Goodbyes

The caravan arrived a day later than expected.

Itzel, Yun and I were sitting on the patio while the adults talked. I was thankful that Itzel was such an expert at filling the air with stories. Without her around the atmosphere would have been much heavier.

“In the capital there is a huge tower on a hill that rises beyond the clouds. They say that the Silent Choir uses it as their base.” I had heard that as well. A few years ago my father took me with him on one of his deliveries to the capital. There was a majestic bridge that crossed over the bay. On the other side was a grand city. It was loud and filled with tall buildings, the largest which was a giant tower.

“The Silent Choir?” Yun asked. Itzel replied, “Oh, you haven’t heard of ‘em? They are the temple’s pet knights— real monster slayers if you believe the gossip.”

As we were getting into the story I saw Sae look our way. The three of us stood up as she approached.

“Yun, It’s time.” Itzel nodded at Yun, walked over and gave him a hug. They shared a knowing look with each other. After a moment she stepped aside.

“Minah, are you sure you won’t come with me?”

I put on my brave face. “I’ll be okay with Sae”

With that we said our goodbyes and the caravan faded into the distance, leaving Yun's hesitant wave imprinted in my memory. I watched until they disappeared behind the rolling hills. The silence afterward was thick, pressing down on my chest, reminding me just how alone I now was.

"Minah," Itzel's soft voice pulled me back. Her amber eyes studied my face carefully. "Are you sure you're alright?"

I nodded quickly, avoiding her gaze. I didn't trust my voice. Not yet.

"Hey, Minah," Sae’s voice broke the silence. She stood by the cabin, arms crossed. "When you are ready, we should talk."

I exchanged a glance with Itzel before silently following Sae. We walked to the edge of the clearing, where the barrier stones stood sentinel. She paused, her expression severe.

"You’ve been through much," she began, voice steady. "But if you’re sticking around, you’ll need to get stronger. We’ll be leaving for Nala soon. I’d like for you to meet the others while we pick up supplies."