This is weird. This is so weird. I've done little fluffy moments here and there, but never one built ON romance. This was suggested by AvaMarieSchneider. Hope this is romantic enough for everyone.

How has everyone been? I've had a really weird week, but it's been good just the same.

And, if you want more frequent updates on my whereabouts or whatever, check out my Twitter (TheRealLya200).

Music:

-"Waterfall" from Undertale

-"It's Raining Somewhere Else" from Undertale

-"Oh! One True Love" from Undertale

-"May It Be" from The Lord of the Rings

-"Long Road Ahead" by Kevin Macleod

-"Triumph" from Capo Productions Music

-"Dark Times" by Kevin Macleod

-"An Ending" from Undertale

Wait, an actual list? YES!

Let's Go On An Adventure

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Missing In Action

Mia's POV

I stumbled out of my portal. Pink particles blinked out of existence as the portal vanished. I groped backward, but it was just air. There was no going back, then. But why would I want to return to the inside of a volcano? Yeah, it was freezing here and warm there, but there was flippin' lava everywhere.

"Mia?" I felt my ears perk up at the sound of his voice.

"Grayson!" I bounded towards him, my arms extended for a hug. We remained locked in our embrace. Honestly, I didn't think that I would see him again this soon. I thought that the portals would have separated us.

The embrace lasted longer than it should have. For one teensy moment, I thought that Grayson wasn't going to let go of me. He seemed to be enjoying it after all. Finally, he released me, however reluctantly. "Where's Drake?"

I peered around for any sign of a sky blue portal forming in mid-air. There was no sign of the friendly half-enderman.

"Do you think he's...?" Foolish me. He wasn't dead. In my heart, I knew that. He was not dead, and I was glad. But if Grayson and my portals brought us to the same place, logically the same would have applied for Drake.

"No," Grayson assured firmly. "He'll get here."

____________________________________________________________________________________

That's what we told each other anyway. But he never showed. Day turned to night, and we were still alone.

I felt a little stressed out. Little was an understatement. Grayson lit a fire as we continued to wait for Drake to show. He never did. Grayson would put his hand on my shoulder every once in a while to reassure me, or brush some hair from my eyes, but I could tell that he was worried sick too. Drake was his best friend.

I removed my shiny pink armor due to the weight. My normal clothes remained plastered tightly together against my body. I shook out my tunic.

A chilling breeze ran through. I shivered. Grayson saw this and removed his own jacket, revealing his muscular arms. He held it out to me calmly and unresistingly. I was reluctant to accept it, but it was too cold for that. I took it from his hands and wrapped it around me.

But Grayson lost his way of conserving body heat. I snuggled closer to him. Our combined body heat was enough to keep us both warm.

Grayson whispered, "If you want, you can go ahead and sleep. I'm not going anywhere."

"But we left our sleeping bags behind in the Library," I pointed out.

His face turned tomato-red. "Well, if you want..."

In answer, I rested my head on his shoulder. He seemed a little surprised, but Grayson took it well and relaxed. Somehow, I could tell that this was what he meant.

____________________________________________________________________________________

We left a note for Drake if he ever decided to show: D: Fani da'Vharla. North. G & M. We ran out of ink at that point, but he should get the gist. And that was if Drake decided to turn up.

It was one of the cutest villages that I've ever seen. The majority of the population was elvish, so Grayson kind of sort of stood out with his rounded ears and ruggedness. I wouldn't be surprised if some elves were a little unnerved by his presence. Judging by the dirty looks they were giving him, they were.

The town had a medieval feel to it, and I adored it. All of the buildings were built out of wood. There was a variety of lumber used, however. Spruce, oak, pine, you name it. Some of the stables housed animals like pigs or cattle. The village sat in the shadow of a snowy hill. Since it was just on the border between a snowy wasteland and a lush forest, it was quite chilly. The wintery air didn't help.

Where there wasn't wood, there was cobblestone. Some of the residences used the layered rocks to provide a sturdier structure. One quaint building kind of stood out. I practically had to drag Grayson to this little shop.

I slammed open the door and called out, "Hello-ooo! Anyone home?!"

"Mia," Grayson scolded but he was hysterical, too.

The place was not empty. Several elves were huddled around these tiny tables sipping from mugs of coffee. A few of them were lounging around in wooden chairs and acting the least like elves as possible. Kind of like me.

After a watchful look towards Grayson, one of them, a male with dark hair, said, "May I help you?" Grayson opened his mouth, but the he-elf interrupted, "Not you; her."

"Yes, actually," I answered. "Is there an inn or something where we can stay for a few nights?"

He looked at Grayson and back at me. The elf smiled knowingly. "I see. We don't have any official inns, but you can stay upstairs. There is a guest room."

I thanked him and walked upstairs, flanked by Grayson. Some elves shot him reproachful glares until we were out of sight.

"I forgot to mention; these elves might have a certain loathing of humans, considering that they kind of stole their freedom a few years back," I joked.

Grayson rolled his eyes. "Is this one it?" He gestured at a reinforced door with an iron knocker. It looked like a bedroom door to me.

"Probably." I thumped on it quickly. When no one answered, I opened it.

There was a king-sized bed inside.

"Did they just assume because we travel together?"

Grayson chuckled uncertainly. "If you want, you can take the bed. I'm good. The floor doesn't look that uncomfortable."

There was no changing his mind. Once Grayson decided on something, there was no going back. That was one of the things I liked about him.

"Whatever you say. But at least take a pillow."

I threw a cushion at his head. It bounced off his face.

He stared down at it blankly. "If that is what you want." Something told me that I failed to grasp the full meaning of his comment.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Still no sign of him. Grayson and I were starting to think that maybe Drake's portal took him somewhere completely different. Okay. That was the likely answer. Any passerby that comes through did not know of any hybrids popping up randomly one day. I continued to be the one to ask questions. Typically elves and humans don't get along very well.

Today started like any other. In the few weeks that we've stayed here, our day would begin with a nature-styled meal, usually consisting of fruits. After breakfast, we might head back into the room before going to speak with the traders. They were the only humans the elves would speak to politely. Apparently Grayson gives off this "military feel."

The weird day began when we were in the trading square. An ashen smell was drifting from this bedraggled short man selling pieces of chipped pottery. His fingernails were caked in the stuff. He was dirty and gross, but nonetheless, Grayson and I started to talk to him.

"G'morning, lovely. And mister. What can I do fer yer today?" He flashed me a toothless grin. I scratched my neck uncomfortably and scooted closer to Grayson.

"Where do you originate from?" Grayson asked causally, pretending to be interested in what I think was supposed to be a vase but looked more like a lopsided duck.

"Right from th' town of Hobbiton, in th' middle of th' Empire. An' that piece yer holding costs right about nine marques."

Grayson put down the "vase." "I'm just looking. What made you leave to become a merchant?"

The midget snickered. "Well, I started out in th' military. Terrible pay, but I managed. I did it right up until, let's say, a month ago when I came across a treasure trove of items. Since then, I has taken up a new oc-cup-ation. Now are yeh two gone' to buy anythings?"

He was getting antsy and less sociable. "Ah." I picked up this funky bowl. "How much for this?"

"12 marques." He brightened a bit. "But I can give yeh a special discount. For a little something extra."

"No," I said abruptly. "I'm good, thanks."

Grayson put a hand on my shoulder and eyed the trader suspiciously. "You mentioned a treasure trove. May I ask what kind of things you found?"

The dealer winked secretively. "Little bits and things. Let's see. There were a few blocks of fine gemstones. Emerald, ruby, and diamond. Beautifully polished, possibly by magic. Some potions. Yeh know, invisibility, night vision, healing, ye name it. Each are bottled up inside sturdy bottles of crystal. And, if yeh have a sweet tooth for history, old documents dating back hundreds of years. Books, diaries, letters, the kind of thing that belongs in museums. Oh, and a hat."

Something didn't feel right about what he was saying. For one thing, he was shady and made me uncomfortable. Then there was what he actually was saying. I recognized the descriptions of the gemstones. Potions were harmless enough considering they were all over the Badlands, but few were cased in crystal. And diaries? Please. This guy claimed to have worked for the military. Those Empire sleaze-bags followed us in.

The merchant pulled out a weathered journal backed in leather, and I recognized it. Then he also pulled out a tattered witch's hat. "'Bout cost me me leg to get these. These are the least valuable of my things."

"Come on, Mia, let's get out of here." Grayson stormed off. I glared at the non-confused dealer before following Grayson.

"Did you see the hat?"

"I know, Mia," Grayson huffed. "That hat rightfully belonged to Drake. Surely he knows who we are. And he just shows off that he has our stuff."

I shrugged. Another thought came to me. "If that's the case, then do you think he would turn us in?"

Grayson scoffed in dry humor. "Nah. One thing that I picked up during my time in the Empire is that once you join the Empire, they won't let you leave. He broke away. It'll be suicide for him just to go back to tell them about us."

I nodded. The sun was high in the sky, casting its warm glow from the heavens. Since it was noon time, that meant...

"Can we get some food or something? I'm starving."

Grayson nervously put his hand in his pocket, as if checking for something. "Sure, I guess."

We hurriedly walked back to the coffee shop. Grayson was still fuming about the stupid hat. The fact remains that Drake was still nowhere to be found. Drake was the closest thing that Grayson had to a best friend in a long time, and seeing some thief in possession of something of Drake's just made Grayson feel like a terrible friend. I'll do my best to comfort him after I eat something.

We reentered the coffee shop. By now, the elves weren't as distrusting of Grayson as before, but I was still the one who handled our business.

"Lady Mayadriel." Jake Matthewv looked at me. "You've asked me to keep you updated on anything strange going on in the world."

"I have." I glanced at Grayson. Our intention was to see if any lanky figure randomly popped up somewhere, quite possibly from magic.

He smiled grimly. "Well, the attacks have started back again, only this time... Well, we have reason to believe that they are by the hands of someone else, based on the reports that have come back."

Grayson dropped his fork on his plate. There was a soft clang as it collided with the dish, muffled by the bit of food still stuck on the prongs.

"Can you describe him?" I asked uneasily, all too worried for what I might hear.

"Yeah." Jake took a deep breath. "Tall. A glowing white eye. Seems to be half-enderman, half-human, apparently."

Grayson's nostrils flared. "You're lying." As he said this, he slightly lunged forward, but I caught his arm.

"Grayson..." I soothed. We both knew that he wasn't lying; neither of us just wanted to believe it. Grayson yanked his arm from my grasp and rose from his seat.

"No, I'm not, human," Jake defended coldly. Back to me, he spoke in a softer tone, "You asked for weird, and I gave it to you."

"Yeah, thanks for that." I looked uncertainly towards Grayson, but it seems that he had already left. "I'm going to go find my friend. Sorry for his behavior."

I reluctantly abandoned my food on the table, but I wasn't hungry anymore. A knot had formed in my stomach, making me sick.

"Grayson?" I knocked on the door. It pushed open; it had not been latched.

He was messily shoving things into his backpack. Old garments, empty water bottles, whatever he had that belonged to him. His mouth was fixed in a tight line, and his eyes were slightly red.

"What are you doing?"

Grayson looked at me uncertainly. "I've got to help him, Mia. I can't just leave him like this. Not after all that we've been through. I'm going to go someplace where I can help Drake." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a couple of platinum coins. "This should cover the pay required for you to stay here for quite some time."

I pushed his hand down. "No, it won't, because I'm going with you." I walked over to my neat and tidy backpack.

Grayson stopped moving. "No, Mia!" he pleaded. That's right, pleaded. "It's too dangerous for you to come with me. You need to stay."

I put my hands on my hips and snarled, "I NEED to come with you! Drake is my friend too, you know."

He avoided my gaze. "I know, but...But I can't have you come with me."

"Why not, Grayson?" I probed, annoyed at his stubbornness.

He tried to think. An answer came to mind, but he hesitated. "Just because...?"

I rolled my eyes. He is doing a fantastic job at making me want to come with him even more. "Just because what?!" I snapped.

Grayson sighed in defeat. "Because I care too much about you, and I don't want to see you get hurt."

His answer caught me off guard. I paused and stared at him. "Sorry?"

He walked up to me until his face was in mine. "Look, Mia. I know you want to come with me to help, but really, I need you to stay here where it's safe."

"Grayson, I..." Grayson interrupted me without words. He slowly leaned in and kissed me. I could barely register anything but the fact that his lips were warm and that I didn't want him to pull away.

Grayson finally did, however regretfully. "I'm sorry. I'll be in touch." He equipped his backpack and turned to face the door. As an afterthought, he retrieved something from his jean pocket and slammed it down on the little desk by the door. One last look at me. Then he was gone.

I snapped out of my trance and examined the object. A golden ring. I choked sound projected from my throat. Did he mean to give this to me all along? I picked it up and held it in the light. Light reflected off of it, making it appear to be more dazzling.

All at once, I started crying. I made no effort to stop. As the tears continued to run down my face, I only thought of one thing: If there is anyone out there who's listening, please watch over Grayson. I can't bear to see anything terrible happen to him. He's already been through so much.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Dear Mia,

I told you that I'd stay in touch. Another town's been attacked: Offsburrow. We're right: it is Drake, but it isn't him, if that makes any sense. Not anymore. It seems that His attacks are becoming more northbound, away from you. However, I fear that He will hit Highcastle next, which is a city in the Empire. Personal reason.

I'm still looking for a way to save him, of course. I don't know how, but there must be something I can do. Still stay where you are. Perhaps you could get employed at the coffee shop just so that you won't have to continue paying for a room.

Forever yours, Grayson.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Dear Lady Mayadriel,

That was a good call on your part. I'll be more careful in choosing messengers next time and more vague in my descriptions. Heh, I should have been in the first place, but we can't change the past, now can we?

He keeps changing up the pattern. If I didn't know any better, I'd say that He's been avoiding me. I'm certain that He knows something I don't, but I've got at least two of the things that can stop Him.

I've been to Drake's house. It's been ripped to shreds. It's like a huge earthquake came and sucked everything into the ground. He's got it. You know what I'm talking about.

I'm glad that you are doing well on your own. If you are ever in need, just write. Someone, like always, will find me, especially if I want to be found.

Sincerely, G.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Lady Mayadriel,

Yes, I know that it's been a while. Three months without talking is quite a long time. Something's happened, though. Drake seemed to take back control, even for the teensiest moment. He looked at me and told me to run.

I won't enclose where because of prideful eyes, but it's given me hope. If I can just actually talk to him, maybe I can save him.

I realize how short my letters are, but it's too risky to say more than what needs to be said. I'll continue to stay in correspondence.

G.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Lady Mayadriel,

I think I know of a way to save him. You know of the city; we've been to its ruins together. Well, it's a different one, but it is closely related, destroyed around the same time. It is far south. I doubt that He will have any business down there besides stopping me.

The Empire is still wasting their forces trying to find me, but I've learned long ago that I can't stay in one place too long. Where you are is different. I'm impressed that there is still one of those groups left. I personally heard that the Emperor killed them all. Then again, I should have never trusted him in the first place.

Hopefully my next letter will be more pleasing. I sure hope so. Drake needs this.

G.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Never once has he answered my questions regarding his feelings towards me. I've taken to wearing Grayson's ring on a silver chain around my neck. I trusted all the elves, but the humans that came through with goods were another story.

I took a job at the shop. Not because I needed money; hell, the elves were perfectly fine with letting me stay for free after Grayson was gone. I took it because I needed to do something productive to get my mind off things.

I have about a little over a dozen letters from Grayson, highlighting various details of his journey in a way only I'd understand. I'm sure that messengers spent a while trying to decipher our code, but nope. They failed.

He was always careful not to provide an exact destination. I knew that he didn't want me to come find me. If I had one clue to his current whereabouts, I'd head there immediately, no questions asked.

I discovered something here. There was a rebellion focused on overthrowing the Emperor. I took on a role in the Ring. I only dared mention it to Grayson once so that he knew what was going on. It was encrypted in serious code so that he understood, but I couldn't risk sharing any secrets.

Don't get me wrong, I trust him more than anyone. It's just that the elves were hesitant in humans knowing about us. Including Grayson. They've managed to not attract the unwanted eyes of the Empire for nearly four decades. They didn't plan on ending this streak anytime soon.

It's been a while since Grayson last wrote. I heard that there were some heavy storms down south. I just hope that he's all right. Because like it or not, I'm falling for him. Hard.

____________________________________________________________________________________

"Hey, uh, somebody's here to see you." A white-haired elf with dark skin had knocked on the door. I got up from the table where I had been reading.

"Um, sure. Hold on a sec." I put on a smile and slipped a leather strap inside the book to serve as a bookmark. Then I followed him downstairs.

My eyes still felt irritated from what I had been doing, but I didn't care. I planned on using magic to good use.

A woman stood downstairs patiently waiting for me. When I saw the book sealed in red clutched in her hand, I smiled even more broadly. "Hello."

She nodded, taking a good look of my armored clothes. "Lady Mayadriel. Hello."

I looked again at the booklet. "How can I help you?"

She fumbled with the book. "Um, I have some information for you. A letter."

I excitedly squealed, "Oh! Is it..."

"From...From a contact." She didn't know who. That was good news. That meant that she didn't read the letter.

"Thank you very much. Can I have that?"

"Yes." She passed me the book. I accepted it gladly and watched as she slinked back towards the doors.

"Thank you. This is actually mysteriously late." I flipped it around and saw the red wax seal with a fancy G imprinted in it. "I was actually expecting it like weeks ago, and then..."

She hung her head, slightly ashamed. "I'm sorry. There was a big storm."

I smiled encouragingly. "Nah, it's perfectly all right. I understand. I was just..." I couldn't let anyone know how much I really care for the guy. "Kinda worried about...who is sending me information."

"I'm fine," she said with a forced grin.

I joked, "I was concerned that he had done something stupid like preoccupied with a cookie jar again." I was all too eager to go upstairs and read Grayson's note. Quieter, to myself, I added, "He seems to do that. That or his maps."

I know now that he was still concerned for his safety, but I wished that his letters were more frequent. I would never admit it, least of all to him, but I worried for his safety. That was a part of the reason why I wanted to go with him.

"That sounds about right."

"Thank you very much for this."

She nodded again, her dark hair flipping. "Of course."

"Uh," I gestured towards the fine wooden tables and chairs. "Feel free to help yourself to kaffee." I was merely trying to be polite, but it turned into a joke like always. "We got an abundance of kaffee!"

"Coffee? I love coffee." She relaxed a little.

I laughed and corrected, "Kaffee!"

"Why are we saying it like that? I don't know."

"Cause it's highly entertaining." I gave her a high-five. I don't know why I was stalling. I just have this bad feeling in my gut that I won't like what I was about to be reading. "You might want something to drink before you head off on your journey. Thanks for this."

I ran up the stairs, my hands trembling. When I was in the safety of my room, pulled off the waxen seal. I noticed that it was tighter than usual, further proof that no one read my letter.

The pages were crisp, therefore barely exposed to humidity. At least some people take their work seriously. I didn't know what to expect. Finally, unable to put it off any longer, I started reading.

Or I tried to anyway. My mouth made an o-shape as I struggled to comprehend. I exited my stupor.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Dear Mia,

I can't do it. It's all gone. I have to face the hard truth: I've failed. If anything, Drake is worse off than he was before.

Don't bother trying to look for me. You won't find me. There is very little hope for Drake. Don't take this as a resignation letter; I don't intend on giving up. I think it's just time for us to break ties. There's no reason to bring you down with me.

I'm telling you to forget about me. Go on with your life. If we stay friends, then they will certainly hunt you down. The trouble is that I can't tell you who they is. Probably a mix between the Empire and Herobrine.

I'm sorry, Mia. Don't take this personally. I just don't have any choice. I don't want to see you get hurt.

Even if we're apart, I'll still always love you.

Grayson.

____________________________________________________________________________________

I stared down at the letters, smudged from where tears had fallen, then I angrily crumpled the note and threw it onto the floor. Screw him. I'm going to look for him, if only to spite him.

I found all my things and carelessly shoved them in my otherwise organized backpack. This place has been my home for about a year, but it's time that I move on.

Of course, I still need to find where Grayson is. I unfolded each of his prior letters for some kind of clue. He was always careful, but maybe...

Oh. Oh. I snickered half-heartedly. He may not want to be found, but Grayson said so himself that he will always be found. He also told me of something else, a place that I think he doubts I'll look.

I finished packing. Then my eyes landed on one last thing. Grayson's ring. I picked it up from the table and slipped it on its chain, right where it belonged. I'll make sure that he sees that I still have it. One thing's for sure: I was definitely going to locate Grayson.

I jogged down the stairs to see the messenger starting to leave. I had an idea. "Oh, uh..."

She shut the door. "Yes?"

"Sorry, but um..." I looked down at the iron that concealed my toes. "You seem pretty trustworthy. I mean, you didn't read the book. You may have gotten here late, but you still got here."

She giggled. "Yeah."

Betcha she doesn't know where I'm going with this. "Uh...I was wondering if perhaps you would like a job?"

Her eyes widened. "Sure. Heh heh. I mean, I've been picking up odd jobs here and there, but I'm pretty good at some things." She shrugged, clearly not having expected that proposition. Though to be fair, I didn't even know that I was going to offer it until a minute ago. But I'm glad I did. Someone can take over in my place.

"Awesome." I tossed her the ring of keys.

"Various, random things, but I would love to have a job."

I giggled. "Wonderful. Um, welcome to the Ring." I smiled at her brightly. "Well, I'll be leaving now. If you need anything, just talk to Jake. I'm sure he'll love to assist you.

"B-but...Are you just leaving?" She spluttered. "Is it already official?"

"Yep!" I answered. "Gotta run. Later!"

I walked outside, ready to find Grayson wherever he is hiding. There was more than enough responsibility to handle for the both of us. He wasn't going to get off that easy.

____________________________________________________________________________________

"Yeah, thanks for that!" I tossed the marque at the farmer that graciously gave me a ride up north to the border. "I can go on foot."

He gawked at the coin. "I was only charging a dozen sovereign."

"I know, and I gave you a marque. Now can you please do me a favor and speak of this to no one, including your wife?"

His face went pink. "I live alone."

I playfully pestered, "I know that, but there is someone out there. Later."

I marched away in good spirits. Which was surprising for the fact that I was about to walk straight into the heart of the Empire. But if Grayson could do it and not get caught, then I sure as hell can.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Or not. Apparently I am not as stealthy as I thought I was. Next thing I know, four guys were walking up to me. Not mercenaries, just ordinary young men, probably in their early twenties, or even just their late teens. They didn't look that menacing yet, but that doesn't mean that I'm completely out of trouble.

"What are you doing traveling alone, miss?" A clean-shaven guy with slicked black hair winked at me.

"What are you doing pestering a young lady," I countered. In elven standards, I was not lying. I am really young for my race.

"Ooooh," the guys teased their friend. I must admit, all of them were acting pretty immature.

"Can I just get around you?" I tried to walk around the group.

"What's the rush?" Why does this happen to me?

"I have somewhere to be," I replied.

"Sure you do." The dark-haired tormentor saw something. "Guys, she's an elf."

"Since they're rare, do you think that we can get some decent money off of her?" This guy had shaggy light brown hair. "I think so, at least?"

Who do these guys think they are? "I'm sorry, but I don't have time for this."

"Hey, where are you going?"

I exhaled, "I'm trying to get past you."

"I don't think we can let you do that, lady. You're choosing the shady route. You didn't want to be seen. If you get by us, we can easily notify the authorities that some pretty lady came by. Wouldn't you like the publicity?"

I sighed. "Do we really need to do this?"

"It's what our boss wants."

I raised an eyebrow. "Your boss?"

"Hello, lovely. It's been awhile."

It was that blasted, toothless merchant who had Drake's hat. He winked at me. I grabbed my pink sword. This guy I was perfectly all right with hurting.

"Scram," he yelled at the teenaged boys. With the power of his voice, I can see why they were intimidated. They ran off. "That's better. I'm glad that ye ditched blond-boy, or did he ditch yeh? The latter? Well then. I think that I can find a way to cheer yeh up. It'd be good fer the both of us."

"Save your breath," I spat. "It's none of your concern what my love-life is like."

"Woah, there. Easy, tiger. I never mentioned love, though now that yeh do, it's clear to me..."

"What?" I was afraid that I wouldn't like what he said.

"Yeh liked him, and he left. How betrayed ye must feel. Come wit' me, and I can make it all go away."

"The answer's no."

He scoffed at me. "I was hopin' that yeh'd say otherwise, lovely. Such a pity. Time for plan B." He held out some robust rope. No tears, no frays. It looked brand new. That was just my luck.

"What do you want with me?" I asked, my voice shaking just a little.

"I want to take you with me. Elves like you live a long time."

"You're sick," I gasped, revolted.

He nudged my sword out of my hand with a swipe of his longsword. "Could be, but I am completely healthy."

I backed up until I was at the edge of the land. Rushing water raced far below me. There was a waterfall in my line of vision. The water appeared to be white.

He leered at me. I was disgusted and just wanted out. Then an arrow landed in his right eye. Blood gushed in all directions, spraying just inches from my face. I reflexively shut my eyes to keep the thickened liquid out of them.

He let out a wrangled cry and glared with his good eye at someone behind me. I coughed and tried to turn as well, but then the ex-trader hit me sadistically in the head with the dull side of his sword, and I blacked out.

____________________________________________________________________________________

I woke up in a clean bed. The sheets were made of fine linen. They were green in color. The white pillows had golden tassels in the corners, spreading out across the bed. I couldn't see the ceiling due to an elaborate canopy balanced neatly on the oak bedposts. The polished wood gleamed.

I tried to sit up, but the bedding weighed me down. My head started throbbing. I managed to free my hand and reached up to feel a heavy-duty bandage wrapped snugly around my forehead. I ran my forefinger across it in awe.

I reclaimed use of my other hand. There was a clean glass of water and a plate on a bedside table. On the plate, there was a half-eaten cookie and cookie crumbs.

I picked up the water and sniffed it. Since I didn't smell any additives like poison, I decided it was safe to drink. As I guzzled down the water, I realized how parched my tongue had become. For just being hit on the head, I must have been out a long time.

A lady with her hair tied back in a tidy bun came in wielding a wet rag. She beamed at me. "Oh, good, you're awake."

"Where am I?" I mumbled.

"In the house of Lord Feryn of Highcastle."

My stomach rumbled. "How long was I unconscious?"

"Three weeks. You had a nasty concussion thanks to that pervert."

I felt my face scrunch up, but I didn't know why. "Is he...?"

"Regrettably, he's dead." She didn't look sorry.

"How did I get here?" I saw my backpack against the wall.

"Hush, now, dear. All will be fine. Just rest." She chuckled airily at the dish. "I think I'm right in assuming that it was not you who did that, yes?" I nodded. "I'll see to it that you get something different to eat, preferably something not as sugary." She bowed deeply and exited.

My mind was foggy from lack of activity. It was buzzing. I recognized the name "Highcastle."

My name...my name...what was my name? Mica? Michelle? Myra? Mia? Mia! I was...what exactly was I doing? I was looking for something...or someone. Who was I looking for?

I stared at the half-eaten cookie. My brain seemed to tickle at that. Oh, I hope this goddamn amnesia is temporary. The good news is that I am started to remember things. Small things. My name was Mia. I am an elf. I have a sister. I had a friend named Drake, who was in trouble. I had another friend, one who I secretly wished was more than just a friend.

What was his name? I squeezed my eyes shut, hoping for some kind of a clue, but it was like he was erased from my mind completely. I couldn't remember anything about him except that I was in dire love with him.

The door started to open. I expected the maid. Instead there was a man with blond hair. He stared at me. Why was he staring? A fuzzy ripple in my head. What was his name?

"You're alive," he said simply, but even that couldn't mask his obvious euphoria.

"I'm sorry, but who are you?" But the words felt weird running off my tongue. I kept asking myself the same thing: what is his name?

He sulked, disheartened. "You don't remember?" Then he forced a smile. "Actually, it's good you don't. It'll make things easier."

He turned to leave, but I stopped him. "Please don't. I remember everything but you." What was his name?

He froze. "It's probably not wise. And what exactly do you remember."

I rattled off, "My elven heritage, the Empire, Herobrine, the Magic Library, Drake, again, everything but you. I know you are a part of my life, so don't you dare try to say otherwise."

A flash of hurt in his eyes. Maybe even jealousy? "You remember Drake, but not me? You know his, err, problem?"

"Yes, and it was a part of the reason why you left, but not the entire reason. Why did you leave?"

He sighed. "Mia, I..."

I exhaled. "I barely remember who you are, and I can already tell that you are a hopeless romantic."

He blushed. "I guess so. But to answer your question, it...it's complicated."

"Right. Of course." I crossed my arms, frustrated.

"Forget it." He hesitantly looked at the sugary treat on the plate. "May I?"

"Be my guest, even though technically I am the guest." He guffawed and took a bite.

Deep down, I felt like this should jog my memory. Cookies. But my mind drew a blank. I couldn't think of his name.

"What the hell happened to me?" I asked aloud, not expecting a response.

But I did.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Grayson's POV

I scouted ahead. I wasn't sure what I was looking for. I was advised to not go out alone for my safety. Heh. Like I cared anymore. This whole quest wasn't about me, or that damn egg, for that matter. One thing mattered, and that was Drake.

"But Mia mattered to me." Stop it, Grayson. Just. Stop. You made your choice. She's safe now, away from you. That is, if she decided to listen.

My old friend took me in and hid me inside his own castle, probably one of the last places the Emperor would look for me. He was one of the few people left I felt like I could trust since he never turned his back on me when others did. But even he couldn't be trusted with the true nature of my quest.

Some teens ran by, fearful. They paid me no attention. What? Was it Drake? I strung my bow and started sprinting in the direction they came.

Two figures. A male was jeering at the other. A female. Mia.

She was backing away. I recognized the man, too. He was the creep who pestered Mia last winter.

I halted. She came after me. I notched an arrow and aimed at the merchant's eye. It hit him dead on. Mia protected her eyes, not knowing that it was me. The man was momentarily blinded, but then he saw that it was me from his one good eye. He mouthed something.

Mia started to turn around. He caught this, however, and took his chance to beat her in the backside of her head. Mia collapsed, unconscious. I should have known.

With a yell, I ran forth, brandishing my sword. But then I stopped. Why should I use a sword on this devil of a man?

Because it was what he deserved for hurting her.

He barely had time to block my blow when my sword made contact with his neck. I disregarded his rolling head. Mia was more important.

"Mia!" I croaked. She didn't respond. That was my worst fear.

I took her still form into my arms and felt for a pulse. There was one, however faint. I guess I should count myself lucky. The force of the blow she received knocked her out cold.

I quickly examined my options. I can leave her to heal in Highcastle. They'll take good care of her there. But I can't be around her. All I do is bring misery to those around me. I'll have to leave quickly.

I scooped her up bridal style, conscious of the fact that her head was bleeding. It started raining. I started running and hoping that I won't slip in the mud and cause her further harm. I wasn't going to let anything worse happen to Mia. She was the only one left that I had. Drake was gone. My family was gone. Armen, gone. Everyone from my past life, gone or corrupted. Gone, gone, gone. I was on the verge of losing Mia, too.

I picked up her sword from the ground and slipped it inside her bag, deciding that she will get it back if she wakes up. No. When she wakes up.

I protectively held her close to me. She will never know that it was me who saved her from a fate worse than death. I loved her. That was why I had to let her go.

Eventually, I made it to the gate of the city. Lightning illuminated the sky. Sentries saw me standing out in the rain holding a body and opened the gates abruptly.

"Help! She needs a doctor!" I choked. I was whisked towards the castle of Lord Feryn. I could trust them to help Mia.

The royal doctors took her from my arms into another room. I sat down with my heart beating rapidly. I stared blankly at the wall.

"Who exactly is this?" My friend looked at me in concern.

"Her name's Mia. She's a...a friend."

His eyes sparkled. "So you say, but I can tell from the way that you look at her, from the urgent spring in your step, that it's more than that."

"It'll never be more than that!" I snapped. "She will never take me." A doctor came outside, looking grave. "Will she be okay?"

"She's stable."

A weight was lifted from my chest. "Good. I'll be leaving then." I rose.

"But Lord Grayson..."

I wheeled around. "I'm not putting her in danger! I don't know how many others will find her. Next time it could be actual soldiers. What'll I do then? Stay here in hiding?"

"But you're of no help to her out there. Do you think that she'd want you to leave?" I shook my head. "Then you must stay. For her sake."

My eyes started to sting from tears I wouldn't let fall. "Do you think that I could possibly see her?"

They nodded and opened the door. She was lying peacefully in one of the finest guest rooms. Even comatose, Mia was still one of the most beautiful people I've ever laid eyes on.

After I had entered, the door shut behind me, leaving the two of us alone. "Mia, I'm so sorry," I sobbed. Her blond hair, even though it was cut short, still fanned out on the pillows. The pink hairs moved along with her breath. Her eyes were closed and her mouth was set in a line.

There was no reason to, but I blamed myself for her condition. She went out looking for me. If I never sent her that letter, she would have went on living there in the coffee shop.

It was completely unfair. Everything was. Nobody deserved any of what they got. I looked at Mia and impulsively kissed her.

____________________________________________________________________________________

She looked at me in confusion. Nothing in her eyes that signaled that she remembered any of this. Mia opened her mouth, closed it, and opened it again. "I...I know that I was looking for you, but...but why was I looking for you?"

I felt my heart shatter inside me. I couldn't answer her question even if I wanted to. "I'm sorry, Mia."

She went to move her hair from her neck. I saw a silver chain. She noticed it, too. "What is...?" She stopped, staring at it.

Small beads of sweat pricked my forehead. "What is it?" I asked. Mia held out the chain. On it was a golden ring. I know that ring. "You...you kept it."

She stared open-mouthed at it. "I feel like I should recognize it...It looks familiar. Just tell me, what is your name?"

I took a deep breath. "Grayson."

She blinked softly, then she sighed guiltily. "I...I was hoping that hearing your name would make me remember, but I can't. Look, Grayson. I know that you want to help me in the best of your ability..."

I got closer and sat on the edge of her bed. "Mia, I..." Then she kissed me. After a moment's pause originating from shock, I kissed back.

She pulled away and scowled at me. "Grayson. Why the hell did you do that?"

"You were the one who kissed me," I justified.

Mia shook her head, and I sensed an edge of familiarity in her voice. "No, you were the one who left me there and then decided to abandon me completely."

"You remember?" I felt a twinge of hope. If that was the case, then maybe...

Stop. You can't continue this silly school-boy act. She will never take me. That kiss...it meant nothing, right? Any hope of us being together should be extinguished, or else someone would wind up hurt.

"I'm positive I remember everything now, mister. Like how you refused my help even though Drake's life was on the line."

Mia eyed me reproachfully, almost daring me to defend my actions. I scratched my head. "Yeah, I'm sorry about that. If I could turn back the clock, I would."

She laughed. "I know. Now promise me that you won't do something like that again. We're a team."

I sighed. "I can't."

Mia laid her head back down. "You have to. Grayson, hiding things from each other, going off to do our own thing, it's not going to work. So you might as well let me help you with Drake."

Stubbornness. An important trait that she has. It is one that I had to admire. I half-smiled. "So be it then."

She grinned at me, and I felt a flutter in my heart. After Kathryn, I never thought that I'd feel it ever again. Yet here I was, a human, falling in love with an elven girl. It felt nice. It made me feel...free. Maybe even more than happy.

I cared so much for her, and keeping Mia alive meant more to me than anything in the world. I would never confess my feelings to her, or at least not the entirety of them, but meeting Mia really set me on the path of moving on. Don't get me wrong; I still miss my family more than anything, and I wanted to see the Emperor of the East dead by my own hand. It's just that Mia was helping fill that empty void in my heart.

Mia brushed her fingers on the bandage on her head. "How did you find me? I was just crossing the border, and the city isn't that close to the edge of the Empire. It sounds to me that you were going out of your way."

"It was a hunch, like I had to go there." I remembered the last time I had a hunch. It led me to find Drake.

I felt a bitter feeling build up inside me. Mia may have filled some, but there were still holes that could never be filled. Nothing could be done for those I've already lost.

"I understand." Mia smiled. "And before you ask, let's just say that you should be careful in listing your concerns."

I laughed. This place was some kind of safe haven. I couldn't exploit it during the first years of eluding the Empire, but I've never stopped caring for those who gave me a place in this wretched world, even if the ending results weren't desirable. They made me worth something, and for that I was grateful.

"Some ties can never be broken. I guess I should have suspected that you wouldn't have let me give up that easily."

Mia replied, "Though what I said earlier still stands. You really ARE a hopeless romantic."

I snorted, and before I knew it, we were kissing again. And for the first time in my life, I was able to forget the pains of living.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Okay. I'm going to continue questioning this, now. It's weird writing romance. Remind me to work on something different like "My Choice to Break." I've obviously been hard at work for that one-shot. Totally.

Yeah, I have no life.

Who's ready for The Walking Dead? Me.

I love responding to the reviews. Now let's all go spam Drake and get him to post the next episode. I love theorizing and all, but some things I NEED TO KNOW! I mean, necromancy? The Well of Souls? Those were both in the 13th episode behind-the-scenes, and I think that they are reasonable enough explanations for Armen being alive. I still think that Drake did something. My response to the trailer was something like, "Drake, what did you do?"

So how exactly was my very first attempt at actual romance? I...I think it's easier to break the feels, but this wasn't THAT bad.

Now, if you possibly want to reread this, this special one-shot is available on both Wattpad and FanFiction. Thanks for forever being faithful, and remember to follow me on Twitter for any mini updates on what I am doing so that you are not left with a month's hiatus.

Happy Easter (don't want to offend anyone) :D

~Lya200~