Oasis (1)

--Gatix--

Not much was said while we walked. While I had my theories, I promised I wouldn't ask. Whatever the elder's identity, he was important to her. Giving him that stone must have been akin to a final parting, and those deserve to be respected. I've been there myself, both friends and enemies. It's funny how death tends to erase that distinction.

“Thank you.”

“For what?”

“Understanding.” Her eyes showed only a fraction of her emotions. “I hope he finds comfort in his daughter's arms.”

I nodded in return. “A man surrounded by family is a happy man.”

“Said by a wanderer to another.”

“It's what I've been told.”

“I see.” Ms. Queen nodded solemnly. “And I am glad.”

“For what?”

“That you're still among the living.”

“Reaper's not getting to me that easy.”

“Reaper?”

“Embodiment of death where I come from. I don't know its equivalent here. Probably you, for all I know.”

“I've been called similar things in the past.” She smiled. “What will you do next?”

“My mission hasn't changed. Get the trisortium, go back home.”

“How much have you managed to retrieve thus far?”

“Spirit guide says about two hundred grams. So, not a lot. And you? Still heading to... what was the place, Abracadabra?”

“Alakafor. That is the destination, but I have taken a longer route there.”

“Why?”

“I received other information which warranted investigation as well.”

“Any luck?”

“Not as much as I would like.”

“Then I guess Alakafor is your next stop.”

“Not quite. The excitement of the Bazaar has taken its toll. I don't have enough magic to teleport to my destination yet.”

I nodded. “How long will it take you to recharge?”

“A few hours, but I know of a quaint resting spot within range of my abilities. Very few others know of it, so it should serve our purposes nicely.”

“Sounds like the perfect little hideaway.”

“Do... do you want to come along?”

“Oh? Willing to share your little getaway with me?”

She turned her head slightly away. Wait, was she blushing? How would I even know? “I thought we could chat a bit. It's been a while, after all.”

Cute. A pity she couldn't see the smile. “Well, I have no problem with it. Nev?”

“I have no confirmed trisortium reading in the imminent vicinity.”

“Spirit guide says we're all good.” I stopped. “Stand still and think happy thoughts, if I remember correctly?”

“Seems you listen.”

“More than you might think.”

“So I hear.” She walked closer, facing me as she came to a stop. The glowing ball of flame formed between her fingers once more as a purple circle started to form between our feet. “And... welcome back, Gatix. Beweeg!”