Eril's Story

Day 10

All my fears over the new elderly age sprung on me the previous day were for naught. When I woke up, my body had reverted back to that of my previous self. I examined my reflection, and while my beard that had grown in a matter of hours had stayed, the gray in it and in my hair had remarkably vanished, as if time itself had simply been turned back. Everything in my body felt rejuvenated, better than I had felt in years - even though I was well kept for my years, age still had a way of creeping up. I even jogged for a short while with my pack on just because I could.

Things around me were pleasant, showcasing the vibrant nature, alive and thriving in Spring. Now with Adura being only a few days walk away, five at most, small homesteads and habitations started becoming much more common. The road also became much more defined due to increased use.

Having gone a few days without seeing a soul, I was looking forward to being around people again. Even if I didn't interact with them, it was comforting to know I could find help or companionship, should it be needed.

There were at least half a dozen people I crossed paths with during the day. Various farmers or simple folk who chose to live a more quiet life compared to the bigger cities. I greeted them all, wishing each prosperity and a good day. As evening came I walked by a small farmhouse with a couple working on the land, children running madly around in the bushes.

Waving, I approached them, and smiling, they waved back in turn. I explained that I was travelling through to Adura, and that if they permitted, I would be greatly appreciative of a place to spend the night. Instantly they agreed, and before I could even utter my thanks, the mother had called for one of her children who fetched me some cool water which I guzzled, sighing with contentment.

They told me that they had to finish up their tasks but that I was free to put my travel things inside and to make myself at home. Inside the earthen house the air was cool and fragrant, and something was simmering on the cooking fire that smelled divine. After putting my pack down I had the urge to just sit in one of the many chairs strewn around and rest, but instead I went outside to offer my services.

Before I knew it I was hunched over the freshly plowed field depositing worms into the soil at various points - maybe staying inside was the right choice. From what I was told, not only were the little creatures a great boon to the dirt, but this particular species was vital to grow the signature crop the farm was known for, the type of plant would not grow without the symbiotic partnership of these humble worms.

Most of the work was done in silence, each person tackling their own row, then everyone went inside for dinner, and that was when the real conversation started. Everyone became much more animated and lively in the presence of freshly prepared food. Between the boisterous children and the procession of plates and dishes streaming to the table, I felt as though I were in the heart of a typhoon. A few of the older children sat by, wanting to know what I had seen on my way here - to them Tenora seemed like a whole world away, even though it could be reached on horseback in less than a week.

I shared details about where I had been and what I had seen, sparing some of the details that might disturb some of my younger audience. I produced some small colorful river rocks that glowed with radiance under the lantern light that had been given to me in Netheen. These I gave to the children who were delighted, immediately secreting them away in special spots around the room.

Supper was then served and I had a delightful time. The food was bountiful and nobody left the table without their fill. We talked about all manner of things, the planting, how the current council was handling the relations between the cities, my former trade as a scribe, and some of the animals that had been seen recently in these parts now that winter was over. A pair of Stines had even been seen - large towering grazers that were revered and only rarely seen due to being solitary creatures, preferring to be alone or occasionally seen with a mate.

When all the plates had been shoved back and everyone was leaning in their chairs, the table was cleared off and a fruit wine was brought out for the aults. It was generous and meaningful to me to be honored with a special drink that was made specifically on the family farm. It was wonderfully crafted, made with some dark fruit and a collection of savory herbs I couldn't quite place - fermenting nicely over the off season. The generosity of strangers never ceased to amaze me.

The hospitality continued to be showered on me until it was time for bed, at which point I was given a thick blanket and a spot next to the embers of the hearth. Warm and comfortable, I fell into an easy sleep.