Rae's ears caught the familiar sound of fists pounding against wood—a routine that had become all too common. She let out a weary sigh as the door to her shabby hut protested with a creak as it was once again assaulted.

"Alright, I heard you. Just give me a moment," Rae called out, her voice tinged with frustration. She turned and retrieved a sack from the corner of the room. Living outside of towns or cities, she had hoped for peace and solitude amidst the scenic beauty of Himlasia's wilderness. But her hopes had been shattered, as she was reminded once again.

"Hurry up! We don't have all day," barked a voice from outside her door. Rae chose to ignore it and checked the contents of the sack. Within it, she found various plants and herbs—mostly Firelace leaves and Moonshrooms along with some other herbs and fungi. With the contents verified, she approached the door and opened it, only to be greeted by a fist that stopped inches from her face, causing her to flinch. A few chuckles echoed from the small group lingering outside her shack. The chuckles subsided when the owner of the fist spoke up.

"Apologies for that, Miss Rae. I was just going to knock on the door," the man said sarcastically. Rae desperately wanted to curse him out, but she knew the consequences from their previous encounter—a bloody mess that left her face scarred even a month later.

"Captain Walker," Rae responded flatly, extending the sack toward him. The captain, a bulky man in his forties with thinning hair and disheveled plated armor, snatched the sack from her. He examined its contents for a moment before frowning and turning his beady scarred eyes back to Rae.

"This sack seems a little light, don't you think, Rae? The governor won't be pleased," he sneered.

"That's all I could find in my area. If we could just..."

"It doesn't matter. Go into the mountains if you have to. We expect double the quota next month," Captain Walker interrupted.

"Double? Walker, that's impossible! How am I supposed to..."

"It's Captain Walker, and this isn't up for debate. Make it happen, Rae."

"But... how... fine."

"Perfect. Here is this month's pay," Captain Walker said, untying a small pouch from his belt and handing it to Rae. She accepted the pouch, inwardly cursing. Judging by its weight, she could tell she had been paid only half of her usual meager sum. She thanked the captain without meeting his gaze, and he huffed before marching off with his entourage, retreating down the road. Rae stood silently, watching them for a moment before turning back into her home. She closed the door behind her and took a seat at her small wooden table. Peeking inside the pouch, she began to count.

"One mil and ten elo, huh? Damn, they really did cut my pay in half, greedy bastards. Oh well, I still have another sale to make. Maybe Paul will be a little more generous today," Rae mused thoughtfully. With renewed determination, she rose from her chair and retrieved another sack hidden under her bed, preparing to venture out once again.

A few hours later, Rae approached the city of Brixton, its massive stone walls obscuring most of the view. Only glimpses of rooftops and columns of smoke hinted at the bustling city hidden within. As she drew closer, Rae noticed that the line of travelers and merchants waiting to enter the city was unusually long. It struck her as odd, but she swiftly made her way toward the group of people and joined the back of the line. Slowly, the line inched forward as guards inspected the goods and interrogated those seeking entry. Eventually, Rae reached the front, where two guards in chainmail armor and wielding spears stood before her.

"Reason for entering, miss?" the first guard asked, his voice gruff and tinged with laziness.

"I'm here to meet a friend of mine," Rae replied, her tone confident but polite.

"What is in the sack you're carrying?" the second guard inquired, leaning lazily on his spear.

"Mostly Firelace leaves along with some other medicinal herbs," Rae answered, her eyes meeting the guard's gaze.

The first guard narrowed his eyes and glanced at the sack Rae carried. "Is that all you have?"

Rae nodded, reaching for the strings that held the sack closed. "If you want, I can show you the contents."

The second guard waved his hand dismissively. "No need, we trust you. Just pass through."

Relieved, Rae flashed a grateful smile. "Thank you, sirs. Have a good day."

As Rae briskly walked through the gate, she was immediately greeted by a symphony of sounds that transported her into a bustling tapestry of life. The narrow streets of Brixton converged into a vibrant thoroughfare, lined with timber-framed buildings adorned with colorful awnings and decorative flags that fluttered gently in the breeze. The air was thick with the aroma of freshly baked bread, fragrant herbs, and the sweet scent of blooming flowers, weaving together into an intoxicating perfume that wafted through the town.

Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.

The bustling main road of the town came alive with the vibrant chaos of vendors, each one passionately showcasing their wares to anyone who passed by. Market stalls, laden with an array of goods, stretched as far as the eye could see. Gleaming silver jewelry sparkled under the warm sunlight, silk scarves danced with every gust of wind, and a rainbow of fruits and vegetables spilled from wooden crates. Voices mingled together in a harmonious cacophony, with merchants calling out their prices, enticing customers with promises of unmatched quality, while the clinking of coins and the rustling of parchment filled the air.

As Rae navigated through the lively streets of Bryxton, she couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity and comfort envelop her. The town's architecture, a captivating blend of half-timbered houses and stone structures, stood tall and proud, their facades adorned with carved reliefs depicting mythical creatures and historical events. Moss and ivy embraced the walls, adding an ancient charm to the scenery.

This bustling town had become a second home to her over the years, and she knew its nooks and crannies like the back of her hand. She effortlessly weaved through the crowds, her senses attuned to the rhythmic flow of the town's pulse. She deftly maneuvered through the labyrinthine streets, gracefully dodging the vibrant stalls that spilled their wares onto the thoroughfare and skillfully sidestepping groups of children engaged in playful games. 

Finally, Rae reached the quieter part of town where Paul's house was nestled. It was a modest, cozy abode with a charming garden at the front. She knocked on the door, anticipating building as she awaited her friend's welcoming presence.

Moments later, the door swung open, and Paul's warm smile greeted her. He was a middle-aged man with a salt-and-pepper beard, his eyes twinkling with kindness.

"Rae! It's been too long," Paul exclaimed, pulling her into a tight embrace. "Come in, come in. I've missed you."

Rae stepped inside, feeling an immediate sense of comfort envelop her. The familiar scent of herbs and the crackling sound of a fire in the hearth filled the cozy living room. She took a seat on the worn-out armchair, appreciating the nostalgic ambiance.

"So, what brings you to town today?" Paul asked, settling into a chair across from her.

Rae sighed, reaching into her bag to retrieve the smaller sack she had brought with her. "Business, unfortunately. It's been tough lately. Captain Walker cut my pay, and now they're demanding double the goods for next month."

Paul's expression shifted to one of concern. "I'm sorry to hear that, Rae. Is there anything I can do to help?"

Rae paused for a moment before replying, "Actually, there is." She pulled out some of the firelace leaves from her sack. "I was hoping you could help me find a buyer for these herbs. I'm a little low on cash right now."

Paul's face fell a little bit before he replied, "I should be able to find a buyer, but Rae, are you sure it's a good idea? If the governor finds out about this, there could be some serious consequences."

Rae nodded, understanding the risks. "Trust me, I know," she said, recalling the beating she had received from Captain Walker a few months ago. "I don't understand why the governor is so stingy about some herbs. They're literally just plants." She vented her frustration, feeling the weight of the unfairness.

"They are not just plants, Rae. You know that," Paul rebuked gently. "Although it is strange that the governor wants so many of them. Maybe he knows something we don't."

"True... I guess I'll just have to wait and see," Rae sighed, realizing the uncertainty of the situation. "Anyway, I'll leave the herbs with you for now. If you can find a buyer for them, it would be a huge help."

"Consider it done," Paul replied with a reassuring smile.

"Thanks, Paul. You have no idea how much this means to me," Rae expressed her gratitude, her voice filled with sincerity.

“Anyway,enough of this talk about sales and plants," Paul exclaimed, waving his hand dismissively. "I was just about to prepare dinner, and Jane should be home any minute now. How about staying for a meal?" He suggested, rising from his chair with an inviting gesture.

Rae contemplated the kind offer and was on the verge of politely declining when the front door suddenly burst open, revealing a young girl with cascading curls of fiery crimson and a mischievous smile. Her vibrant blue eyes sparkled with joy as they locked onto Rae, and with a playful skip, she kicked off her shoes and eagerly made her way toward Rae.

Rae let out a gentle sigh, when Paul's warm voice resonated from the kitchen. "It seems you've run out of chances to refuse," he playfully declared.

A mischievous glimmer danced in Rae's eyes as she caught Paul's words. With a  smirk tugging at the corner of her lips, she responded, "Well, it appears I'll be accepting your offer after all."

As the sun began its descent, casting a warm, golden glow over the  city of Brixton, Rae bid farewell to Paul's home, her stomach content and her ears still tingling from the abundance of  stories shared by Jane. 

Rae made a few quick stops to some of the vendors to buy some supplies before exiting the city and heading back toward the direction of her home. As she walked she couldn't help but be captivated by the mountains and the forests as they shone in the evening sun. She had chosen to live closer to mountains hoping it would lead to a quiet peaceful life but so far the plan hadn't been going too well. But still the view was always there to calm her nerves.     

Before bidding farewell to the vibrant town of Brixton, Rae made a few swift stops at various vendors, procuring essential supplies for her journey ahead. Satchel laden with provisions, she stepped out of the bustling city and ventured back toward the direction of her home. The familiar path stretched before her, beckoning her forward.

As Rae walked, her gaze was irresistibly drawn to the majestic Highwood Mountains that loomed in the distance, their mighty peaks bathed in the warm hues of the evening sun. A sense of awe washed over her, the sheer grandeur of nature's masterpiece captivating her heart. No matter how many times she witnessed the view she always had the same feelings wash over her. The rugged cliffs and towering evergreens of the nearby forest stood in harmonious contrast against the backdrop of the luminous sky, creating a breathtaking view that calmed her soul.

Living in close proximity to these awe-inspiring mountains had been a deliberate choice for Rae, an aspiration for a life of tranquility and serenity. Although the path to attaining that peace had proven challenging, she found solace in the ever-present beauty that surrounded her. 

After an hour of steady walking, Rae finally arrived at her secluded cottage nestled amidst the serene woods. As she approached, a sense of familiarity and comfort enveloped her. The modest dwelling stood before her, a testament to her humble aspirations for a tranquil life.

Built with care and craftsmanship, the cottage boasted walls made of neatly cut logs, exuding a rustic charm that harmonized with the natural surroundings. The wood had weathered over time, revealing the stories of its endurance etched into the grain. A delicate wisp of smoke rose from the chimney, a gentle invitation dancing upon the air.

The thatched roof, adorned with small patches of vibrant green moss, added an enchanting touch to the cottage's exterior. It seemed as if nature itself had embraced the humble abode, offering a gentle caress of verdant life upon the dwelling. 

The door to her home beckoned to Rae, its weathered handle inviting her touch. With a sense of familiarity and belonging, she grasped the handle and gently pulled, revealing the warmth and comfort that awaited within. As the door swung open, a soft creak filled the air, as if the cottage itself were greeting her.

"Welcome home," whispered Rae to herself, her voice carrying a tender sentiment as she stepped over the threshold. The familiar embrace of her sanctuary enveloped her, a sanctuary that had witnessed her joys and sorrows, her dreams and aspirations. Closing the door behind her, she felt a gentle sense of closure, leaving the outside world and its cares behind.