A Date?

The next morning, Kate wakes up refreshed and ready for the day ahead, a big smile still plastered on her face. She gets dressed and heads down the hall to check if Ashley is also awake. Peeking into Ashley's room, she sees that she is already up and greets her cheerfully.

(K)Good morning, Ash.

(A)Hey, you, good morning, how'd you sleep?

(K)Like a log, how about you?

(A)I slept alright, too, you look happy this morning.

(K)[smiles] Yeah I am, I just can't stop thinking about Merig.

(A)[smiles] Typical Kate.

(K)Hey, don't judge me, I'm sure he thinks about me, too.

(A)Oh, we all know he does, that's just a fact. So what are your plans for today?

(K)Not really sure, I hadn't had anything specifically planned. Maybe just hang out with you…or spend time with Merig.

(A)[giggles] You should definitely spend time with him. Forget about me. You and I spend all day together.

(K)Yeah, that's true, at least come down for breakfast. I'll go down and cook something.

(A)I definitely will. I'm always ready to eat your cooking.

The two best friends giggle and carry on their conversation as Kate goes downstairs to prepare a delicious breakfast for the both of them. In the kitchen, Kate is busy cooking at the stove while Ashley sits at the dining table, still engrossed in their chat.

(K)Oh, I almost forgot, I wanted to go foraging today. Do you want to go with me?

(A)You want to spend time with Merig, remember? You should ask him to go with you.

(K)You're absolutely right, I'll definitely ask him.

(A)Maybe he'll kiss you since you'll both be all alone in the forest.

(K)[giggles] Oh Ash, don't see silly. Although I definitely wouldn't mind it, I doubt he would.

(A)You're right, he'd be way too scared to do that. You just might give him a heart attack. His heart would beat so fast. It would be cute to watch, though.

(K)[smiles] I might have a heart attack just thinking about it. My heart is already racing at the thought of him kissing me. I'm honestly not sure how I would react to it if he actually did that.

(A)[giggles] Oh I can picture it now, I can see you both red-faced with Merig sweating an entire river. He would struggle to breathe at the thought of his lips touching yours. And he might even pass out because of how nervous he would be.

(K)[giggles] What about me? What would I look like?

(A)Oh, your face would be crimson red, and you'd be screaming on the inside. I wouldn't hear the end of it for weeks.

(K)Could you blame me? I'm sure Larry would explode if you kissed him.

(A)Oh, he definitely would, his brain would completely malfunction. Although, I have been thinking about possibly telling him how I feel.

(K)Oh, Ash, you should definitely tell him, Merig said you've been rejecting him for years.

(A)Look, I haven't exactly had the best luck with men. I don't know if there's something wrong with me, but men just keep hurting me and taking advantage of my love.

(K)I honestly don't see Larry doing that to you, Ash. He's so in love with you, from what I've seen. He's been trying really hard to win your heart, and since I got here, I've seen him flirt with you a lot. He really seems like he wants to be with you, and I don't think he'd ever break your heart if he's been trying this hard. I just don't see Larry doing that to you.

(A)Honestly, I've thought the same thing. Like, what if I'm just so hurt from the past that I'm too scared to even try being with him? Truth is…I love Larry a lot. I just don't know how to tell him since I've been rejecting him this whole time. I feel horrible, and I wonder if he hates me for breaking his heart just to protect my own.

(K)Ash, I don't think he could ever hate you. I've heard the way he talks to you and about you. He's in love with you and looks at you like you're an angel sent from the heavens. That goblin loves you and is bewitched by you. I wouldn't feel too bad about it. I'm sure if you agreed to at least go on a date with him, he'd be over the moon. And if you explain why you've been apprehensive, I'm sure he'd understand.

(A)Maybe you're right, maybe it's time I told him. But what exactly do I say to him after this whole time of rejecting him?

(K)I'm sure if he was standing in front of you right now, and you told him that you love him, he would probably explode with joy. You've encouraged me this entire time to tell Merig how I feel about him. It only took me a year, but it's taken you this long and you still haven't told him.

(A)[sigh] You're right, I've been a bad influence and even a hypocrite. I'm sorry, Kate, I'm the worst best friend.

(K)Stop it, no you're not. If that's the case, then I'm the worst best friend, too. It's taken me a year to tell Merig how I feel, but I had reasons too, and I'm sure you know that.

(A)Yeah, I know all too well.[sigh] Alright, I need to think about what I'm going to say to Larry.

(K)Just speak from the heart. I'm sure Larry will appreciate anything you say to him as long as it starts with "I love you".

(A)Oh, I don't doubt that.

The two best friends share a giggle as Kate expertly whips up her famous breakfast. Suddenly, they're interrupted by a gentle knock at the door. They exchange a glance before turning to face the door, curious about the unexpected visitor and waiting to see who it is with raised eyebrows and curious expressions. Ashley is the first to speak up after a moment of suspense.

(A)Wonder who that could be.

(K)I'll go see.

(A)Don't worry about it, you're still cooking, I'll get it.

Ashley rises from her seat at the dining table and heads towards the front door. As she reaches it, she turns the knob and opens the door, with Merig standing on the other side. Merig's face lights up with a big smile as he greets Ashley with obvious joy. They exchange cheerful greetings as they come face to face in the doorway.

(A)Good morning, Commander Flynn.

(M)Good morning, Ash, sorry to bother but is Kate around?

(A)Yeah, she's right here in the kitchen, cooking breakfast. Come on in.

Ashley steps back and beckons Merig inside. As he walks in, he sees Kate at the stove, still cooking breakfast. Ashley shuts the door behind him. Kate turns to see Merig, and they both smile at each other. Merig approaches her, looking a bit nervous. He glances down at Kate before happily greeting her.

(M)Hey, Kate, good morning.

(K)Good morning, Merig.

(M)The food smells good as always.

(K)Why thank you, you're more than welcome to join us for breakfast, if you'd like.

(M)That's okay, I've got some guard duties to attend to, soon, as well as a few other things. I just wanted to come by before I had to do all that.

(K)That's perfectly fine. Is everything okay?

(M)Oh uh, yeah actually everything is great, I just wanted to talk to you about something if that's okay.

(K)Sure thing, what's on your mind?

(M)Well, there's something important I wanted to ask you.

(K)Oh okay, I'm all ears, what is it?

(A)Well, I guess I'll leave you two alone to talk.

Kate and Merig turn to look over at Ashley as she turns and slowly starts making her way up the stairs, leaving Kate and Merig alone in the kitchen. Both Kate and Merig steal nervous glances at each other before their attention snaps back. Kate looks up at Merig, anticipation clear in her eyes, waiting for him to speak.

(K)So what did you want to ask me?

(M)Uh, so I was wondering if you were doing anything this weekend?

(K)Nothing in particular, why?

(M)Well, I was thinking maybe we could do something…together…just me and you. I could take you to dinner, and we could go dancing or whatever you want to do. I just thought maybe we could spend some time together.

(K)[smiles] Merig, are you asking me out on a date?

(M)Yeah, a date. It's okay if you don't want to, I would completely understand.

(K)[smiles] I would love to go on a date with you, Merig.

(M)…Really? You would?

(K)Of course, I think it'll be fun.

(M)[smiles] Oh it will be, I promise, I've got everything planned out. You won't regret it, Kate.

(K)I'm really looking forward to it.

(M)I am, too.

The two smile at each other as Kate giggles with excitement, clearly looking forward to their date this weekend. Suddenly, Merig lets out his familiar involuntary maniacal laugh, instantly embarrassed by it again. His face turns red and his eyes widen as he throws his hands up to cover his mouth. Kate, however, is tickled pink and lets out another giggle in response.

(K)There's that laugh again. Are you okay?

(M)[sigh] Yeah, I'm sorry. The truth is, I can't exactly help it, it happens when I get overexcited. It used to happen a lot, but for some reason, it stopped over time. Lately, it's come back to haunt me, and you first heard it the night of your birthday, when I confessed my feelings. Ashley and Larry used to make fun of me for it. It was so embarrassing.

(K)Merig, it's nothing to be embarrassed about. I told you I love it. I promise I'm not making fun of it.

Kate keeps smiling at Merig, who despite his lingering embarrassment manages a smile back, clearly touched by her fondness for his laugh. Merig takes a deep breath to compose himself, shaking off the awkwardness. He speaks again to Kate, his face alight with excitement and a smile back in place.

(M)So, do you really want to go on a date with me?

(K)Absolutely! You said this weekend, right?

(M)Yeah, I want to take you to that new restaurant you've been talking about.

(K)That sounds amazing. I can't wait.

(M)Great, we can meet at the pub at around six o'clock, and go from there.

(K)Sounds like a plan to me.

(M)Well, I gotta go. I've got some bandits to take care of. I'll meet you at the pub later this afternoon if you want.

(K)Yeah, definitely, be careful out there. I wouldn't want you getting hurt before our date.

(M)[chuckles] You're absolutely right, I'll do my best. I'll see you later, Kate.

(K)[smiles] See you later, Merig.

With a final wave goodbye, Merig exits the house, a wide grin still plastered on his face. He shuts the door behind him and lingers outside for a moment, silently pumping his fist in victory over Kate's agreement to their date. Inside, Kate practically vibrates with excitement, her own ear-to-ear grin mirroring Merig's. Later that afternoon, Kate finds herself at the pub, chatting with Ashley and Larry at their usual spot.

(A)So I'm curious, what did you and Merig talk about earlier when he came by?

(K)[smiles] Well, you predicted the future, Ash…He asked if I was doing anything this weekend, because…he wants to take me out on a date.

(A)Oh my god, are you serious?! I was only joking when I said that, but holy shit, Kate, that's wonderful. I'm so happy for you.

(L)Damn, I bet you're excited. I really didn't think he had the balls to do that.

(A)Hey, he had enough courage to tell Kate that he loves her. He's only going to get a lot more brave from here.

(L)You're probably right. I'm sure we'll see his spine turn to gold soon enough.

(K)I'm really excited, I've got butterflies in my stomach. I have to figure out what I'm going to wear. I don't know if I have anything worthy to put on for a date. My wardrobe usually has long skirts, long and simple loose-fit dresses and cardigans. Lots of plain stuff and nothing suitable for a date.

(A)Well, we can always go shopping and get you something nice for your date.

(K)Yeah, maybe, but I don't want to wear anything too fancy, either.

(A)It doesn't have to be. I'm sure Merig will love anything you wear.

(K)Okay, we'll go shopping soon, I'm just really nervous. I honestly wasn't expecting him to ask me out, although I was secretly hoping he would.

(L)Well, he's got balls, let's just hope he doesn't screw it up. I'm happy for you two, though.

(K)Thanks, I just hope I don't screw it up, either, I'm already a nervous wreck.

(A)I'm sure Merig is, too. It took him this long to confess his feelings for you. A date is a huge deal, too, and probably took a lot of courage for him to ask you out. I give him a lot of credit for doing that.

(K)Yeah, but I didn't exactly tell him about my feelings until he told me about his. But I have my reasons why I didn't say anything sooner. You know that, Ash.

(A)Yeah, I know, but hey, better late than never.

(K)[smiles] Exactly, I can't help but be happy. My whole body is tingling, and it's overwhelming, but in a good way.

(L)I'm sure Merig feels the same. He and I talked last night, and you're all he talked about. It was refreshing to hear him brag about how he won your heart.

(K)[giggles] He won my heart a long time ago. I just didn't tell him about it.

(L)We all know that, but he was so damn clueless and couldn't take a hint. He's my best friend and I've had to hear him gush over you every day since we met you.

(A)That's pretty much how it was with Miss Kate over here, always talking about Merig as if he created the entire universe. It was so cute, though. She's my best friend and I love her. I didn't mind hearing her talk about him every day, as long as she was happy. And now we'll continue hearing about it, especially when they spend time together.

(L)Oh geez, I'm not sure if I'm ready for that, but I will enjoy hearing about Merig polishing his spine, and growing bigger balls. I've done everything to help him grow his confidence. I'm just glad he's finally grown it and put it to use.

(K)Hey, he's not the only one. I haven't exactly been a daredevil, either. But I'm improving as well, so we'll see what happens as time goes on.

(L)You're right, it takes two to tango, and you both love dancing.

(K)[smiles] That's true, you're absolutely right about that. Hey, Larry, I noticed you're not out taking care of bandits with Merig.

(L)I haven't been feeling well since my hangover, so Merig told me to stay behind, and I went to do some cleaning up at the training grounds like I usually do some days.

(K)I'm sorry, Larry, I hope you feel better soon.

(L)Eh, don't worry about me, Ash talked some sense into me and I'm done drinking so much cause I always regret it the next day. I know it's not good for me and it causes me to not be able to do my guard duties. I have my reasons as to why I was drinking so much, but it's not exactly helping.

(K)Well, good on you for realizing you have a problem, that's the first step to fixing it. Proud of you, Larry.

(A)I'm proud of him, too.

(L)[chuckles] Thanks, you two, I need all the encouragement I can get.

(A)Of course, we're here to cheer you on, Larry.

Larry and Ashley look at each other and softly smile as the three continue chatting and enjoying each other's company. Suddenly, the pub door swings open, and Merig strides in, his Royal Guard gear and mask making a bold entrance. He pulls the mask covering his mouth and nose down, revealing a face positively beaming beneath it. Spotting their usual table, Merig navigates the room with a spring in his step. He makes a quiet approach to Kate, stopping behind her while she's engrossed in conversation. Leaning down, he steals a gentle kiss on her cheek, his smile widening as he pulls away. Kate's mid-sentence cut short, her eyes widen in surprise. A blush creeps across her face as she turns to look up at Merig, returning the smile before he settles into the seat beside her.

(K)Hey you, good afternoon, Commander Flynn.

(M)Good afternoon.

(K)How'd the morning run go? Did you teach those mean old bandits a lesson?

(M)[chuckles] Yeah, it was just a small group. Myself and a few other guards took care of them.

(K)That sounds like it was a lot of fun.

(M)Yeah, for the most part. Although I can't stop thinking about one bandit who looked really familiar, I know I've seen him before.

(K)What did he look like?

(M)He's a goblin bandit. He was wearing a gray mask covering the lower half of his face. He also had a scar on his left arm and he charged at me with a dagger.

(K)Hmmm…[gasp] Oh wait, I remember! That's Gordo, that bandit you fought off last year, remember? I still have the scar on my arm.

Kate stares down at her left arm, then raises it for Merig's inspection. She pulls up her sleeve, revealing a bare arm marred by a four-inch diagonal scar. Merig's gaze drops to the mark. He straightens up, suddenly remembering the incident Kate alludes to from last year.

(M)Oh yeah, now I remember, it wasn't long after you got here.

(A)Wait, what are you two talking about?

(K)That's right, I don't think we ever mentioned it to them, Merig.

(L)Mentioned what?

(K)Not long after I moved here, I'd say a couple of months. I went out to the forest to forage like I usually do, but this was before Merig would come along with me, so I used to just go by myself. But one day, I went a little too far and didn't realize it, and I got ambushed by some bandits.

Kate lowers her arm, tucking it back into her sleeve as she launches into the story of the incident. (Flashback) Kate navigates the dappled forest floor, her large pouch filling with fragrant herbs and plump mushrooms. An hour melts away in the tranquil forage. A sudden rustle explodes from a thicket of tall bushes, causing her to spring to her feet. Her eyes scan the direction of the sound, a prickling sensation creeping up her spine. As she swivels, taking in the dense canopy overhead, a wave of realization washes over her. She's strayed far deeper into the forest than she intended and she mutters to herself.

(K)Damnit, I guess I got a bit caught up. I should start heading back.

Kate scans her surroundings cautiously, swiftly tucking her findings into her pouch and concealing them in her cloak pocket. She rises to her feet and begins to move silently back towards the city. Just as she starts to make headway, three bandits materialize slowly from the bushes, weapons brandished. A dark-skinned goblin and two humans step out, their malicious intent clear as they approach Kate. Suddenly, the rustling of leaves and approaching footsteps catch Kate's attention. She whirls around, startled, to see them closing in. Fear grips her, and she instinctively conjures a bolt of lightning, firing it at the bandits without hesitation. They react quickly, dodging the spell with practiced ease. This momentary distraction allows Kate to turn and flee, but the bandits are hot on her heels. Gordo, the goblin bandit with the gray mask, proves the fastest. He closes the distance rapidly and clamps a hand on her arm, yanking her back and securing his hold with his left arm wrapped around her. His free hand flashes, a dagger pressed against Kate's throat as he barks out aggressive commands.

(G)If you try charging your magic again, I'll cut you to ribbons.

(K)What the hell do you want from me? All I have are cooking ingredients. I'm sure you won't find much use for them.

(G)We don't want your damn herbs. We see you out here a lot, and we've just been waiting for you to stumble a little deeper into the forest. It seems you weren't paying attention. You female humans are so dense. We also see you out here sometimes with Merig, and our boss has beef with him, so he wants us to take you back to our camp until he comes to rescue you.

(K)Let go of me, you bandit! MERIG!

(G)Like hell I will, you quiet down! Boys, get the horse ready, and don't forget the rope!

As Gordo tightly keeps a hold of Kate waiting for the horse, an arrowhead emerges from the bushes, a chilling aim for Gordo's left temple. The unmistakable creak of a bowstring sends shivers down his spine as his eyes widen. Before he can react any further, a growl erupts from the bushes laced with anger, a voice he recognizes chills him to the bone.

(M)You got beef with me? I'm right here. Today's your lucky day, asshole.

Gordo slowly turns his head, spotting a furious Merig emerging from the bushes. Merig circles around him with measured steps, finally planting himself in front of Gordo. Fear flickers in Gordo's eyes as he tracks the arrow's path without looking away. But then, an obvious devilish grin creeps across his masked face. Merig glares, arrow unwavering at Gordo's face, finger poised on the release.

(M)Let her go, Gordo, and I won't let this arrow pierce your brain.

(G)Hey Merig, or should I say, Commander Flynn. It's been a while. Does this human belong to you?

(M)If you hurt her, I'll end your entire cursed life.

(K)[whimpers] M-Merig.

(M)It's alright, Kate, he won't hurt you, he knows I'll shoot him. I won't ask you again, Gordo, let her go.

Gordo loosens his grip on Kate, his devious grin unwavering. He ducks low, readying himself to flee. Just before bolting, he lowers his dagger from Kate's throat but delivers a swift, diagonal slash across her forearm. With a final glance back at Kate's cry of pain and crumpled form, he turns and races towards the other bandits, desperate to escape. Merig stares at Kate in shock as she clutches her wounded arm and sinks to her knees.

(M)Kate, are you okay?!

(K)He cut me!

Merig's face contorts with fury as he throws a glance back at Gordo before immediately drawing back the arrow in his bow. With a swift motion, he aims and fires an arrow that streaks towards Gordo, embedding itself in his left bicep. Gordo crumples to the ground and Merig surges forward in pursuit. But the two remaining bandits waste no time and scramble to help Gordo to his feet and onto his horse, then swiftly mount their own steeds. Gordo yells a defiant curse at Merig as the three bandits speed away.

(G)This isn't over, Merig! I promise you'll get what's coming to you!

Gordo and his comrades surge deeper into the forest, their horses pounding a hasty retreat back to their bandit haven. Merig, forced to abandon the chase, spins on his heel and rushes back to Kate's side. He drops to his knees, his gaze scanning the extent of the damage as she removes her hand, revealing a horrifying gash and the crimson stain of her wound. Tears stream down Kate's face as Merig assesses the blood loss, his mind racing with the urgency of her situation.

(M)Oh my god, that's a deep cut.

(K)[sobs] It hurts so bad, Merig.

(M)Come on, we have to get you to the healer. I'll take you there on my horse!

Merig rises to his feet, a sharp whistle cutting through the air. His horse, sensing the urgency, comes thundering through the trees, skidding to a halt beside them. With gentle movements, Merig helps Kate rise, helping her walk as she struggles against the pain. He assists her onto the saddle of the horse, while she's wincing as she gingerly settles in, clutching her injured arm. He swings up behind her, securing her in place before taking the reins with a firm grip. With a whispered command, they surge forward, leaving the scene behind in a flurry of hooves and dust on their way to the city healer. Inside the healer's, Kate sits on a bed. A woman with short, vibrant pink hair, Nessa, is ready to see the damage on Kate with concern etched on her face. Kate lifts her arm, revealing the wound, tears welling up once more. Nessa's gasp pierces the tense silence, her usually soft voice, and begins to panic.

(N)Oh, that's a nasty cut, how'd that happen?

(K)Bandits, I was foraging for herbs alone, and went a bit too far. I got a little caught up and lost track of where I was.

(N)[sigh] You have to be more careful out there, bandits are everywhere. They're always lurking in the shadows, waiting for innocent and unsuspecting people.

(K)I realize that now, I learned my lesson.

(N)Now try to hold still while I dress your wound. It might hurt a little, but try to bear with me, okay?

(K)Okay, I'll do my best.

Nessa strides over to her medicine cupboard, rummaging through her first aid supplies. She pulls out cotton and a bottle with clear liquid. Returning to the bed where Kate sits, Nessa starts treating her wound. She sits beside Kate, taking a piece of cotton and dousing it with the clear liquid. Nessa turns to Kate and gently dabs the cotton on the wound. As it touches the cut, Kate winces in pain, and Nessa begins cleaning away the blood.

(N)I'm so sorry, dear, I know it stings. Just take deep breaths for me, okay?

(K)[sigh] It's okay, it's actually not too bad, but it still hurts.

(N)[smiles] So did Commander Merig come to your rescue.[wink]

(K)[giggles] He certainly did. He's my hero.

(N)How sweet of him. I remember when Merig came here quite frequently. He'd hurt himself so much when he was training to be a Royal Guard. The poor thing would have cuts and bruises all over him. I would even have to treat his…unmentionable wounds.

Nessa glances up at Merig, a smile flitting across her face. Merig flushes in embarrassment, burying his face in his hand. Kate, catching the exchange, can't help but pity his plight. Nessa's giggles fill the air as she continues to dress Kate's wound. Merig peeks out from behind his hand, a sheepish look still lingering on his face, as Nessa resumes speaking.

(N)[giggles] Oh, nothing to be embarrassed about, Merig. Who else was going to treat you? Unfortunately, I'm the only healer in the city. Besides, I noticed Merig showing up a lot less as time went on, and it gave me a sense of relief. One day, I actually paid him a visit and saw his combat skills had improved. He was better suited wielding a bow and arrow than any other weapon. I was very proud of him.

(M)Oh, the memories, Larry was the worst sparring partner. Once I teamed up with my mentor, I improved. I still have some scars from those good old days.

(N)And hey, now that you brought your girlfriend, she can hear all the stories.

Kate's eyes widen in astonishment. She perks up, glancing over at Merig. Their eyes meet, both widening simultaneously. Merig's face explodes in a blush. He swivels towards Kate, looking utterly petrified. Nessa, unable to contain herself, beams at his flustered state. Merig opens his mouth to speak, but stutters, failing to form a coherent word. Finally, anxiety lacing his voice, he manages to stammer out a response.

(M)Sh-She's not my girlfriend, she actually just moved here from Taillteann. She's Ashley's best friend.

(N)Oh! You're friends with Ashley.

(K)Yeah, we grew up together.

(N)Oh, how wonderful! Welcome to Tara. It's so nice to meet you.

(K)Thank you, everyone has made me feel very welcome so far. I love it here.

(N)Well, Merig, you should definitely take this woman on a date. She's absolutely gorgeous.

(K)Aww, thank you, Nessa. You're beautiful as well.

(N)Do you think so? I'm not getting any younger, unfortunately, but thank you.

Despite the lingering crimson on Merig's face, the women's giggles draw him back. He buries his face in his hands once more, overwhelmed by their amusement. Kate, too, feels a blush creep up her cheeks. Nessa, having finished cleaning and disinfecting the wound, deftly wraps Kate's arm in a clean cloth bandage, securing it firmly.

(N)There we go. It's all done. Just keep this bandage on for a day and then change it every other day until it starts to scab over, okay? And don't forget to keep it clean.

(K)I won't forget, I promise. Thank you so much, Nessa. You're a lifesaver.

(N)Remember to thank Merig as well. He's the real hero here.

(K)You're both wonderful, thank you.

(M)Thanks, Nessa, it means a lot that you helped Kate.

(N)It was no problem at all. You come back anytime you need me. And take this woman out on a date, damnit.

(M)[chuckles] We'll see you later, Nessa.

(N)Bye Merig, bye, Kate.

(K)[smiles] Bye, Nessa.

Wiping away her tears, Kate rises from the bed. She walks towards Merig, and together they turn and head for the door. Stepping outside, they exit the building. (Flashback ends) Back at the pub, Kate and Merig finish recounting their experience to Ashley and Larry, who are now eagerly listening.

(A)Damn, now that I think about it, you never did tell me about that. I remember asking about that cut on your arm. You said you fell while you were foraging, but you never mentioned bandits.

(L)Yeah, and Merig, you never told me about that, either.

(M)I guess I just forgot to mention it. It's been almost a year since it happened. Thankfully, nothing has come of it, despite Gordo's threat.

(K)Yeah, and I didn't want you freaking out about it, Ash. If you knew the truth, you wouldn't have let me leave the house for weeks after that.

(L)Well, it's a good thing you both came out alive, especially you, Kate.

(A)Yeah, I'm sure you were scared shitless.

(K)I was shaken up, but other than that I was okay. My arm healed better than I thought it would. If it wasn't for Merig, I'm sure I would've been through worse. I still owe him my life for it.[smiles]

(M)[smiles] Thankfully, I was on patrol around that area when I heard Kate yelling my name in distress, and I decided to sneak up on foot. Gordo got off easy, cause I would've done worse than what I did, but Kate was bleeding so badly, and getting her to the healer was all I cared about at that time.

(L)Gordo must still have it out for you then. It's probably why he came at you with a dagger. Did he hurt you?

(M)No, luckily I was quick and restrained him. He forced me into a brawl and ran when I nearly punched his lights out. He may be a martial arts fighter, but he knows I'll put him in the ground if I have to. He did make another threat, though, he said "We'll be coming for you, soon". So, I guess he does have it out for me.

(K)Well, I'm just glad you're okay, that's all that matters to me.

As Kate turns, Merig meets her gaze, and a smile blooms on both their faces. Reaching out, Merig gently takes Kate's hand. A blush creeps up her cheeks as their eyes lock. Across the room, Ashley and Larry exchange sentimental smiles, warmed by the unspoken affection radiating between Kate and Merig.

(L)But hey, I bet you're both excited about your date this weekend.

Kate and Merig swivel their heads towards Larry, both beaming excitedly. They nod in unison, their unspoken message clear. Later that evening, Kate wrestles with her new purchases, acquired on a shopping spree with Ashley earlier. She holds an outfit up, scrutinizing it in the mirror, determined to find the perfect look for her upcoming date with Merig. A knock sounds at the door, and Ashley peeks in, curious about Kate's progress.

(A) Have fun with your new outfits?

(K)[sigh] I'm still figuring out what I want to wear. I'm just so nervous about the date.

(A)Relax, you and Merig are gonna have fun. You used to talk about what you wanted to do if he ever grew the spine to ask you out. You said you want to go eat and dance the night away with him.

(K)I know, but it's one of those situations where when it finally happens, you realize it's actually happening and you get scared. I swear my stomach is doing flips and I can't help it.

(A)Hey, I know you can't, but just take a moment and breathe, okay?

Ashley strides over to Kate, coming up beside her. Wrapping her arms around her best friend, Ashley squeezes tightly, offering silent comfort. Kate melts into the embrace, closing her eyes and taking a deep, calming breath. The nervous energy radiating off Kate is palpable.

(A)Everything is gonna be okay. I know you're internally freaking out, but you've been waiting for this for a long time.

(K)[smiles] I know I have. I just can't believe it's actually happening. I could die happy.[giggles]

(A)[giggles] Let's not do that, but I'm glad you're happy. I'm happy for you both. You're gonna have fun, don't worry, just be yourself and hold his hand and be affectionate like you have been.

(K)[smiles] I want to so badly, and I didn't want to let go of his hand at the pub today. His hands are so soft and warm, and his grip is so gentle. I love it.

(A)I know, honey, you love that goblin. Just be patient and the weekend will be here, and you can hold his hand till your heart's content.

(K)Okay, will you please help me choose an outfit? I'm begging you, I'm losing my mind.

(A)Don't worry, I'll help you, that's what I'm here for.

(K)Thanks, Ash, you're the best, I love you.

(A)Love you, too, now let's see what we can do.

After a flurry of conversation and outfit changes, the women finally settle on a perfect look for Kate's date. Exhausted but content, they turn in for the night.