They rode hard over the next few days, arriving on the outskirts of the town Erich had mentioned in the afternoon of the third day.
Before they rode in, Erich switched back to his gray uniform. “Let’s keep a lower profile this time,” he explained. “We can just ride in, find a few merchants, purchase some fresh food, and get out. How does that sound?”
Azel nodded. She didn’t look excited but she did agree. She rearranged the blanket around her shoulders, hugging it high up her neck to hide the bright white necklace.
“Good idea,” Erich commented. “It will be fine. I won’t leave your side.”
She nodded again, still not completely convinced.
The town was small, but it had several market booths lining its main plaza. As the last outpost before the mountain pass, these villagers were always ready to sell provisions to passing travelers.
Azel remained seated on Constance and Erich walked in front of them, leading his horse. He went to a few stalls, gathering more cheeses, meats, and bread.
Azel remained quiet—as usual—but Erich noticed her eyes keeping a constant watch on the sleepy town around them.
When she wasn’t looking at him, he bartered with a merchant for a few extra items.
A short time later, they were back on the open road.
“That went well,” Erich said. He patted the plump saddlebag behind him. “We’ll eat like kings for the next few days.”
Azel had loosened the blanket, letting it fall back down to her waist in the late afternoon sun.
Seeing her relax eased a tension Erich hadn’t realized he was holding.
He couldn’t help but notice her simple brown dress was in dire need of... nothing. What it needed was to be thrown out and never worn again. He smiled. “Let’s stop early tonight. I think everyone is tired and deserves a rest.”
Azel nodded with a smile, giving Constance another neck rub.
Veering off the trail, Erich found a good spot for camping. As always, he looked for an area with clean running water for the horses.
“How’s your foot?” Erich asked as he lifted Azel from Constance.
Azel grimaced, shaking her head.
“Do you want to sit by the stream and soak it in the cool water?” Erich asked.
“Yes!” Azel mouthed the word with such conviction that Erich laughed.
He carried her to the most comfortable spot he could see and gently set her on the ground. While she dipped her foot in the water, Erich went back to his saddlebags.
Chapter 26
Aizel felt a tingle run down her spine as the icy water of the stream enveloped her foot. It instantly soothed the burning sensation in her ankle and she welcomed its numbing sensation.
Her injury was finally starting to heal, but it still felt sore.
A bright orange blob caught her eye. It looked like a tiny tree, growing from the mossy ground next to her. Reaching out, she poked it gently. It was firm, but light. The rounded orange top was dotted with small cream spots, and it’s mini trunk appeared to be the same cream color.
Now that she’d noticed it, she saw dozens of them scattered around her.
Delighted, she pinched the one closest to her, gently wiggling its base free from the ground. It wasn’t quite like a plant, it was almost like a hardened foam, or a sea creature. The entire thing was smaller than the palm of her hand. She loved it.
“I don’t have any hot water,” Erich said behind her. “But I do have this.” He crouched next to her, holding out a bar of soap.
She held out her hand with a smile.
“You found a mushroom,” Erich said, identifying the miniature tree.
