There and Back Again || Open
Of the outskirts of the town a group of older children ran along the backs of quaint houses playing a ball game, their laughter mingled with the rapturous barks of their canine companion. Overlooked by a group of elders, who sat reminiscing but more often than not they lamented over the uncertain future of the younger generations. Yet if one looked beyond the outskirts, just beyond was the hustle and bustle of the local market, the living heart of their community.
Everywhere one looked there were strange, exotic wares; the air was filled with spices and fresh warm bread. Stall owners bellowed over each other, enticing the crowds to buy their wares. Sometimes it was an easy sale, but often owner and customer were part of a heated discussion, haggling for the best price. Young girls travelled in small bevies, admiring colourful silks and comparing fine incense bottles; motherâs managed to juggle heavy groceries and small whining children.
Surveying the town with ease was the advantage of Denianâs location, hidden under the hilly perimeter of elms and the long dead dry grass. Not a month had passed since he had passed through the Elvish town, and while physically the town had not changed, the atmosphere was different. Retributive - with revolution in the air. A dangerous combination.
Though he knew and understood the mission, he was reluctant to acquiesce the order. At heart they were kind people, whoâd share their food and hearth with him, and told him of their heartbreak and longing for their lost children. Truth be told heâd have preferred to be reprimanded for subordination than kill the innocent. âItâs all your faultâŠstupid child-eating monster,â muttering to himself.
