Short Rest

After my announcement, I promptly grabbed Demi’s hand and exited the guild. I walked towards the house a little faster than normal. Demi pulled my hand, urging me to slow down.

“What’s the rush, Taya?”

“Oh, sorry. I was lost in thought because there’s something I wanted to ask Tyler.”

“Tyler?” Demi frowned.

“Yah, I want to make a stop after going to Jer’s mansion.”

“Hmmm, well I wouldn’t worry. I’ll go with you. It’s easier for two people to travel than a large group. Catching up won’t be a problem.”

“That’s true. Thanks.” I smiled and began swinging our joined hands. Demi laughed at my antics.

“But I was really surprised back there. You took charge and sorted things out immediately.”

“Hmm? Oh, I didn’t mean to step on your toes. You seemed flustered so I just did it on reflex. I was the oldest in the orphanage so I guess giving directions to a large group is somewhat second nature. Sorry.”

“You apologize too much. I was praising you, not scolding you.”

His words made me smile. It felt good to be praised by the person you like. When we arrived at the house I immediately sought out Tyler. I quickly ran up to him, catching him by surprise.

“Can I stop briefly in Grenendale before heading to the capital?” I asked Tyler.

“Did you forget something at the guild there?” Jer inquired with curious eyes.

“Ummm, no. In case things don’t work out, there’s someone I wish to say goodbye to. It won’t take very long.”

“Taya and I can go and then catch up with you on horse afterwards.” Demi suggested.

“No need. An hour or two won’t make a difference in the grand scheme of things. We’ll take the opportunity to rest longer at the mansion while you say your goodbyes.”

“Thank you. I didn’t expect you to so willingly accommodate my selfish request.” I was truly grateful, and felt kind of bad for my harsh evaluation of Tyler.

“If it’s Grenendale...that’s the place you and Tali grew up, right?” Oh, this makes more sense. I guess he thought Tali would also want to stop.

“Yes, I guess Tali told you about it. I would like to stop by the orphanage but perhaps there’s people Tali would also like to visit.” Tyler looked at me with a rather complex expression before nodding once and turning around. He always looked at me weird when the orphanage is mentioned. I don’t really understand, since I mostly have fond memories there. Perhaps my background sounds pitiful to others. I decided to quench my curiosity.

“Demi, is being an orphan pitiful?” It was an innocent question, but Demi looked like I just asked him if my dress made me look fat.

“Well, people who don’t know you would probably think that.”

“Hmm, so how about you?”

Demi stiffened, his brow slightly damp with sweat. “I think the circumstances that led you to the orphanage are pitiful. But I don’t think you are. It seems you grew up well there.”

“I see. Well I guess you’re right. I was rather depressed at first but then the sisters and other kids became my new family. For the most part, I was really happy there.” I smiled as childhood memories past through my mind.

“I love that about you.” Demi leaned in and kissed my forehead.

We gathered our things and headed to the tavern for lunch. When we got there, five hunters were waiting for us with their gear. Two of them had horses. They looked a little ragged, so I’m guessing the competition was fierce. Despite that, they had an air of triumph. The representative introduced the group to everyone and said they were ready to leave. We told them to order lunch first because we wouldn’t be eating anything substantial until we reached Taloff. I made sure they had camping gear, and those who didn’t were told to go the market and grab some while we waited for our food. Demi handed them money to pay for the extra expense. They refused at first but he told them not to turn him into a shameless prince. That was the end of the argument. We ate heartily and stopped at the boarding house before leaving town. Demi paid extra to borrow a driver that would return the horse and buggy once we reached Taloff. It was a two day trip so we had to setup camp for a night. Nothing exciting really happened. We came across a couple tainted but they were easily dealt with. Five must have been bored, because she swiftly took care of them before anyone else could move. Finally, we arrived at the mansion. The servants were surprised to see such a large group of visitors, but they showcased their professionalism by quickly getting the spare rooms in order. There were two to a room. Tali and I were lying in a large bath together, the hot water melted away the tension in our bodies.

“I spoke with Tyler. Demi and I are heading to Grenendale in the morning. I plan to stop at the orphanage to say goodbye to someone. Is there anyone you would like to visit?”

Tali was taken aback by the news. “Grenendale...will you also be stopping at father’s house?”

Honestly, the thought never crossed my mind. Regardless, it didn’t take long for me to come to a conclusion. “No. I’m not even sure who owns the house now or if it’s still there. Perhaps, if things go as planned, I’ll visit when this is all over.”

“I see. I didn’t keep in contact with anyone, so there’s no one to visit.”

Tali was sullen after that, and I regretted bringing up the topic while we were relaxing. I thought Tyler would have said something to her. Once everyone was cleaned up, we gathered in the dining hall for a light meal before heading off to bed. After a comfortable sleep and delicious breakfast, Demi and I immediately got ready to leave.