Delmora: The Lost Quest

Rovera

"I hope it's worth it" Lance said distantly. It was quiet so the others heard him. But his voice was mumbled like he was speaking to himself. Morn was looking Moody and Edith couldn't speak. If Tyler were there he would surely seek further analysis of Lance's words but Simone's heart grew heavy knowing that Tyler's curiosity wouldn't be the voice of his own wonder.

Simone cleared his throat "me too"

"I've been on many missions before and some were difficult but, never like this. Out here its like we don't know anything at all." Lance said.

"That's probably because we don't, and its not your fault, it's the damn quest. Bunch of bullshit" Morn rolled over, only half listening, while trying to sleep, "but it took you long enough to come to terms with it mate."

Edith was listening intently. Lance knew she had much to say. He felt bad for her but he didn't know how he'd forgive himself if she'd never talk again.

"It seems to be a recurring theme with us" Simone said.

They went quiet again. It was weird not having Tyler with them. And the topic was only making their mood dull and gloomy. They all felt the same pit in their stomach, the doubt. Nyam was dead and they had nothing to show for his loss but a superstitious necklass. Tyler was gone and in worse shape than when he joined them. Gawain and Biter were dead. Edith couldn't speak.

They said very little after that.

Their break from the road was short before long they were on the move again. They passed by a few farm houses on the outskirts but from there they turned off road and everything became wilderness once more.

"I think that was the last town we're going to see until we reach Hallows Foot" Lance said.

"About time we get there" Morn grunted.

"We still have a long way to go" The Ranger's voice said from the front.

Morn sighed "Of course we do"

They rode in silence until the Ranger suddenly stopped. Their heads raised in alarmed curiosity. The Ranger never stopped.

On the little path before them a girl was hiding behind a tree. The Ranger's bird was fluttering around her. She giggled at it but didn't come out of hiding. She poked her head out and saw that they were watching then bounced her head back behind the tree shyly. She was young, no older than 12 but tall. She had light brown hair and was wearing a faded blue dress. They watched her take a deep breath and show herself.

"Hello" She said shyly. She waved but Lance and the others only stared confused for a moment then Lance said "Hello"

She was hiding something behind her back.

"These woods are dangerous to be so far from home. It is getting late, you should go back." Lance said.

"Oh um, yea I guess your right" The girl said.

"What's your name?" Lance asked.

"Rovera" The girl said. She had a dazzling smile that lit her whole face. She walked forward uncertainly but spoke clearly

"What's yours?"

"My name is Lance, and this is Edith, Morn and Simone. Are you lost?" Lance asked kindly.

"Not anymore" Rovera answered. She walked beside the horses and revealed what he hid behind her back. It was a white rose. She handed it to Simone.

"for you" She smiled.

Simone was a little taken aback but took the rose. He looked down at her. Her long hair was messy and uncombed. She had dirt on her dress and shoes. Simone looked at the others for help but they were just as clueless.