Page 71 of The Silent Mountain
We stay silent for a moment. “Well, I am sure with that precise explanation of direction, they will find their enemies in less than a day,” Shayan finally says in his usually calm voice, but there is a hint of amusement in it.
“I am no compass,” Cù Sìth says. “Most deities and mythical creatures are like me.”
“It’s still better than nothing,” Favian says. “Thank you for your help, Harbinger.”
Cù Sìth lowers his head in acknowledgment of his thanks before leading the path down the mountains. I hug my friends one more time, even Shayan, whom I don’t know too well. “He really likes you,” I whisper as quietly as I can. “His emotions overwhelm him sometimes. The littlest sign or word from you will already mean something to him.”
“I know,” Shayan mutters in return, surprising me by not being upset at me butting into his relationship. “I will try to open up more, and I will watch out for him.”
I smile in relief. “Sorry for interfering. It’s none of my business.”
“No, it’s alright,” he says. “In return, here is a piece of advice from me, who has served many kings. You bring him peace and hope. You already are his queen. That’s your position in these lands.”
“And my responsibility,” I add quietly.
He nods. “Peace is feeble here. If something happens to you, they will lose their hope and their king. Just keep that in mind.”
“I will.”
The others must have noticed we are talking about something privately because they eye us curiously, though none of them ask any questions, showing once more why I love my family and friends so much. I stand there together with Favian until I can’t see them on the horizon anymore, with my heart a little heavy from having to say goodbye.
Favian hugs me gently. “They are always welcome to visit,” he says softly. “Anytime. And you can visit too, you know?”
“I know,” I say. “I am just bad with any type of goodbyes. I think I should throw myself into work to distract myself.”
“How about we take the horses instead?” Favian suggests. “Go for a ride. I promised you to steal you away for an hour or maybe two. It’s time to act on that promise. When we return, Erin should have settled in, and we can talk to her.”
“Can we really do that?” I ask hopefully. “Do we have time for a ride?”
“I think it’s okay to allow ourselves this little break,” he says with a smile.
It feels like a dream as we saddle the horses and set off. It’s been so long since we’ve spent time like this, and just casually strolling through the wintry landscape with him feels magical. We pick up our pace when we reach a vast snowfield before slowing down again.
“So, how am I doing?” Favian asks me. “I am not as good as you are, but I hope I have improved my horse riding a little?”
“You are actually pretty good,” I reassure him. “Good control over your horse without pushing it too much, and your posture is also good. Your legwork could do with some improvement.”
“Well, that doesn’t sound too bad,” he says with a smile. “I am sure I will get better when we do this regularly.”
“Do you like it?” I ask. “You can tell me if you only do it to humor me.”
“No, I actually find it really relaxing, almost meditative,” he says. “It makes me focus on my horse and my surroundings, and takes my mind off more difficult topics.”
“Then, let’s make sure to do this regularly,” I offer.
Favian nods his agreement. Unfortunately, time passes too quickly, and we have to return to the clan and our duties, although I feel refreshed with a new spurt of motivation. Once back home, I help Favian with cleaning our horses and feeding them properly before we’re finally ready to meet Erin.
*FAVIAN*
Alana’s cheeks are colored a light red from the cold wind and the outdoor activity. She looks so fresh, healthy and happy that it warms my heart. I truly need to ensure that we schedule more activities and dates into our daily life, despite our responsibilities.
Erin has settled into a small cottage I had prepared for her, and it seems like she has immediately started to mentor Cassie, explaining to her the various spices and potions she brought along. Cassie herself seems to be full of motivation, carrying a little book around which she constantly makes notes in.
“It’s been a long time since I had such a diligent student,” Erin says kindly. She turns to look at me. “I also heard you captured a mare.”
“Yes, we are keeping it away from clan grounds,” I tell her.
“I would like to see it,” she says. “Also, the dead birds you have kept.”
