Reunion and Goodbyes

Jer lent us a couple of horses from the stables. It had been years since I’ve ridden, but since I was athletic I wasn’t very concerned about it. Right as we were about to mount, the five hunters from the guild came rushing out of the mansion. Demi and I were startled and looked at them quizzically.

“Your highness, Taya, where are you going without us?” Demi and I exchanged glances, wondering what this was all about.

“We’re just heading over to the neighboring town for a couple hours to take care of some personal business.” I explained.

“By yourselves? Let us escort you just in case.”

No, what is this? They’re here as hunters, not escorts. Demi clearly shared my sentiments. “I appreciate the thought, but we aren’t hunting so there’s no need for you to come. Technically, I’m the escort.”

The hunters exchanged glances. “Then just bring the two of us with horses. We’re well aware that both of you are skilled, but sometimes unexpected things happen. You both have an important role to play in the capital, right?”

Well, they aren’t wrong, but I strangely don’t want to agree. Maybe it just feels weird to all of a sudden be important enough for an escort. I looked over and Demi also seemed uncomfortable. However, judging by there faces it doesn’t look like they have any intention of backing down. I’m already delaying our departure with this trip, so I don’t want to waste time with pointless arguments. I sighed, “Then the two of you, grab your horses quickly.” The hunters beamed and two ran off to the stables like it was a race.

“Your highness,” one of the hunters cautiously broached. “I might be out of line in saying this, but it might be a good idea to get used to an escort.”

Ahhh. I get it. In case Demi takes the throne. Escorts are normal within the palace, it’s just that Demi didn’t have a normal experience as a prince. “I’ll consider it.” Demi hesitantly answered. Honestly, I don’t envy his position. People are more invested in his future endeavors than he is. Poor guy. While I was looking at Demi with pity, two horses pulled up beside us.

“We’re ready!” Demi and I mounted our horses and the four of us headed to Grenendale. It felt like we arrived in no time, probably because I was used to walking. I led the three to St. Mary’s orphanage and rang the bell at the gate. A nun came to answer. I watched the shock spread across her face when she recognized me. Her leisurely pace became rushed. “Taya, is that you? Is everything okay? No, you cut your hair! Who are the people with you?” Sister Anne barraged me with questions. I laughed and pulled her into a hug.

“Sister, this is Demi, Sean and Lark. Boys, this is sister Anne, one of the nuns that raised me.” Anne beamed at the introduction, a beautiful smile gracing her face.

“Welcome! Please come in.” Anne lead the four into the orphanage. The children, initially intimidated, came running over as soon as they recognized me.

“Sister Taya!” I opened my arms to receive the wave of children. It was so good to see them. “Sister, who are your friends?” I looked behind me and saw three statues where men used to be. I nudged Demi in the ribs, prompting him to unthaw. I introduced them to the children and they thankfully became human again.

“It’s so good to see you, Taya. You grew up into a beautiful tomboy!” Anne teased. When I left the orphanage, it was right before the start of the pandemic. I looked like any other young lady, with long hair and a dress. It was a product of the sisters’ hard work. I guess it’s a bit disappointing for them to see me in trousers and hunting gear, my hair chopped just above my shoulders. But I genuinely think this suits me better.

“What can I say, I was born to run around in the dirt.” I smiled.

“Yes, yes. One can only suppress their nature for so long. Did you come to visit the kids?”

“Yes and no. Of course it’s great to see the children, but I stopped to say goodbye to Max.”

Anne’s smiling face turned grim. “If it’s Max...is this the last time we will be seeing you?”

“I hope not, but just in case...it felt right to say goodbye.” I replied awkwardly. I could feel the confused gazes staring a hole in the back of my head, but I ignored them for now. Perhaps you could show the boys around while I do that?” I didn’t really want an audience.

Anne smiled and said she’d take them to the forest with some of the kids, to show off the foraging skills I had taught them. Demi stared at me, hesitant to leave. After a moment of thought I grabbed his hand and took him with me to the chapel. I led him to the statue of Saint Mary, where I was saddened to find numerous plaques on the wall. Some of the names I recognized. I stood before the plaque that held the name of my best friend, Max. “This is who I wanted to say goodbye to.” Demi gazed at the plaque, quickly realizing this was the friend I mentioned the night we confessed our feelings to each other.

“Hi Max. It’s been a while since I’ve greeted you. A lot has changed in the meantime. The world went to shit, even worse than when you were alive. It’s my turn to kill to survive. I became a hunter and made a special friend. Don’t worry, he isn’t taking your place. I love him in a different way. I wanted to talk to you, one last time, just in case. I miss you, but I hope I don’t join you there quite yet. Save up your stories, and I’ll save mine.” I said an additional prayer of departing for the others. Then Demi and I both bowed our heads to Max, before exiting the chapel.