Tipping the Scale

Chapter 17: The Eater's Spawn (Part 2)

Lidea couldn't say that she was happy to be back in the saddle the next day, but fully rested it felt like less of a chore. Although no amount of stretching had helped to make her legs feel less stiff.

She supposed that her body would just have to get used to it.

"So you are going east?"

Roland stood next to her as he helped to cinch the horse's saddle tighter, causing the animal to turn his ears back in irritation.

"Straight toward the sea. According to Crystal, the Kálmán tribe should be there for some Udrän celebration. Hopefully, we can catch them on the way. After that, we will travel south to Astresh."

Even as she spoke the words, it was hard to accept them as reality. How was she on this journey? She had never even imagined to leave Lynoës.

"I'm sure you will find them. Thank you for doing this. It will be easier with the help of the tribes."

He studied her before grabbing her hand into his, a proud smile on his face.

"If only your father could see you now. You look just like him when we left for Umbrae."

His eyes brimmed as he was lost in his memories. Lidea didn't know how to respond but swallowed her tears before joking awkwardly.

"I think he would be rather horrified."

"That too."

Roland chuckled hoarsely as he let her go.

"I can only wish you a good journey, my Lady, and don't worry about the resistance. Firon and I will take care of it for you."

Lidea glanced at where Firon was similarly talking to Warchief, who still stood beside his horse. The two bantered as if they hadn't argued yesterday.

"I know you will. Firon has everything to become a strong leader, he just needs some guidance. I'm happy that you volunteered for that role."

Her grin caused Roland to burst out in laughter that rang through the group of people who had gathered to wave them off.

"I wasn't aware that I had a choice."

"Ow? Did you forget?"

"I haven't grown senile yet."

This time it was Lidea who laughed as Warchief and Firon came to stand with them.

"Before we leave, I just wanted to gift you this."

Warchief removed two heavy pouches from his belt and gifted one to each of them. The men shared a look of confusion before opening their gift which resulted in them staring at the contents in awe.

Their reaction made her wonder about just how much money that man had given away with no second glance.

"That is too much!"

Firon tried to protest but Warchief didn't listen as he mounted his horse.

"Then save it. But it will be handy to have if you ever need something. Find a way to contact us and I will make sure that you receive it."

The giant's mouth practically hung open, in contrast, Roland quickly hid away the pouch in his oversized jacket.

"Thank you, Warchief. We will use it wisely."

His orange eyes sparked in mirth as he grinned while waving them goodbye, to join Crystal who sat on her nervously prancing mare.

"Good luck to you all, we will see you in a year!"

The way he left so unceremoniously was almost comical and Lidea shared an apologetic smile to the bystanders.

"Thank you all for having entrusted your lives to us. I promise that we will find help, but in the meantime I want you all to find happiness in some way or another. We owe it to those we lost."