The next day I gathered my belongings in preparation to ride back home to my family. As I collected my things you called upon my room. I was surprised to find you at my door. "Gustus tells me you're leaving?" I invited you in and continued to pack, "Yes, I've got a long journey ahead of me. My time away from my clan is over, I have to return to my people. Unless my word is still under scrutiny?"
Not meaning to sound harsh but I hoped we'd moved past any questions about my loyalty as I awaited your reply, "Anyas messenger returned this morning with word from The Chief of Anacostia, your honour is no longer a matter of concern. I'd like you to stay on in Polis as my guest, at least until your injuries heal."
I was taken aback by your offer. To my knowledge no Plains Rider had ever been extended such an invitation from The Commander. Part of me was still somewhat sceptical, "Be honest, your Generals and Titus still think I'm a potential threat, don't they?" You looked at me square in the eyes as if to reaffirm your good intentions, "Its precautionary. Azgeda will be on the lookout for the Plains Rider that left that Inn under the shadow of night, leaving behind two dead Ice Nation soldiers. I've sent riders to your clan to let them know of the situation. They have my protection."
I was suddenly aware of the trouble I may have brought down on my people. The blade I had traded at the Inn was like leaving a calling card. Although, there was no witnesses to the altercation, it was clear the stranger that arrived that night was responsible for the carnage left behind. No one from the Inn, especially Azgeda would believe it was self defence. What had I done? Had I brought the wrath of Azgeda to my lands?
Panic filled my heart, "I should go, I have a duty to protect my people!" Concern for Azgedas retaliation against my clan for my actions, for killing two of their warriors, absorbed my mind. I looked to Heda for empathy as I began to loose control of my calm. She looked back at me, aware of my need to see my people, "Costia, I understand your frustration but if Azgeda scouts catch you on the road, and mark my words they will be looking for you, they'll kill you before you even reach your boarderlands."
I turned to look out of the window, my pensive mood overwhelming me, "Do you have family, Heda? I mean, before all of this, before the conclave, before you became Commander?" You reflected my pensive mindset. I watched your thoughts drift to your past as you replied, "Yes, I did... Once." You seemed lost in that moment, as though the people from your past were unreachable. I could tell you understood, "Then you know how it feels to yearn for them. I need to know my family is safe". You looked back at me, your eyes seems to have regained their steely gaze, "My duty overshadows my feelings. That is my path, The way of The Commanders." I couldnt understand this, but then again I didnt have the responsibilty you carried, the burden of authority, "Then I dont envy you, Heda. Feelings are everything. My clan is my heart". You watched as I paced the room, frustrated by my situation, unsettled. "I cant force you to stay in Polis, but know I have a duty to your people also, to keep you safe. When we know of Azgedas full intentions then make your decision. But for now, stay."
I looked at you, maybe my gaze lingered too long. There was an unspoken moment between us. Time seemed to slip away. There was silence at first, then broken by my bold words, "On one condition... Ride with me. If I'm to ease my mind, I need to hunt."
A subtle half smile played on your lips. You nodded in agreement. I could hear the woods calling our names.
