They all took a seat and after a quick prayer, they began to eat, and oh, how it was delicious. The aroma filled their nostrils. Before their first bite could reach their lips, their mouths were filled with water. It was rich and full of goodies. They didn't know what that woman had put in that pot to make it taste so good and they didn't care. They ate until they were filled to the brim.
The woman wiped off her mouth with a cloth napkin. "So, where are you all headin'?"
Everyone waited for Ean to answer. "We're heading south to the Capital City."
"Oh, to the Capital. That's what I had suspected. Do you have a good map to show you the way?"
"It will suffice."
"Indeed. So, I suppose there's only one question left. Where are you comin' from? 'Cause I know you're not from these parts."
"Ellizea, we fled just after the invasion."
"Oh, yes. Seems I did hear about that. That's a tragic thing, that. They say the Black Army is lead by a Brute. It's frightful dark times in the world today; makes it easy for people to lose hope. But that's one thing, you gotta hand it to them Ellizeans; they are a hopeful people. And there is great reason for them to hope," she looked over at Cecealye, "as long as their queen lives." She paused for a moment. "Well look at me, talkin' up a storm while there's dishes to be had." The girls started to get up to help her. "Oh, no, no, no, don't you dears worry about these trifles; you've helped me plenty today." She gathered up the dishes and disappeared into the kitchen.
Ean took in a deep breath. 'Man, that was good.' He looked out the window; it was well after dark. 'I reckon it's about time we take our leave.' The woman promptly returned from the kitchen, which cued Ean to stand to his feet.
"Well, ma'am, we thank you for your generosity. I think I can speak for everyone here when I say that was the best meal we've had in some time."
"Oh, it's not a problem." She walked up and handed Cecealye a folded piece of paper.
"What's this?"
"Oh nothin'. Just give it to the innkeeper. I put in a good word for you."
Cecealye smiled at the woman. "Thank you. Your kindness shines brightly in these darkened times."
The woman placed a hand on each of Cecealye's forearms. "We must always remember to love people, my young queen."
'My young queen!' Everyone's heart stopped. Ean felt his whole body tighten.
The woman smiled gently. "Now, now, do not be frightened. Your secret is safe with me. You are here because you seek the body in which the hand belongs to, am I right?"
Cecealye nodded.
"Well, you go up and see Igna. She is the only one I know who could help you."
"Igna?"
"Yes. She lives deep in the mountains; you go and see her, she'll take care of you. Now, you all must be very tired from your journey. Go on to the inn and get some rest. No trouble will find you here."
They thanked the woman once more and made their way to the inn. They quickly arranged for two rooms, one for the girls and one for the guys. Soon thereafter, they found themselves relaxing in a bed.
Cecealye wrapped the covers tightly around her. "Ahh, finally in a nice warm bed. That truly is the one thing I miss the most about my chambers."
Supreany cracked a smile. "I bet. It's really just kind of a luxury for me."
"Supreany." Cecealye paused. "Have you always lived on the streets of El'Laissa?"
"No, but I have since I was about seven or so."
"Really? How did you end up there?"
A moment of silence followed.
"I don't remember, and you know, until now, I'd never really thought about it. I guess I had just accepted that that was my lot in life."
"Is it hard?"
"It's not so bad, I suppose. Somehow I've made it through. You learn to appreciate things a lot more, that's for sure."
"It sounds like someone has been watching out for you. Perhaps you're meant for more than what you've accepted that you're meant to be." She paused and rolled over away from Supreany. "Good night, Supreany."
"Good night, CC. Sleep tight."