Monthly Extra: You're Early (male Wren)

"And on one final note, I will reiterate that there is no way to achieve the councilman's suggestion without wasting undue resources..." I pause, staring down at the cream colored parchment before me. After writing two reports and three letters my brain has turned to mush, and I'm having a hard time summoning the brain power to write "this is a stupid idea" in a diplomatic way.

My fountain pen starts to drip, and I stash it in its stand, pushing back from Wren's desk with a quiet groan. I stretch my arms overhead, admiring the painted ceiling before I close my eyes for a moment. There are plenty of places I could work at the den, but I found myself here today, instead. Maybe it's the quietness of it, or maybe I'm just used to being here after all the work my team's done in the space.

"Well, this is a welcome surprise."

I open my eyes, and I instantly know why I'm here.

"You're early," I say, standing as I take in the sight of Wren. He's standing in the doorway, a travel bag in hand. His clothes are a little worn from the road and there's a gash in the bag's leather that I'm sure must come with a story - but my favorite archivist is well, and uninjured. It's enough to make me sigh in relief.

"My business in the City of Arcanum finished faster than expected," he explains, his voice tired but cheerful. "The updated maps of the wilds are complete - I can't wait for you to see them."

"They turned out well?" I ask, stepping in to hug him as he draws near.

"Like nothing I've ever seen," he answers, giving me a soft kiss. "Though I'm glad to be back."

"You're not wasting time, huh?" I tease, laughing as his lips begin to trace a line down my neck, hands gripping me tighter. "I take it you missed me."

"Come with me next time, darling," he hums, drawing back to meet my gaze again. "You'd love it there, and there's so much I wish to show you."

"If I can ever break away from my work in Leas long enough, you've got a deal," I nod. "It'd be fun to see your old stomping grounds."

"I'd be happy to give you the tour," he agrees. "There's the magical gardens - they still have one of my displays in the south section. I've a few relic entries in one of the museums, too. And there's the telescope I helped to build."

"You sure you're not just trying to impress me?" I joke. "That 'tour' seems more like a showcase."

"Why not?" he replies, the shimmering tattoos on his hand glinting as he lifts it to settle on my cheek. "I don't think it's a secret at this point that I want your favor." His eyes sweep across my face with an intensity that makes my mind go blank for a moment, and on instinct I pull him a little closer.

"Is that so?" I ask, a coy smile growing on my face. "Because I can think of a few ways we could both impress each other, if you want." My eyes dart to the door that leads to his quarters.

"Lead the way."