Chapter 4: First evening at home (Unedited)
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Vespera opens her eyes to find Eldric sitting in a chair beside the bed, his head resting against the back as he sleeps peacefully. Despite her need to use the restroom, she waits not wanting to disturb his repose.
As she laid there, her thoughts drifted to the wedding ring that now adorned her finger. She lifted her hand, studying the ring closely, feeling a sense of uncertainty. The ring was undeniably beautiful, with its platinum band and the five stones of her favorite shade of blue.
She couldn't help but admire the intricate design of the ring marveled by the craftsmanship, noticing the delicate filigree that surrounded each gemstone, intertwining with the band in a harmonious pattern. The light blue stones twinkle in the dim light of the room, their hue reminding her of a clear summer sky.
She traced her fingers over the gems, sensing the magic that lay within, meant to protect her when activated and faint traces of her own magic that still lingered. It was clear that someone had put a great deal of thought into choosing the ring, and she wondered if it could truly be Eldric. As her bladder became painful, she relented and awoke Eldric.
Eldric cradled her in his arms, the soft fabric of his shirt brushing against her skin. He moved with slow, deliberate steps as he carried her to the restroom and settled her down on the toilet. He lingered by the doorway, giving her a reassuring smile before shutting the door and letting her know he'd be right outside if she needed anything. She felt her face heat up as the minutes ticked by and finally gave in to calling him. Her voice was muffled, and she kept her eyes downcast, too embarrassed to look him directly in the face. He made his way towards her slowly, all the while trying to maintain eye contact with her, attempting to calm her nerves.
Her eyes lit up with curiosity. “How do you empty this chamber pot? It looks to be fastened in place?” she asked, leaning forward.
He chuckled, “That’s a special chamber pot called a toilet. It was gifted to me – it uses slimes to take care of the waste. Quite amazing, isn’t it?” The corner of his lips quirked up in amusement as he saw her wide-eyed amazement. “Where is it from?” she asked curiously.
Eldric said, "Queen Melfina came up with the idea, they are widely used in her kingdom."
Her stomach growled as he lifted her to place her on the couch. After getting her situated, he went to fetch her a bowl of soup and some crackers. Returning only moments later to feed her while they chat.
Vespera asked him, "What did you do to earn that chamber pot from Queen Melfina?"
Eldric said, "I was her court advisor for 3 years, although I never did much to aid her, she was far too competent on her own, so I had a lot of free time during my stay there. When I finished my post, she gave me one as a parting gift."
He offered to take her back to the bedroom afterwards, but she requested if they could go to the living room instead. She wanted to be near the front window so she could read while admiring the view outside.
"What did you do with all the free time you had while there?"
Eldric said, "I studied magic, read books, and investigated the unfamiliar technology of Okaria."
Vespera looked into Eldric's deep brown eyes, wondering about their shared experiences. "What's your favorite memory of us together?"
Eldric hesitated for a moment, a faint smile playing on his lips as he thought. "There are so many memories it's hard to pick a favorite," he said. "But one in particular stands out because I really developed a crush on you during that mission. You were the Leader of an expedition, and I was still a new adventurer; you gave me a series of complex tasks, and then had me be your personal support as you faced the enemy leader. You praised me for my skill and competence despite my age. It really boosted my confidence."
Intrigued, Vespera asked, " Did we start dating after that?"
Eldric chuckled, "Oh no," he said with a shake of his head. "I was far too young and shy at the time, I didn't really get to know you like that until a couple of years later."
Vespera looked up at Eldric. "Oh I see," she said slowly, "what's the most challenging monster we've faced together?"
Eldric took a deep breath and ran his hand through his hair, " The recent battle with the manticore right before your attempted assassination since all five other members passed that day to the beast," he said quietly, "but at least it can't kill any more travelers or prey on the villages nearby any longer."
Vespera nodded sadly as she processed this. She eyed him questioningly, as if asking for an elaboration. So, Eldric recounted the story in full detail, his voice trembling with sorrow when describing the deaths of their companions.
When he was finished, Vespera's eyes were downcast. She clenched her fists and asked him softly, "Is there a memorial? I feel I should pay my respects even if I can't remember them."
Eldric's eyes widened in surprise at Vespera's words. He cleared his throat before responding, "Three of them are buried in town. If you'd like, I can take you there one day when you're feeling up to it."
Vespera nodded and said," I'd appreciate that."
The rest of the meal was filled with idle chatter.
After she finished eating, Vespera looked out at the twinkling stars in the distant sky, spellbound. “The night sky looks lovely. Can we go out and see it a bit this evening?”
Eldric knew what she was asking wasn’t without its dangers, but he couldn't deny her such a simple pleasure.
He nodded gently and replied, “Yes, we can. Once I finish the dishes, I will weave some spells to make sure you are safe during our outing.
Eldric and Vespera venture out into the city under the enchanting night sky. The cool breeze brushes against their faces as they make their way through the cobblestone streets. Eldric pushes Vespera's wheelchair with gently, ensuring she's comfortable.
As they approach a small bakery, the warm aroma of freshly baked goods fills the air. Seeing Vespera's gaze longingly, Eldric decides to stop by and get them a sweet snack to enjoy.
Inside the bakery, Eldric helps Vespera pick out a couple of pastries while the baker wraps them up. Once they have their treats, they continue to explore the city, chatting about the sights and the differences between Vespera's homeland and their current location.
Vespera gaze wandered about, "It's feels so surreal being here. I only know about the outside world through Grandma's stories, and the books I've read. "
"Well, the world is a vast and diverse place. I'm sure there's a lot to take in, especially since you can't remember all the years you have spent traveling it."
Vespera nods " at least I recall my grandmother sharing her knowledge of the varying kingdoms and their customs. She used to tell me it was essential to grasp and respect other people's approaches to living."
Eldric: "She was certainly a wise woman. Does taking a stroll help you recollect any memories from your past?"
Vespera sighs, "No, I still can't shake the feeling that I've been torn away from my family and home. To me it feels like it was only a short while ago when I was playing chess with Grandpa in the Manor's War room, watching over my siblings as they ran around in the garden, and spending countless hours in our Library reading about magic and history."
Eldric pushes the conversation further, hoping to trigger memories that could help Vespera regain a thread of her past. He listens carefully and intently, trying to remember every detail she shares since Vespera never really liked talking about herself.
Eldric: "Can you describe your fondest memories or notable traditions from before?"
Vespera smiled fondly as she recounted the memories of the annual ball their family hosted. She remembered the brightly colored banners hanging from the palace walls, the exotic scents wafting through the air, and the echoing of laughter amongst the crowds of nobles and dignitaries. The court musicians filled the night with enchanting melody, while couples swirled around in intricate steps on the dance floor. Sumptuous feasts were served to all those who attended, and Vespera felt a sense of peace knowing that such events provided an opportunity for all the clans of the realm to come together and celebrate despite their differences.
Eldric wheels Vespera back to their home after their evening stroll, both of them feeling content with the time spent exploring the city. Once home, Eldric helps Vespera get ready for bed, gently lifting her out of the wheelchair and into bed. As he lifts her legs up onto the mattress, she winces a little. "Sorry," he said as he began to massage her legs.
He had just enough pressure on her sore muscles to make it feel like heaven, igniting little sparks of warmth throughout Vespera's body. Eldric's firm hands slowly kneaded out all the knots in her legs until she felt completely relaxed. His touch was so gentle that she forgot all keeping up her mask of indifference—allowing herself to relax further as he continued massaging her feet and calves.
"I'm sorry Ves you can't sleep yet I still need you to take your medicine and do your physical therapy beforehand."
Vespera groggily said, "When you help me with my physical therapy can you tell me another story of one of our adventures?"
Eldric: "Of course. Let's start with your medicine, and then I'll tell you about the time we explored the ruins of an ancient dwarven city."
As Eldric begins to move Vespera's limbs through the necessary range of motions, he weaved a tale of their adventure together.
Eldric: "We were exploring the long-lost ruins of an ancient civilization, searching for the gold, and gems said to lie within. The ruins were filled with traps and puzzles, but nothing could prepare us for the guardian that awaited us in the heart of the temple."
Vespera: "A guardian? What kind of creature was it?"
Eldric: "A massive Stone Golem, crafted by the ancient dwarves to protect the vault. It stood over twenty feet tall, its limbs carved from solid granite. It had the power to manipulate the very earth around it, shaping the ground beneath our feet as it attacked."
As Eldric continues the story, he describes the epic battle in vivid detail, recounting how they dodged massive boulders hurled by the golem, and how the ground shook with each of the guardian's thunderous steps.
Vespera: "How did we manage to defeat such a powerful foe?"
"It was a difficult fight, but we worked together, using our wits. I distracted the golem with a barrage of fire spells while you weaved, striking at its weak points with your shadow sword."
Eldric tells of how Vespera managed to exploit a small crack in the golem's chest, stabbing in her sword just enough to allow her to release her magic directly inside the golem shattering the core guarded within. The colossal Golem crumbling to the ground.
Vespera listened in awe, her eyes shining with excitement at the thrilling tale. She couldn't help but be reminded of some of the adventure books that she would read while taking a break from her studies.
As Eldric finished the story Vespera drifted off to sleep, her dreams filled with visions of epic battles and adventures. Eldric watched her for a few moments moment before leaving the room.
He knew that if he wanted to keep her safe and find the party trying to eliminate her that he needed to gather as much information as possible. The more he knew about people keeping tabs on her, and what information they had access to, the better he could devise a plan of action. He decided to approach both the Ravens and Merchant Guild to gather this information.
He made a fast transport circle in his living room, and to watch over Vespera He summoned an invisible creature known as a wizard's snitch which can send what it hears and sees to its summoner for limited distances.
First, he visited the Ravens, a secretive organization with many subgroups that dealt in information, espionage, assassination, and the black market. He discreetly inquired about Vespera, offering a sizable sum of gold for any information they could provide about who monitored her activities, as well as everything they had on Vespera's movements, associations, and all other records they had.
They accepted the offer, promising to deliver the information as soon as possible.
Next, Eldric approached the Merchant's Guild, inquiring about Vespera's recent purchases, her favorite shops, and any offers she may have denied.
Once home Eldric dispelled his summon, before falling asleep on the couch.
***
Elsewhere a limping man trudged down an alleyway, his boots scuffing against the cobblestones. He came to a stop in the dark archway at the end of the street and saw two women cloaked in darkness.
“Do you know where Vespera is?” One woman asked in a low tone. “We haven't heard anything from her since she sent money home two months ago.” The man shook his head slowly. “It's been at least three months since I last saw her,” he said with a shudder. The woman surveyed him for a moment before ordering him to see what he could find out. She waved him off and he vanished into the night.
