pink that dusted her cheeks was prominent on her pale skin. Despite being here for so many months, she still looked like a ghost compared to most. Catching things like this was easy for him.

She opened her mouth to say something as he continued to pick his way up the steep hill. When nothing came out, she simply replied as she followed after. The open cliff side really was a pretty place.

Karissa picked her way to the cliffs edge, settling down quickly. She looked content here. Ah Tabai had noticed that she always seemed to be happier up in higher places.

Ah Tabai settled down beside her, heaving a content sigh. The waves rushing up against the cliff side below was a comfort. The sound was always so nice.

"What is on your mind, mi'lady?" he inquired, sparing a glance toward her, "You seem to be having some trouble expressing them as of late."

At least, when he expressed some amount of concern, she seemed to have quite a bit of trouble. Ah Tabai had an idea as to why. In all his years, he'd picked up on things like this. He hadn't quite admitted he'd had a soft spot for her. A warmth often overwhelmed him when he witnessed her happy or doing so well.

Acting on those fond feelings was a little more difficult however. He'd debated on it for some time. He shook those thoughts away for the time being. Perhaps it was best to wait, test the waters.

"You look quite content," he struck up a little conversation, watching as she shifted as if in deeper thoughts, "Though I suppose you always do when you are in such a high place."

Mia sounded surprised herself that she hadn’t just passed out from lack of sleep. That was worrisome in itself though Charlie didn’t point that out. Things were finally starting to look up and he’d rather not put his foot in his mouth already. Now all he had to worry about was Mia possibly relapsing when they heard about what had been decided for her later.

“Well, let’s not see that happen, huh?” he mentioned, letting his hand fall back to his side.

Sand stuck to his feet as they left the water and he did his best to brush it away before shoving his boots on. There was still a lot of it that found its way into his boots though Charlie tried not to let it bother him. It was difficult when the rest of his clothes were still soaked through.

He waited until Mia was ready, her own drier clothes getting damp when she put them on, before they started off. A scoff left him when she tried to tease him about his worry for her. Was he really that obvious about it? Charlie wasn’t sure how he felt about that though decided not to get up in arms about it. It was a stupid enough thing as it was.

“Ah, if that’s what you’ve been tellin’ yourself, poppet,” he argued all the same. She seemed proud of herself for figuring that out though Charlie still wasn’t going to admit it out loud. It wasn’t something he cared to come to terms with. “You’re getting’ awfully cocky ‘bout it though.”

The sun beat down on his shoulders all the harder than before, or so it seemed, as they walked back home. Charlie tried not to be bothered by it, aware that the water had been all that had helped to keep him cooler that day. Now that he was out of it the humidity was easy to feel, clinging to his skin. Glancing at Mia, he could tell she was already getting annoyed by it as well.

----[x]----

It hadn’t taken long for Ah Tabai to settle into a spot next to her. Was it just her or did he sit rather closely to her? Karissa wasn’t sure if she was imagining it or not but the thought left her heart beating faster.

Trying to calm her heart she listened to the sounds of the waves far below them and the breeze through the trees. It was a combination of sounds that left her content, especially so high up to see things so far away. The ocean alone was a beautiful blue during the sunny day, a color she was growing steadily fonder of.

Ah Tabai’s voice snapped her out of her thoughts and observations. She turned to catch his expression, surprised for a moment that the breeze had yet to tug the hood off his head. Many had had problems keeping their hoods or hats on during the ship alone, after all. She shook the thought off, it was a trivial one.

“A lot of things, I guess,” she admitted after a moment. Karissa couldn’t quite bring herself to admit that he was one of the more prominent things on her mind. It was too embarrassing.

She toyed with that observation for a long moment even as Ah Tabai mentioned that she looked happier up here. A brief smile was spared in response to this, to show she heard him even if she didn’t reply right away. Daniel’s words yet again drifted through her mind as it had many times since then. She’d toyed with the idea just as many times though bringing up the courage to do so was always the hardest part.

Maybe it was the fact that no one else was in the immediate area to interrupt them or maybe it was Ah Tabai’s admittance that he worried about her that did it, Karissa couldn’t be sure. After several long seconds had passed in quiet debate with herself she decided to chance it. If she didn’t do it now she might never be able to, at least that’s how she reasoned to herself about it.

Karissa leaned in to catch Ah Tabai in a kiss, her heart hammering loudly in her ears. She lingered for a moment or two, half-afraid to pull away and be rejected though eventually she did, biting at her lip nervously. “S-sorry,” she mumbled, her face feeling hot.

She wouldn't have been too thrilled if she just passed out due to lack of sleep. She knew it wasn't healthy. She hated it but at least she knew she might sleep. A long swim already left her limbs tired.

The heat was already beating down on her. Some shade would do her some good. No doubt she'd burn a little if she didn't find anything quick enough.

She glanced at Charlie when he scoffed. He was quick to push the comment aside. That was somewhat normal for him. Mia was glad that at least things were settling down. Now it was just getting over the rest of the bump.

"I think I can due with being cocky here and there once in a while," she argued back, trying to keep her tone light, "It's better than being walked on I guess."

Mia brushed her bangs out of her face. Already, her hair was drying bit by bit. The heat was doing a good job of it. She honestly wanted to get back into the water. If it wasn't for the fact that she was so tired, she would have.

"Maybe we could find some shade?" she suggested. She wasn't exactly ready to head back inside just yet, "The heats pretty bad today...I'm going to burn whether I try to prevent it or not."

She normally would have taken more care about the sun exposure. Here, that was difficult. She tried not to let it bother her as much as it would have back home.

----[x]----

Karissa was silent for a long while. There were lots of things on her mind, as she said, but Ah Tabai had to wonder if some were more prominent than others. The way she shifted nervously as if debating with herself. He would watch her through the corner of his eye, curious as to what could be on her mind.

He could only wait for her to continue the conversation if she wanted to. A small smile had tugged at her lips when he mentioned she took solace in such heights. Maybe she felt proud of that fact or happy that he noticed.

Ah Tabai left her to it, occasionally sparing her a glance. It was on this occasion that she leaned forward, catching his lips with her own. A reaction stirred within him. His heart seemed to skip a beat, a melting feeling he hadn't experienced in years.

She only lingered for a few moments. It was just long enough to feel her soft lips and her warmth. When she pulled away, she looked elsewhere. Her cheeks were tinted red her cheeks.

For a long few moments, his heart pounded in his chest. That feeling hadn't been there for a long time. It left him feeling light. Despite any doubts or hesitations, he carefully reached out. He cupped her cheek, carefully guiding her head back so she might face him.

"Why would you apologize, mi'lady?" he asked quietly.

He didn't wait on an answer. Leaning in carefully, he caught her mouth, leaning into her carefully. He would test the waters, see what she might do. Ah Tabai would not overstep his boundaries well aware that she was rather inexperienced.

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