The Assassin's Crown

Part 8

2022, June 17th

The shore they sat on was secluded and robust. A small withering pier met them at their feet as the men sat against the shoreline. The overhanging willow trees brushed their hair and the bubbling waters danced in their ears. A small relatively new boat was positioned just a few feet from then bobbing with the small currents.

"It's so much different from 480 some years ago. I have to admit it's relaxing despite the fact I willingly never took a break." Sireno lays his head against Aerlic's shoulder and finally lets himself be vulnerable.

The older of the two smiles and relaxes as well, his frame becoming one of calm and ease. It was a fond memory for him, and it was one he would cherish forever. He took in the small barely recognizable features of the younger, how the grey stripes had small hits of gold at their tips, and how his face was older. He looked around 30, possibly 35, the exact age Aerlic could yet pinpoint. He knew he had aged as well, his beard growth proved it, before he became immortal he had yet to grow one, and now he was in a constant and arbitrary battle with the endless stubble.

"It has, I can't even remember the last time I was down here. Maybe to add the boat, maybe to try and fix up the docks in case you came back." he looks at the looming clift that hid them from the rest of the pond, a small nook surrounding them of stone to the side and back, and a lush view of trees to the other. It was a calming sight, a safe place he vowed to never bring any harm to.

"Shall we take a boat ride?" The question didn't need to be answered. With a silent nod the boys rolled up their jeans and placed their boots and belongings to the side by the cliffs. In a boisterous manner Sireno boosted Aerlic's ego, "Race you." With that the two boys set off towards the water splashing themselves and each other, making their efforts to keep their clothes dry a lost cause. Booming laughs of joy and innocence rocketed off the falls walls.

From the shadows a man sat, watching, listening. He pulled out his phone and began to record.