Tides of Magic: The Enchanted Alliance

Percy and Dagda's POV - March

The days had passed quickly since Christmas, and winter had gradually given way to early spring. As the snow melted, Percy and Dagda found themselves trekking through lush, green landscapes, following ancient paths and unraveling more of the mysteries surrounding Balor's rise. Every step brought them closer to their final confrontation, but also closer to each other.

Percy had grown accustomed to having Dagda by her side. His presence was a steady comfort, his strength reassuring in the face of the dangers they encountered. They had faced numerous monsters together—each one a challenge, but none able to stand against their combined might. From the venomous serpents that guarded ancient ruins to the spectral warriors that haunted the cliffs of the Emerald Isle, Percy and Dagda fought side by side, their bond strengthening with every battle.

One afternoon in March, they found themselves standing before the ruins of an ancient castle. The wind whistled through the crumbling stone, and the sky was overcast, a reminder of the storm that always seemed to loom on the horizon. The ruins were said to hold clues about Balor's plans, and both of them could feel the weight of the moment.

Percy wiped the sweat from her brow, her heart still racing from their latest battle—a vicious pack of hellhounds that had ambushed them just before they reached the castle. She glanced over at Dagda, who was examining the ancient symbols carved into the stones. His focus was intense, his brow furrowed in concentration.

As she watched him, Percy couldn't help but feel a flutter of something deeper than admiration. It was a warmth that started in her chest and spread through her entire being. She had never expected to fall for a god, let alone one as powerful and legendary as Dagda, but the more time they spent together, the more undeniable her feelings became.

Dagda turned to her, his expression softening as he caught her gaze. "These symbols... They tell a story of a battle long forgotten, but the echoes of it are still felt today. Balor's presence is strong here."

Percy nodded, trying to focus on the task at hand. "Then we're in the right place. Whatever Balor is planning, we need to stop it."

Dagda stepped closer to her, his eyes searching hers. "And we will, Percy. Together."

She smiled, feeling a surge of confidence. "Yeah. Together."

They spent hours exploring the ruins, piecing together clues that would lead them to the next stage of their quest. As night fell, they set up camp by a small fire, the flames casting flickering shadows on the stone walls around them. The air was crisp, and the distant sound of the ocean waves crashing against the cliffs added a rhythmic background to their conversation.

Sitting by the fire, Percy found herself leaning closer to Dagda. The warmth of the flames was nothing compared to the heat she felt whenever he was near. She stole glances at him, admiring the way the firelight danced across his strong features.

Dagda noticed her gaze and met it with a soft smile. "What are you thinking about?"

Percy hesitated for a moment before speaking, her voice quiet. "About how much things have changed since we started this quest. And how much I've come to rely on you."

Dagda's expression grew more serious as he reached out, gently taking her hand in his. "Percy, you are one of the bravest souls I have ever encountered. I am honored to fight by your side."

Her heart skipped a beat at his words, and she felt the pull between them growing stronger. "Dagda... I—"

Before she could finish, a low growl echoed through the ruins, snapping them both into alertness. Percy and Dagda exchanged a glance, and in an instant, they were on their feet, weapons drawn.