Rollobal, homeward bound.

      Rollobal had been taking short walks. Finally, with the approval of his companions, they would begin the journey back to his tribe, bearing both information and herbal supplies. Van noted the Brin Mal didn't have super healing, taking just as long as anyone else, and hated the process of physical rehabilitation just as much. He'd gone through similar situations, but this had been the worse injury he'd had thus far in his life. For someone who loved training, had spent their life perfecting their crafts, suddenly having a near useless limb to retrain was... aggravating, at best. 

     Rollobals spirits were high when they ventured forth that spring morning, using his spear as a walking stick. The forest had grown in heat and humidity. He felt bad for his friend. He wanted to bear more of the pain Van was straining under, and tried to encourage him to speak of it, while secretly he dreaded hearing more about it. He felt almost as bad for Oolah, who shared his sentiments, and knew less as to why. she had grown quietly desperate as Van had shown very little of his previous affection to her, retreating into a reserved and quiet politeness that lacked any real warmth. Rollobal had witnessed a few feeble attempts, early on, where it looked like Van would finally confide in Oolah, and share what he'd experienced, but just ended up changing the subject. He didn't want to burden her, which Rollobal understood, especially knowing the weight of what he was holding back, but it was destroying their relationship.

     The journey back took thrice as long as the original, but was without serious incident. Mega beasties weren't standing a chance. Several potentially dangerous creatures with surprising attacks and abilities were defeated easily with Rollobal pointing these things out. Finally, as the hot springs came into view, they knew the time to say farewell was imminent. As they approached the hut they'd stayed in with the old healer, a young fellow from Rollobals tribe saw them, saluted, and took off, all in a moment. "He'll be letting the others know we're here. In the morning, I'll get a proper escort back to the village, and another heroes welcome," He thrust his chest out winked at Oolah, mimicking the behavior from when they had first met. Everybody laughed, entering the little hut. They spent the night talking and laughing, reminiscing over their time spent together. It was so lighthearted even Van seemed more like his usual self. Oolah moved in closer, and Rollobal knew at one time, it was her invitation for him to put his hand on the table, where she would grasp it. However, Van never put his hand out. After a while, blushing and embarrassed, she moved back. Rollobal was angry, and embarrassed for her. In a quiet moment, later, he said to them, "When this matter is taken care of, return to this place. I will speak with the elders and they will listen. Both of you will be welcomed as honored members of our village." He was only looking at Oolah however, and they both understood. 

      Van nodded, and without animosity he said, "Speaking for myself, I have a place to return to. But I would understand and support Oolah if she wanted to return here."

     That was too much for her. Even as she understood he was trying to do the right thing, she also felt as if he were throwing her away. She jumped up and rushed out of the hut. Rollobal flashed Van such a scowl it was only by some strange miracle, and the laws of physics, that Van didn't immediately catch fire. Van didn't even notice, watching Oolahs flight helplessly, forlorn.

     Rollobal got up and turned to go after her, then stopped. "Looking over his shoulder at Van he hissed, "You should be the one going after her, not me. I've wanted her from the day I laid eyes on her, but not like this!" sadly he looked down at the floor and repeated quietly, barely audible, "not like this, my friend." He strode out into the night.

     He found her gazing into a pool. He stood next to her and said, jokingly, "Hope you're not going for a bath... don't forget what happened the last time!"

     "Actually, it was only after that he opened up to me... like something inside him had become.. unlocked." She mused, almost to herself. "And now it has become closed so tight... How long should I make excuses for him?"

     "Rollobal crossed his arms. "I'd give him... exactly until your current quest is complete! You are a lucky woman. If he don't return to his senses, or you DO return to yours, you'll have the powerful and esteemed Rollobal waiting for your return!" She smiled, too sad to laugh. She knew also that it was said only half in jest. By the time they'd returned to the hut, Van was already in his bunk, his face to the wall. He occasionally shuddered and cried out. Sometimes he'd cry. They had grown used to it. "Oolah..." Rollobal said, as they stood watching over him, "He has his reasons for not telling you... everything. You do not want to know what he knows. I am no big expert on these things. He thinks he is monster or he thinks he is becoming one."

     The next morning, even before breakfast, representatives from the tribe had arrived. They were waiting quietly outside when Oolah went out to fetch some clean water from a safe source, nearby. For the first time in a while, she smiled happily as she saw her two pack Erlokas. She greeted them by the names she had given them just before they had left. She pet them and caressed their faces. She was soon joined by her companions. Rollobal welcomed his friends and spoke with them as Van nodded to them in acknowledgement. 

     Oolah gave the two pack animals each a snack, before fetching water and preparing a large breakfast for everyone. Finally, after a solemn farewell, Rollobal left with the retinue from the village, leaving the original duo. Van turned to Oolah and asked, "You named the Erlokas?"

     She smiled back at him, still teary eyed from saying goodbye to their friend. "Van," she said, "Say hello to 'Maffy' and 'Coffy'" designating them as she spoke. One I named after my Mother, and the other, after one of your favorite things!"

      Van fought the overpowering urge to wipe her tears away, but smiled at her. "Thank you," he said, "I doubt there's anyone in this world that knows me better." After a few moments, he turned away, saying, I guess we'd better get moving."