Parting Ways

Baras shakes his head bitterly, handing over the promised coins. "I really thought we had something here, Harry. Thought I was in love with you, and you with me. Was that all an act? Were you just using me?"

"Not exactly." I say gently. "I did care for you, and still do. But no, I was never in love with you. I needed to make friends and allies during those months in captivity. True, I chose you due to your closeness to Gustav at first, but it did become something more after a while. I'm sorry if I led you on. I still value you, as a friend."

He sighs. "Then we shall part as friends. Goodbye, Harry." He kisses me lightly on the cheek, mounts up his horse, and rides off to the east.

My path lies south. With Baras gone, I'm in a bit of a tight spot. He has left me his knife, which I use to make the needed alterations to my skirt. I doubt it will be of much use if I come under attack on the road, though I have proven capable of killing when my life is at stake. I hope it dosen't come to that, as Laralian roads are typically safe. Still, if those with ill intent are about, they won't hesitate seeing a single woman traveling unescorted. I'll need to be wary.

Without anyone to help, it's difficult to climb up onto the horse, though I manage eventually. My real problem is monetary. I've only enough coin for two nights at most, while the journey will take at least four. Once I reach a decent-sized town, I can attempt to sell the horse, then use the proceeds to hire a coach to take me the rest of the way.

1. The day's travel passes without incident. I stop for a rest that night at a small village.
2. As dusk falls, I am set upon by bandits.
3. Shortly after departing, I notice someone is following me. Could the Marquess have anticipated my next move and sent someone to stop me?

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