Lapistia

After five to ten minutes, Telani and Sarnissa reached a dark, deserted alley.
— We're here, — the Darian said quietly, pointing with his palm at a manhole in the ground. — I haven't been idle all these long days while the rest of the squad earned money through bets or routine work, and I didn't just spend my time attending every stage of the tournament and other entertainment events. Today, I finally became convinced that the sewers beneath the city are connected to the castle of Carvelos, and furthermore, in its northern part, there is a very long tunnel leading to the estate where our Thailina is being held hostage. I had to put in a lot of effort to find out about this... All for my precious commander! — Telani smiled. — So, allow me to indulge in a little selfishness and let me carry out this mission alone. I will save Thailina for you. And this one time, I cannot accept a refusal, even if it is an order... I want to do this. — After a short pause, Telani knelt on one knee and handed Sarnissa a sapphire ring, taken from the pocket of his leather jacket. — Take this gift; it is both beautiful and practical. It will allow the effects of your spells to last much longer, and I would like you to strengthen my mind, spirit, and body with your magic before I go down... And if I fail to complete this task and die, at least... at least it will be a reminder of me to you.

At first, Sarnissa was not entirely sure whether to follow the Darian; in the current situation, his behavior and words seemed a little suspicious, but in the end, as befitting a commander, she trusted her subordinate and followed him.
When Telani began his monologue, a new feeling, previously unknown, painfully squeezed her chest and made it difficult to breathe, and Sarnissa was ready to swear that it was something more than just shame for her suspicions. This Darian was not just one of the subordinates; he was capable of actions that defied logic or common sense; he sincerely and wholeheartedly wanted to impress her, and even more than that – he was ready to die for this one goal.
Sarnissa felt sorry for Telani, and at the same time, she felt a piercingly unpleasant feeling, as if by indifferently listening to his speech, she was committing something pitifully indifferent to his bright feelings, for which he had achieved more alone than the entire squad had in a month of being in the city.
—Thank you for your work and... for this gift, — she said hesitantly, taking the ring from Telani's hand. —I... will cherish it. Of course, I will help you with the magic. And... try to come back alive. Please.
Sarnissa leaned over the Darian kneeling on one knee and looked intently into his eyes. For the first time in her life, she looked at a mere mortal not as just another object destined to be damaged and forever disappear, to vanish without a trace from memory. Yes, these were strange and unforgettable emotions. A second later, she flinched, stepped back, and returned to her usual cold and relaxed expression. —Good luck, Telani, — she added quietly in farewell. —I will be waiting for your return with Thailina in the city.