Work Text:
Being a witch was quite lonely if you were the only one in your village. Though, at least Two Time has acquired a companion who understands what it is like to not be non-human. Whenever they weren't selling hand-crafted potions or delicate trinkets to their fellow villagers—made from rare herbs and enchanted stones—or traveling to nearby towns, they would journey eastward to visit him. They learned that he was also a poet specializing in nature-inspired verses, and they even got to read some of his heartfelt work. His poems were filled with vivid imagery celebrating the lush forests, blooming flowers, and the beauty of life itself. When they read him, they felt transported to another place—immersed in the tranquility of his words—and it was sweet to see him so shy about sharing his poetry, his cheeks tinged with a gentle pink. He was truly too precious for his own good.One afternoon, they explored his rolling pastures, lush with wildflowers and tall grasses, until they saw him tenderly petting one of his sheep—a large, fluffy ewe with a gentle gaze and soft wool. It was a sight to behold. Despite his towering stature, muscled build, and rough appearance, he handled the smaller creature with uttermost gentleness, carefully stroking her fleece and ensuring he wasn't hurting her with his broad claws. It warmed their hearts to witness his genuine smile and carefree laughter as he played with the sheep. There was that warm, fluttering feeling again… they tried to calm their rapidly beating heart. It was simple admiration—nothing more.
The town witch always seemed happier whenever a letter arrived. The townsfolk grew curious about the sender—could it be a secret admirer? A long-lost family member? The villagers were eager to discover the answer but too afraid of provoking the witch's ire. Two Time, the witch, had warned them that anyone gossiping behind closed doors might face a curse if caught.While browsing their spell book one quiet evening, they wondered what to send as a gift since they had received a charming basket of raspberry lemon tea from Azure—a thoughtful gesture to brighten their day. They decided to prepare a homemade meal and send it as a token of gratitude for his kindness. Gathering fresh rosemary from their garden, extra virgin olive oil, ripe vegetables—succulent tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, vibrant bell peppers—and salt and pepper, they laid the ingredients out on their wooden table. Taking out their wand, they began to chant softly, “I cast upon thee to conceive of one holy design.” The ingredients shimmered and swelled into a glowing orb of light, forcing the witch to shield their eyes. When they opened them again, a beautifully arranged, scrumptious salad was before them. They murmured with satisfaction, “Perfect.” They wrapped the salad carefully in a large leaf and added a small container of homemade strawberry cake for dessert. Using their magic once more, they whisked the package away to Azure's abode. Afterward, they whistled for their pet bird, Lilly, a stately barred owl with keen amber eyes. The owl swooped into the open window, and they gently stroked her beak.
“It’s nice to see you again. Did you eat well?” the witch asked. As if understanding, she purred softly in response. They carefully lifted her onto their arm and placed her in her cozy cage. Realizing they forgot to include a thank-you note, they quickly sat down to write it: “Dear Azure, I wanted to thank you for your hospitality and kindness—I’ve sent you a meal as a token of my appreciation. I hope you enjoy it! Also, you might have received it through magic—doesn’t it work wonders? Sorry for the distraction, but I hope this letter finds you well. Sincerely, Two Time.” They signed the note, tied it to Lilly’s leg, and released her to deliver the message.The next day, they eagerly opened Azure’s reply, taken from Lilly's beak. They tore open the letter and began to read: “I received your letter and gift and was quite moved by your words! I truly appreciate your kindness, though I feel I don't deserve it. The meal and dessert were delectable. Magic is both a blessing and a curse. I wasn't aware you had a pet owl—I hope you don’t mind that I fed her some mice as a reward. I cherish your companionship, whenever you visit, dear friend—and I hope our friendship continues to blossom over time,” sincerely, Azure. What caught them most off guard was him calling them “dear” and enjoying their company—that phrase echoing inside their mind. They quickly shook their head—no! He meant it purely as a friendship thing, nothing more. Still, part of them desperately wanted something more than just companionship. They sulked into their bed and plopped onto it unceremoniously, grumbling to themselves. Hopefully, these fleeting thoughts will pass sooner or later.