(
@Lion)
Fivan pushed the thin cover off and walked toward the window. The nightmare still fresh in her mind prohibited any further rest. The sun was not quite up as she gazed out the dirty plane of glass, her delicate hand cleaning enough of a spot to look out onto the ally. Sighing she walks over to the small table and rummages through her satchel for her journal. She looked for the matches and worried the wick and once satisfied she checked her charcoal. holding it under the flame to soften the tip for writing. The soft glow of the oil lamp giving her just enough light to record what she could remember of the nightmare.
As she writes her mind drifts wondering what these nightmares mean, she knows they must be related to her parents and Nana, she just cannot make the connections, her frustration over them grow! Restless she closes the book and stores her materials. It is just so cold here! Damn why did she take this errand. Ahhhh well the coin was good. She pats the silver and gold pieces in her pouch. It was easy really almost too easy. All she had to do was deliver a small package to the very innkeeper where she was staying. Whom paid her and let her stay the night free! Free!!! But now she had a long way back to warmer climate. Which she preferred.
Stretching and putting the coin pouch away she decides to get an early start. After washing up she heads out before the other residence stir, wanting to cover as much ground as she can. Fivan nods at the lone bar maid on her way out the door.
She quickly walks through the small village streets trying to weave her way toward her destination. Watching the sun rise over the sparse buildings fills her heart with hope that the new day often brings, she smiles and unbeknownst to her triggers a merchant to smile in reaction.
Fivan stops at a market center for a tea and biscuit from a the cart vendor. She doesn't even realize how he admires her beauty. She takes no notice her mind is focused on one thing making it to Warm ground. She pulls her coin purse out and pays for her meager meal. As puts her coin purse away she hears a mans voice.
Excuse me Miss? Miss? You droped something! She stops and looks in the direction of the voice, "Thank you" she says as she reaches towrad the strangers extended hand.
The man hands over a woolen scarf, "It is very pretty, er, Miss..." but her doesn't quite release it.
She lowers her head, not wanting the eye contact, "Yes, thank you, Sir." As she realizes he is not letting go. She struggles to balance her cup of tea.
"Don't you want to tell me your name?" He holds his grasp on the garment.
She hesitates a moment, "Fivan, my name is Fivan, please may I have my scarf back?"
He releases the garment. "Beautiful name for a beautiful woman. It means rain forest, no?"
Blushing, "Y-yes, yes it does, thank you again" she stammers. "But, I need to hurry sir, I am sorry.". She tucks the scarf back in her satchel and hurries away.
The man sighs and heads off.
Once she feels she is a safe distance away she cuts across the street and rounds a building, angry with herself when will she get over this damn shyness around strangers!
Shaking her head she pulls her map tonight she will need to camp and she wanted to get to the general good store for a few provisions before leaving the small hamlet.
Healin walked down the streets of the town, a thick woolen cloak fasted tightly around their shoulders with the hood drawn up. A scarf was wrapped around their head, leaving only the storm-grey eyes visible. Healin was in this town on important business, and they needed what they came here for within the next few days, or the consequences could be great.
Their boots crunched in the snow and they saw an elven woman rushing through the streets. She seemed nervous, and in a great hurry. Healin walked up to her.
"Excuse me," they said, their voice indistinguishable as male or female. "You seem to be in a hurry, so pardon me for asking, but have you any candle wax with you that I may have, or buy?"
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OOC: Healin doesn't have a character bio yet. I'll get one up when I have the chance, but I think all your character needs to know for the moment is what's in this post. :)) IGNORE THIS (I'll ask Rhi-Rhi to remove it!
@Rhi-Rhi could you remove this please?
Could the tundra be any more fucking freezing? And could it be any further from real civilization? But that was probably why Reneth liked it. The cold could be dealt with. He wasn't completely unacclimated to the cold. Connlaothian winters were never completely tranquil and pleasant, and the snow here provided more peace than that place ever did.
He smiled at that thought. Perhaps here he might find that solitude at last. And that smile faded slowly at the thought of his task.
He'd remembered what Tasker had said. No matter what he did, where he went, who he killed, he wouldn't get away. Not until the debt was paid. If it was money, that would be another matter. But it was not, a blood debt could only be repaid in blood.
The target this time was a young woman. A young elven woman. He'd been given only a brief description, and no further details as to what she was doing in a location so remote. Perhaps she was like him, and had her own reasons for being here.
But that didn't matter, he told himself. It didn't matter one iota.
Reneth had pulled on his parka, and hood, bundling himself in the furs he'd collected. He wandered out into the snow, betweent he small smoke shacks and the few larger buildings that managed to be built. A figure emerged from one of them, one fitting the description of the woman he was supposed to make contact with.
He tailed her, stalking casually along, and keeping his face hidden beneath his hood. It was too cold after all to leave any excess skin revealed.
Her cloak was thick and provided a good barrier from the cold but she still pulled it closer and shivered. The store wasn't too much further ahead. She tried to keep her eyes averted from the few people she passed. Her gloved hand reached for the shop door and she had to tug on it due to the ice forming. Giving it a few good tugs the door released for her.
Stepping inside the warmth surrounded her and she gave a sigh. "Excuse me?" She called out looking for the shopkeeper.
"Yes, may I help you?" Came a voice from the back.
"Oh hi, I was hoping to get a few supplies. Maybe you could tell me if you have some soap, dried fruit, and what type of healing potions you may have?"
The shop keeper tended to her the best he could and they exchanged the gold for the product. She bundled back up and left from the same door in which she had entered from. She stood for a moment at the door and then headed towards the direction out of town.
She noticed no one following her at this time. The main street was picking up more residents waking and starting their day. She nodded to a few as she passed as they nodded. Soon she was leaving the town and headed into the tundra.
Alone. Always alone. She closed her eyes trying to shake the feelings that would crowd in her mind. The problem she thought with always being alone is that it leaves you too much time to think. She ambled further and further from the town. The cobble path covered in patches of ice and snow.
Where was she going? Off into the wilderness to get eaten or something? Reneth was curious and he tailed her from a distance. She wouldn't get far, he was determined.
Soon, though, she would know she wasn't as alone as she seemed. Reneth would give her distance, following her between trees and remaining out of sight. The sky would not remain light for long. Day never lasted long this far north. Reneth would wait until she made camp, or was asleep.
It always made the task easier. He wouldn't have to look into their eyes.
Fivan continued to walk the trial as best she could. Letting go of the past for her was hard. But she willed herself to not let herself linger on the bitter memories. It helped when she would sing. So she did.
It wasn't a common song but it was one she loved. Her voice echoed along the empty road. It made her quicken her step. As she sang a smile came to her lips and it reflected in her voice. If nothing else she had her music.
Thee daylight would not last this much she knew. But where to camp? She quieted to a hum now as she pondered how much more light she had and where she would want to camp?
---- Time shift.........Later that day just before sunset.
Fivan found the best spot she could. Fire! Didn't look to promising until she passed a fallen carnifus tree and as such had some wood source. "I'll think this spot will do." She said aloud to no one really. She did not have fire magic. In fact she only knew Ice magic. So she set herself to rubbing two sticks together. It was an arduous task. But the gods smiled upon her and offered them a pray of thanks.
She set up a small tent once the fire was going. Next a small cast iron pot was produced and she scooped some snow and let it melt adding more snow until the pot was full. She added some tea leaves to the water and let it simmer. She pulled the pot off the flame and set it next to her. The fire felt nice. She pulled out a book and leaned over to soften her charcoal. She began to write in the journal. She did this as much as she could.
He couldn't very well follow her forever. Reneth could feel himself starting to succumb to the cold, and when she stopped to make camp, his hiding in the shadows had turned to huddling... He couldn't very well just spring on her.
That...never really worked. If he did, he could just as likely be skewered as she. No, he didn't want to die like that. If anything, he'd rather the cold kill him.
Oh, stop that! he scolded himself. You're being silly. Just approach her...
It was a foolish notion, but it could possibly work. Reneth walked in, slowly... And stood as a dimly lit stranger beside her fire. "May I?" he asked, holding his coat together with his arms. "May I join you? I saw your fire and I've been walking in this cold for a long while now. It's freezing out and it's too late now to go to town."
To say Fivan was startled would be an understatement! She jumped almost knocking her tea over. Her journal showing a darkened line running down the page.
She stared at him wide eyed but all this happened in mere seconds. Trying to find her voice she began to nod yes as she righted herself. "Y-y-yes. Please warm yourself." She got to her knees and dusted the snow from her journal. Carefully wrapping her charcoal piece up and tucking it into the folds of the book.
"Sorry, I never thought someone else would be brave enough to camp out here. I will share what I have, please come closer and get warmed. Care for a warm drink?" She only had the one pot but she would gladly share its contents.
Reneth found himself smiling, a natural reaction, because honestly he'd been expecting her to reject him. Which he thought would be fairly normal, in these untamed parts. An odd term considering he was sure the natives thought this place plenty tamed. He slowly approached and took a seat next to her right.
He pulled off his gloves to warm them by the fire and pulled his hood a little. His head was cold considering, but it was nice to feel the warmth of a real fire side.
"Oh, please, thank you," he said, "Something hot to drink would be nice."
Although her smile was warm and inviting the natural shyness which affects her made all her actions a bit jerky and her face was a bright red. Not from the fire.
"Uh here please share, it is tea." She pushed the little pot over to him.
Clearing her throat she tried to speak but kept turning away from his gaze. The journal laying next to her forgotten. She took a deep breath. Pushing through her shyness she took the plunge, "My names Fivan. I am headed to La'marri Island and you?"
Reneth took the tea gladly, thankful for the moment if the gift ks hospitality. The tea was hot, but he welcomed the scorch of its trace and everything else that came with it because it was a welcome contrast to the cold.
"Thank you. It's lovely," he said and huddled in as close to the fire as he could. Reneth blinked when she gave her name. Introductions, right. "Reneth," he said, extending a hand.
"You're...trying to get to La'marri? From here? You're quite far from it, my friend," he said with a soft chuckle. "You know La'marri isn't an island. I've been there. It's a village. A very nice one at that."
She blushed. No she didn't know that. In fact all the stories she heard in fact had it as an island. "No, I didn't know that." She mumbled.
"I've never been yet. Oh you have." Her eyes lite up. "A village. This is news to me! I know I am far from it right now but I had a small package to deliver for a noble whom paid...." She stopped and realized what she said. he could be a thief or worse. "Uh, but yeah La'marri. far from here."
[Did you mean the Yoreiqi Isles? Or does Fivan just not know La'marri is a village?]
Reneth chuckled. "It's a lot warmer than here, that's for sure." He drank more tea, sipping it slowly to savor the flavor.
"I like it. Where did you get this tea, if I may ask?"
(No she is just misinformed right now. She means La'marri village she just doesn't realize it isn't an island onto itself....yet)
"Thank you, the tea is infused with clove and honey it is a homemade concoction. My Nana taught me."
She looked up at the man but quickly looked away. "Water is nice. I cannot wait for that but there is something to be said for this snow and ice. That is if you had a home to shield you. Do you have a tent? What about a bedroll? So what brought you this way?"
She rattled off questions a thing she did when nervous.
She wasn't the only one with nerves. He just gave a small smile though and sipped quietly for a time.
"I haven't got anything, I'm afraid. I'm just happy you welomed me to your fireside. This place feels lonelier than it is. There are people. They just aren't always to be found," he said.
He rummaged through his pockets and pulled out a cloth map. It was sparsely detailed. "I came here looking for a special flow I've heard only grows in the tundra. Its called Asha's Tears, said to be a cure for just about any ailment. Of course that's what they say. But I would like to discover more about it. I'm an apothecary. I like herbs and learning more about them."
Fivan's eyes lit up. She know herbs! Certain minerals for mix potions and brew. "Reneth" She pronounced his name and smiled. "I've never heard of this substance." She looked quickly at his map but looked back up. "I am no master but know some mixes and dabble a bit."
She added some more sticks of various sizes to the flames and then looked at him. "Hungry? I have some rabbit, are you up for eating meat?"
"Oh, yes, please!" He hadn't realized how hungry he was. And didn't want to presume that she would share all her food with him. He moved closer and smiled.
"Rabbit sounds lovely. Thank you."
"Wonderful! We dine then!" She beamed as she took a rolled hide off of the side of her satchel. She unrolled the hide inside were carefully cleaned carcass of a rabbit. The snow she had stuffed around it was a little frozen to it but nothing the fire wouldn't melt quickly enough.
She looked in her stick pile and pulled out a thicker looking one and poked it through the body next she skewered the legs. She set it to roast. Sitting cross-legged by the fire to tend the meal.
"I hope to make my way to that island... err... village. Sorry" She shrugged. "I know some magic but my Nana use to tell me I had a gift. What gift this she never said? But she did tell me that one day she was going to take me to the island of magic so I can only think she meant La'marri right?" She questioned him. It was as if she was feeling a bit more open towards her company. It was after all nice to have someone to talk to.
Reneth felt his stomach growling with hunger, not realizing how little he'd eaten earlier in the day. Out here you needed to have your fill and then some, the cold had no mercy for the careless.
He smelled the rabbit roasting, and looked at her as she spoke. "Your Nana meant a lot to you, didn't she? I can see in your eye she did," he said, smiling a little. He had no real family of his own, and the only woman he'd know that came close enough was somewhere far away. "I never knew my Nana, or my mother."
He was surprised something so intimate came out in front of a total stranger, but it was all he could think to say. "I didn't have anyone except the woman that taught me all I know of herbs and plants. She wasn't very motherly."
"Oh" Fivan exclaimed. "I am sorry to hear that." She looked down at the rabbit and fiddled with it some. "My Nana was all I had left in to world. My parents unfortunately were taken from me before I was old enough to remember them."
She shifted a little. "I loved my Nana very much. She too was taken from me so I find myself alone now." Then she smiled looked at Reneth and back down again. "But, not this moment. Tonight I dine with a new friends."
She tested the meat it was almost ready. "Um, you know...um...I don't know if you want...but idf you did...I am guessing we could travel together a ways until we aren't going the same direction? You know if ya wanted to?"
To dining with new friends.
It was a curious and compelling phrase.
"Perhaps we are. It would be nice to have the company," he said, smiling at her and when the rabbit was ready, he took a small tender piece in hand, carefully peeling at it and eating it slowly. "Did you snare this rabbit yourself? Do you hunt in your spare time? I am a decent apothecary, but I'm afraid I don't have much aptitude for hunting."
"I am! I was always good at tracking. But I will not waste! I use everything." She took a piece of the rabbit and nibbled away.
"Well with me at least you won't starve." She giggled.
"I only have the one tent. Do you have one? I'll try to keep the fire lit too. Maybe we can take turns? Do a few watches and share the tent then that way?"
She took another piece. "Here is my map." With her clean hand she pulled out her map and handed it to him. "Which way are you going?"
There was a relief in that admission. Reneth indeed was not a hunter. He could make small traps to capture small game, with poison that would kill the creature without tainting the meat. He tried to do little of this as possible, but he had to eat, and such was why he would rather find meals and beds to sleep in in taverns.
"You are a blessing indeed. I'll take my fortune where I can get it!" Reneth said, laughing. And forgetting for the moment that yes...this was the woman whose live he was supposed to take. He ducked his head, taking his time in savoring the meal for as long as he could.
"Ah, no...I'm afraid I little more than what I carried on my back," he said, clearing his throat. Eyes flicked to her. He examined her map, leaning over her map. And compared it to his own, laying it out beside hers. His hands trailed down to the next settlement.
"I am following this southern trail, down to the next settlement. A long walk indeed, for one so ill-prepared. I...suppose it isn't too much to ask to share a tent, is it? I don't mean to be presumptuous. Oh gods, perhaps I shouldn't have asked."
She had to laugh. It was a sweet sound.
"Reneth. I offered my tent. You silly nut! Maybe it was I who should not be so forward. Now what must you think of me!" Fivan could not help but continue to laugh.
"Besides it is so cold here what kind of friend would I be if I slept in a tent and left you outside? It is fit for two. So it is settled and as my friend you must call me Fi!" She pulled another piece off and chewed away once she swallowed she continued. "Oh one thing though... I snore." She wrinkled her nose at him and laughed again.
It felt great talking with someone. It felt nice to have a friend. She was thanking the gods for sending him to her.
"Fi it is!" Reneth said, turning red in embarrassment. He gave a nervous laugh regardless. "Thank you, friend. I was lucky to have found you."
His smile faded a little, and he just about finished his meal, piling what bones he had chewed on. "So what kind of things do you make from these bones? You said you use everything. That is commendable. Melting the fat on an animal and grinding bones down to meal are good for some tonics."
She kept her smile and didn't notice his embarrassment. "Maybe luck is on our side this evening."
Fi had her pile of bones next to her legs. The journal she had been writing in was near the tent. She was orderly. Like the hide the rabbit had been wrapped in she was now holding over the flames to dry off the moisture from the snow she used to wipe it down.
"Yes, the fat is a great base for soaps and things as well. But the bones I use for many different things." She thought for a moment of the uses of what some may consider to tedious to bother with before continuing. "Instead of just telling you I will show you." She went to her satchel and dug a bit pulling out some polished utensils.
"Here see this." She handed him a small dagger. "That is from bone. And so it this." She handed him another item used for stirring. "This too, I make all sorts of arrowheads from bone." She handed him the items. "I also make nonsense things too, like necklaces and things." She held her smile as she showed her things to him. She was proud of her novice like talent.
Reneth smiled in fascination. In the midst of conversation, he'd almost forgotten how cold he was, and he was content to just listen to her. To actually see what she'd made from her hunts with her own bare hands was quite a feat. All he'd ever done with his own was make poultices, potions, and poison.
These were constructive tools, useful. With purpose. Or would soon be given purpose.
"These are quite amazing," he said, coughing from the cold. "And you make all these yourself? Wow." He turned the knife over in hand and handed them both over. "I wouldn't consider a necklace nonsense. Flibbery-bigbash-magash. That's nonsense, not a necklace. I'm sure they look lovely."
She beamed at him and laughed when he did the gibberish. "Thank you." She blushed and let her long hair cover her face. "Here take this." She handed him one of the daggers. "I want you to have it."
His cough had her look up at she looked at him for the first time actually saw him. His eyes were or appeared to be gray and they were surrounded by reddish colored brows which one was pierced. She studied him for what seemed a long time but was only a few seconds really before looking down. "Your cough? Need more tea? Or would you like to get warm in the tent?" She looked a little concerned. "Maybe a good night's rest will help restore your energy?"
Reneth grabbed his throat as if he was choking, but quickly shook his head. "N-no, I'm okay. It's just the cold." He laughed, white puffs of air billowing outward. He smiled and held the knife gingerly in hand. It was small and finely made. His own hands would have proved crude and unsteady.
He felt strange taking something from her. But it would have been even worse to refuse the gift. "I think I'll lie down. I can't thank you enough for sharing your hospitality with me." He tucked the knife away, and he moved toward the tent, slipping within, and shedding his jacket.
Worrying her lip Fi nodded. "Okay I'm staying up for a little bit. May Ekaotc guide your dreams friend." She picked up her journal and added a few sticks to the dying ambers. Poking it some until she was satisfied with the flames she then plopped back and sat on a breaded cloth for some protection from the snow.
She added more snow to the little pot and some leaves. Adding more snow as needed then allowing the water to boil before adding the leaves. The scent of peppermint wafted out of the pot. Fi pulled the brew and set it down next to her as she once again heated her piece of charcoal.
She sipped and then picked up the journal and began to write in the book. She recorded their meeting and she described the way he looked. It was an innocent inscription of one whom thought they met a kindred soul for a little company on a long trip.
Reneth did not lie down immediately. He removed some of the layers of clothes, shaking out the snow flakes and bundling the jacket underneath his head. He examined his wares, checking the vials that resided in his belt... And the stiletto strapped to his wrist on the inside.
He frowned, wondering if he would have to use it.... What if he.... No, they would know. They always knew. He took one of the vials from his coat, watching the flap before removing the stiletto. He uncorked the vial and dipped the tip within, then turned the blade, and let the liquid drip down toward the hilt, drying...
He put them away, and turned toward the wall of the tent. Closing his eyes, and hoping for sleep...hoping for all of this to be over.
She closed the journal and tucked it into her satchel. Which she stored right near the tent entrance. Next she added a few more remaining sticks letting the fire lick them. She piled the snow high around it creating a barrier of sorts. When it melted some she added more until the temperature was right and no more needed to be added. Hopefully the ambers would still be active when they woke to break their fast.
She removed her outer cloak, grabbed her satchel and hurried into the tent. Reneth appeared to be sleeping. She smiled and adjusted herself on the bedroll. Using her cloak as a pillow of sorts and placing the satchel by her side in-between them. Sleep found her quickly enough.
Where sleep found her, Reneth was wide awake. He'd been able to keep his breathing even enough to imitate sleep, although his eyes focused on the shifting fabric of the tent. Reneth turned a little, when she started to doze off. He listened to her breathing. And when it evened out, he pulled the stiletto quietly from his wrist sheath.
And twisted just enough to seem as if they were to spoon.
Reneth felt his heart stop. He couldn't. He couldn't keep doing this. Still, he held his blade close to his own heart. He couldn't think, a single distraction, a single instance of pause and he was done for.
Reneth waited a moment still, listening to the softness of her breath and saw her back. Could he? Right in her lungs. She wouldn't even be able to scream. It would be quick. Not quite painless, but quick. Perhaps her throat? Reneth stilled and slowly sat up until he was leaning on one arm, looming over her, stiletto still clutched against his chest.
She was running again. The shadow was closing in. She ran and kept running. Her sleeping form began to twitch. At first it was slight but became increasingly distressed until she began to talk. It was subtle. He may not have heard it right away but soon her distress grew.
Still asleep..."No! Nooooo! NO!!! Nana! Where! Ouch...you're hurting me.....Nana!!!!" She began to toss. Tears flowing freely. Every so often she would whimper and cry out.
Her dream was a mixture of her horrible night. The one when her beloved grandmother was killed. Along with many others that night. She was sweating and her speech became gibberish. She was fighting her inner demons of the night. Fighting to free herself. To see the light. She was very distressed this evening as she cried out "You I see your eyes! Nooooo!" Then she went silent of speech just her breathing and softly falling tears were left.
Reneth stilled when he saw her dream. Dreams that readily turned into nightmares. He slowly put the stiletto away, dropping his sleeve and lying back beside her. "Fivan," he murmured, gently shaking her. "Fivan. You're dreaming! Wake up!"
He turned onto his knees and looked down at her, concerned.
Her arms flailed and she gave one last attempt to free herself from the shadows that chased rnd. This flailing subsided.
The voice was unfamiliar but not unkind. She began to paw at her face almost as if to remove something before she came awake with a jolt. She sat straight up and for a few seconds had to gather herself.
It all came back...she looked at Reneth and tried to calm her breathing. Swallowing her fears she shakily said, "Sorry I woke you. I...I...guess just a bad dream." She wasn't sure if she had just been restless or if she cried out again. But she was embarrassed and was sure he would think something was wrong with her.
"You were having a terrible nightmare!" He sat down beside her, eyes concerned. "You sounded like you were being chased." Slowly he reached up and wiped at a tear that remained on her cheek. "You were crying..."
He was at a loss, unsure what to do. "What did you dream about?"
Her lip quivered. She wanted to tell someone she did but he would surely just walk away from her if he knew what had happened and how she did nothing to prevent the murder of her grandmother. She struggled to regain herself.
In a shaky voice, "Oh I guess...just running from a Kelper Cat. You know the jungle beasts. We call them Kelper Cats." She looked away and for a second she tried to control herself.
Looking up at him was a mistake. She burst into a full on sob. Crying from the gut. The kind you have that cleanses the soul. She couldn't speak for the first few minutes. But after a few she said between hiccups. "Oh Reneth, I lost my grandmother in a horrible way. She was killed and I did nothing to stop it. They burned her alive." Some more sobs.... "I just ran away! I ran!" Her crying slowly stopped as no more moisture was left within her.
"I still can see the men, not faces just this mark they all wore. They said my grandmother had a book that could teach them to cover the sun and cast us all into eternal darkness. She said only one has the knowledge of this book and it wasn't she. They found me hiding in the stable. They did horrible things to me and then some people from our village were able to save me but not her. They told me to run and I did and I just cannot stop thinking about it."
It felt great to tell someone she had held it in too long. It was a relief to share her despair with someone. "My journal, you can read it. I wrote everything down from that night." She pointed to her satchel which contained all her worldly possession...and her journal.
Reneth listened to all of this with interest and he immediately felt his stomach drop further. It was hard to listen to, but he forced himself to do so. And as she sobbed, all he could think to do was grab his coat that he'd used as a pillow and drape it over her shoulders. "I understand," he murmured. He was silent as he sat beside her.
He wasn't sure he wanted to rummage through her things, after all they'd only just met, but to hear her recant her troubles was enough for him. "You did what you had to do to survive," he murmured. "You shouldn't blame yourself. You would be dead if you hadn't run. Would your grandmother want that?"
She shook her head no. And she knew he was right. It was just hard to accept. Hard to understand the why of it all. "Thanks" she said weakly. "I am sorry for burdening you like this. How awful. All you wanted was a little shelter." She wiped her eyes dry with her sleeve.
"I think it is still early we could rest a bit before heading out." She hugged his jacket to her shoulders and pushed hers over so he had something to rest on. "I hope you aren't having second thoughts. Cause it has been nice to have you with me. But, I completely understand if in the morning you want to go your own way." She said it fast just to get it out. She figured this way he could leave and not feel sorry for her. She didn't mean to break down and cannot understand why she did.
A smile just touched his lips.
"I'm not going anywhere. But you have a right to let it out, if you've been carrying it all this time. I...I confess I have felt similar things. I never stay in one place for long. Sometimes I feel like running is the only option I have..." He ducked his head, blushing, embarrassed.
Reneth looked up at her. "What do you remember about those men? The ones that hurt you?"
Fivan appreciated his kindness. "Yeah, I know what you mean." She sat up and sat crossed legged. Snuggling into his coat it had a pleasant aroma. She also grew crimson.
When he asked about the men and that night she closed her eyes and could see them. "They were human. And all of them had a marking of sort on their hands. I drew it in my journal. Hold on let me show you." She got up and pulled her satchel closer and removed her journal. She tabbed through the pages and then settled on the pages. Fit handed the book over. "Here." She pointed to a symbol that showed a serpent's head with fangs that appeared to be dripping. Turning to the next page was a spider with an arrow head in its body. "Those were all I could see. But they all had the serpent on their armor they wore. One of the men they kept referring to was Gallator. I wrote it down right away. They kept asking where was his payment? Or his book? I had no idea what they were talking about."
He'd seen that symbol before, and he'd let his finger trace over the edge of her drawing. "It's familiar to me... though I can't say I know who Gallator is." He felt his stomach clench.
"Fivan...did your Grandma mention the book to you at any time? I...I'm not saying I know what it means. Do you think they hunt you still?"
She chewed her bottom lip for a moment as she thought of what he said. "Well she did have many and she shared all of them with me but her journal." She furrowed her eyes trying to remember the last time she saw it. "She kept it under the floor boards in the crafting room. But they burnt the place down so I am sure any book they had wanted is now gone. But really all we had were tomes on ingredients and such. Nothing special."
She shifted a little uncomfortable at the thought of them still looking for her. She had nothing. "I can't see why they would?" Her eyes filled with uncertainty and fear.
"Me neither," Reneth said with honesty. Despite the cold feeling in his gut, he managed a smile. No, no, he wouldn't tell her he had been looking for her, this whole time. That he was here to take her life. Reneth shook his head of those thoughts and relaxed a bit beside her.
"They were just dreams, Fivan," he said with a smile. "I get bad dreams too from time to time. You're not alone." He patted her shoulders. "Do you think you can fall back asleep? We could..talk some more if you'd like."
Fi nodded. "Yes, dreams. I'd rather they be pleasant but maybe now they will be." She looked a bit embarrassed as she realized he still had his coat. "I guess you will need this back. Sorry Reneth." She pulled his coat and shivered.
"I am ready for sleep though." She yawned and ducked under her bedroll. "Thank you for everything. And don't let me sleep too late. Promise."
He laughed. "But what if I over sleep?" he asked, taking the coat back and bundling it up again to lay beside her. "If I wake up first, I'll wake you. But if you wake up, you better rouse me. Is that a deal?"
She laughed! "Yes it's a deal."
Fi laid beside him and his breathing along with the wind whistling she soon found herself drifting. She slept uneventfully the rest of the night. The comfort of another put her in a rested state.
When she woke a smile spread across her face. She could feel the warmth of the blanket she was cocooned in surrounding her. The she thought of Reneth. He was so sweet last night. To help calm her and let her get rest after all. She wondered what time it was but another part didn't care. She was so comfortable. But really she should get up maybe make a little tea.
She softly whispered "Reneth?"
But when she awoke, Reneth wasn't to be found. Not within the tent at any rate. There was some shuffling outside and soon Reneth popped his head back into the tent. "I'm sorry. I was going to wake you, but you looked so comfortable," he said with a thoughtful expression. "But I made breakfast. Eggs, that I had found scavenging. And..some bread...that is yours. I promise to repay you for them."
He came further in a little more and opened the flap, reveal the smells of food from outside. The morning had warmed a little and the sounds of early morning critters could be heard nearby.
Fi smiled and stretched. "That's okay. I feel wonderful!" She sniffed the air and her smile widened. "Eggs! Yummy! Such a treat." She colored a little.
"You do not need to repay me." She voiced this low. "If I have it I will share, it is who I am., She held up her hand. "No, do not say another word on it." She began to pull on her coat and rolled her sleeping blankets.
Coming out of the tent and pulling her hair back, "Need me to do anything?" She looked about and pulled on a leather strap holding the tent taut. "I am just going to roll this up, do I have time?"
"We have plenty of time I think," Reneth said. His food was just about ready. The fire was crackling. And offered a great amount of warmth.
"I would rather not eat without you," he said with a nod. He put them both onto plates, well the wooden boards that served as plates and sat down.
Once she was finished putting away the tent, he bowed his head before the food, and ate. "Did you have any more dreams?" he asked, curious.
Fi sat crossed legged next to him and took the plate. It smell wonderful. "Oh this smells great!" She dug in and with gusto. Eggs were a treat!
Shaking her head "No, no I didn't have anymore. May sleep was restful. Thank you." She finished her plate. "That was wonderful. Thank you so much Reneth."
She flopped back with a goofy smile. "This has to be one of the best mornings I've had I. A long time!" She jumped back up and began to clean up. "Let me finish cleaning up our area and we can be off."
For the first time in a very long time she smiled and looked forward to the journey. She had an ally now.
Reneth, in truth, did not know what to make of this. He still had his task to fulfill, but he wasn't so sure anymore. That mark, he'd seen it before. And it unnerved him. He couldn't do it. He couldn't kill this woman in cold blood. Something about her settled doubt unlike any other.
When they were ready to leave, Reneth helped her with her gear, holding some things to even the load between them. The going wasn't too hard, not now when the snow had yet to flutter, but with their bellies filled they would not need to stop for a while.
But one thing did strike Reneth as curious. Perhaps she had mentioned it before and he'd forgotten it. "How did you end up all the way here, Fivan?" he asked, glancing at her.
She quick wrote in her journal of the nightmare. Stashed it back into her satchel and helped clean up the campsite. He helped share the carry load and she appreciated this. They set off together at a nice pace.
Fi was thankful for the breakfast it would keep them going and possibly well into the afternoon. They could cover a lot of ground. This cold was not for her. Not at all.
"I came on an errand. Had a package to deliver to the innkeeper here. Some of the herbs grown off Yoreiq Isle. She get them from time to time and I have taken them here before. She give me a free room for the night, so it is a bit of a treat too."
The snow was so bright she needed to shield her eyes. "What brought you this way? Work? Like me. Say what is it you do? You a mercenary? I'm not I usual just do errands and such, nothing real exciting." She smiled over at him.
"Do you deliver things for a living?" Reneth went on, trying to bide as much time as possible between having to answer her question and her extrapolating on her own answer. Truth be told however, he was indeed curious. And wanted to know a little more about her.
To find a reason solidified enough to still his blade.
"I told you I'm an apothecary. I know it might be silly, me coming this far north in search of a rare herb. I must admit, thought, I've never been to the Yoreiqi Isles. What are they like over there?"
She flushed. Her smile flattered; he did tell her that. But she simply forgot. "Sorry, you did tell me. It must have slipped my mind." She chided herself for her forgetfulness. He had been nothing but nice to her and she goes and puts her foot in her mouth.
"Yoreiqi is lovely. You should go if you get the opportunity. As an apothecarist you must know the value of their vegetation and mineral rocks. I deliver a lot for a harvester their, his name is Talli. he is an older gentlemen and whenever I cross over I go to him and see what deliveries he needs tended." She began to chatter about the people and elves she did odd jobs for. her voice losing the bit of embarrassment she felt.
"I also travel to Adela, their is a Knight there that must dabble in apothecary for I am forever being him all manner of herbs and plants. His name is Kaluis, maybe you know him?" She shrugged. "He says the land of Adela is no good for growing."
They walked at a nice pace as Fivan continued to tell him of her travels. "He has me looking into getting him two tomes for the theory of Sassafras Oils."
Reneth found himself smiling at the insistence. He'd heard of the place of course, but having never been there, he could only imagine what it was like. But at her expression, her tone, and her words, he beamed and chuckled.
"Well, perhaps someday I can be far from this cold and lonesome place. Although much less lonesome now that I've met you," he said, looking down at his feet.
His smile slowly faded however, wondering just where they were going. "Is there a next village over?" he asked, gesturing on the path ahead of them.
Fi smiled. He was right for now it was much less lonesome.
"There is." She reached into her cloak and pulled the little map she had crudely produced over the years of errands and scouting. "See right here. Why did you want to go there?" She looked up at him. She didn't mind if he needed to stop there. In fact she loved exploring the shops. And if memory served she hadn't been to this one in a very long time.
"Cause if you want to, we can. Maybe check out the market area."
In truth, Reneth didn't want to, but he felt it would be foolish to pass up civilization while they had the opportunity to take advantage of it. There was no telling just how long they would be out here, or if they would get lost, or what not. Map or not, that couldn't fix broken bones from falling into a gorge.
"Yes, let's," he said with a satisfied nod. "I can pick up some extra supplies, and proper seasonings. Those eggs could've used some pepper." He tried to jest and perhaps his grin came off as awkward, but there it was.
Off to the next village they would go.
"Okay! Sounds wonderful." She looked away but quickly back smiling, "Never! those eggs were perfect! I am of the school that if someone gathers and then cooks for you, just enjoy the moment."
They walked the snow crusted ground. The day wasn't as windy as yesterday but it was still bitter. She tried to steady her pace a little so as not to sweat, which could truly be deadly in this weather. "I think we continue just a little longer right?" It was more of a statement then a question.
As they walked she wrinkled her nose. "Reneth, did you ever hear stories about snow monsters that live in the forest here? Hugh creatures of ice! That wield shards of the stuff?" Her voice playful as she remembered the spooky tales told to her when she was young.
She said his name and he jerked a bit, as if she were about to strike him. The only people that said his name never hadany good intentions. But he smiled and relaxed. "Sorry," he murmured, blushing, cheeks hot against the feel of the cold breeze. He shoved his hands in his pockets, unsure what to do with them.
"I have never heard such a thing, admittedly," he confessed. "You don't suppose that there are any around here are there? I sincerely hope not! I don't think I could outrun such a creature... You..haven't seen one have you?"
Fi looked over at him as their feet made crunching sounds. "Well no." She paused in her thought. She had just assumed it was false. Just scary stories for fun. She looked at him not sure if he was teasing her or not.
"You aren't serious are you? I just thought they were..." She shrugged. "Stories, you know for fun." Now she looked about but there was nothing but curling smoke rising from the chimney's in the town off in the distance.
She added more for her own comfort than anything else. "Um, I traveled through here for years and never once encountered anything unusual." But she was now walking straight up and looking around for oddities.
"Well, if I've learned anything about stories, it's that all stories are steeped in some sort of truth. Or the image of it," Reneth said. He gave her a laugh, short and awkward, maybe even nervous. "I'm just saying, maybe there were such frost giant creatures in these woods some time ago, and someone told a story about them. Or maybe it wasn't even a giant, and just a really really cold mountain man running off in his skivvies."
At that Reneth laughed, a more genuine tone now, and his smile too was considerably more relaxed. "But if we do come across one of those things, I guess we'll just have to run really really fast."
She listened to him and nodded. Not really liking what he said but know it was right. But at his last sentence she busted out laughing! Now that was funny!
As the calmed a bit their footsteps making soft crunching noises along the path. It was nice walking with him. She stole a few glances but quickly turned way. Her innocence showing all over her face as she tried not to be so noticeable.
As they got closer to the town she realized she had been tense. She chuckled a bit. "Ha, you know what! I've been on edge since we spoke of the cold mountain man!" She chuckled again. "But now we are at town I am feeling a bit better. Let's go check it out."
"I do as well, my companion. Let's be out of this bitter weather," he said with a smile. Reneth took her gently by the arm and began to walk a little faster through the tough, layered snow. He helped her over a rise of snow and when the village came closer, he relaxed and was just happy to be out of the woods.
The soft smoke of chimneys billowed up and out into the sky. Morning was still ripe, and thankfully there were no frost giants in site. He smiled and felt his arm itch, and that smile quickly faded. The stiletto was still there, still coated with poison. His stomach soured and felt as if he could retch those eggs he just eaten not too long ago.
He stirred himself from his negativity. "Look, let's get something to eat first, yeah?" he said, nudging her shoulder.
Fivan gladly accepted his help. "Thank you." She matched his pace and the village quickly came closer. She tried not to think of the ice creatures but they were now in the back of her mind.
She was completely unaware of Reneth's inner turmoil. Fi just happily followed along. But she did notice his smile fade which made her quickly look about for danger. But none was to be seen. She tugged at his arm and gently. "Hey...no ice men." She teased softly.
"Oh! Food, sure doesn't hurt that's for sure. I could use the warming up too." She liked that idea. She loved going to taverns because some had bards which meant she could sing. Most times she was too shy but if it wasn't crowded maybe she would.
It was the only tavern up ahead. And thankfully didn't seem too filled with people. Reneth was happy to take a seat at the table along the wall, beside the window so that he might see who came and went, and gestured to Fivan to sit before them.
As a barmaid came by, she smiled at the pair. "Be right with ya, darlings. We've been getting a decent number of visitors here and there," she said. "I'll get ya something to warm yer bellies."
The room was warm and welcoming. The smells of good food cooking circled around them. Fi began to remove her thick cloak and hang it on the hook. She then followed Reneth. Settling into her chair as the barmaid cheerfully smiled. "Okay, thank you."
"Ohhhh I would love a hot cider! I hope they have that." She shied away from explaining she has never had wine, mead, or ale...anything. She just figured it best to keep that to herself. She shyly looked down. Reneth seemed worlds away. But she didn't know what to say she really didn't know him and didn't want to push him away with her nervousness.
"Reneth, did the ice men follow us?" She chuckled at her attempt at humor.
Reneth too had removed his coat and slung it on the back of his chair. He ruffled hands through his hair. He gave her a laugh, smiling and leaning forward on the table. "I hope not, then we'd have to throw our hot food at them, and then that'd be a great big mess. I'd be hungry, and there'd be water all over the floor," he said with a smile, chuckling.
When the woman came back, it seemed she had overheard Fivan's exclamation and brought two hot spiced ciders. It smelled wonderful. Reneth raised his glass to her. "To uh, new friends, and uh...ice men!"
He made her laugh. It felt good to be doing it too. Fi thought of last night and how he helped her feel better. When was the last time she felt safe with another? She couldn't remember and right now it felt good so she wasn't going to question it.
When the barmaid left the two hot spiced ciders she inhaled it gratefully. "Oh wait, okay!" She raised her glass with his. She chuckled again! "Yes, to new friends and icemen!" And then she laughed again.
Once sobered she took a deep gulp. She looked at him and smiled softly before turning away. She wanted to say more to him but didn't know what.
Reneth visibly relaxed after intaking the cider. He set it down on the table and leaned back in his seat. "You okay, Fivan? You seem like you're a bit nervous about something? I hope you didn't really believe in those icemen." He gave a soft laugh and crossed his arms before him on the table.
The barmaid came back with a smile. "So what can I get fer ya dears?"
Reneth glanced up at her. "A hot beef stew if you've got any," he said with a smile. "And what'll you have Fivan?"
She looked up at the barmaid and smiled while rubbing her hands together. She hadn't been hungry when they first walked in but now she was. "Do you have roasted venison?"
"We do young lady." The women smiled kindly.
"Okay I'll take that and whatever roasted vegetables you have today." Fi smiled back.
"Alright let me get this started for you both. Oh and it is parsnip and rutabaga. I'll have them seasoned up nicely." The barmaid walked away and tended to their order.
She shook her head now with a smile at the mention of the icemen. "Remember last night? Well when you said do you think they follow me. It has me thinking a bit. I never did before. Now I am not so sure. I think....nah forget it. I am just imagining things."
The barmaid came back and checked their drinks"Any wine, ale, or more ciders?"
"Uh...um...no wine or ale for me, but another cider thanks."
"The ciders are perfect. Thank you. Just what the cold night needed," Reneth said with a smile. He raised his glass to the barmaid before she bowed, and walked away. He chuckled a bit, unused to such hospitality. Was he so very undeserving? He wasn't sure, but he was so accustomed to taking care of himself that he never considered anything else.
It didn't take long for the food to come out and was presented before them. "Enjoy darlins," she said with a smile and parted again. Reneth's stomach grumbled loudly and he laughed, conscious of it.
"Sorry, I guess I'm just really hungry." He blushed and bowed his head before his food. "Um, do you pray before you eat? I don't want to just be rude and dig in."
Fi shook her head no. "I pray to Orion, the God of the woods. The God of nature and rebirth so no I do not pray over every meal." She smiled and nodded as she dug into her meal. She moaned and rolled her eyes back in delight. Once she was done chewing Fi looked at Reneth and blushed. "Sorry but I haven't had something this good in a very long time."
The ate their meals in the warmth of the establishment. Some customers entered. The barmaid tended to them as quickly as she did them.
One of the new customers happened to be alone. He was of broad shoulders, Snow White hair and piercing light colored eyes. His skin was as white as the snow outside. He choose a table closest to the door and in perfect view of Fi and Reneth. He had a mug and a plate of cheese but seemed neither to eat or drink. He didn't actually stare at them...he seemed to be reading something. But his eyes watched the two with interest.
Reneth tried hard not to pay attention to anything coming into the tavern. He was hungry and thirsty and freezing still from the cold outside. He ate quietly, the beef stew hitting all the right spots and the spiced cider making him warm all over. He smiled up at her, trying not to focus on the sensation of eyes on him.
But it was one he couldn't resist for long. He did not have to turn his head. Within his peripheral vision he saw who it was and felt himself freeze. Hia stomach turned, threatening to upchuck his meal. It was Tasker. And he was eying Fivan over his reading material.
Reneth forced himself to relax, but he just kept his hands on his mug. His hands were shaking. "Looks like I need another cider," he said, laughing nervously.