Skobex's Return

Chapter 10

Christopher heard a soft knock at the door. He had left the door open when he decided to quickly test his theory before he could change his mind.

'You've been gone a while.' Anastasia mentioned. 'I was looking for you. Why did you come inside?'

'Sorry about that. I just worked out something so I figured I'd prepare for it.'

Anastasia continued staring at him, encouraging him to explain more.

'The curse has lifted, the Lich is no longer a threat. I believe I can leave Cinderash, continue on my adventure.'

'Oh...' She hesitated from replying any further. 'But what if it is still in affect on people that were here whilst the curse was active?'

'Someone has to try.'

He lifted his backpack onto his shoulders and fastened his belt to his waist. He resheathed the enchanted sword he used in the recent battle against the Lich and his creations before slinging that on his shoulder as well. He wasn't sure why he wanted to take it with him, he knew it certainly wasn't for the memories that came with it.

'What if this kills you?' Anastasia asked as they both made their way to the entrance. There was still no door but Anastasia mentioned that her brother was going to make one for the house.

'Then it will be known that no one can leave Cinderash.' Christopher replied. He was already questioning whether he should go or not. He didn't want anything bad to happen to him. But curiosity got the best of him. Besides, he was an explorer— they have to face dangers all the time.

Anastasia sighed. 'I guess I can't stop you. But stay a bit longer before you go.'

'Very well.' Christopher replied, but he seemed a little puzzled by the request. They both sat at the table, sitting next to each other.

'I'm surprised you want me to stay longer,' Christopher began. 'I thought you hated me.'

She glanced down, suddenly fascinated by either the table or her feet. 'I think I should apologise about that.'

'Apologise for what? You had every right to treat me like that.'

'No, I definitely didn't. I've treated you horribly over the last however many days, especially since you brought back Skobex. I... I was worried about the town and my family.'

'You're forgiven. I guess I shouldn't have brought Skobex back though, I should apologise for that.'

'You're not fully forgiven, more like half-forgiven.' Anastasia replied with a smile. 'Especially since you placed the town in danger and kept putting myself in near death situations.'

'I'll accept that.'

'Actually, how many times have you tried to kill me in some way? I mean, I know I said four but after our battle with the Lich, what would the number of times be? It's got to be lots more than that now.'

'Only four since before the final battle with Skobex, it was only at three.'

'I feel like it's a lot more than that.'

'Well, whatever the number is, it shouldn't rise any further after I've left.' Christopher faltered at 'left'. He really didn't want to leave, he had gotten to know Anastasia during his stay here, as well as meet Juliana and the rest of her family. However, he had to know if he could leave Cinderash. That would change everything.

'I better be on my way if I want to see the whole continent.' Christopher commented, changing the subject slightly.

'I'll see you off then.'