liberi {Children}

Arya trotted lightly in fear that the little girl might be thrown over her horse. She had to calm Eclipse before letting Jenny sit on him. Aaron had taken the other boy, William on his horse. Silvia and Damien were speaking to one another in hushed tones. Their conversations ranged across various topics including animals as well as people they disliked. Arya had moved on ahead since she didn't want to hear such useless banter but now she found herself beside Aaron. He was quiet, which worked well for Arya.

Arya felt a tug on her cloth and she leaned forward to listen to what Jenny wanted. "Can we go really fast? I want to defeat William since he beats be in everything."

Arya almost smiled slightly. This young girl had spirit. "Do you want to let your brother know?"

She nodded before turning to her brother, "William, do you want to race?"

The boy looked up from his conversation with Aaron. He looked at Aaron as if to ask his permission if he could agree. Aaron nodded indicating that he was okay with it.

"Jenny, you're going to lose." He taunted.

The little girl shook her head swinging her braid in the action, almost whacking Arya across the face. "We are going to win!" she cried.

Arya glanced at Aaron and he looked right back at her. His mouth was curved into an amused smile and Arya was pretty sure that he thought he was going to win. Well it would be a great time for rude awakening. The bond between Arya and Eclipse made him one of the fastest horses in the land.

"One," he mouthed.

"Two,"

"Hold on tightly." Arya whispered to Jenny.

"Three." They both finished and they were off.

The forest seemed blurry as they blazed past the trees. The horse's hooves hitting the ground with speed could be heard as they let out their true speed. Arya could hear Jenny's gleeful cheers but she focused on the race ahead of them. Aaron's horse was ahead of them by mere inches but they had not signified the end of the race.

Glancing ahead Arya could sense they were nearing the end of the forest as the scenery was changing.

"Till that tree," she shouted, the wind carrying her words.

She assumed that Aaron would have heard her message. It was time to wrap up this race. She pressed her heels into Eclipse indicating for him to go faster. Eclipse obliged and for a moment they were ahead of Aaron and William. They gained speed again but Arya wasn't willing to loose.

"Come on Eclipse, we need to beat them." She whispered.

Eclipse seemed to have heard her thoughts as they crossed the invisible line by a hair. She was panting hard as was Eclipse.

"We won!" Jenny cried.

"No you didn't!" William said.

"William, Jenny and I won." Arya said glancing at Aaron, expecting him to deliver the news of loss to the boy.

William looked at Aaron hopefully and Arya's cold heart warmed a little.

Aaron crouched down to the boy's side. "It seems the girls won today but that doesn't mean we won't beat them in another race." He said.

William looked relieved as he went back to patting Aaron's horse.

Aaron's eyes were fixed on her horse, "That is one fast beast," he commented.

Arya brushed Eclipse while watching the kids play with leaves. "He is," she replied.

"How long have you been together." He asked.

Arya felt weird talking to others but with him it didn't feel so. "Almost six years."

His eyes lit up in understanding. Under the light they were a clear blue, like the summer sky. "The bond you both share is incredible."

Arya was surprised to see that he believed in the bonding of animals. Many people told her it was nothing but myths but Arya believed the longer you were with an animal, you would learn to understand each other and grow together. It was like almost having a best friend.

"How long do you think Silvia and Damien are going to take?"

He shrugged his shoulders. "I'm not sure but I do know that Damien is going to start to panic."

"Shall we find a stream and food then?" Arya asked.

Aaron stood up. "Yes, we won't be taking a break after this. I want to reach Yuthx by nightfall."

He called out to the children and they readily came.

"We're going to be looking for food know." He said.

The children were in captivated by him. Arya could see that he did well with children. "William, do you want to go hunting with me?"

The boy jumped up and down. "Yes please!"

Arya could see that Jenny felt left out so she approached her. "Don't worry. We're going to hunt as well. But we can also find berries and a water stream so we can cool down. Don't tell them what we are doing."

The little girl giggled and grabbed Arya's hand. "Let's go."

They walked back into the forest where Arya closed her eyes and tried hearing the cry of a stream. She couldn't hear it. It was too noisy down here. She let go of Jenny's hand. "Stay here."

Arya placed her sword and knife beside her. Then she grabbed the branches of the nearest tree and began climbing. As she climbed higher, it became more difficult as the branches were thinner than they had been. After seeing that she could not go any further, Arya tried scouting the land. She closed her eyes for any faint humming of the river. After about a minute or so, she had a vague idea of where there would be a water source. Climbing back down Arya retrieved her weapons and made pointed Jenny in the correct direction.

As they were walking, Jenny would see various berries and put them in her mouth. Arya was about to nearly have a heart attack since they had been poisonous. Instead, she showed Jenny which berries to eat and which ones would taste the best. When they finally arrived at the water stream, Arya helped Jenny cup her hands in order to bring the water to her lips.

"It's so cold," she giggled.

"Yes, it's a stream that probably comes from a mountain."

"Have you ever been to the mountain?"

A nostalgic look glazed over Arya's Aztec eyes. "Once upon a time, yes."

"How is it there?" Jenny asked her eyes wide.

"It's cold, but beautiful as well."

"William told me there is a monster in the mountains."

Arya played with the pendant around her neck. The sun caught its light forming a sparkled aurora. "William must be talking about another mountain. The mountains in Evenna don't have monsters."

The water was reflecting the light of her pendent. "It look's beautiful." Jenny said in awe. Her eyes travelled to the source, the pendant around her neck.

"That's so pretty."

Arya drew her own gaze back to her neck. "It was a gift from someone special."

Jenny was a curious person by nature Arya was soon finding out. It was a quality that she found annoying in many people as they got themselves involved with things that did not affect them. But Jenny was young and was learning about the world. For her, the rules didn't apply. Only the rules of innocence remained.

"Let's head back. Everyone should be there by now."

Jenna nodded and followed Arya's steps as they came back to where their horses were. Sure enough, Silvia and Damien stood there, looking confused.

"Do you believe something might have happened to them?" she heard Silvia saying.

"No," Damien said at once. "Aaron would be able to fend off almost any army, beside the horses or still here. They couldn't have gone too far."

Arya slipped out from behind the trees and made herself visible to the other. Silvia's face showed utter relief at her appearance.

"We thought we had gotten left behind." She said sheepishly.

"We were just about to do that." A voice said from behind.

They all spun around to see Aaron and William strolling into the campsite with the game hunched on their shoulders.

"So that's where you went!" Damien commented thoughtfully.

Arya could almost imagine Aaron rolling his eyes. "Since we got all the food, you both have to prepare it."

Aaron handed Damien and Silvia the game while Arya passed them berries, water, and the game that they had hunted. During the time they had, Arya got the opportunity to teach Jenny how to set traps and how to create them out of knots. She had been very interested and had learned quite a few of the basic knots. Now Arya sat beside Eclipse watching the two siblings play with each other.

They were exchanging information about what they had done and what they had learned. William was raising his hands frantically in air describing what had transpired. Arya went to the nearest tree and plucked a leaf. Then ever so slowly, she pressed it against her lips. A low whistle started emitting from her lips as they met the leaf. It was a beautiful sound, one the captured the attention of almost everyone. Arya closed her eyes to emerge herself into the music. The melody was one filled with sorrow and yearning. For some it might make them tearful but to Arya it was the remembrance of home, of familiarity.

When she finished, Arya opened her eyes to see that everyone had stopped what they were doing and instead, their gazes were plastered on Arya. Arya could see tears forming in Silvia's light brown eyes. Damien had a nostalgic smile on playing on his lips while Aaron had his eyes closed but his body, still taunt as ever. William and Jenny had crawled closer to Arya and they were near the base of her feet. Arya removed the leaf from her lips and gently blew on it, letting the wind carry it away.

It was Damien that broke the silence. "Where did you learn to do that?"

Arya couldn't say Lady Zelie as she was not supposed to reveal her connection with the academy. So, Arya told a white lie, "When I was younger, someone in my life taught me how to play that."

"It was beautiful," Silvia commented.

"Can you play it again?" William asked.

Arya looked around uncomfortable as he gaze landed on Jenny. Her eyes were wide and she was looking hopefully to Arya. A deep part of her knew that they children were far away from home and this would remind them of where they had come from. But Arya could not bear the thought of playing in front of everyone again. The song was personal to her, a lullaby to fondle and hold in the sleepless nights.

"Maybe later," Arya replied.

She could see that everyone was disappointed but she didn't let that get to her. It was her choice; she had no obligation to do anything for them. She had never sworn an oath and she barely knew any of them.

"The meal is ready." Silvia said softly.

They all gathered around to eat what had been presented. Arya had to teach the little ones how to break down the meat to get to the tender flesh. Silvia and Damien chatted and laughed through the entire meal. Occasionally Aaron would comment about something but otherwise, there were only two voices dominating the group. Arya watched on as she saw the interaction between the two. She knew that they had become closer since their body language wasn't as stiff as it had once been.

When they were done their meal, they had mounted their horses. Jenny sat with her, while William was on Aaron's mare. A quick look at the sky let Arya know that the sun would be setting in a couple of hours. Within that time, they had to reach Yuthx. They picked up the pace not stopping until they had reached the city of Yuthx. Arya was feeling sore, she was sure the others felt that way as well. Riding quickly for such a long time was not a pleasant feeling.

"Do you know where you live?" Arya asked Jenny.

The girl nodded and pointed to a massive manor near the edge of the town. That's when the light fog lifted from beneath Arya's eyes. These children belonged to the nobles of this city. Most probably, their parents were one of the noble families of Kalvaria. Arya quickly assessed the situation. It had been nearly two days since they had rescued the children which meant that they had been missing for about four days. Their parents would be worried sick. Arya wouldn't be surprised if a search party had been formed to find the children.

"We must hurry." Arya simply said.

Aaron nodded. It seemed that he had been able to put the pieces together well enough. On the other hand, Silvia was gazing around the village area almost curiously. Vendors had their stalls displayed with goods and services. Arya understood her curiosity of the Kalvarian customs.

"Mount up again," Aaron commanded.

Silvia turned away slowly from the satin piece of silk she had been viewing. Her gaze was almost regretful.

"We must get the children home first." Aaron said as if sensing Silvia's disappointment. "The parents must been worried."

Silvia nodded understanding. They tried to hurry through the crowd but it seemed impossible. They couldn't even mount their horses for fear that they may trample over someone. When they finally reached the edge of town, Arya couldn't be any happier. She lifted Jenny onto her horse and sped away. They blazed through the city until they reached the manor. Two guards were posted outside the manor and when they saw Arya approaching they unsheathed their swords.

Eclipse neighed and almost threw Arya and Jenny over when he saw the sharp object. "Easy boy," Arya tried to sooth him.

Meanwhile the guards were finally able to get a good look. When they did, they all gasped.

"Is it you, Master William?" One of the guards asked.

"Yes it is I." He replied boldly.

"I'm here too." Jenny said moodily as she stepped from behind William.

The guard turned towards his partners. "Ring the bell, we must tell the Earl of Yuthx that is son and daughter have be found and returned!"

A loud bong echoed throughout the land. A man and woman came our running from the manor. Arya could safely assume that they were William and Jenney's parents. The siblings started running towards them as well and within seconds locked in an embrace. Arya stood awkwardly to the side unaware of what they should do. Should they leave or say goodbye first?

Arya reached a decision that it was for the best that they leave right now. She pointed towards the others to follow her. Just as they were about to mount their horses a voice called out to them.

"Wait."

Arya turned back to see Jenney's mother standing in the courtyard. Her hair was pulled into a simple bun and she was wearing a black floor length gown.

"Thank you for saving my children." She said softly before pulling Arya into a hug.

She awkwardly stood their once again pondering about how she should deal with this situation.

"We would be honoured to have you stay with us for the night." Her husband said.

"We wouldn't want to intrude." Aaron replied respectfully.

"Think of it as our way for showing you gratitude." He replied.

Aaron bowed his head respectfully, "Very well, if you insist."

They were led through the front gates of the manor. A servant had appeared to take the horses to the stables for some rest. Arya had reluctantly handed over Eclipses reigns but knew that her horse needed the well-deserved rest. Lady Lena was the name of Jenny's mother. She led them through the well-lit hallways where the walls were framed with pictures and candles. They reached a room where Lady Lena handed them off to servant to show them their rooms.

A petite girl with her hair tied in a bonnet came to show Silvia and Arya their rooms. Firstly they dropped off Silvia and then Arya. Arya entered the room and was taken aback by the finery. In the middle of the bed was occupied with a double canopy bed with a wide dresser and nightstand. The window was placed strategically so Arya got to see a glimpse of the beautiful lush flowers in the garden.

"Is there anything else you would like me to do Madame?"

Arya shook her head indicating a no. "Thank you. That will be all."

The girl nodded before she softly closed the door behind her. The first thing Arya did was draw a bath. Travelling for nearly a week had left her hair rather grim. As she slipped into the warm water a soothing feeling overcame her. She let the water soak the grim and dirt before coming out. Her hair looked almost looked raven since it was soaking wet.

She went to the closet and found that there were plenty of dresses adorned with fine jewels. She peeked through the infinite amount of dresses looking for something simpler and much more comfortable. At the back of the closet she was able to locate a tunic and a pair of breeches. She slipped them off feeling more comfortable. A bell rang signalling that it was time for the meal.

Arya was not looking forward to this but nevertheless, she made her way down to the dining hall. Massive table had been placed with steaming food from meats, to fresh vegetables and fruits. There were many women and men already seated and conversing with one another. Colorfully dresses and tunics were worn by the guest. Arya self-consciously looked at her own clothes and realized she was clearly out of place.

She was distracted by the arrival of Silvia who was dressed in a slim black dress with lacy shoulders and sleeves. Her ears were adorned with earrings and for a second, she almost looked like she was loyalty. Behind her Damien and Aaron stepped out who were dressed more like Arya.

Lady Lena got up from her seat before guiding them to their own. Arya was wedged between Aaron and another male whom she didn't know. Dinner was served a few minutes later. Arya found it extremely hard to eat as every time she would lift up her cutlery, her hand would brush against one of the males. Sometimes it would even be her elbows. The dinner was spectacular but Arya had not expected any less after she had seen the manor. These people clearly knew what they were doing.

After the meal finished many couples took their partners to the dance floor. A light waltz had started in the ballroom which had classical furnish but they had opened the curtains to let in the light. Arya saw Damien and Silvia dancing in the corner of her eye. They were laughing and seemed to be having a good time. Arya stood for a few more moments but she knew that she was clearly out of place. The ladies were all wearing dresses and the men were also adorned in formal clothing.

Arya slipped out of the dance room avoiding anyone she thought may know her. She wandered through the manor until she came back to her room. She didn't feel like changing so she laid down in the bed with the same clothing she was wearing at dinner. She tried clearing her thoughts and wondered if Bianca had reached the castle.

She should have by now.

Arya's trip had already been delayed so heavily since the course of the events. She knew that she was missing a lot of her classes which meant that she would have a lot of catching up to do when she returned.

The moonlight continued shining through the window and Arya couldn't help herself by making her way to the window to get a peek of the beauty. The garden looked stunning in the night although Arya couldn't make up most of the flower. Little fireflies buzzed around spreading their light. Under the light of the moon, Arya saw a figure in the distance. She could easily tell it was a man based on the height and build. The man was practicing with a sword.

Arya stood for a few more moments mesmerized by the actions of the man. Arya could tell her would be a worthy opponent. She was curious to find out the identity of the soul but before she could get another look the man sheathed his sword and made his way back into the manor. Arya had missed her chance to find the swordsmen. Vowing to solve the mystery in the morning, she made her way back into the room to the bed. She had a long day ahead of her tomorrow.

*the real instrument is called ocarina and it is like a seashell, play video above to hear the sound.

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HAPPY HOLIDAY'S EVERYONE! I had to update today well because it was my Birthday and I wanted to give you guys a present. So what did you guys think of this chapter? The children have finally been returned to their rightful homes. Are you sad to see them leave? Please vote and comment below. I would love to hear you guys:) Until next time.