Deep in thought, Alana rests her head on her fist. How could Jasper have seen the robbers? Heinrich at the very least. How could he have seen them and escaped? A black raven stares curiously at the pair. Deep in thought, Alana looks at the raven. "Everything okay Alana," Jasper asks. Alana nods. "You just gave me a lot of information, Professor". Jasper laughs. He looks suspiciously at the raven and eventually chases the animal away. "Professor," Alana asks. Jasper sighs. "Don't just trust the animals Alana," he says."Alana" sounds in the distance. Jaspar stares intently at the soldier who rushes up. "What is it?" Alana asks hesitantly. The guard looks at her nervously. "Lady Margareth has asked for your presence." "Mother? I'm in a lesson" Alana snaps. A smile rests on the professor's lips. "Lady Alana, it concerns Lord Nalin. He. Your father is de.. I mean; your father is no longer alive," he stammers, concentrating on Jaspar. Jasper sighs and lowers his head. Silently, Alana stares at the rippling river. "What?" she asks to tremble. The soldier nods gently. Alana swallows. "How? When?" The soldier sighs. "I don't know the details, Lady Alana, your mother sent me. Alana swallows. Tears stream from her cheeks. Go home. Be with your mother " Jaspar stammers and walks away. Alana swallows and keeps staring at the river. Why it feels like its a wave ment to wash her away? A tide that takes her under...
Alana slowly stands up. She hurries to the village. A shadow of Katinka passes her eyes.
"Katinka" Alana yells. She hastily runs after her sister. "Katinka! Where are you going?" I have to find him" Katinka cries. Alana shakes her head." Katinka don't do it." Hastily she grabs her hand. "Come on. You know it's not wise." Tears fill Katinka's eyes. "Come on, let's go home. Mother needs us." Katinka sighs and looks into Alana's silver eyes. "Alana. You're right. I'm sorry Alana". Alana smiles reassuringly and hugs Katinka. "You were right," Katinka whispers again. "I'm sorry Alana" she repeats. "I'm very sorry". Alana sighs and rubs Katinka's back." Me too" she whispers and wipes a tear from the corner of her eye. "Alana", says Katinka and takes a deep breath. "I want you to know" ... "What" Alana whispers. Katinka shakes her head. "Nothing" she smiles and sighs deeply. Alana smiles forcibly. "I have to run one last errand... Will I see you at home?" Alana nods. As she watches Katinka run away, she feels the captured woman her eyes burning on her skin.
A cold wind plays with the witch her long orange locks as she stares deep into Alana's eyes.
" I know you" she chuckles. Alana trembles nervously. Was her gut feeling right? That voice... She recognizes the voice. "Wyrda" "My God, you've became so much like her" winks the witch. Alana swallows. "Where do I know you from? Who are you?" Coldly, the witch laughs. "Everything will soon become clear my child," she whispers and rests her back against the black steal pole, scripted with Old Elvish symbols. Alana takes a step back suspiciously. She quickly turns around. Her face collides with Rodehanthe's broad shoulder. "Hey Alana," he says. "Rodehanthe" Alana blows with relief and rubs her sore nose. Rodehanthe laughs and wraps his strong arms around her. Alana puts her face against Rodehanthe's strong chest. "Shh"" soothes Rodehanthe and looks at the witch with a smile. Come on, I'll take you home," he says and puts his arm around Alana. "I'm so sorry," he whispers, while Alana nods. She stammers, "Me too." Rodehanthe sighs and takes Alana's hand. "I don't know why or how, but I know you don't deserve this. If there's anything I can do, tell me!" Alana looks gratefully at Rodehanthe. "I'm glad you're here," she replies. Rodehanthe grins contentedly. Slow he walks her home, peeking over his shoulder for soldiers, while they talk about the future and ideas of a home.
Alana looks dreamily into his bright blue eyes and sighs. "Rodehanthe, thanks for joining me. That was very sweet. It's no problem" Rodehanthe answers softly and stops. Alana gently kisses his cheek and grabs his hand. "Thank you, I appreciate that." See you tomorrow", Rodehanthe asks. Alana nods. "I promise". Grinning, he bows and walks back to the forge. Alana looks at the young blacksmith before entering the house.