A Battle

Mercury stepped through the door of Eratz's apartment, feeling the warm air wash over her like a soft embrace.

The scent of herbs lingered in the air, mingling with something faintly sweet, cinnamon, maybe.

It was familiar, home sweet home, but today she couldn't enjoy it like usually.

Cassie appeared almost immediately, emerging from the kitchen with her usual playful smile.

"Well, look who finally decided to stop by. I was beginning to think you'd forgotten about us entirely." Cassie teased, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel.

Mercury managed a smirk as she lazily kicked off her shoes, already making a beeline for the couch.

"Impossible, aunt Cass, I've just been busy, like very busy."

"Hm, busy," Cassie echoed, her tone playful as she turned back into the kitchen. "Sounds like you've been running all over the place. I'm surprised you're still standing."