FIRE!!

(Continuation from the chapter labeled 'WASH AWAY')

Arkien's eyes widened upon hearing her words. He laughed in a low voice, dropping the water dagger that he had pointed at her. "That might be one way to put it." The gem on his earring stopped glowing as he dropped his shield, allowing the water to drench him once more.

At that point, although she was drenched and her hair stuck to her face in strips, Arkien found her to be endearingly beautiful. The itch to pull out his flute became increasingly painful. Nevertheless, he dropped his hands to his sides, a large smile falling onto his face. "You know. I am glad that I found the pathway that leads to this side of the gate." He ran a hand through his drenched hair. "At least, I managed to find Lexine, and through her I met you." He smiled at her.