Chapter 138: Preparations For The Move

POV Eliza

“Will you come back to us? You are one of us and will always have a place in our community.” <Mimi>

“Unfortunately not, Mama. I have a very important task to complete, and I can’t do that if I stay in one place permanently. I want to travel a lot and get to know the world.” <Eliza>

“I can understand very well that you want to see something new. I would also have liked to see much more, but I'm not strong enough for that. So I have to rely on the protection of the community and hope that the empire leaves us alone. Unfortunately, we've already been driven out twice.” <Mimi>

"Don't be sad, Mama. I'll do everything I can to protect you. I'm stronger than I look, Mama, and I'm going to get even stronger." <Eliza>

“You're so cute, sweetie. Can I still call you sweetie? You've grown so big and you'll probably get even bigger.” <Mimi>

“Oh, Mama, as long as you don't reject me, you'll always be my beloved mama. I am so infinitely grateful to you for raising me so lovingly. You are and always will be the best." <Eliza>

“Sniff, sweetie, you know how to make me happy. Sniff.” <Mimi>

We both spent the next few minutes crying again, tightly embraced.

“Sniff, what exactly are you planning to do now, sweetie?” <Mimi>

"I still have time, so I can help you get to your new hiding place. You probably won't stay here." <Eliza>

“You should discuss that with Will, but I doubt he'll mind.” <Mimi>

“That's good, because now that I know where you are, I want to visit more often. If I can, I want to come back at least once a year.” <Eliza>

"That means you'll be leaving us again soon and going your own way. Sniff, as much as I would like you to stay with me, I don't want to stand in your way. But you are always welcome. I will always have a place for you." <Mimi>

"I know, Mama. I really appreciate that. As a refugee, I know how valuable it is to have a place to return to and call home. That's why I value Tyros so much. I have loved ones there who enjoy having me around. Unfortunately, there's a catch. They know me as Eliza, the human adventurer. They will probably reject me as Eliza, the dark elf, and may even fear me. That's what I'm afraid of." <Eliza>

“You can't know that for sure, even if most people in the Empire will react the same way. Ultimately, though, you have to decide for yourself. It's a risk that only you can say is worth taking. You don't have to do it tomorrow, but if it bothers you, you should consider it someday.” <Mimi>

"Thanks, Mom. I appreciate your advice. When I'm ready one day, I'll think about it again." <Eliza>

“You're doing the right thing, sweetie. I'll support you as best I can. Shall we go to Will now? He's probably waiting.” <Mimi>

“Let's do that, Mama.” <Eliza>

I hugged Mama again and then helped her up. Together we left the hut. Will and a few others, including Jared and Aslan, were already waiting outside. The latter didn't let any emotion show.

“There you are, you two. Did you have enough time for your reunion?” <Will>

“Yes, thank you, Will. Eliza will support us.” <Mimi>

“That's good to hear. Let's go somewhere quiet. The hut you just left is perfect.” <Will>

Together we went back into the hut. There we sat down at a table. Jared took a roughly drawn map and rolled it out on the table.

“Our destination is two days further east. It's an old charcoal burner settlement. Kira is on her way there to scout it out. When she returns and gives her approval, we'll set off.” <Jared>

“Are there any human towns nearby?” <Eliza>

"There's a larger village three days away. There isn't much else, but we should have some peace and quiet there. Will you help us move?" <Will>

“Yes, you can count on me. I'll accompany you.” <Eliza>

“Then we just have to wait for Kira and hear what she has to say. Okay, guys, get ready.” <Will>

With that, we were dismissed and left the hut. I accompanied Mama and together we visited the others from the community to tell everyone personally about my return. They were all happy that I was still alive. Especially the children my age, now young adults, peppered me with questions and had me recount all my adventures in detail. I embellished my adventures and told many half-truths so that I didn't reveal anything important to them. In any case, they had fun, even if they didn't believe a word I said.

In the evening, Kira returned to camp. I noticed her from a distance, but she didn't seem to notice me. In any case, she went straight to the hut where Will was. They talked for about an hour and then both came out.

“The time has come, we're moving. We're leaving early tomorrow morning, so pack your things. We'll form the same groups as last time. Eliza, you'll stay with Mimi. Any questions? None? Then get some rest, we have a long way to go.” <Will>

Kira stood next to him and looked around. Apparently, she had heard about me from Will and was now looking for me. When she saw me, she came over. I was hard to miss, as I towered over most of the others.

“Hello, Eliza. I'm glad you're still alive. I was very worried when you suddenly disappeared back then. What exactly happened?” <Kira>

Over the next few minutes, I told my story for the third time today, until we were shooed away.