Mine Folly

[Lilthis]

Been spending too much time with mages these last few years. I forgot how superstitious people could be.

Lilthis could see the visible gestures of fear on her acquaintance’s face, reminding her that perhaps Lilly was not scared enough. This would be the first time she undertook an endeavor like this without the support of someone capable of keeping her safe. The arrogant girl was ill-suited to defend anyone, including herself. But she had never been able to study necromancy, she was not about to pass this opportunity up.

Disappointingly she listened to Yvonne’s scolding. The half elf’s glare at the table of curious humans was particularly amusing. But as the shorter elf droned on about Lilly’s ‘options’ she started to lose interest. It was nice to have someone to speak with, someone to eat with. The pureblooded dark elf knew it was a long shot to also find someone willing to accompany her on this errand.

Then the curious mixed elf gestured her surrender before speaking it. Overjoyed, small indents formed on Lilthis’ cheeks as a wide smile consumed her face. Her eyes radiating with satisfaction. She had initially planned on waiting for daybreak but this short elf was willing to go tonight! Not wanting to risk a change of heart the ecstatic dark elf nodded in agreement.

“Certainly! We can go right now if you want! Thank you! It’s much nicer to travel in the company of others right?,” her enthusiasm bursting at the seams. Calm down, you’re gonna scare her off Lil. Lilly placed one hand on her cheek then followed with, “I mean, of course. We should wait to eat first. You’re not going to change your mind right? We’ll be fine, don’t worry.” The tinkerer was fearless but it wasn’t bravery that drove her. It was a dangerous mix of naivety and an insatiable hunger for knowledge.

Hunger. The approaching aroma of grilled poultry cooked in coriander, lemon, and peppers entered the room spreading its influence through the Graceful Bark. Dozens of eyes were immediately transfixed upon the plates carried by the same barmaid who had retreated to the kitchen just a few moments earlier. Her return was celebrated. The grumbling of Lilthis’ stomach serving as applause.

Dorothy sat the plates down in front of the pair revealing the splendor of her work. Two succulent pieces of white meat decorated with brown crusting and intense lines of slate charring. Keeping the meat company was a side consisting of thinly sliced pieces of tomato, eggplant, and zucchini which had been cooked with onion, garlic, and basil. Despite the commotion from her gut the dark elf waited for her guest to take the first bite. It would be impolite otherwise.