The Road Less Traveled
2nd of Searing, Year 122 of the Age of Steel
After more than a whole year, Iselya had finally yielded to Valron’s request. He had pressured her more and more with each day passing. Three days ago, she finally broke, and here they were making their way through the wilderness, reaching the hill of which a settlement called Illuminacras had been built.
The Siltori’s silvery eyes gazed up at the white walls that surrounded the town and something in her heart stirred. It wasn’t an unpleasant feeling, yet she couldn’t deny the apprehension growing. She had avoided this decision for quite a while.
When Valron had first heard through his contacts that there was a settlement of Dawnmartyrs being built just outside Kalzasi, he had asked her if they could go and look. Perhaps they could find some allies, ask whether they had also received the mysterious vision of Arcas. She didn’t have the heart to stop him, but she had refused to go herself. While their fellow Dawnmartyrs had flocked to the town, Iselya simply did not.
The reasoning she would give him was that as a former higher-ranking member of the order, she didn’t want to risk attracting attention to the settlement. For over twenty years, the Inquisition had somehow tracked her down over and over again. Her magic was easily recognizable to those who had heard of it. That was the weak excuse she had given Valron, which he graciously accepted for a long while.
But deep inside, Iselya knew what it was she truly wanted to avoid: hope.
The woman knew that if she had seen what they built, to see her people gathering together… It would be difficult not to start imagining they perhaps could finally have a peaceful home. She knew it was far too cynical of her, but how long would they last before the Inquisition find out? There was no doubt in her mind that they wouldn’t let the chance for her Order to grow once more.
She focused on the man in front of her to stop herself from overthinking. Valron was clad in his usual leather armor, energetically leading her through the discreet path. There was no actual road and the way wouldn’t be obvious to those who had never been there. A reasonable precaution. Still, the Pathfinder made his way without any hesitation. He had probably traveled to and fro a hundred times over the year.
Valron had even helped them build the settlement in its early days and was already acquainted with most of its inhabitants. From the moment they had left Kalzasi until now, he had told her excitedly everything about Illuminacras. He assured her that everyone there was lovely and would welcome her with open arms. It was impossible not to be affected by his enthusiasm
“But, please tell me that you didn’t tell them who I am,” Iselya teased once she had an opening between his stories.
Her companion scoffed, mock horror glowing playfully in his eyes. “Did you think I am a novice? Your deep dark secret is safe.” She could see the gears turning in his head as he ran his fingers through his hair and added, “Promise me that we will tell them the truth as soon as possible. As soon as you feel safe.”
Iselya had no plans to lie forever. Perhaps a season or two, then she would tell them that she was a surviving captain who had managed to escape the siege. “I promise.”
They walked in silence for a while after that, deep in their own thoughts.
For the dozenth time, she swept her dark hair back and tried to ignore the sun beating down on their heads. All she wanted was to put her hair up and feel the cool wind, but they were getting closer and closer to the town. She didn’t want to risk anyone spotting the Affliction rune on the back of her neck. The fabric of her travel clothes certainly didn’t help stave off the heat. “We better get there fast or I think I am going to melt right here,” the Siltori joked.
Instead of having a smart comment in reply per usual, Valron suddenly stopped in his track and turned his entire body to face her. “Veriel, you know that I wouldn’t have dragged you all the way here if I didn’t think that this was worth it right? That this can truly be a place where we can be safe.”
Iselya smiled wanly at the sound of her true name. He did know her a bit too well. “I trust you. That’s the only reason why I am climbing this hill right now.”
Once they got close enough, Valron waved at the person patrolling the walls and the guard greeted him back. He disappeared, probably climbing down the wall to let them in. Her heart began pounding against her chest and she could feel her body humming with nervous energy. Without thinking, she reached for Valron’s arm for reassurance. His hand rested over hers, squeezing it gently.
As the gates opened in front of them, Valron gave her a radiant smile, his golden eyes glinting in the sun. She couldn’t remember the last time he looked this pleased. “Welcome home.”
