~Taking the Longer Route~

[Clyde]

At Verglas, the smoky clouds eclipse the brilliant blue of the sky. Snow lies heavy and thick, covering most of the bare branches. I contact Moran as soon as I step near the vicinity of the front gate of the territory although I know he will be on his way. I turn to look over my shoulder and find Valerie looking around, her gaze distant. Is she reminiscing about the time we met? Even though the place isn’t the same. This isn’t the back mountains and she definitely doesn’t need to take a dragon ride to reach the territory, but still. Her eyes look moist and I feel a tug in my heart. I suppress the feeling.

Her gaze wanders towards me and when she notices me staring, she averts her gaze. I find it oddly pleasing. I walk back towards where she stands.

“Mage Elias, you can go with my sister and Ms. Viola. A few members of my clan have been informed, they’ll show you to your rooms.” Elias casts an uncertain glance at Valerie, who scowls at me.

“Moran is on his way,” I tell her,