*~*~*the next day*~*~*

Drira bundled food and clothing in her pack, rebraiding her hair for the third time. She was almost finished packing, though dawn had not yet arrived. Her mind was ticking with the thought of journey. Once away from Rohan she would know no one, which could be a blessed or cursed thing. Either way, she decided to stay away from conversation if she could help it. She also decided to leave the name Drira of Rohan behind and simply be known as Bleak. This name would most likely help ward off those who would inquire about her origin, which she didn't want to reveal.

She sighed, looking about her poor but happy home, and closed her pack. Their family owned no ponies and she did not feel the need to have one, so her pack was fairly light, mainly clothing and the four gold pieces Garron had given her when she told him of her intentions. She did not want to take them but he insisted, knowing she would soon need food and shelter. She reached for a hooded wrap and robed herself in it, then shouldered the pack and walked quietly through the house to the outside.

"Wait, Drira!" a voice called, breaking the early silence. She jumped and turned around. Bryn smiled to her, his hands hidden behind his back. She eyed him.

"What do you keep from me, Bryn?"

"This." He produced a sword. "And this," he added, taking a scabbard from his side. It was smaller, no doubt his own when he was younger. "Our father had many friends, Drira, one being akin to the royality of Gondor. This sword is from that great land, and I want you to take it with you on your journey."

"Oh, Bryn-"

"I know it is a small token in comparison to the world which awaits you, but I ask that you accept it anyway."

"The smallest token is beyond comparison when it comes from a noble yet humble heart, Bryn," she assured him, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I will miss you sorely."

"And I, you," he admitted, then smiled through the sadness. "Arm yourself and be gone, Orc-Slayer," he laughed. She smiled and put on the sword, its size perfect to her frame--delicate yet very powerful. Her teal eyes shone brightly against the ever-graying morning, and she kissed his cheek before turning.

"I will return," she promised over her shoulder. He waved goodbye.

"And I will wait," he sighed to himself.