In the forest that stretched near the manor, Miria was kneeling in front of Vareck's grimoire. She placed both hands on the book. A golden light escaped from it and penetrated her. Page after page, the knowledge of the grimoire seeped into her mind. The book began to crumble, then disappeared completely.
Miria stood up, her eyes shining with new power. She raised her hand and tested one of the spells she had just absorbed. A blue flame danced at her fingertips before extinguishing. She smiled.
"It works…"
She looked around.
"I've been here too long. The others will start worrying."
She was about to leave when a noise in the undergrowth alerted her. Instantly, she went on guard, senses heightened. She searched for the threat… and cast a spell in its direction.
The attack was deflected at the last second.
"My love," an amused voice said, "I know you said you wanted to kill me with love… but I didn't know it was in this sense."
Miria froze. Then, recognizing Asher, immense relief flooded her. She ran toward him and threw herself into his arms. Asher caught her, spun her around in the air, then held her tightly against him.
"I'm so happy you're safe and sound," Miria sobbed while hugging him. "I was so scared of losing you…"
"I missed you too," Asher answered, holding her tighter.
They pulled back slightly. Asher looked at her, one eyebrow raised.
"What were you doing here?"
"I was training. I wanted more space to do it."
"Yes… but you know it's not appropriate for you to be alone?"
"Yes, but…"
"Yes but nothing," Asher cut her off in an authoritative tone. "Don't do it again."
Miria lowered her eyes, docile.
"Alright."
Asher softened and smiled at her.
"Good. Let's go back."
He took her hand and prepared to leave, but Miria didn't move.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
Miria looked up at him, a mischievous smile on her lips.
"I don't want to go back just yet. What do you say we go to the water spring… which is a few meters further on?"
Asher stared at her for a long moment. His expression changed, becoming suddenly very serious.
"How… do you know there's a spring a few meters from here?"