Chapter 35: Hiding And Starving

As soon as she returned to her village, Oriana packed everything she needed for her trip to the South. Her knife was in its sheath by her belt, hidden under her outer coat, and from time to time, she kept on touching it. The familiar feel of its handle calmed her heart.

'With my knife back, I have no need to see that annoying face ever again. Good riddance!' She looked at the pouch filled with a hundred silver coins. "Though, that filthy rich brat's payment sure is timely. Now I don't have to worry about traveling expenses and the cost of that herb."

"Have you finished packing, Ori?" the old man asked. 

"Yes, Grandpa." She handed over a coin pouch to her grandfather. She had placed inside everything she earned from selling herbs the past few days. "This is for you grandpa. No need to be frugal. Use as  much as you can when you go to town next time."