Of Laurels and Wreaths

2. Water

Then came the time Effie's journey halted, allowing her to return if only temporarily. Regardless, she had always longed for the wreath and protection it offered. The chance did not go uncherished.

It crossed her mind to bring along gifts and travel on a bandwagon, but just as her hand reached out for a hybrid daisy, the chains tugged at her.

"They're going the opposite direction, so better not."

And departed alone she did.

Not the best decision ever, Effie thought admittedly.

Not a drop of rain fell from the clouds, despite carrying an ominous air. In the distance, the typical sandstorm was brewing up, preventing her from accelerating the journey.

The desert pathways had been Effie's personal choice. Despite the heat and generally unfavourable conditions in terms of comfort, the speed and effiency it boasted won over loyal travellers.

Food, her inner voice cried. Lack of food and water makes the entire journey a torture.

Fortunately, Lady Luck's favour shined upon Effie that day. Her path crossed with a peculiar shepherd.

"Oh, what brings you here?" she asked, puzzled at his presence. 'Not someone I expected to be here, but okay.'

The sensation of metal tugging tingled at her skin.

"Just stopping by before heading to restock commodities."

She blinked. "What of your sheep?"

"Taken care of. A neighbour - also a fellow shephard - is keeping an eye on them."

Effie hummed in acknowledgement. A brief pause.

"You don't mind having company, do you?" His voice held a cautious tone, as if aware of her restricting chains.

Speaking of which, their center of gravity - her wreath - demanded for her to return at once.

Effie tugged the chains back.

"If it means finding the fabled oasis, I'm down."

Notes:

Part 2/?, though technically I wrote a long first part and cut it down into lengths more manageable to maintain.

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