A.N: I would like to thank all whom have read, reviewed, or both! We are in Highever while contemplating the coming meeting.
P.S: I do not own Dragon Age, Skyrim, or any of the characters.
Chapter 6
Elias's Bakery boasted a charming little sitting area just outside its doors, adorned with a handful of rustic wooden tables and chairs. The simplicity of the furnishings gave the space a warm, inviting feel, perfect for savoring freshly baked delights while enjoying the sights and sounds of the bustling market.
The sunlight streamed down, casting a golden hue over the wooden surfaces, and she could almost envision herself as a young girl, perched on one of those chairs, eyes wide with anticipation as she indulged in warm pastries and sweet rolls. It was a comforting memory, one that wrapped around her like a familiar blanket.
Across the road, the market thrived with life. A cluster of food stalls lined the cobblestone path, each brimming with vibrant offerings. Vendors animatedly called out their wares, enticing customers with the promise of savory delights. There were smoked meats hanging temptingly from hooks, their rich aroma mingling with the sweet scent of ripe fruits and the earthy freshness of colorful vegetables displayed in overflowing baskets.
People drifted between the stalls, their laughter and chatter creating a lively symphony that filled the air. Children darted between their parents' legs, drawn by the promise of treats, while shoppers exchanged stories with vendors, creating a sense of community that made her heart swell. The vibrant scene unfolded like a painting, each person contributing to the lively tableau that reminded her of all the cherished moments she had spent in this town.
Stepping off to the side she found a small post to tether the horses too, a canvas shade above to protect them from the head of the sun. A loose knot was all it would take to keep them from bolting, she had trained them herself after all before she glanced back down at Shade who stood beside her, his nose twitching as he took in the myriad of enticing scents that surrounded them.
His tail wagged in excitement, reflecting her own eagerness to explore this world that felt both familiar and foreign. With a smile tugging at her lips, she made her way to a sunlit table in the corner, ready to indulge in a well-deserved treat before stepping back into the complexities of her past. It was a small moment of joy, a reprieve before the emotional reunion that awaited her at the castle.
As soon as Elena settled into one of the light-colored wooden chairs, its smooth surface warm against her skin, she caught sight of a young woman approaching her. The girl, no more than sixteen, moved with a hesitance that spoke volumes. Her eyes, wide and wary, darted toward the armored figures scattered throughout the space. In a world that had seen its share of conflict, Elena knew all too well that people in armor rarely meant good tidings unless they were Soldiers—and even then, it was a fragile trust.
The young woman's gaze lingered on Elena for a moment, a flicker of fear dancing behind her facade. It was an all-too-familiar expression, one that Elena had seen on the faces of others, a silent acknowledgment of the uncertainty that filled the air. Yet, almost instinctively, the girl masked her trepidation behind a cheerful smile, her voice bright and effervescent as she asked, "Good afternoon! How can I help you today?"
Despite the lightness of her tone, Elena could sense the tension beneath it, the way her shoulders tightened as she stood a little too rigidly. It was as if the young woman were caught in a tug-of-war between duty and instinct, determined to provide service but haunted by the looming presence of the armored figures.
Elena's heart ached at the contrast. Here was a girl trying to maintain her composure in an environment thick with unease, where the very air crackled with unsaid fears. "I would like to order a small loaf of Rye and some oil to dip it in please?" She ordered, keeping her tone light and unthreatening.
The young girl's tension eased as Elena offered her a friendly smile. She nodded, and her expression brightened into something more genuine. "That will be forty coppers, please."
Elena quickly rummaged through her pouch, feeling the familiar weight of the coins in her hand. She counted out the coppers and, with a small flourish, pulled out a gleaming gold coin, its surface catching the light. "Here you go," she said, placing it gently in the girl's palm.
"Thank you!" the girl exclaimed, her eyes widening with surprise at the generous payment. "I'll be back with your change and bread shortly." With a newfound spring in her step, she turned and hurried away, the weight of uncertainty seemingly lifted from her shoulders.
As the girl disappeared into the bustling kitchen, Elena leaned back in her chair, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere around her. The town pulsed with life; laughter and chatter mingled in the air, punctuated by the rhythmic clatter of pots and pans. Vendors called out their wares, their voices rising above the din, creating a lively symphony that made her heart swell with warmth. The aroma of freshly baked bread and spiced meats filled the air, enticing and rich, wrapping around her like a comforting embrace.
Elena watched as children dashed between stalls, their faces alight with joy, hands sticky with sweets. A small boy stumbled and fell, only to be met with a chorus of giggles from his friends, who quickly helped him up. The carefree innocence of their laughter painted a vivid picture of happiness, reminding her of simpler times.
In the midst of this cheerful chaos, Elena's attention was drawn to Shade, her loyal companion, who was fixated on a nearby stall overflowing with cured meats. His eyes gleamed with desire, and a thin line of drool dripped from his mouth, pooling on the cobblestones beneath him like a small, glistening puddle. The sight was both comical and endearing, and she couldn't suppress a soft chuckle that escaped her lips.
"Shade," she called, amusement lacing her voice. "You'll catch a cold if you keep that up!"
His ears perked at the sound of her voice, and he turned to her, a sheepish grin spreading across his face, as if he hadn't just been caught staring. The moment felt light and easy, a perfect reminder of the simple pleasures in life amidst the swirling chaos around them. With a playful glint in her eye, Elena leaned forward, gesturing for Shade to join her at the table.
"Oh, all right, you big glutton," Elena chuckled, her laughter ringing out like a melody above the hum of the marketplace. Shade's eager gaze fixed on the stall overflowing with cured meats, his anticipation palpable. She reached into her coin purse, feeling the cool metal of the coins, and pulled it out, the soft jingle of metal against metal echoing the excitement in her heart.
"Don't spend it all now," she warned lightly, a playful glint in her eye as she held out the purse to him. With a gentle nudge, Shade carefully took it between his two front teeth, his strong jaws closing around the leather with a delicacy that belied his size. The sight of him, so proud and intent, made her smile widen.
As he turned and trotted away, his tail wagging like a flag of triumph, Elena couldn't help but feel a swell of affection. Shade was not just a hound; he was her companion, her protector, and in moments like these, he brought a joy that was almost infectious. The cobblestones beneath his paws echoed softly with each step, blending seamlessly with the lively symphony of the market.
Shade approached the stall, his broad shoulders squared with confidence as he leaned in, his keen nose twitching at the rich, savory aroma of the cured meats. The vendor, a burly man with a bushy beard and a warm smile, chuckled heartily as he spotted the eager hound. "Well, what do we have here?" he said, bending down to meet Shade's eager gaze.
Elena watched as the vendor scratched behind Shade's ears, and the hound leaned into the touch, his eyes closing in bliss. The vendor gently took the coin purse and pulled out a single gold coin, quickly getting change and placing the new coins back in the purse before handing it back to the hound. The interaction was heartwarming, a moment of connection that transcended the simple transaction. Shade let out a happy bark, as if trying to convey his gratitude, and the vendor laughed, reaching for a piece of cured meat, its glistening surface beckoning.
As the vendor tossed the treat to Shade, the hound caught it mid-air, his instincts sharp and quick, and somehow managing to keep hold of the purse. Elena felt a grin spread across her face at the sight—there was something undeniably joyful about watching her companion enjoy a moment of sheer delight.
With the bustling market alive around her, filled with laughter, shouts of vendors hawking their wares, and the tantalizing scents of spices and baked goods wafting through the air, Elena felt a deep sense of belonging. The sun shone warmly overhead, casting dappled shadows through the leaves of nearby trees, creating a serene backdrop to this moment of bliss. In a world often tinged with uncertainty, it was these small, joyous moments that anchored her, reminding her that happiness could be found even in the simplest of pleasures.
Shade finally returned, his triumphant figure bounding through the throngs of people with an unmistakable swagger. Clamped tightly in his mouth was the hunk of cured meat, glistening in the morning light, while the coin purse dangled precariously from his teeth, now a bit more slobbered on than it had been.
Elena couldn't help but laugh as he approached, his tail wagging like a banner of victory. "You're quite the little buyer, aren't you?" she teased, shaking her head with teasing approval. With a gentle tug, she took the purse from his mouth, the leather damp but still intact. Strapping it securely back to her waist, she made a mental note to dry it out later.
Without missing a beat, Shade plopped down into the dirt beside her, kicking up a small cloud of dust that danced in the golden sunlight. He settled comfortably, the earth warm beneath him, and began to chow down on his well-earned breakfast. Each bite of the meat was met with satisfied growls, and the sound of tearing meat echoed in the vibrant air around them.
Elena watched him with a mixture of amusement and affection, her heart swelling as she observed his enthusiasm for the meal. She was pretty sure that at some point that morning, he had hunted down a squirrel or rabbit for a small snack; his coat gleamed with health, and his eyes sparkled with the thrill of the chase. It was a reminder of his wild instincts, a beautiful contrast to the cozy domesticity of their current surroundings.
As Shade savored his feast, Elena leaned back in her chair, allowing herself to relax into the moment. The bustling market continued to thrive around them, a swirl of colors and sounds that painted a lively backdrop. The aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, mingling with the savory scent of sausages, creating a feast for the senses that she found deeply comforting.
For a moment, all her worries melted away. Watching Shade enjoy his meal, the simple pleasure of this morning felt perfect. She reached down to scratch behind his ears, her fingers tangling in the soft fur of his neck. "You've outdone yourself today, my friend," she murmured affectionately, and Shade paused to look up at her, his eyes shining with loyalty and contentment.
In this shared moment, surrounded by the warmth of the sun and the laughter of the townsfolk, Elena felt a sense of peace envelop her, a reminder that even amidst the chaos of life, there were still simple joys to be found.
So engrossed was Elena in the vibrant tapestry of life around her that she didn't notice the figure approaching until a soft gasp pierced the air. "Elena Cousland, is that really you, dear!?"
Startled, she turned in her seat, her heart quickening as she recognized the voice. Standing before her was Nan, the beloved cook and nanny from her childhood, her warm brown eyes sparkling with recognition. The sight of Nan brought an immediate rush of nostalgia, flooding Elena's mind with memories of laughter-filled kitchens and comforting meals.
Previously
The older woman, known by most as Nan, ambled from stall to stall, her weathered hands resting on her hips as she surveyed the colorful displays before her. The market was alive with activity, the air thick with the mingling aromas of spices, fresh produce, and baked goods. She mentally noted what she needed to restock the Castle's larder.
'We are running out of fresh vegetables and flour,' she thought, her brow furrowing slightly in concern. She paused at a stall overflowing with ripe tomatoes and crisp greens, but the joy of the vibrant produce was shadowed by a sense of loss that tugged at her heart.
Glancing at another stall, she noted the ample supply of cured meats, but the sight brought a bittersweet ache to her chest. Ever since the youngest Cousland vanished and was presumed dead at sea, the larder had changed. The absence of the infuriating yet endearing Mabari hound left a palpable void. No longer did the mischievous dog sneak into the kitchen, his antics causing laughter and exasperation in equal measure as he pilfered morsels from the storerooms.
Though I must admit, she thought with a sigh, I would gladly let that infernal hound in every day if only the young girl—well, woman now, if she's still alive—would come home. The thought of Elena brought a rush of warmth mixed with heartache. Nan remembered the carefree days when Elena would bound through the kitchen, her laughter like a bright melody, her spirit as unyielding as the winds that whipped the sea.
As she continued her walk through the market, Nan's heart felt heavy. The faces of the vendors were familiar, their banter a soothing backdrop, yet the laughter that once echoed through the castle halls felt like a distant memory. She reached for a bundle of herbs, the scent of basil and thyme grounding her in the present.
"Fresh herbs today, Nan?" a vendor called out, his voice jovial and inviting.
"Indeed, Tom," she replied, forcing a smile. "The castle's kitchens can never have too many." She picked up the bundle, appreciating the vibrant green and the promise it held for the meals she would prepare.
As she moved from stall to stall, her thoughts continued to drift back to Elena. The hope that she might one day return lingered like the scent of freshly baked bread in the air—comforting yet elusive. "If only the tides would turn in our favor," she murmured to herself, her heart filled with a quiet determination. She would continue to gather the best for the family, hoping that one day, they would once again share meals filled with laughter, stories, and love, just as they once had.
Purchasing a few items from the vendors, Nan made arrangements for them to be delivered to the Castle later. She had just turned to head to the next stall when something strange caught her eye. A young woman in her mid-twenties was making her way down the other side of the road, and there was something captivating about her presence.
The woman moved with a quiet confidence, her dark hair gathered in a low ponytail that swung slightly with her every step. She was accompanied by two sturdy horses, their coats gleaming under the sun, suggesting they had traveled far. But what truly captured Nan's attention was the Mabari at her side, a majestic creature with fur as black as the midnight sky. The hound trotted with an air of dignity, his posture proud and alert, a sharp contrast to the vivid colors of the bustling market.
For a fleeting moment, Nan's heart raced as a wave of recognition washed over her. The striking black fur and powerful stance of the Mabari stirred memories she thought were long buried. Could it be? she wondered, her breath catching in her throat. The young woman's features were familiar, echoing those of a girl she had known, loved, and worried for endlessly.
Nan stood frozen for a moment, her heart pounding as she took in the sight of the young woman before her. It had been over six years since Elena Cousland had vanished, and she knew that the girl she once knew would look far different now. The woman standing there was older, her features more defined and hardened by experiences that Nan could only imagine. She was not the epitome of the graceful lady that Elenore Cousland had always envisioned for her daughter, yet there was an undeniable resemblance—one that tugged at Nan's heart with a bittersweet ache.
The strong curve of her jaw, the sparkle of determination in her eyes, and the way she carried herself spoke of resilience and spirit. This woman, though rugged and perhaps worn by time, undoubtedly bore the mark of the youngest child of the Cousland family. Nan could see it clearly, the echoes of childhood laughter and mischief woven into the lines of her face.
And then there was the Mabari at her side. The dog's presence was like a beacon of truth, a living testament to their bond. His black fur shone like polished obsidian in the sunlight, and he stood by her protectively, as if he had been waiting for this moment just as long as they had.
With every detail, the pieces fell into place, and Nan felt a rush of emotions—hope, disbelief, and a profound sense of longing. This is Elena, she thought, her heart swelling with recognition. No matter how much time had passed or how much life had changed her, the essence of the girl Nan had loved was still present in this woman.
The very sight of the two brought tears to Nan's grey eyes, a rush of emotion flooding through her as the wish she had been praying for over the years finally came true. She felt as if the weight of the world had been lifted from her shoulders; the years of worry, fear, and heartache were suddenly swept away by the overwhelming joy of seeing Elena again.
Hundreds of questions swirled through her mind like a tornado tearing through the landscape. Where have you been? Are you safe? What happened to you? Each thought collided with the next, creating a cacophony of emotions that threatened to spill over. Yet, in that moment of raw vulnerability, she knew she had to suppress those urgent queries. Instead, she resolved to take a step back and observe, to gather her strength before confronting the reality she had longed for.
With a deep breath, Nan discreetly followed the pair at a distance, her heart racing with each step. She watched as Elena walked confidently, her Mabari trotting beside her with a watchful gaze. The way they moved together—united and unyielding—spoke of a bond forged through trials and adventures. It was both comforting and exhilarating to see Elena in her element, a woman transformed by her experiences.
As they passed through the market, Nan took in the little details—the soft sway of Elena's low ponytail, the way her hands deftly navigated the reins of the horses, and the way the Mabari's ears perked up at every sound. Each moment was a reminder of the girl she had known, now grown into a formidable woman, strong and capable.
With every passing second, Nan's heart swelled with pride and love. Yet the weight of uncertainty lingered, and she knew she needed to muster the bravery to approach Elena. The thought of speaking after so long filled her with both excitement and trepidation. What if she had changed too much? What if the bond they once shared had faded with time?
As Nan trailed behind, she watched with a mixture of nostalgia and wonder as Elena approached the familiar bakery that had been a staple of her childhood. It was a cozy little shop, its windows fogged with the warmth of freshly baked goods. The sweet scent of pastries and bread wafted through the air, tugging at Nan's heartstrings and bringing back vivid memories of the little girl who would dash inside with wide eyes, her face lighting up at the sight of warm loaves and sugary treats.
But instead of stepping inside, Elena settled into one of the light-colored wooden chairs outside the bakery, allowing the warm sunlight to wash over her. Nan noted the way she instinctively relaxed into the familiar spot, her expression softening as she took in the lively market around her. A young woman, perhaps in her teens, approached with a practiced smile, her eyes glancing cautiously at the armed figures in the vicinity.
Elena ordered with a lighthearted air, her laughter ringing through the air like music as she interacted with the girl. Nan watched closely, her heart swelling with pride and joy. Yet, she couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness knowing that the baker wouldn't recognize her; he would have been just a child when Elena had vanished.
But it was the moment that followed that truly cemented in Nan's heart that this was indeed the youngest Cousland. Elena leaned down to her loyal Mabari, who was sitting obediently at her side. With a playful glint in her eye, she pulled out her coin purse and handed it over to the eager hound. The Mabari gently grasped the purse between his teeth, his tail wagging furiously, embodying a joyful spirit that spoke of their unbreakable bond.
"Now don't spend it all at once!" she teased, her voice warm and inviting. The sight of the dog trotting toward the young vender where the cured meats were, coin purse clutched tightly, stirred a deep well of emotions within Nan. Just like old times, she thought, tears welling up in her eyes as she witnessed this simple yet profound act of trust and companionship.
The young man behind the counter laughed, momentarily taken aback by the sight of the Mabari bringing a coin purse, but he quickly regained her composure and leaned down to receive it. Elena's laughter echoed through the market, a sound that felt like sunlight breaking through the clouds.
In that moment, the years of worry, heartache, and longing that Nan had carried began to melt away. Here was the essence of the girl she had known, alive and vibrant, still sharing her spirit with the world around her.
As the young woman prepared Elena's order, Nan felt a surge of determination. She could no longer linger in the shadows, consumed by her emotions. This was her chance to reconnect, to bridge the gap of all those years lost. Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward, ready to embrace the moment she had dreamed of for so long.
A.N: Thank you for reading!