Chapter 40 – You’re doing well now
1433 Words
Simply being reminded of his past makes him feel terrible. The lowest point in his life and he clung to her for support.
Though Hannah lived longer than he did, she was sheltered from the terrible things he endured. Her father protected her until the end. When the king took her in and made use of her magic, she was valued and protected. From the time she resided in the palace, no serious harm came to her. She did have a few adventures here and there, meeting people who could be kind or hostile… She also learned how people can treat one differently depending on their motives or intentions. That was when her second ability manifested itself and she became even more valuable to the throne. Her outings have been limited further.
They slept next to each other. He had his arms around her and her cheek pressed on his chest. It was oddly comfortable for the two of them.
“Would you consider coming with us? To the north? The king is in need of a potions master and we may need your extensive knowledge on potions.” Hannah asked as the old man packed the result of his potion making. He divided the substance into eight different vials.
“No, I won’t. You can come anytime, but don’t bring too many people. The two of you are welcome.” Yes, until now Hannah still don’t know the old man’s name. It was a pity.
“We would need more of this. If we visit you again after a week or so, how many batches can you make?”
“I say one batch every three days. I need to rest, too. Three batches in nine days, what do you say?”
“That would be most helpful. Thank you.”
Aaron brought out the small pouch of gold coins as p*****t.
The old man likes gold, but for a completely different reason. He received the pouch with a wide smile.
“I will work on it while you are away.”
As he’s used to working for Hannah and doing whatever she’s requesting, he didn’t bother asking what the potion is for. He is always compensated handsomely as well. He has lived in solitude in this place, accessible only by people he trusts.
“I was actually afraid you have moved again and we wouldn’t find you here.”
“It has been peaceful these last few years. Nothing has come to bother me.”
“That’s good to hear.” Hannah’s genuinely happy for the man. His magic was a secret.
“Off you go, then. The north is a long way away. How long did it take you to reach my place?”
“A day and a half. Thank you once again.”
Aaron slightly bowed at the man before setting up their possessions back on the horses’ backs.
When he helped Hannah up her horse, she actually allowed him. Normally, she wouldn’t wait for anyone to help her up. She can do it herself.
He chuckled which made her smile.
Hannah lightly probed him about his past. What she saw was a boy with dirtied clothes, scavenging behind village houses. She thinks that’s the youngest she’d glimpsed from his past. He was orphaned too early.
Aaron shook his head. “I couldn’t remember. When I gained my consciousness at that age, I was only thinking of surviving each day. Food. Shelter.”
“There was no one? No relatives? No one recognized you as someone they know? Your parents’ friends? Your neighbors?” It was curious, Hannah realized.
“No one. I might have wandered from places to places.”
“I see.” She stopped there. From his expressions, he’s not comfortable talking about it.
“You’re doing well now.”
He only gave her a small smile as a reply.
They stopped to have lunch. This time they roasted whatever they have on storage.
As they took a short break, they practiced again. Aaron first, then the both of them. To make it more difficult for Aaron, they made it six apples. Hannah already hit one of them so she’s feeling good. She was smiling as they proceeded. Aaron would not admit it distracted him a little.
Just before they finished, two adult men were passing by and saw them. They were carrying logs, wood… They were walking quite a distance so the two groups didn’t notice the other until Hannah’s daggers made a sound, then one of the men dropped the logs he’s carrying.
“Quick!” Hannah can only say that one word. She was about to run after them but Aaron already pulled them over. They screamed quite loudly and he can’t do anything about it. He’s not sure if forcing their mouths to close would not hurt them. Hannah was glad and relieved of her initial panic. She reached out to quickly erase their memories.
In a while, they lay on the ground, snoring.
Aaron frowned, “How did you do that?” She can put people to sleep? He wondered.
“I only erased their memory of sleeping last night. Quick, let’s get out of here before they wake.”
He’s a little bothered. Won’t they think anything was wrong or suspicious.
“I know what I’m doing.” Hannah assured him and so he followed. They continued their journey.
Hannah checked the potions. They’re relatively safe. At this point, they would arrive at the castle mid-day tomorrow. They’re already close. If they keep going, they might arrive after midnight.
“Let’s not. We need to rest.” Hannah lightly stated. She knew he’s not serious.
He grinned before dismounting to set up their camp for tonight.
It was only starting to turn dark. They worked in silence as they prepared the food and the tent.
“Do you think it would rain tonight?” She asked as they eat. It was almost natural for them to start sitting next to each other.
They looked up to see the stars.
“I don’t think so.” He exhaled as he leaned back to better see the sky. It was littered by so many stars, very unlike the other night.
“Do you like seeing stars in the dark sky?” She noticed his interest. Last time, it was sunset.
“As long as it doesn’t rain, we can sleep out here.” She stood up to clean up and prepare to retire for the night. Aaron didn’t want to burden her so he helped. After changing to more comfortable clothes, they laid blankets on the ground and set their respective bags as pillows.
At his request which she didn’t expect, she laid next to him using his arm as a pillow. It feels nice as they breath in fresh air as they watch the skies and the slow-moving stars.
Aaron turned and started kissing her, sucking her lips, tasting her mouth...
Hannah was only surprised for a second before welcoming his initiative. They already had an understanding last night. This act of intimacy between them is to be expected.
They both shifted in their positions until their bodies found a good fit, pressed closed together. Her blush deepened as she felt his arousal and how his mouth eagerly devours her.
They may be inexperienced but they’re not entirely innocent. She’d seen some things from his memories, of him seeking shelter behind village houses and some nights watching intimate acts between adult couples, through their open windows. Hers were mostly from the memories of people she had dealt with. First hand, she hadn’t seen anything. Despite that, heat pooled between her legs and she started feeling uncomfortable. She moaned as she gripped his collar while his hand started caressing her body, down to her legs and behind. She liked his warm caresses.
She’d consumed drugs for an illness before, but he’s more intoxicating that those medications. Her body was restless, wanting to get closer to him in the only way she knew. Aaron managed the pace, though, and he’s not touching her where inappropriate. He warmed her up and though he himself is starting to feel uncomfortable, the most he’s allowing himself is shallowly grinding against her body.
“Won’t you touch me?” She asked when his mouth ventured down into her neck and her body trembled from anticipation.
“This isn’t the place.” Also, he doesn’t think it’s the right time either.
Though her body craves more, they contented themselves with kissing and some fondling.
“I didn’t realize kissing is this pleasurable.” Hannah voiced out when he returned to taste her lips.
“I’m told that’s only when you like the person you’re kissing.” Aaron responded, softly biting her lips as her breathing turned ragged again.
“I could agree to that.” She moaned louder and chuckled when tickled. There's something about her voice that moves Aaron.
He kissed her jaws, behind her ears, her neck and down to her shoulders. It was all instinct at that point.
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