“When the Dark Tide first struck many perished. Their cries, pain, and torment so profound that it broke through to the heavens and she anguished at the thought of her offspring’s suffering. With Saint Theobald the Mighty as her avenger, the tide began turning. For the first time, when people looked up to the stars, it was not with eyes filled with despair, but with hope.”

- Astralian Church Texts - “The Powers of the Divine”

She tossed in her sleep and snuggled closer to the pillow, the soft surface bringing a small smile onto her resting face. Wait pillow?! In a situation she had grown accustomed to, she jumped out of bed in fright, nervous glances cast at the room around her. A soft fluffy bed with a boldly decorated blanket, cream coloured walls, ornate rugs and carpets with all manner of stitchings that covered the floor, the small bits of polished marble flooring poking through the rugs. I’m in a manor? Confused, she looked down at herself, running her hands over her body and face before wincing at the bruises on her neck. So that wasn’t a dream.

She had been traveling with her allies. She had been strangled by an orc. That much she remembered. Then there was Goldenlight, ah! The Entity! But glancing around she found no signs of the tentacled abomination, no signs of its eldritch influence or destructive visions of doom that followed its usual appearance.

When her mind finally began settling down she took in the extra details that revealed themselves. Bookcases lined the walls filled to the brim with books, a slightly stocky if ornate writing table, two wardrobes, a cupboard, some miscellaneous silverware on a shelf and a few more shelves with little flower pots decorating them. The room wasn’t the biggest but it was certain to rival even Eva’s. With so many books and fineries she almost wanted to call this her dream room, a place perfectly suited for her. Her heart raced in excitement before it quickly controlled itself, her vision stopping at a small letter on the desk with a white rose placed gently over it.

Curious, she walked over, the distinctive rough pompf of her travel gear still with her, solidifying that this could not possibly be just a dream, the contrast between her appearance and the room was too great. Lifting the letter, she unfolded it only for the tantalising scent of vanilla-lavender snaking its way into her nostrils. Though she shuddered slightly from the pleasure, she turned her attention to the letter and cast a curious gaze over the elegant handwriting.

“Dearest Sophie,

When you awaken. Please do come find me with due haste. Though I find your sleepy form adorable, it is incomparable to being able to trade words with you, the hours I spent watching over you are not enough. I long for your company and only wish that you find yourself well after your rest.

Yours truly,

Eva”

She blinked back her surprise, Eva? Here? But that was impossible, she was nations away. Furthermore the walls of this place looked far different from Rosengart manor, the design too, now that she noticed, was still angular, but also a lot more rounded than she expected. Unless…she mused to herself, Eva is an outlander, perhaps she traveled through a portal as well? And what did she mean hours watching me? How long have I been sleeping? Seeing no other alternative, she tucked the letter into her trousers and made her way out the door. But if this is a dream…then this is how I wake up right?

Click

Outside, was a wondrous hallway. Potted plants of all shapes and color decorated the hall, paintings of scenery and other landscapes hung carefully on the walls. The entire place looked to Sophie like a well trimmed flower garden rather than the inside of a manor. Eva did like to garden…maybe this is her dream! But that means she had a room for…for me? Aww. Her heart swelling with emotion, she followed along the right hallway, hoping that at some point she would end up at the main courtyard or garden. I remember the times we spent just relaxing next to the plants, she smiled at the thought, it was all so very pleasant.

Before long she found herself in front of a peculiar looking door. The wood here is more thick looking, the carvings less intricate though more deliberately resembling a rose. The door to the outside? Without thinking she pushed it open to find herself at the entrance to a courtyard of sorts.

Rounded marble brick pillars lifted a small awning above the area, arranged in such a way to leave an open hole in the center that allows the majestic night sky to shine through. Stars flickered in all their glory as meteors flung themselves out of sight, the moon hanging high above and casting ethereal beams of white light over the centrepiece of the courtyard. A small carved marble table, its surface varnished and polished to a smoothness, reflected the light from the moon, but also the light from that of a silver candelabra.

The dim orange glow emitted by it surrendered a few plates of little desserts, cups and a pot of tea. But most importantly, a person.

“Eva!?” She unintentionally gasped out loud.

Piercing hazel eyes, silky chestnut hair, a look of surprise, and an angelic figure in a sleeveless white and black dress shirt awaited her. Two fake frilly sleeves rose up in surprise as they covered Eva’s face behind them, allowing only for the dark sanguine gemstone on her collar to show through. As she watched Eva stand up in surprise, she couldn't help but sink to her kneels in awe, beautiful.

With every step the figure took she tried desperately to sear the image into her mind, dream or nightmare, she would remember this. She would remember this and bring it back to the real world. Yet as she clenched her eye shut to visualize it in her head, she felt cool soothing skin cup her cheeks. Her skin tingling at the touch, the feeling running its way throughout her entire being. A warm breath tickled her face and she felt Eva’s forehead press against hers, the very act tightened the knots in her heart. It feels so real, she almost sobbed out loud.

Quietly, the two maintained their pose for what felt like an eternity, herself unwilling to open her eyes and potentially breaking the illusion. Eva, standing over her, patient, caring, as she always was for her. Eventually she felt Eva kneel as well, a brief flicker of shame at having made her mistress do so, only for it to vanish immediately as Eva gently caressed the back of her neck and ears.

“Eva…” She let out a shaky little moan.

“You’re finally awake.” Eva cooed.

“I-I am.” She hesitantly replied, her voice trembling.

“It’s okay, take your time. I know it's a lot to take in.” Eva whispered softly.

“Eva!”

“You’re safe now, Sophie.”

Confused, relieved, and torn in anguish, Sophie greedily embraced the illusion. Eva! She wailed internally, Eva…is here. Content to lose herself in this dream, she surrendered herself to the vision of her friend. She opened her eyes and found Eva, there, in front of her. With a shaky breath she asked once again. “Eva?”

The quiet whisper did not go unnoticed, Eva flashed a sweet smile and nodded. Sophie blinked back her surprise and leaned in, hoping the moment would never end.

They curled up together under the light of the false sky, Sophie snuggling ever closer to this version of Eva as her companion gently patted her head. Wordlessly, she soaked in the peace and calm, a break from her arduous journey. With a grimace she realized that Annalise and the others were likely still fighting for their lives, but even then she could not stir herself to break away from this dream. After all, what good would I really do besides becoming a hindrance?

Sophie let out a despondent sigh, only to immediately feel Eva nuzzling her from above. The comfort it brought wiped away the frown from her face and Sophie purred in contentment, holding back the feeling of guilt for another few minutes.

“Sophie.” Eva spoke at last, her voice like a calm spring melody.

“Eva.” Sophie acknowledged, her own voice breathy and awestruck.

“How are you?”

Sophie looked up and found Eva’s kind eyes looking down at hers. Her heart skipping a few beats the the closeness of their faces.

“I-” She started but paused, I can’t lie to Eva can I? Even if it’s a little lie to keep the peace…

Eva brought her head down and Sophie froze as their noses touched, her thoughts disappearing as adrenaline surged through her mind. No! Never lie to Eva! Not even dream Eva!

“It’s okay Sophie, you can tell me whatever you want.” Eva murmured like a psychic who read her mind. “I’m here for you.”

“I-but I…” Sophie began, but I can’t burden you! You deserve better than dealing with my problems! She wanted to scream. But when their eyes met again, she couldn’t help herself, Eva was Eva, and Eva was there for her.

“I-I’m so tired Eva.” Sophie replied with a weak, high pitched whine, “I don’t want to suffer, I don’t want to watch friends suffer. I-I-I don’t want to see bodies, or fight, or be some strange dark magic cultist baby. I just-”

“Want to have a peaceful life.” Eva finished for her and Sophie eagerly nodded, their noses rubbing up against each other.

“I just want to enjoy life, to be around…well you! I’ll cook! I’ll sow a lot of clothes! I’ll even clean…properly this time!”

“Oh?” Eva raised a coy eyebrow.

“Yeah! I mean I hate the Duke, he’s so scary. And your mother too. But that’s fine! I’ll bear it! And-and you’ll end up with Frederick! So I can be the official maid and don’t have to worry about the head maid or your brothers anymore!” She rambled excitedly.

Eva shared another glance with her and the two broke out into fitful giggles at the thought. Watching Eva’s face crinkle up in laughter made Sophie happy. In fact laughing alongside her also made her happy.

She sighed once more, but this time in satisfaction. Eventually the two settled down and Eva finally pulled away, gesturing for Sophie to follow her to the table.

“Chamomile tea.” Eva explained.

By instinct, Sophie immediately moved to pour cups for her and her mistress before Eva lightly slapped her hand away. Sophie recoiled and looked up with wide eyes only for Eva to tut at her.

“It’s my turn to take care of you.” Eva chided.

At these familiar words Sophie felt a flash of tension run through her as she glanced at the bushes around them. The fear of being so suddenly taken away reawakened even within this dream. Her eyes darted to and fro every corner until Eva clicked her fingers to draw Sophie’s attention to the tea.

“Relax, drink up, it should be lukewarm now.” Eva calmly ordered, “And don’t worry Sophie. Like I said, you’re safe here.”

Extending a shaky little hand, Sophie moved to take a sip, murmuring a nervous “I know” into the cup as she drank. Indeed, it proved refreshing for her body, a soothing floral note that eased her nerves.

Seemingly satisfied, Eva put her hand over Sophie’s, wielding the same cheeky smile that she always does whenever she planned to drag Sophie into some silly scheme.

“Eva?”

“Mmmhmm?” Eva drawled mischievously.

“Wha-what are you planning?”

“Mmm…secret.” Eva winked.

Fear welled up inside of Sophie. First from the idea that they’d both get scolded by the Ducal household only for her to realize that they were in her dreamworld. We are right? The second fear came from the existential dread that slowly built up within her. At how well Eva pulled off real Eva’s expression, at how willing Sophie was to just follow along and just how little control she had over herself. This is my dream right? But what if it’s not? Am I in Eva’s dream? But how?! I remember the monster controlling me clearly, then perhaps a nightmare? But this feels so real, so pleasant. Perhaps it is just like the-

Eva frowned and dragged Sophie up to her feet, the half elf still staring wide eyed at her mistress.To Sophie’s surprise, Eva let go of her hand and danced her way to the courtyard entrance. Every move was a mesmerising display that temporarily wiped away Sophie’s doubts. Ah…Eva. Landing at the doorway on her tiptoes, Eva gently spun to a stop and gestured for Sophie to follow.

“Eva…where are we going?”

Eva hummed, pausing for dramatic effect before sprawling her arms around herself.

“A tour of the place!” Eva announced cheerfully.

Hesitantly Sophie followed along, quietly if still basking in the awe of Eva being next to her. Within herself a childlike glee began taking hold, a feeling long since gone after the first days spent at the Rosengart estate flew by. She remembered Eva’s joy at leading her around, the warmth she felt after her lonely time spent alone in the forest.

Just like years ago, they found themselves peeking into the various rooms of this dream manor. Two studies, filled to the brim with books and scribe tables. A grand banquet hall covered with tapestries, furs and all manner of ornate decorations, many of which Sophie could barely recognise besides for the strange hum of power that emanated from them and a general idea that most of these would be worth a fortune. Then they arrived at Eva’s room, an almost one for one replica of what Sophie remembered from back at the estate. Her mind raced furiously as her breath stilled at the sight, with one trembling foot she moved to step in only for Eva to drag her back out.

“Later.” The older girl coyly whispered and Sophie swore her heart was ready to explode.

They then wandered past the kitchen, no servants, just rows of neatly placed pots, pans, teacups and most oddly of all, an entire line of cabinets dedicated just to tea. When Eva had opened it they found neat little pots, each lovingly labeled and Sophie motioned to try some when Eva once again dragged her along.

Every room proved to be beyond Sophie’s imagination, but her strength began failing her eventually as a faint drowsiness began taking hold. Meeting Eva’s gaze the girl made a face of surprise before she started leading Sophie backwards only for the maid to catch sight of one last hallway.

“It’s uhn, it’s okay to finish the tour.” Sophie managed to say.

“Sophieee, you’re tired.” Eva chided and tugged.

But something felt strange, something about the tug seemed odd and Sophie gently shook her off.

“Last hall.” Sophie groaned, gesturing weakly towards a large double door at the end of the hall.

“Sophie, we can do this tomorrow.”

But what if there is no tomorrow here? Sophie thought and took a few steps down the hall only to feel a vice grip on her shoulder.

“Eh?”

“Sophie, we’ll see that tomorrow.”

“Nyeh?” Sophie sleepily blinked in protest. She turned to find Eva’s face hardening in frustration, frowns visible across her smooth skin.

“Tomorrow.”

“Just peek, quickest peek.” Sophie declared softly, her own face pleading with Eva’s. Dream Eva seemed to relent slightly as she released her grip on Sophie, but the frown did not disappear.

“No.”

“But…”

“No.”

“Why…”

“It’s bad for your health Sophie and I don’t want to see you hurt.”

“Huh…bweh why?” Sophie slurred out, the drowsiness hitting a little harder than expected.

“Just because.”

“But!”

“No Sophie.”

Dejected, Sophie pulled her trump card, despite all the tiredness she pursed her lips and opened her eyes wide, making her saddest puppy eyes at her mistress. A nerve seemed to jerk within Eva as her mistress closed her eyes to avoid looking at her, only to quickly scratch at her head before holding her arms out for an embrace. One that Sophie submitted to, falling comfortably into her embrace.

“Tomorrow. Promise.” Eva grumbled, "I can't say no to that face."

“Toni-night?” Sophie mumbled, her limbs growing slightly limp as she felt Eva start carrying her.

“Tomorrow Sophie you’re too tired tonight.”

“Buh.” Sophie complained only for a realisation to finally hit her. Ah…she drugged my tea. “Sleewpy juice?” Sophie managed to eek out.

Eva turned to look down at her and Sophie could see the sorrow and pain in her friend’s eyes as they gazed down at her. Guilt too eventually joined the crowd before Sophie also recognised something else present within them, love.

“I’m sorry, Sophie.” Eva sighed only to look away.

Accepting that the situation was out of her control, Sophie forced what muscle control she had left to lean into Eva, clutching onto her like a spoiled toddler.

“Ish okay.”

Wordlessly, Eva continued carrying the barely conscious Sophie back to the room she started in, the cream colored bedroom with all the books just for her. Eva lowered Sophie onto the bed, a pained look still haunting her eyes as she elected to crawl into bed besides Sophie.

“I’m sorry. Sophie.” Eva began, her expression downcast, “I just…I just wanted to make sure you were happy…with me. But I know…” She paused, and Sophie waited patiently for her to continue, “I know I can’t be there for you when you need me. Even here, I can’t just stop you can I? I wouldn’t dare hold you back.” Eva flashed Sophie a sad but cheeky smile.

Sophie felt her heart leap out of chest at the expression, Eva doesn’t need to be sad! Eva needs to be happy! But words couldn’t leave her mouth, her muscles had slowly fell into slumber, only the faintest resistance remained as she tried her hardest to pay attention.

“But I’ll be here for you, even if I’m never going to be like the real one.” Eva caressed her cheek. But wasn’t this Eva’s dream? “I know you might be surprised but I promise you, promise, that you can explore tomorrow. I just…wanted to keep you safe tonight, to make sure you were okay. That’s why the tea…”

“Ish okish.” Sophie forced herself to utter, much to her companion’s shock, “Evaa…happy.”

Eva stared blankly for a moment before she chuckled and leaned in. “Don’t worry, you’ll be safe here.” Murmuring as she petted Sophie’s head.

“Ere?’

“Home, Sophie. You’re home, and I’ll be right here with you.”

“Ho?” Sophie muttered with the last of her strength.

“Yes Sophie, your home.” Eva smiled, planting a kiss on her forehead. Many emotions exploded to life within her but before she could identify any of them, Sophie, finally passed out.