A Stray on the Road
Author’s Note: I work with a lot of the pediatric population as a nurse, so I thought about what Halsin and Astarion’s reactions would be to me having to protect and take care of every kid I find lol
The day was grueling. The sticky sensation of blood covers every inch of your skin. Aches and pains rattle your bones, and the road seems endless as your group searches for a good place to set up camp. The only thought keeping you going is that of curling up between Astarion and Halsin later.
“Gods, this is hell,” Karlach complains.
Wyll responds with some snide comment, but you’re only half listening, because you’re approaching a rather violent scene. Wagons are tipped over, and bodies litter the road. You slow as you approach, noticing a small figure sitting by a pair of bodies.
Your gaze sharpens, and you see it’s a young girl. No older than 5. Tears stream down her cheeks as she sits by a pair of dead bodies. Your heart sinks as you realize it’s probably her parents.
“Hang back, guys,” you say. You fear the approach of such a large group will frighten her. Attempting to wipe the blood off your face, you walk up to the girl.
Her clothes are tattered, and you notice she has a few cuts lining her arms and legs. You crouch next to her.
“Hey,” you say softly.
Big beautiful brown eyes meet yours. Something twists in your chest.
“What’s your name?” you ask.
She sniffles. “Eowyn.”
“Eowyn, do you have family nearby?”
She shakes her head. “No. And I don’t know where I am.”
Her voice trembles, and your heart breaks for her. You look back to your companions. Most won’t mind her staying with them, except for Astarion, who will be annoyed by the young presence.Your friends look back at you expectantly, wondering what your next move is.
“Would you like to stay with me and my friends for the night?” you ask her.
She looks to the group behind you, and you half expect her to run away in fear with how harsh they look.
But her expression doesn’t change, she simply nods her head.
“Do you think you can walk?” you ask her.
She shakes her head.
You smile at her. “That’s okay. Halsin?”
The elf approaches. Eowyn stares up at him, eyes wide.
“Is it alright if my friend carries you?” you ask her.
She nods. “He’s so tall.” Her eyes are filled with wonder.
“He is,” you say with a chuckle. You look to Halsin and he nods. He reaches down and picks up the child, placing her on his shoulder.
“Hold on, child,” he says. There’s a slight smile on her face, but then darkness fills her eyes again.
Your group ventures forth once more. The sun is beginning to set, casting shadows along the road. But you can’t help but admire the beautiful colors streaking across the sky.
Astarion falls into step beside you. “Picked up another stray, I see.”
You nudge your shoulder against him. “You were a stray once too.”
He gives a half smile. “I’m just worried you’re going to burden yourself with her safety.”
You let out a sigh, knowing he wouldn’t like her presence. “She has no one, Astarion.”
He doesn’t say anymore, but you can feel the tenseness between you two. Your relationship is still being navigated. But even with your difference in values, you couldn’t stop yourselves from being drawn to each other.
A giggle pulls you from your thoughts. You look back to see Eowyn playing with Halsin’s braids. He’s grinning back at her, thoroughly enjoying her laughs. The sight sparks a warmth within you, and you can’t stop the smile from growing on your lips.
“Ugh.” Astarion comments. “Does he always have to be so…Halsin?”
You shoot him a half hearted glare. Despite him being agreeable to Halsin joining your relationship, he always seems taken aback by his general goodness and willingness to help others.
Your trek continues, Astarion allowing your hands to brush ever so slightly as you walk the dusty road.
