The "adventure" had been a success. Gilean, Sanria, Matinus, and Nioma had all arrived in the remotest section Myth Drannor. Matinus had been in awe of the woods and immediately took Nioma under his wing, protectively showing her around and taking care to keep her safe. Gilean had also been attentive to Sanria's every need - ensuring that she wanted for nothing. Though Sanria felt at first the trip was a diversion that kept her from thinking about her feelings, she slowly found herself relaxing into the slower pace of the woods. They had found a place in one of the ancient houses to stay where the children could run about safely without fear.
Time seemed to slow, and as Gilean patiently tended the entire family, Sanria began to feel that perhaps she could dedicate herself to him. It was a commitment that grew easier for her to see. Her new life was here already, she only had to step into it.
That night, the children were already tucked in. Gilean kissed Sanria's hand and smiled at her. "I'm going to take a little walk, maybe get some firewood... would you like to come along?"
"It's been a long day," she replied, smiling back.
"Have you enjoyed the trip?"
"More than you could imagine. I'm... really glad we came."
"So am I." Gilean walked to the door. "I will be back, my dear."
"I'll be waiting."
As Gilean disappeared, Sanria walked to the bed and dropped her robes. She slipped beneath the covers, pulling them over her, admiring the smell of the forest on them. She closed her eyes, and the sound of magic made her smile. A body plopped into bed beside her and she threw her arm over a chest. "You're back," she said with a smile.
"Yes. I am."
Sanria's eyes opened quickly at the sound of the voice. Colin grabbed her tightly to him. He was half dressed, and the smell of alcohol rolled off his breath as he kissed her with drunken passion.
