JOURNEY day 2

Xenia woke to the gentle sway of the carriage, her head resting comfortably against a firm, warm chest. As her eyes fluttered open, she realized she was nestled in Varric's arms. His eyes were closed, and he looked peaceful, so unlike the monster everyone else saw him as. A pang of guilt hit her as memories of her past life flooded back. She remembered the disdainful looks she gave him, the way she pushed him away. He had always been kind, patient, and loving, and yet she had only ever responded with coldness and hatred.

Tears welled up in her eyes as she hugged him tightly, vowing to make amends in this new life. Varric stirred and woke, looking down at her with a small smile. He kissed her forehead tenderly and whispered, “Good morning, my love.”

“Good morning,” she replied softly, her voice thick with emotion. They lingered in each other's arms for a moment longer before leaving the carriage to join the others for breakfast.

During the meal, Xenia resolved to get closer to her personal maids, Lucy and Daisy. She wanted to understand more about the place that would soon be her home. “Tell me about Winterland,” she asked them as they traveled, her curiosity genuine.

Lucy, a kind-hearted girl with bright eyes, began to speak. “Winterland is quite cold, but thanks to Lord Varric, the temperature inside the main city is manageable. It's only outside the main city that it's unbearably cold. Only Lord Varric and his soldiers venture out there.”

Daisy, who was more reserved but equally kind, added, “There are many attacks by winter beasts outside the main city. Lord Varric is always working to make the city walls stronger to keep everyone safe. The beasts are fierce and dangerous. It’s why normal citizens are not allowed beyond the city walls.”

She spent the day talking more with Lucy and Daisy, learning about their lives and experiences in Winterland. Lucy shared stories of the festivals they celebrated to bring warmth to the cold days, while Daisy spoke of the camaraderie and strength of the people.

“The people of Winterland are resilient,” Lucy said with a smile. “We’ve learned to thrive despite the cold, and Lord Varric has done so much to help us.”

Daisy nodded. “He’s a great leader, always thinking of ways to protect us. And now, with you by his side, we believe things will only get better.”

Xenia felt a renewed sense of purpose. She was determined to support Varric and become a part of this resilient community. As the day wore on, the rugged terrain continued to challenge them, but Xenia found herself growing accustomed to the constant motion of the carriage.

Xenia listened intently, her heart swelling with pride and affection for Varric. She knew all of this from her past life, but hearing it from her maids made it feel more real. She remembered a time when she had accidentally walked into the medical room of the soldiers and saw one of them bloodied from a beast attack. The sight had horrified her and made her realize just how perilous life in Winterland could be.

As the day progressed, the rugged terrain made the carriage ride uncomfortable. It jumped and jolted with every bump and dip, causing Xenia to brace herself constantly. During their brief evening stop, Varric approached her. “How are you holding up?” he asked, concern etched on his face.

Xenia managed a tired smile. “Except for my waist, everything is fine.”

Varric nodded, his expression softening. “In Winterland, you’ll be fine. This journey is tough, but you can rest all you want once we get there.”

As they resumed their journey, Xenia noticed Varric remained on his horse. Confused, she asked, “Why aren’t you joining me in the carriage?”

“I’ll enter late at night,” he replied, his voice firm but gentle.

That evening, Varric instructed his soldiers to stop for the night at the next village inn. The leader of the soldier team, looking concerned, reminded him, “If we stop here tonight, it will take us eight days to reach Winterland.”

Varric gave him a reassuring look but said nothing more. Xenia, observing the exchange, felt a warm glow in her heart. He was doing this for her, ensuring she had a comfortable place to rest, even if it delayed their journey.

As they settled into the inn, Xenia felt a sense of peace she hadn’t known before. Varric’s consideration and care were evident in every action. After a hearty meal, they retired to their room.

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