Merevaika
21st Winter 515
The setting of Syna came with a group of hunters, young and boisterous. They were in their late teens, pimpled faces and awkward heights, joking and jesting among themselves. Some held spears, others had a bow slung across their back, but it all seemed more like props than tools and weapons. Apart from the single rabbit slung across one's back, they had no other prizes and from the time of day, it wasn't like they could go and hunt.
The boldest stepped forward, brandishing a spear that looked much nicer than the other's. He seemed the type to be a spoiled Ankal's son. He spoke with that attitude too - demanding, fierce, expectant. "Wilderness guide, right?" She made a sign for yes, why? despite the answer being obvious. The reason could be found in the bluntness of it: Merevaika wanted business, not teenage rambles.
"We plan to go on a hunt, tomorrow, up near the lake." His statement was simple, but his friends chimed in, teasing.
"And his dad won't let his precious heir hunt alone!" a messy red head called, punching him playfully in the arm. The boy pushed him away, annoyed with the embarrassment. His forehead crinkled with frustration.
"My father simply wants there to be someone older to be responsible. You seem responsible enough. We'll be happy to pay." He jingled a purse of coins, which made Merevaika second guess her decision. Babysitting a bunch of foolish hunters would be painful but he seemed to be wiling to pay a lot.
A plan started formulating in her head. These kids were stupid, naive and easy to fool. Perhaps she could do what she always dreamt of doing - steal from a client. Of course, she could never put her name on it. The answer was obvious - disguise. "I'm busy, and honestly? Babysitting you isn't my job." She smiled at that point. "But I know a few who are. Claudius, Beckett, Tari. Ask around for them in the market tomorrow, should be around." Well, "Tari" would be anyway. The other two were pure fabrications. "Your name, so I could let them know?"
"Tell them to ask for Gebe," he grinned, happy the arranged. He turned, marching off deliberately with the intention of being followed. Some did straight away, others lingered behind, not wanting to simply be followers. Only one remained, a snide girl that was younger than the rest. Reminded Merevaika of herself, hanging around with her brother and his friends, despite the fact they were the same age. She seemed disconnected.
Knowledgeable at the same time. "We aren't all stupid. Remember that." She was the one to look out for.
They weren't all stupid, but by stating that, the girl had proved that she was.
She had just become more of a target.
"Pavi"
Grassland sign
"Common"