Remnants

Chapter 7 - Mira

Mira and Ali left Miriel's cabin after talking to Eri. It was already getting dark so they decided to leave the next morning.

The early evening settled quietly over the village. Mira and Ali walked together towards their house. The nervousness and excitement towards their coming journey hung in the air.

"Are you sure about this?" Mira asked Ali.

Ali looked up in the sky, her eyes full of longing, "Yes. I need to know Mira. I love everyone in this village and I can't thank them enough for accepting me, but I need to know who I am. I can't let this go. Not when I know there is hope."

Mira held Ali's hand and looked at her, "Then I'll be with you every step of the way,"

"Thank you, Mira," Ali said, returning Mira's gaze.

Anything for you, Ali

They both went home and prepared for their journey. Mira knew they had to travel light but they also had to be ready for anything. This wouldn't be like her usual scavenging runs. This time Ali and Eri will be with her, and she has to do her best to protect them. Especially Ali.

Mira had her reservations about Ali's decision. She knew what it was like outside. She was very much aware of all the dangers that they could face. But she had to be strong for Ali. Despite Ali's optimistic attitude, Mira knew that it always bothered her that she couldn't remember her past. Now that Eri has come into their lives, they have a chance to find out.

Mira watched Ali as she ran around the house, trying to gather anything and everything they might need. She would stop sometimes to ask Mira if they needed this or that and Mira would simply smile at her and answer.

We're really doing this huh, Ali

"Mira, do we need sewing materials? What about cooking ingredients? Do you ever take a bath out there? You always come home looking dirty and grimy," Ali asked as she peeked from her room.

Mira smiled at her, amused at her worrying over such little things, "I bring a small sewing kit but I mostly use it for wounds. We can bring some salt I guess. And no, I don't take a bath out there. I don't want mutants sneaking up on me while I'm in the water. But, who knows, this time we can watch each other's backs."

The night went on like that. Mira and Ali continued to prepare their gear until they were finally satisfied. They both joined the rest of the villagers for dinner and then prepared to go back home. They brought Eri dinner before heading back home.

As Mira lay in her bed, she couldn't help but think of the coming day. She needed to be ready. This time, she wouldn't be going out alone.

"Goodnight Mira," Ali said from the door.

"Goodnight Ali. Make sure you get some rest. We have a long day tomorrow," Mira replied.

I will keep you safe Ali. No matter what

As dawn broke, Mira woke up and headed out of her room. She found Ali standing by the window, looking at the rising sun.

"Hey, Ali," Mira called out to her friend.

"Good morning, Mira," Ali turned to her and smiled.

"You're up early. Did you get any sleep?" Mira asked as she rubbed her eyes.

"Yeah, I woke up just a while ago. I guess I'm too excited, and maybe a tiny bit nervous," Ali chuckled.

"I bet you are," Mira said as she yawned, "So, are you ready?"

"Yeah, all my things are over there," Ali pointed at the pack on the table.

"That's good. Let me grab my stuff and we can head out to Miriel's" Mira said before heading back to her room.