It was what I told myself, because I wouldn’t let my mind wander anywhere else. I would accept no other truth.
It didn’t matter if the starlight struck me down for it.
I thumbed the key around my neck.
“Would you happen to know a friend of Lord Fyn’s? His name is Jayln.”
“I don’t believe so, my lady,” he said. “There are many who travel the trade route here.”
“Are we close to Sygil?” I pulled my blade out of the grass as I rose, sliding it back into the sheath. When I stood, my legs quaked.
The man held his hand out as I stumbled. “You’re in it, my lady. The outer edges. It’s just a quick ride into town from here.”
“Could you take me to the inn?” It was then I realized I had no coin to pay for anything. Nothing of value, except maybe the metal that formed the key around my neck.
But that was my last tether to him.
I wouldn’t part with it.
“Gladly,” he said.
We rode as it rained again. Stopping only when we reached the familiar inn. He helped me down from the saddle.
And as my boots hit the dirt, I stumbled.
“You should get yourself a bite to eat,” he said.
I tried not to cry again as I nodded, tucking the key inside my riding tunic. “Thank you for your kindness.”
“It’s been my pleasure, my lady.” Noam turned away from me.
The village was quieter than I remembered it. The morning stir hadn’t begun. When I reached for the handle of the inn, the door opened inward.
Kylana peered at me from the other side. “Ash?”
“It’s good to see you.” My voice was too weak. “Do you know where I could find Jayln?”
The wet fabric from my hood clung awkwardly to mycheek. I peeled it back. I knew I must have been a sad sight the way she stared at me.
“He may be on the trade route to Estlen,” she said. “He had work there.”
“Oh, I…” I didn’t know what I would do.
“I don’t mean this rudely, but you look terrible.” She stepped back into the hall, straightening the apron around her waist. “Maybe you should come out of the rain and I’ll get you something to drink.”
“Thank you.” I was too numb to say anything else.
“I’m working in the kitchen today. I will let Hana know you’re here. Will Lord Fyn be joining you?” she asked.
I couldn’t stop crying once I started.
Kylana braced my arm. “Ash? What happened?”
“He...”
“Come, let’s get you inside.” Her voice grew softer. “The tavern hasn’t opened yet. I’ll get you something warm to eat.”
I followed her down the hall, too afraid to speak my truth. “I don’t have a way to pay for it.” My voice dropped. I was starving.
