[PRP] Through the Sands of Time (Arima x Saraf)FIN

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

It had only been a couple of days since Arima had spent the evening with Saraf, but the girl was still as giddy as the first moment that their lips had touched. Of course such thoughts were rather distracting when she was trying to study for healing or helping to run the manor, but she simply couldn't resist reflecting upon things. Honestly there was a small part of herself that was still in denial that such a thing had actually occurred and she was simply waiting to wake up. Or perhaps she had simply dreamed it and Saraf would just give her a strange look next time?

I don't know what to do. Arima bowed her head over her books with a long sigh. Perhaps she simply needed some fresh air? "A walk in the garden could do me some good." Almost like I've done this a hundred times before. She thought with a small smile as she gathered her skirts in her hands and started to descend down the stairs and towards doors lead to the courtyards. How many times would she be pacing and waiting for Saraf to call? Surely he hadn't forgotten the way since helping to escort her home the last time....unless it had just been a dream and she was just a fool for waiting on him to visit.

At least her mother was doing better. Even though she was extremely weak the lady was stable now that Arima and her mentor had been there to help heal her. Magic couldn't deter age, but it could help make life a bit easier...Arima's gaze darkened before she shook her head. Focus on happier things, happy things. Arima reached out to touch a tiny flower budding along one of the rose bushes. At least flowers were lovely even when she was stressing over so many things.

"Should we let visitors know to come into the backyards for you again, Miss?" A servant smiled towards Arima as she passed by, "That is unless you're giving up today?" It was a tease since many had noticed her constant walks in the garden as she waited for someone. Perhaps it was a bit sheepish of her, but the woman was still hesitant to go seeking out the Oban soldier.

But that didn't stop her from waiting and hoping, "Yes, please." Arima smiled shyly, "I'll be by the inner fountains reading. I brought a few books so I should be there until sunset if not later."

"Noted." As the servant waved Arima began to walk once more down the twisting path and towards one of her favorite reading spots. A spot surrounded by bushes and circling a large intricate stone fountain with a design for easy sitting if wanted. It was normally there that she would sit and begin her studies...
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

After spending so much time with Arima, time in which he'd confessed so much to her, he found himself feeling strangely... giddy. It was a sensation that the seasoned warrior really wasn't used to since romance hadn't been something that he'd really found any interest in until this moment. Luckily he had a bit more leave time so he had a chance to go and visit with her again after their last visit. Going toward her place he found himself strangely flustered and not quite sure what he should say and do next. The time they spent together was wonderful and now he found himself a tad worried that he might mess up somehow.

That thought coming to mind for him caused him to end up making a bit of a detour so that he could fetch a bouquet of flowers for Arima. He felt that showing up empty handed would be an insult somehow. Doing his best to keep a flush under control as he headed toward her place with flowers in hand, praying to the Gods and Goddesses that she'd be home. If he missed her he supposed that he could leave the flowers behind with someone, right?

Luckily though he didn't have to worry about that as he was told that Arima was in once he'd arrived. He found himself being escorted to the entrance to a garden before he was allowed to go seek out Arima on his own. Swallowing hard he did his best to get his emotions into check as he sought her out. He was a grown man, not a prentice, so he shouldn't allow his various emotions over this visit to run rampant. He was here to give her flowers, chat with her, and possibly invite her out for another date. Mostly depending on if she wanted to come along. Here was to hoping he thought to himself, flushing again as he sought Arima out within the walls of the garden.  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

Arima's lips were pursed and her brow slightly furrowed as she bent over a tome in concentration. If those glyphs can be arranged in this way instead of the previous spell... She was so deeply lost in thought that the Matori woman didn't even notice that she wasn't alone. But as a bird cawed in the sky above her, Arima flipped her hair out of her face so that she could glance up towards the clear skies. How cute. Smiling the healer reached up to tuck a stray curl behind a finned ear before finally noticing the familiar figure standing on the pathway.

"Sa-Saraf?" Blinking Arima tried to clear her vision, as if believing it a mirage instead of the real man, before slowly offering a wave to the Oban, "I'm so sorry...have you been here long? I mean, how are you?" Her cheeks flushed at the sight of him as she attempted to straighten her back and rearrange her skirts into a more proper fashion. And...was he carrying flowers? Arima could only raise a curious brow as she studied the man and tried to calm her nerves.
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

It took a bit of time for Saraf to finally find Arima but when he did he found that she seemed to have her nose buried in a book. He'd waited quietly, curious as to what it was that she was doing. Studying... what? If he had to guess he'd say that it was likely magic? Not something that he could really help with so it was best that he just waited and watched. The last thing one wanted to do was startle anyone with power like hers. It would be the same as startling someone with any sort of weapon in hand.

It was only after she looked up his way and greeted him that he started forward, "Not long... and don't worry about me. I just didn't want to bother you while you were so engrossed in your book." Once he got closer to her he held out the flowers to her. Flushing ever so slightly he said, "I felt that flowers were in order." Though given she was in the middle of a garden maybe they were one of those presents that might be a bit lacking?  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

Arima's cheeks burned even more as Saraf approached, "Still!" She protested sharply, "I should be paying more attention....truly you didn't have to wait around for me to finish reading." If that were the case what if she had been fully engulfed? Sometimes someone could stand there for hours before she would ever realize that they were waiting on her. Sheepishly Arima closed the book and sat it on the fountain as she stood and took a few steps towards the Oban, "Flowers...for me?"

Her mouth curved upwards into a small smile full of delight, "They are lovely, Saraf. Thank you~" Arima raised the bouquet to her nose as she looked them over. Regardless of how many flowers already surrounded them it was still touching to receive them from the man she liked, "This is really sweet of you..." She trailed off before glancing around, "Is there a trick to this though, some strings attached?" She teased lightly, "Are you in some trouble to have brought me flowers like this?"

"Even if so you aren't getting these back because they'll be going right into a vase by my bed." Arima hugged the flowers close. It would be like a nice secret, especially since she didn't want the Unit to tease Saraf about this. If she ever made it back there that was....for a split second a shadow crossed her gaze before the girl shook her head and smiled, "So may I ask if you have anything in mind since you came all the way to see me?"
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

Saraf gave a bit of a shrug as he was told that he didn't have to wait, "I don't mind, I'm in no hurry to drop off the flowers and run or anything." He said, glad that she seemed to like them despite having a garden of them around her. Maybe it was one of those cases where it was the 'thought that counted' more then anything? Either way Saraf felt a bit relieved when she took them from his hands.

"Hm? Oh! No, I can't say that I am in any trouble presently." Which was always nice... though it had him wondering if maybe flowers would be useful in the future in case he did get into trouble with Arima somehow? Something to consider if he found himself in over his head with her one day. Giving a smile he then said, "I don't mean to take them back. They are all yours, Arima." Since it appeared that she liked the flowers he really had no reason to ask for them back. The idea that she'd be keeping them next to her bed though was cause for another slight flush on his cheeks.

"Well... the Outcast Unit is only on leave for so long. I wanted to get in all the time I could with you before we're called back to work by Captain Jinx." He cocked his head to one side and said, "Unless you mean to come along with us?" If that were the case, wonderful, and if not... well, he'd do his best to meet with her as often as he could until the time his leave was up.  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

Arima smiled, "That's good to hear then." She glanced around lightly a slight playfulness to her actions, "But are you certain? If you linger someone might spread some gossip and then there will come teasing..." The Matori blinked towards him while her lips spread into a small, teasing grin. If the Unit had seen Saraf giving her flowers she could only imagine what would be said! They still had plenty of ammunition for the tavern brawl and the sandstorm after all.

"You're not?" Arima pursed her lips thoughtfully as she gave Saraf a good glancing over, "I suppose you're right. Then....you just wished to surprise me?" At the thought her cheeks did blossom into another flush. That was so sweet of him! Flowers...she had never received such a gift from someone like this before. The healer's fingers gently traced a petal. She would definitely cherish these, "Thank you Saraf." She repeated again before glancing back to him with a small smile, "I'll have to think of something for you~" She whispered thoughtfully before his next statement caused her gaze to drop once more.

"That's true. Vacations can only last for so long, right?" She laughed quietly before trying to perk up, "Then we should make the most of it!" Arima nodded her head, "I mean I hope to come back to the Unit soon enough, but I don't think I can do it right away. I still have to get permission from my mentor and make certain my mother will be okay." She probably would have to go back and forth a lot more as well...that would be possible right? She hated using her noble connections, but at the same time she had to take care of her mother. Yet, she wanted to be with the Unit again and live her life...especially if Saraf was going to be there.

"So what would you like to do? We had our cup of tea last time and...." Her cheeks flushed, "And enjoyed the sunset! Is there anything in particular that you have on your mind? Since you're the one on leave we should spend a day doing something you would like that you can't normally do with the unit~"
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

"You're very much welcome, Arima. I'm glad that the flowers were to your liking." It was something that made him smile because it seemed as though she really did appreciate the flowers that he gave over to her. It was rather cute the way that she was tracing a finger over the petals of the flowers. As she mentioned having to think of something for him he gave a smile, "I look forward to any gift from you, Arima."

At the mention of vacations only lasting 'so long' he gave a nod, "Yeah, it makes it a bit tough as I'd... ahh... you know... rather spend more time with you." He murmured the last part, his cheeks burning a bit as he admitted to such a thing. He really would much rather have more time to spend with her as opposed to patrolling the desert for baddies. It was just how it had to be though. It was his job after all.

Giving her a smile she said, "Don't worry about it. Come back to us when you're ready and not a moment before, Arima." He knew he'd be the same if his mother was in need after all.

Taking a couple steps forward he said, "We can hang out here if you would rather... but if you think you can sneak away we can always go out for a different sort of drink then tea?" He'd offered her to bring her out to such a place last time provided she could find some less important lady clothing that was.  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

"Anything from you...." Arima whispered shyly, "I mean uh of course! You even got the correct colors." The Matori smiled brightly, "I'll leave them in the main hallway before we go so that they can be placed in a vase and taken care of." At Saraf's own sheepish comments the girl felt as if she were melting. What had become of their bickering and tavern brawling days? Arima felt as if Saraf would lose a date and instead find himself watching a puddle evaporating from the desert floor at this rate!

"Then let's spend time together then. As much as you want." She finally managed with a small grin, "Here's hoping you don't tire of me." That stated the Matori began to gather up her materials so that she could lead him through the gardens, "I will, don't you worry." She added quietly at his comment, ""We'll have to restart on that bet once I return. I was so close as well~" She pursed her lips in a pout before moving around him, "And yes I can sneak away for a time~ My mentor is inside taking care of mother so I won't be needed today."

Cradling the flowers in her arms the healer grinned towards Saraf, "Let's head out then and I'll just place these somewhere safe on the way out of my home~ Feel free to lead the way sir."
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

As much time as he wanted? That sounded nice though not quite accurate since he felt as though he could spend more time with her then what was left of his leave. No matter though, he'd spend as much of it with her as he could before he had to head out into the desert once more. At the mention of growing tired of her he said, "I don't think that would be possible, Arima."

"Alright, if we are going to sneak out for a bit we should do so now. It will allow us to get to the tavern before the really rough and tumble crowd show up." And before those that might really have a go at teasing them if they were lucky. Maybe he'd bring her to a place that was less likely to have other members of the Outcast Unit present... so definitely not the Janarim's Skull since that was their favorite. There had to be another tavern to go to, one in a less seedy neighborhood too if they were lucky.

As he was told to lead the way he gave a nod of his head, turning to do so. Once they dropped off the flowers some where safe he'd see about offering her his arm. It would aid him in keeping a close eye on her since they would be going somewhere that was different from what he'd assume were her normal hang outs.  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

"I'll remember that~" Arima quipped lightly, "So no taking it back." She hoped though that he truly wouldn't change his mind. It just meant she would have to keep him on his toes, right? Though I don't know if getting into anymore trouble than I've already have given him is possible.

Arima nodded at his suggestion, "Aww, I thought we would get the full experience." She teased lightly as she walked along with him, "Though you are correct, it probably would be best to just get a small peek at the life~" However didn't living with the Outcast Unit give her some experience already? Arima's lips curved up into a tiny smile at some of the memories that the soldier life had already given her. They were a pretty crazy bunch indeed.

As she dropped off the flowers Arima pressed closer to Saraf. Now that her hands were free of things the girl shyly peeked over at him before slowly slipped her hand towards his arm so that she could wrap her own arm through it.
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

Saraf couldn't help but to chuckle, "No take backs? Sounds like a youngling thing to say... but no, I won't be doing 'take backs' I promise." He said, amused by the wording. It sounded a little funny but it wasn't something that I minded all that much since he really didn't want to part ways with her until his job forced him to head out.

"The... full experience? Ahh... maybe another time, when I am feeling up to a good old fashion bar brawl. At my age I try to avoid those when I can... though it's not always possible given the crowd that we serve with." He said with a laugh.

Once the flowers had been dealt with he looked down at Arima as she clung to his arm and said, "Alright, shall we get to sneaking?" Not that he was sure exactly how much sneaking they'd need to do since it was her house. He supposed that he'd see as they made their 'escape' from her place and started toward the bar that they'd be visiting. It was sure to be an exciting sort of adventure but it should be fine so long as they didn't stay overly long and he didn't let Arima get into any of the strong stuff.

Well... unless of course she really wanted some. If that were the case who was he to say no?  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

Arima pursed her lips towards him in a pout against his teasing. A youngling thing to say, hah! She would show him who was a youngling...okay maybe it was a bit childish and her pouting truly didn't help her case either...letting out a little sigh the woman just nodded, "Still you promised so I'll remember that."

She laughed at his reaction, "You're not ancient." She teased lightly, "And you still move pretty well with the sword from the last time I saw." The Matori walked along with Saraf happily, "However, you shouldn't underestimate my abilities either. I've been training in more than the healing arts so I should be able to do a little damage in a fight now." As he asked her about sneaking out Arima nodded and they both left the gates and headed back out through the streets.

"So other than fighting what does one do at a tavern or bar?" Asked Arima as her home disappeared behind them. It was an attempt at light conversation though her stomach was full of butterflies that stirred especially when those passing happened to glance over towards the strange pair. Her fingers at first lifted from his arm in shyness before she shook her head in determination and stayed against his side once more.
 

[Orpheus Solon]

Sabra Knight

Saraf couldn't help but to give a little chuckle before he asked in a curious manner, "Is that so? Practicing with your magic so that you can stand your ground in bar fights?" Surely that wasn't the only reason that she'd go about such training but it was funny to consider, the idea that someone would go out of their way and prepare that intensely for a mere tavern brawl. Then again it could just be him that saw them as 'mere' brawls since he'd been in enough of them... including the one that he got into over Arima that one time.

"Other then that? Most of the time it's just so that people can gather, relax, drink, and sometimes place games of chance for coin. It just seems that drinking and games often end in fights for various reasons." He gave Arima a glance and a smile as he said in a teasing manner, "Though I suppose another reason for such brawls would be pretty girls as well."

As Arima seemed to hesitate he lifted his hand to pat her arm, "It's alright, I really don't mind you holding onto my arm like that." His voice was a bit of a murmured, his cheeks coloring ever so slightly as he admitted to such a thing.  

[Sabra Knight]

Orpheus Solon

A giggle burst from Arima's lips before she could stop it. Just the image of all those hours of training for such an event made her laugh, "Yes, yes." She nodded her head as she grinned towards Saraf, "Obviously I want the best stage possible for when my life-long dream of a brawl comes true." She teased playfully, "Would be a shame to be the first one down after all that anticipation." Honestly after all the things she had experienced a brawl was far from the top of her list, but it was still amusing to play around with the idea of one.

Arima rose a brow in interest, "So it appears to be a livelier version of any normal cafe, though the ones in the higher districts can be rather dull. Too many noble women in silks taking sly jabs at each other's attire rather than men just fighting out their differences with fists and swords." She commented before flushing at Saraf's compliment, "Maybe we should go find some pretty girl then....that way we can get a guaranteed brawl." She tucked a stray strand of hair behind a finned ear sheepishly. It was strange to think of herself as pretty after all. How could she when she was raised Oban and even stood a part from her own race with her strange coloring?

"Okay." Her fingers rested back on his arm as Arima smiled at his flush. At least Saraf thought she was pretty enough to get flustered by her being close. That made Arima's own cheeks warm before she glanced away. So where were they again? It seemed while they had been talking that the streets had gotten a bit emptier? Or was that her imagination? And did she spot people moving from the side of her gaze? Eh, it was probably nothing...right?