The Village of Tal

We picked up our pace and managed to arrive in Tal a little before curfew. We checked in with the local guild and explained our situation. Unfortunately they didn't have any spare rooms in the dorm. Demi pulled out his identification card and asked to speak to the head of the guild. I'm not sure what he said but he came back with keys to a small house in the village and two bags of rations. I'm pretty sure they gave us extra because the bags are bigger than what I normally receive. Even under extreme circumstances power trumps all. Or perhaps I'm just jaded and we received more because this village is larger and in better condition than my previous one. I guess the result is good either way.

The house was located on the outskirts of the village. Some people might find that inconvenient but I like the seclusion. There were two bedrooms, a kitchen and a bathroom, all the essentials. There was also a fireplace with a small dining area setup around it. Everything was neat and tidy. It was small but quaint. Aside from Jer's mansion, this is the nicest place I've stayed since entering the orphanage. We set our things in our respective rooms and gathered around the table to eat. Not having energy to cook, we settled for fruit, nuts and cheese.

"What did you say to the guild leader?" I asked between bites.

"I told him who I was and the general situation at the last village. He wants to meet again in the morning and hear more details."

"I see...do you want me to come with?"

"Well, because I told him who I was I think the conversation might get political. Do you really want to deal with that? It might be better for you to explore the town and ask about your sister."

"Yeah I don't do politics. It's really not worth much to orphans...no offense."

"It's not worth much in general but being a war hero does have its advantages. I'm more used to being a soldier than a hunter and right now the hunters need training. I'm going to suggest I fill that role while we're here. Like it or not, you are coming to class. No more hunting until we improve your offense."

"What are you, my dad? ha. You're right about the offense though."

"I'll pretend I didn't hear that first part. Just focus on finding your sister. I'll sort things out with the guild."

Wow, this guy went from silent to drill sergeant real quick. I'm feeling a bit petty about it. I stuck my tongue out at him and then stabbed my fork into an apple slice with a little more force than necessary. Demi smirked. The rest of the meal was uneventful.

Afterwards, we took turns washing up. Demi was a gentleman and let me go first. "Thank you, your royal highness" I teased and then quickly locked myself in the bathroom. I heard what I think was a pillow, hitting the door. I laughed as I turned on the tap to fill the bath. Ahh, this is the best! After relaxing in the warm water, I said goodnight to Demi and headed to bed. It's time for a good long rest. I'll worry about tomorrow when tomorrow comes.