Ripples of Shadow
Chapter 10 - Whirlpools of Light and Shadow

“I’d think gamesmen to be out hunting with winter on it’s way.” Rash looked around carefully. Looking for the woman that might be the one that sent the letter. He had no idea what she would look like, but maybe he’d get a hunch. He dismissed the foolishness quickly. “Isn’t hunting best in the fall?” He didn’t really know anything about hunting or hunting seasons, but he recalled his father and teacher telling him of such in the past.

Uda sighed lightly. “Aye, normally that is true, but…” she trailed off, chewing her lower lip. “Less and less game can be found recently it seems. It’s too early for them to sleep for the winter. It’s like most just up ‘n left.” She lowered her voice to a whisper, leaning a little closer to Rash. “Some are saying the Final Hunt is coming.”

Rash cocked an eyebrow and shook his head. “I’m afraid I know nothing of any Final anything. Can‘t say I care too much for the sayings of long dead wisemen….” Rash stopped himself. He really didn’t believe in any prophecies or fate, but that had come off harsher than he had planned. He was still a bit shaken from the news the assassins had brought about Moria. “Sorry, I didn’t mean -” Uda cut him off with a wave of her hand and a soft smile. As soft as her hardened face could make anyway.

“I shouldn’t have bantered on like a schoolgirl anyways. Just making small-talk. Small-talk, yes, that’s all. Now, how can I help you.”

“I’m meeting someone here. Has anyone arrived that has mentioned anything similar?” Rash, honestly didn’t expect the person he was after would have said anything anyway, but he felt he had to ask, all the same.

Uda shook her head. “A lot come through here. Hunters, commoners, and even the occasional lord or lady seeking to flavor the more pungent culture; as they would say.” There was a bit of contempt in her voice. “But no, I don’t think I’ve heard of such today.”

Rash nodded. “Thank you. Just bring me a mug of whatever your house drink is.” Rash always did like to try new ales. Even if he wasn’t quite the connoisseur that Hendrig was. “I can find a table myself.” He force a smile as best he could. Uda simply gave a slight bow and scurried off to the kitchen.

Rash chose a table in the far back corner of the room, propping his sword behind him on the wall as he sat down. From there he could easily spot anyone entering the inn. It was possible that the person he sought was all ready here, so he made sure to be able to see the staircase as well. With the more darkened corner he figured he would be more difficult to make out. Again, familiar thoughts came to him. If this was a set-up, some would probably run, but in this rough place, some would certainly try to join in, discouraging any significant suspicions from the local guard. But maybe, just maybe, he could notice any odd behavior, before a trap was sprung. Propping his head up with one hand he waited cautiously, constantly scanning the room like a nervous child who had stolen a piece of fruit and expected to be caught. I just hope this trip proves useful. I can’t fail her again.

.....