Her New Life

Chapter 6: Bitterness

The mountainous regions were harsh, and the cold air was stale and bitter. Riftan did not think the air could taste depressing, yet every breath he took caused his drive to diminish. It had been almost two years since they left for Lexos Mountains, and he was exhausted. It felt like they were going around in circles for months only to come to the same conclusion. They weren't any closer than they were before. His men seemed to be pushing through, but he could tell their morale was hanging by a thread. A pang of guilt hit him like a hammer. He never wanted to bring such a fate to his men, and he would have gladly ventured into the dangerous lands by himself. But the loyalty of his comrades proved to be as unshakable as the mountains.

"What I wouldn't give for a nice, large tankard of ale."

Riftan turned to see Hebaron sitting on his haunches, warming his hands by the fire. The large man's usual playful demeanor had faded, exhaustion written on his face.

"Only you could think of drinking at a time like this." Muttered Ursuline Ricaydo. His usually neat and pristine appearance was now bordering that of the rest of the men.

"What would you suggest I think of then? Dragon's breath? The prudish young Ricaydo certainly would not suggest me think of a woman?"

"You shameless-"

"Please, no more fighting. The bitter cold is enough to deal with." Ruth slowly trudged near the fire, tossing his depleted mana stone into his pocket. His hands were shaking, and his already pale skin seemed frosted over. He spoke through chattering teeth.

"I must admit, warm ale sounds nice about now."

Riftan shivered slightly and looked at the sky. The setting sun caused a rich array of orange and red to paint the sky. Red... just like her hair. 

He quickly tried to distract himself.

"Have you discovered anything?" Riftan looked at Ruth.

"The magical formulas are indeed complex and affect the mana in the area. To break the other formulas, we'd have to travel to the other side of the mountains." 

He ruffled his hair. "Not to mention we'd have to work with the other wizards... We'll be here another year at this point."

A heavy silence swept through the group.

Hebaron broke the silence. "At least we have reinforcements now. Won't be long before we can end this suicide mission. No thanks to the duke."

His men began muttering their complaints, but he couldn't help but think of one person. Maximillian was waiting for him.

Gabel reported that Maximillian had refused to travel to Anatol and had remained in the Croyso Estate. There was also no news of a child. He was bombarded with bitter thoughts, realizing she probably resented him for her horrible wedding night; and for being a lowborn knight. His death would be her opportunity to remarry or continue to live her lavish lifestyle with her father. Despite his growing cynicism, he could not help envisioning their life together. 

Living peacefully in their country estate, feeding her foods she's probably had every day, and raising their red-headed children.

"I bet the duke is laughing and drinking with his other rich, fat friends."

"Don't mention that snake out here. I feel sick enough as is."

"How can I not mention the dog that sentenced us to our death?"

As much as he wanted to, he couldn't ignore the mutterings of his men. How they hated the duke and wanted to see him fall. Riftan understood their hatred of Duke Croyso but could not stomach their disdain for his wife.