I’ve done the trek many times, from my family’s land to Merchant Gate. If I was rushing and the weather was nice, I could make it in about a day and a half. This time, though, I was traveling leisurely, navigating the groves nonchalantly and without haste. I didn’t have a particular job to do, though I would be looking for one when I got there.

I had overheard my parents talking about downsizing the number of horses we owned to save money on feed. The horses didn’t bring in profit like the other animals, so of course they would be the first ones to go. I didn’t want to lose our horses, especially my dear Anthem, so I was heading to town to see if I could do a few jobs, enough to stock up on resources so my parents wouldn’t have to consider selling our herd.

I accepted the inevitable trouble I’d probably encounter when I got there, but for the time being, I was breathing in the fresh, earthiness of this forest path. Lone birds chirped vivaciously from the tree tops and small rodents scattered around the foliage. I walked steadily, eyes alternating between being closed, and admiring the clear, cerulean sky.

I was nearing the halfway point when I heard the faint whiffs of melody through the trees. The breeze seemed to carry it directly to me. It was a delicate, soothing lullaby amidst the wilderness. I was drawn to it. Before I knew it, my feet were picking up pace, taking a gentle right turn, a bit deeper into the woods. Although enchanted by the sound, I had a hand on my rapier, on the off chance I was falling into a trap. You can never be too careful.

Peeking through some large shrubbery, a human man came into view. He was seated criss-crossed at a campfire, playing his lute. There was a handsome youthfulness to him, with freckles and dark curls. He was immersed in his performance, eyes closed and fingers dancing over the strings with ease. I was captivated by the moment, basking in the serenity.

Leaning forward to get a better view of the mysterious man, a branch snapped under my foot. The man’s eyes shot open and the music stopped.

“Hello?” he asked, failing to hide the shock in his voice. I didn’t want him to feel frightened, so I stepped out, clearly into view. As soon as I was visible, the musician relaxed. He gave me a kind smile and then began playing again.

“Well, good afternoon traveler,” he smirked as he strummed the most perfect notes.

“I’m sorry to disturb you,” I spoke cautiously. “I just heard the music. It’s beautiful.”

“Why thank you,” he said cheerfully. “I’m Jasser, traveling musician and apparently, an unintentional forest siren,” he joked.

“Phina,” I returned the introduction.

“What brings you to the middle of the woods, Phina?” he asked, his song sinking into deep vibrato.

“I’m on my way to Merchant Gate.”

“Oh, as am I. I’ve just settled in for the night. Do you have a camp somewhere?” Jasser let a final note disappear into the air before setting his instrument on the ground. He motioned towards his fire as an invite. Still alert, I took the offer and settled down on a nearby stone, about the size and shape of an overturned barrel.

“I do not. I typically travel through the night,” I responded, enjoying the crackling of the flame.

“Are you always in such a hurry?” He asked. I could feel his intense stare but it didn’t seem threatening.

Before I could respond, an arrow wobbled through the thick trees and struck the bark of an oak nearby, flopping down after impact. I immediately dropped down, noticing Jasser doing the same.

“Expecting friends?” I asked, getting my weapon at the ready. Jasser, after the initial shock of seeing my blade, shook his head no. From the way he was, crouched, eyes darting around, I could tell he didn’t find himself in situations like this often.

“Hands up!” A group of three humans burst through the leaves. One with another arrow drawn and ready.

I put my hands up, Jasser following suit.

“Lookie here, guys,” the leader sneered with excitement. “I bet these two have some good stuff for us.”

I was oddly thankful they were just bandits, dumb ones at that. Besides the one with the bow, no one was wielding anything useful. The man to the right of the ringmaster was even chomping on a large, roasted bird leg.

“Drop the sword!”

I willingly let it fall to the ground without hesitation. I wouldn’t need it. I leaned over to Jasser who made his way closer to me.

“They only have a ranged weapon that I can see. And he doesn’t know how to use it. The closer we are, the better,” I whispered. Jasser’s eyes grew wider as I began walking forward.

“Whatya gonna do little elf girl?” One of the men teased me as I approached. They didn’t even bat an eye when I was within arms reach. Jasser trailed behind me, close enough that I could feel his heavy breathing against my neck. They were staring at him. Those fools were more worried about Jasser- hah!

With swiftness, I snatched the bow and smacked the man who was holding it across the face. The bow snapped from the impact. I tossed the remains of it with ferocity into the fire behind us. The fire sizzled with satisfaction as the fancy wood charred. Before the bandits could react, I palmed the turkey leg that was in the other man’s mouth, back towards his throat. He dropped to his knees, fishing for the meat he was choking on. I think I caught a glimpse of a gap where a tooth once was. I finished with my backup kitchen knife, slipping it out of my pocket and resting it against the leader’s chin.

“Go now. If you bug us again, I will not be so kind,” I hissed. The turkey leg guy and the archer quickly disbanded. Without a choice now that he was alone, the leader spit at me and then disappeared back where he came from. I wiped the saliva from my shoulder.

“Wha- that was so impressive!” Jasser said with enthusiasm. “You were so quick!”

I couldn’t help the smile that creeped onto my face. My talents weren’t regularly commended so directly.

“We should probably go. I assume they will try to come visit us again with sharper, scarier things to jab us with,” I grumbled.

“Right. Well, since we are both heading to Merchant Gate, would you care to share company?” Jasser asked as he slung his lute over his back, a thick strap holding it in place. From the looks of it, besides a small sack, there really wasn’t much else for supplies that he needed to gather.

“I suppose that would be safer for us both,” I agreed, picking up my rapier from the dirt. “Maybe you can play me more songs to pass time?”

“Well, I think it’s safer for me, yes. But you would do just fine without me– though I’d still love to travel together to our destination. I will play you any song you desire as a thank you for saving me.”

“I don’t think they could have robbed moss off a log,” I said. Jasser let out a pleasant chuckle at my quip and for the first time in a while, a laugh escaped my lips as well.

“An adventure awaits,” Jasser gleamed, reaching out his hand. A bubbling in my chest erupted. Butterflies! Without a second thought, I took his hand in mine.

“Yes it does.”

*****************************************************************************

True to his word, Jasser strummed his lute as we walked. Each song that he played was like butter, smooth and rich.

“So, what brings you to Merchant Gate?” he asked above the accompaniment.

“Oh, just visiting.”

“That’s a lie if I’ve ever heard one,” he snickered. “You don’t have to tell me, though, if it’s secret.” He raised his eyebrows in playfulness.

“I do some odd jobs in Merchant Gate to help out my parents,” I answer vaguely. “I’m heading there for work. You?”

“My parents live on the outskirts of Merchant Gate. I’m heading home after a few months of travel to visit them,” he responded.

I noticed that we were walking in tempo with his music.

“I hop around from place to place, playing music to fund my travels. I get to do my two favorite things, adventure and play.”

“That sounds quite exciting,” I said, pulling my cloak tighter around me. The night was upon us and the chill began to sink in. I knew being human, Jasser would need to rest eventually, more so than I would, but we for sure had to make it further away from the band of dingalings before stopping.

“It breathes air into my sails, that’s for sure.”

How Jasser carried himself was so abundant. I couldn’t imagine a dull room with him in it.

“So, how did you become so skilled?” He asked with intrigue, taking a break from playing his instrument. The air was overtaken by the chirp of crickets. “I am impressed by your agility.”

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I let an awkward laugh out. “Some of the places I visit are not the safest…”

“You know I’ve heard of you,” Jasser finally admitted. “It came to me while we were walking a bit ago.”

“Oh?” I said, though this revelation didn’t necessarily shock me. I really should have invested in an alias.

“You are the notorious Phina. The person who is hired when someone needs to be taught a lesson!” Jasser raised his fist dramatically, a smile still plastered on his face.

“Does the possibility of that scare you?” I asked, curious if his perception of me had changed.

“Of course not. You don’t seem like the kind of person that would do something to someone unless they deserved it. I am shocked though. I’ve gotten bits and pieces of stories from my parents. The mercenary I pictured in my head was not anything like you.”

“Well, that’s probably a good thing I’m not the first to be suspected. I didn’t really mean to get so wrapped up in things there. I just found out I’m pretty okay at sneaking around and it makes good money for the family farm…” My voice trailed off, trying to contemplate whether I wronged this man somehow and he was angry. His demeanor didn’t change, nor did his attitude towards me.

“The stories I’ve heard: Phina, a simple girl that can disappear into the shadows like a ghost,” Jasser began. “She is living breathing karma. The one you want to talk to if you have been wronged.”

“Those are quite some stories,” I responded to his antics, semi-proud of what people were supposedly saying about me.

“You’ve definitely made a name for yourself, whether you meant to or not. It must be dangerous and lonely,” he said, his tone a little more somber.

“I tend to get myself into some not great situations, but I’ve made it out thus far. It’s definitely getting a little more complicated now that people know my name. Good for business and the people who don’t like me.”

“So you keep doing it for the money? Even though it’s dangerous?” Jasser’s pace slowed, though I don’t know if it was because he was getting tired or because of the conversation.

“There’s a certain thrill aspect to it, I guess. I mainly want to help my family and it’s a good way to do so.”

“Admirable.”

“Enough about me,” I end the inquiry awkwardly, “How have you come to be such a talented musician?”

“I’ve been playing nonstop since a cherished mentor willed me his lute after his passing. After time and lots of practice, I guess I’ve gotten pretty good. Good enough to lure pretty elves to me, even.”

I felt my cheeks flush in response to his flirtation.

“Are your parents supportive?” I questioned.

“Very much so. Even though we don’t come from much either, they have always encouraged me to pursue my passions. Not once have they insinuated that music would be a frivolous endeavor.”

“They sound wonderful,” I said genuinely.

“You’ll have to meet them someday. I have a feeling that they’d take a quick liking to you.”

*****************************************************************************

It was well into the night when we finally decided it was time to stop. Jasser was getting fatigued. He insisted he could keep going if I wasn’t going to sleep, but I was adamant about him resting just in case we stumbled into trouble. Truthfully, I didn’t want to make it to Merchant Gate and have to say goodbye. This was the most normal I have felt in forever. I was in no rush to have this end.

We started a fire, its warmth and light pushing back the chill and darkness. Jasser fell asleep under the stars, his lute laying next to him. His soft snores against the nighttime noises were so oddly enjoyable.

I rested against a stump, looking up at the constellations as he slept, thinking about Jasser, my notoriety, my horses. Thoughts flooded my head and weighed me down to the earth.

The night was quiet except for the occasional rustle of leaves or distant call of an owl. I looked at Jasser, his face relaxed and peaceful in sleep, and I felt a pang of something I couldn’t quite identify. It had been so long since I’d felt anything beyond duty and determination. Jasser was different—his kindness, his music, his way of looking at the world. It made me remember what it was like to live without constant vigilance. I reminded myself that there was no one to blame about my life except myself.

I sighed softly and turned my gaze back to the sky. The stars were brilliant tonight, scattered across the velvet expanse like diamonds. I traced the familiar constellations, their shapes telling stories I’d known since childhood. Stories of heroes and legends, of love and loss. My mind drifted to my family, safe and comfortable because of the choices I made.

But here, with Jasser, I allowed myself to wonder—just for a moment—what it would be like to have a different life. One where I wasn’t always in the shadows, where I could stay with someone like him. His music had a way of drawing out emotions I thought I’d buried long ago.

A soft rustling pulled me from my reverie. I tensed, hand moving to the dagger at my belt, but it was just a small creature foraging in the underbrush. I relaxed, but my heart continued to pound. The life I led was not one that allowed for peaceful nights and gentle mornings. Every moment was a potential threat, every shadow a possible danger. I have made a lot of enemies.

Jasser’s presence was a reminder of what could be, a life less encumbered by fear and secrecy. But that life wasn’t mine to have. Not yet, maybe not ever.

The fire crackled softly, casting flickering shadows around our little camp. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, trying to center myself. I needed to be alert, to be ready for anything. But my mind kept drifting back to Jasser, to the way he looked at me with genuine curiosity and respect, not fear.

The hours passed slowly, the night deepening around us. Eventually, I stood and quietly moved around the camp, checking our perimeter, making sure our friends weren’t back for another visit. When I was satisfied, I returned to my place by the fire.

As dawn began to break, the sky lightening to a soft gray, I felt a pang of sadness. Our time together was drawing to a close. Soon, we would reach Merchant Gate, and our paths would diverge.

Jasser stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He blinked up at the sky, then turned to me with a sleepy smile. “Good morning,” he murmured, his voice still thick with sleep.

“Morning,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady. “We should get moving soon.”

He nodded, sitting up and stretching. “Thank you for keeping watch,” he said. “I feel much better.”

I smiled, though it didn’t reach my eyes. “Of course. Ready to face whatever is in store for us?”

He grinned, a spark of excitement in his eyes. “With you by my side, I feel like I can face anything.”

Though cheesy, his words warmed me more than the fire ever could. I stood and began to pack up our camp, my heart heavy with the knowledge that soon, this brief respite would be over. But for now, I savored the moment, grateful for the unexpected companionship of a traveling musician who saw me not just as an elf who could get the job done, but as Phina.

*****************************************************************************

We made it to Merchant Gate just as the sun was climbing higher in the sky, casting a golden light over the bustling town. The streets were alive with the sounds of merchants hawking their wares, children laughing and playing, and the occasional shout of a guard trying to maintain order. It was a stark contrast to the quiet of the forest we had left behind.

I looked over at Jasser, who seemed both excited and nervous. He had told me about his parents' home, how it had been a while since he’d visited. I could sense a mix of anticipation and anxiety in him.

“We’re here,” I said, my voice cutting through the noise of the town.

Jasser smiled, though there was a hint of something else in his eyes—maybe apprehension. “I should head to my parents’ place. It’s been too long. Where are you off to?”

“I need to visit the local tavern owner, see if he has any work for me. He’s hired me for a few things in the past and he pays well.” I tried to keep my tone light, but my mind was already racing with thoughts of what kind of trouble might be brewing in Merchant Gate this time.

Jasser hesitated, then looked at me earnestly. “Phina, before you go... could we see each other again? Maybe tonight? There’s a small garden just outside the northern gate. It’s quiet, a good place to talk.”

I was taken aback by his request, and for a moment, uncertainty washed over me. Not only am I playing a dangerous game, being so honest with him about my line of work, but meeting again meant letting him further into my world, a world I wasn’t sure I wanted to share. But there was something in his eyes, something that made me want to say yes.

“Alright,” I found myself saying. “Tonight, at the garden.”

His face lit up with relief and happiness. “Great. I’ll see you there, then. Around sunset?”

I nodded, feeling a strange mix of unease and solace. “Sunset it is.”

“Please be careful today with whatever you get up to. I’ll be mighty worried if you don’t show.

“Good thing I’ll be there right on time, then,” I said with an air of semi-confidence. “I may even beat you there.”

Jasser gave me a quick, comforting smile before heading off in the direction of his childhood home, disappearing into the crowd.

Shaking it off, I made my way to the tavern. The Golden Tankard was a familiar place, its weathered sign swinging gently in the mid-morning breeze. I pushed open the door, the smell of ale and roasted meat hitting me immediately. The place was mostly empty at this hour, only a few early drinkers nursing their mugs and a couple of patrons chatting quietly were present.

The tavern owner, Barlon, was behind the bar, wiping down the counter. He was a friendly man but you definitely wanted to stay on his good side. He looked up as I approached, his expression brightening when he recognized me.

“Phina! Long time no see,” he said, his gruff voice tinged with genuine warmth. “What brings you here?” Without prompting, he poured me some ale in a mug.

“Thank you, Barlon,” I greeted him with a nod. “I was passing through and thought I’d see if you had any work for me.” I gingerly sipped my drink.

He chuckled, shaking his head. “Always straight to business with you. But yes, as a matter of fact, I do have something. I was actually going to send for you later today. There’s been a bit of trouble with some of the local merchants. Someone’s been muscling in on our territory, saying they won’t stop causing problems until they’re paid up good. Some other business owners have even paid and those crooks still won’t go. I could use someone with your skills to... persuade them to back off. It’s been a mess for my business supply. They have been stopping shipments left and right.”

I nodded, feeling a familiar sense of purpose settling over me. “Do you have any leads on who’s behind it?”

Barlon leaned in, lowering his voice. “I’ve heard whispers that it might be a new gang trying to establish themselves. They’re not as discreet as they think. Start with the docks. That’s where most of the trouble’s been. 15 to figure out names and base location of these buffoons. 35 to deal with it for me,” he said, holding up a gold piece. I nearly choked on my drink at the pay he was offering. They must really be messing with his business.

“Consider it done,” I said, already planning my approach. “I’ll report back once I’ve dealt with it.”

Barlon gave me a grateful nod. “I knew I could count on you, Phina. Stay safe out there.”

“I always do,” I replied, turning to leave the tavern. As I stepped back out into the busy street, I couldn’t help but think of Jasser and his easy smile. Meeting him tonight... it felt like a risk, but it was one I was willing to take. I just have to get through this in one piece first.

With a deep breath, I headed toward the docks, ready to dive back into the shadows and do what I did best. But this time, there was a small part of me that looked forward to stepping back into the light, even if only for a little while, when I saw Jasser again at sunset.