Traverse

Chapter 6: Journey to Ashtown

The morning air in Delmorra County was crisp, carrying with it a hint of autumn. Malorie stood outside the small tavern where she had spent the night, the soft glow of dawn barely breaking over the horizon. The world around her felt quiet, almost peaceful, yet her heart raced with uncertainty. Today, she would leave for Ashtown—the city that held the key to finding her sister, Eimear.

Her few belongings were tied up in a bundle on her back. She had little money, no clear plan, but there was one thing she knew for sure: Ashtown was where she needed to be. Her sister was out there somewhere, and Malorie was determined to find her, no matter the cost. She couldn't stay in this small village forever—there were too many questions, too many things she still didn't understand.

Beside her, Sir Ahren, the knight who had agreed to travel with her to Ashtown, adjusted his armor with practiced ease. His presence had been both reassuring and disconcerting. He had insisted on accompanying her, claiming it was his duty to ensure her safety. While Malorie appreciated the help, she couldn't shake the feeling that she was dragging someone into her problems—someone who didn't deserve to be caught up in the mess of her search for Eimear.

Greta, the tavern owner, had offered them shelter for the night, and Malorie was grateful. The older woman had shown kindness in a way Malorie hadn't expected—offering food, warmth, and a place to rest after a long, restless journey. Still, despite the hospitality, Malorie knew she couldn't stay forever. She had to keep moving. Ashtown was waiting, and with it, the possibility of answers.

"Goodbye, Greta," Malorie said softly as she approached the tavern owner, who was sweeping the front steps of the tavern. The older woman looked up, a warm smile spreading across her face.

"Off to Ashtown, are you?" Greta asked, her voice thick with a soft accent. "I'll pray for you, child. The city can be a dangerous place, but it's a place of opportunities too. Find your way there, and take care."

"I will. Thank you for everything," Malorie replied, her voice tight with emotion. Greta had been kind when no one else had been. But kindness was something Malorie was unaccustomed to, and now she had to leave it behind.

As Sir Ahren adjusted the straps on his sword and mounted his horse, Malorie turned to give one last look at the small tavern. She took a deep breath, steeling herself for the journey ahead.

"Are you ready?" Sir Ahren's voice was steady, and his gaze was unwavering, but Malorie noticed a faint hint of concern in his eyes. She nodded, giving him a quick smile that didn't quite reach her eyes.

"Ready as I'll ever be."

They mounted their horses and made their way down the narrow road, leaving the village behind. The silence between them wasn't uncomfortable, but it was heavy, as though both of them were contemplating the unknown path that lay ahead.

Malorie's thoughts were consumed by Eimear—the sister she hadn't seen in what felt like an eternity. Eimear had disappeared without a trace, and Malorie was certain that Ashtown held the answers. She had to find her sister, no matter what it took. There were clues, whispers, rumors, and a faint trail that could lead her to Eimear, and she was willing to follow it anywhere.

"I have to go back," Malorie suddenly muttered under her breath.

Sir Ahren turned his head, brow furrowed. "What did you say?"

"I... I need to stop by the library," Malorie explained, her voice quiet but firm. "I tore up some maps there and took others. It was wrong. I need to fix it before I leave."

Sir Ahren gave a slow nod, clearly unsure of what she was talking about but respecting her need to handle things her own way. "I'll wait for you at the edge of the village," he said, guiding his horse toward the road that led to the woods.