And that was how now I was heading in search of the Oldwest town, which I have no idea on where it's supposed to be. I was just told that it lies in the west, and given a compass to find my own way.
If I think about this, it's night and it's darker than when the moon hides itself behind the clouds. I know I could use a torch, but father said don't.
There was bile constantly rising from my stomach everytime I thought about the war. And this sword was heavier than I was, it was hurting my back to carry it all the way.
Why was Oldwest town two days away by walk? I doubt I'll reach on time.
That said, I'm afraid I'll encounter any of the Auris clan members on my path. Auris Clan nobles can be extremely powerful. I've heard they relate themselves to the spirits.
Our clan deals with one's soul. It's hard to say what you can learn in the training, since I have no clue on what it's like to even get close enough to the capital.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't tired. It's been four hours since I've set out and I can't see a jest of sunrise. I can't tell the time just yet.
This journey can totally turn into a horror story, maybe something might jump out of the nearby bush, or maybe someone is creeping up on me. What if someone's following me all the way?
I'm not a coward, I can't help myself with these thoughts when I'm alone.
Wait, there is no way I just heard rustling from a bush. No wait, I was only joking. I do not want any of the horrible experiences, I just want to reach the Oldwest town to get stronger-
"Quinn?"
A head popped up from the bushes, I certainly wanted to shriek but considering my frozen body, I just halted and stared.
"Holy-" He launched himself on me and placed a hand on my mouth.
"It really is you." He whispered, "Do not talk loudly. You will only attract souls at this hour."
My eyes widened, looking at Oswin. He used to work with me at the local store until one day he had a huge argument with his family and disappeared. It was a good thing that his family weren't dependant on him.
He was a year or two older than I was. That was the only reason we were able to bond.
He let go of my face and looked around.
"What the heck are you doing here?" I asked him, in a low tone to not 'attract' the souls.
"I should be the one asking you."
"Oh, I'm heading to the Oldwest town." I shrugged, before resuming to walk.
"Oldwest town? Why?" He tucked in his blade and followed close behind me, still whispering.
"To train and become stronger."
"What about Aenor? Did you just leave her in the house all alone?"
I shook my head. "My father showed up. I had.. reasons to do this."
Was it safe to tell Oswin? What if he thinks I'm cracking a joke? This wasn't going to work, was it?
"Why did he? Didn't he like.. abandon you guys?" Oswin frowned. "That's hella confusing."
I shuddered at his words, dragging my feet forward. Maybe I should take a break afterall. Four hours isn't a lot but it still wouldn't hurt to conserve some energy, would it?
"What are you doing here?" I asked. I should find a place to rest.
"Hunting."
"Hunting?" I raised an eyebrow. "What are you hunting?"
"Hunting souls. There are souls roaming around in this area. If I get to capture them, I get to kill them." He stated as if it was the most obvious thing in teh world but at the same time he left my jaw hanging. "Did I not tell you? I can see souls now."
"You can see souls? How?"
"Shh, you're too loud." He gave me a disapproved look. "Some souls can be dangerous once they attack you."
"Wait, explain it to me." I stopped on my tracks and stood face to face with Oswin.
"Why don't we sit down instead and I'll tell you there?" He smiled, putting his arm around my shoulders and dragging me with him. I noticed how geared up he was, and how he had a little longer hair than usual which he tied up. "I've got a small camp nearby, let's go."
All throughout, the best I could do was nod and follow him. Oswin was a great friend, not going to lie, he knew me better than anyone I knew.
A best friend?
Someone I looked up to?
I'll never know.