Edie

Edie

SasatheShy

--

Chapter Forty: Edie’s Choice

--

Upon entering his home, Cain was surprised to find Lavan standing there alongside Mark. He looked well prepared. Though he was dressed in his outdoorsy, heavy clothes and boots, he still managed to have a sword cupped around his waist. It rested in a dusty brown sheath. He turned, watching Cain enter through the door.

“Why are you here?” Cain asked. “I thought we would meet…”

“Just wanted to make sure you didn’t get lost,” Lavan said, teasing. He eyed Cain up and down, glaring. “Did you enjoy your time with Edie?”

Cain raised a brow. “How…?”

“Seriously? You two were louder than a couple of pigs wrestling in mud. But it doesn’t matter. You should deserve a final night with her. After all, it was your last.”

The captain was becoming irritated with Lavan’s crude attitude. The hunter was, without a question, blinded by rage. And Cain wasn’t sure if he could have a man-to-man talk with Lavan, now. Any man was difficult to talk with once fired up. But Cain would keep sharp.

“We’ll see,” he whispered. He turned his attention on Mark. The second-in-command seemed stiff as a statue. His skin was becoming blue, and he looked about ready to burst. “Mark?”

“Captain,” Mark stepped forward. He bowed his head. “I -- wish I had something to say.”

“It’s quite alright,” Cain whispered. He watched Lavan move over to the front door.

“I’ll wait outside,” Lavan said, cranking his neck. “Don’t keep me waiting.”

Once Lavan had gone outside, Cain faced Mark. He touched Mark’s shoulder, giving it a firm, friendly squeeze. “Talk to me?”

“I don’t…” Mark paused. He found himself hugging Cain, then. He startled his captain, but there was no pulling away from the hug. It was much needed, and much appreciated. “He wouldn’t tell me where you two are dueling…”

“We planned to keep that a secret,” Cain said. He pulled away, then. He sincerely smiled at Mark.

“Listen well,” Cain whispered, just in case Lavan had his ear up against the front door. He had grown Mark’s interest. “A few miles out -- west of town, we’re fighting in the woods… A small clearing close to town. Edie’s sleeping in her room… Give me -- twenty minutes, tops…” he stopped there, and he took a few steps back.

“Goodbye Mark,” he said loudly. “Don’t wait up for me.”

Mark nodded. He watched his captain leave through the front door.

“Please be careful,” he whispered.

--

Cain’s eyes darted here and there. He took in the sounds of the wood, not familiar with it like Lavan was. For once in his life, he appreciated the soft wind, chirping birds, and beautiful nature surrounding him. It truly was magnificent.

He followed just behind Lavan, sitting atop a gorgeous gray mare. Lavan sat atop a brown one with white spots as they followed a gravel-like path some ways into the woods. He was glad there was a path. It may make it easier for Mark to find them -- if twenty minutes did pass. It had taken about ten to get to their current location, so he knew Mark was already worrying, and probably preparing for the worst.

“How much further?” he asked, then.

Lavan pulled on the leathery brown reins keeping his mare at bay. The beautiful creature stopped. “We walk from here.”

Getting off his own horse, Cain nodded his head. “Very well.”

The two left their horses to graze as they journeyed into the thick trees. Cain would surely get lost if he were alone. He knew Lavan’s instincts were grand. And before he knew it, they had entered the lovely clearing Lavan had spoken of.

The trees surrounded the round, small clearing. A brush of light rayed down through the branches, making the area appear sacred. To the far back, a large rock formation stood, covered in green moss. Hardly any sounds echoed from the area. Cain could hear only a few birds and insects. As tranquil as the clearing seemed, Cain knew it could very well be stained with blood out of hatred.

Staying put, he watched Lavan step into the area. Lavan faced him, already prepared to draw out his sword and fight.

“No one will hear us here,” he claimed. “We’re all alone.”

“I can see that,” Cain said, nodding his head. He took his time moving forward. He paced like a turtle, not keen on drawing his own sword. “You truly did calculate your plan, didn’t you?”

“It’s for the best.”

Really? Lavan still believed that? Cain nearly sighed out loud. He stared ahead, showing Lavan little signs of readiness. He was seeping out uncertainty, and was prepared to try and talk Lavan out of the challenge.

“We don’t have to do this,” he began, making sure to keep his voice under control. “Both of us know that if we follow through to the end, Edie will end up heartbroken.”

“She can’t decide!” Lavan shouted. “Haven’t we discussed this before?”

“We have, Lavan, but I don’t think you’ve been listening!” It was the first of few times Cain addressed Lavan by his rightful name, instead of as merely the sweeper or hunter. He had stunned Lavan for some seconds as he continued. “Edie doesn’t want this.”

“And when have you cared about how Edie feels?” Lavan asked, stunning Cain. “You’re the worst man possible for her. You’ve corrupted her, and now she thinks she loves you. But you don’t deserve her!”

Quivering, Cain reached for his sword. He grasped the handle, feeling his old self returning. He knew that if Lavan kept up with the insults, that he’d turn again. And he tried fighting it. He no longer wanted to be the man he once was -- the man that once enjoyed being known as ‘Cretchen.’

“You’ve -- got it all wrong,” he said to Lavan. He took a deep breath. “I never forced her to love me. She did that all on her own. I didn’t corrupt her. And I know that what I’ve done was wrong. But I love her, and care for her -- if you did, then you’d stop this now.”

“Not going to happen.”

Lavan drew his sword. He held the sharp point out at Cain, almost grinning. “Draw your weapon, and face me, Cain! Prove to me that you really love Edie! Fight me for her!”

Stiffening, Cain tightened his hold on the silvery handle of his sword. In seconds, he slowly pulled it from its sheath. He held it out, feeling his anger boiling within.

This was it, he thought. This single battle would reveal which man deserved to have Edie.

“Very well,” he whispered. “Come at me…”

Shouting, Lavan charged Cain. In a second’s flash, their swords clashed.

And their effort to win over Edie’s heart collided.

--

“Mm.”

A blessed sigh escaped her as Edie’s joyous eyes fluttered open. Yawning, she smiled happily as she turned ready to greet Cain. Her arm grazed against cold covers, having expected the touch of Cain’s warm, breathing chest. Surprised, Edie shot up. She stared around her empty bedroom, seeing no sign of Cain. She started to feel panicky as she saw his clothes were gone.

“No.” She trembled getting to her feet, hurriedly racing to dress. She slipped on plain tan undergarments and a simple brown dress. She rushed on a long outdoor cape before darting out of her bedroom. An intense amount of fear spread throughout her like a plague. She had a bad sense filling up from the pit of her stomach. “No.. God -- no!”

He had promised he’d stay! How could he?

Racing upstairs, Edie nearly burst the back door down. Eyes turned to her, startled by her loud presence. She saw a group of Cretchens drinking at one table, and so she hurried over to them. “Where’s Cain?”

“Excuse me?” one with a scratchy beard asked.

“Where’s Cain?” she repeated, pounding her hands on the table’s surface. She caused the glasses to shake, and made some ale spill. “Where is you captain!”

“Fuck,” he growled. “We don’t know…”

“Edie…!”

Turning her head, Edie saw Tonisha gaping at her. The innkeeper was shaking, and seemed nervous. Edie had a strong suspicion. She dashed up to Tonisha.

“Tonisha,” she cried. “Where is Cain?”

“He’s -- somewhere…” she drifted.

“I know he’s off fighting Lavan!” Edie yelled, making Tonisha tense up. “I overheard them last night! Cain told me he wouldn’t go, but --! I have to know where they are, Tonisha! I have to stop them!” She started to sob as she looked down. Tears left her eyes, staining her cheeks. “Please, Tonisha --? T -- tell me?”

“I’m sorry,” Tonisha whispered. “I don’t know where they are.”

But there was a second voice, then. A strong, firm voice. “I do.”

Edie swiftly looked behind her, finding Mark standing there. The Cretchens at the table eyed him awkwardly as Edie stepped up to him.

“You do?” she asked.

“Yes,” Mark nodded.

“Take me to them?” Edie pleaded.

“That’s why I’m here,” Mark smiled. “Cain’s orders.”

Surprised, Tonisha shook her head. No -- Cain had told him? She could not understand why. “Mark!”

“Tonisha,” Mark growled. “You had no right interfering.” He took Edie’s hand, and guided her towards the door. “It sickens me to see that you and this Lavan had stooped as low as the captain.”

“What?” Tonisha gasped. “I’d never…!”

“Listen to yourself, Tonisha,” he said, sighing. “You’ve hidden this from Edie because you want Cain to lose. But it‘s not your decision, nor Lavan’s, nor Cain’s. The choice is Edie’s.”

Gaping, Tonisha closed her mouth. She felt humiliated, for Mark was right. It was Edie’s choice. She loved those two men, but Tonisha knew, then, that one of them Edie loved more than the other. She could see the truth, now.

“Go,” Tonisha whispered.

Nodding, Mark rushed Edie out of there. In minutes, he had helped her onto a fine chestnut mare. He got behind her, and nicked the horse into a gallop as they went west out of town. Edie was confused, but she leaned against Mark, only hoping that they weren’t too late.

--

Aching, tired, and covered in sweat, the two men were losing their strength. Cain and Lavan had been clashing swords for a while now, and neither seemed close to falling victim to the other. Even though both were panting like dogs, the two had not let their guards down. Neither were injured -- not even with tiny cuts.

Cain stepped back, watching the hunter catching his breath against a fat, thick tree. He pushed his own back against one, keeping his sword out in case Lavan decided to charge him again.

“This is ridiculous,” he mumbled. He shifted his head some, eyeing Lavan. “Why not call it a draw?”

“A draw?” Lavan gaped. “No fucking way. I’m not through with you yet.”

“Please Lavan,” Cain panted. “I’m begging you. Let’s stop this, and go back into town. Let’s tell Edie that we’ll do it her way. Please?”

He waited, wondering if Lavan might actually consider his words. The hunter glimpsed down, and kicked at some rocks. He let loose more anger, growling. “No.”

“Lavan,” Cain tried again, getting interrupted.

“No!” Lavan growled. He pushed off the tree, stepping forward. “Stop trying to manipulate me! I know what you’re doing!”

Sighing, Cain shook his head. He chuckled some. “You know, Lavan, you are really starting to piss me off.”

“Good,” Lavan said, taking another step. “Get pissed off! Get as mad as you can, bastard! Show me the demon side of you that fucked Edie so long ago!”

At that moment, Cain’s side he’s kept locked away was reaching back to him. He lifted his head, showing Lavan dark, fiery orbs. The hunter had gone too far.

“Take that back,” Cain growled.

Shaking his head, Lavan grinned. “No.”

Cain could hold back no longer. He charged Lavan with all his might, catching the hunter off guard. He raised his sword, clashing against Lavan’s own as Lavan struggled to fight back, trying to keep his own sword raised as a shield. He kept having to take large steps back, doing so to keep himself from tumbling down. Where had Cain’s inner strength come from? Or was this his true self, and he had merely been holding back on Lavan? Lavan growled. He turned his sword, prepared to stab through Cain’s chest -- but then…

“Ah!” Lavan cried out as his hand was sliced. He dropped his sword, and before he could react, Cain kicked it across the rocky floor.

Lavan gasped as Cain’s boot greeted his chest. He fell hard to the ground, groaning. The pressure had caused him to slide back, and he stopped just alongside the giant rock formation Before he knew it, Cain’s sword was raised, and the tip was at Lavan’s chest, ready to dig in.

--

Mark kept his hands fixated around Edie’s waist, making sure she wouldn’t fall. He had his horse going at top speed, trying to make the twenty minutes Cain had promised him. They traveled east, and journeyed towards the woods. Mark hoped he could find them -- and that they’d make it before it was too late.

Soon, he allowed the horse to trot as they came closer to the wood’s edge, following along the small gravel trail. Edie had her eyes forward, focused on getting to them, wherever they may be. Looking ahead, she gaped to see the two horses Cain and Lavan had rode up on grazing just some feet from the thicket.

“There,” she urged as Mark nodded. He saw it.

“They must be close,” he said. He pulled on the reins, making their own horse come to a stop next to the others. “They’re in some… Edie!”

Edie had jumped down, all on her own. She stumbled as she hit the ground, not used to riding atop a horse. But she didn’t care. She had to race to this clearing, and find them. She’d take her chances. Entering the woods, she did not stop even as Mark shouted out for her to stop.

“Wait!” he called. “You could get lost! Edie!” But seeing that she was far out of reach now, Mark had a feeling she’d find Cain anyway. He’d catch up.

--

Having closed his eyes, Lavan waited, expecting indefinable pain of steel sinking into his skin at any given second. He winced as he waited, feeling the sharp point of Cain’s sword ready to dig in, and take out his flesh. But after seconds of waiting, nothing happened. He opened one eye, and glanced up to find that Cain was struggling. The captain had his teeth grinding together, clearly angered and hurt by what Lavan had said. Cain was turning red, furious and ready to kill. However, something was holding him back; something Lavan could not make out. Not trembling, Cain merely seemed stuck.

“W -- what’s wrong?” Lavan asked, then. “Why aren't you -- stabbing me? Go on, you’ve -- you’ve got me pinned. So go ahead and fucking do it!”

And Cain wanted to -- oh so badly! He never felt more disgusted with anyone in all his life! Lavan had transformed into a waste of a human being, and Cain just had the feeling that someday, Lavan was going to hurt Edie tremendously. But something within him made Cain keep from plunging his sword into the hunter’s chest. Though his arms were raised and ready, he could not go through with it.

He had made a promise to himself. He no longer wanted to hurt Edie. He could not do it. He could not kill the hunter.

Slowly, Cain got to his feet. He threw his sword down next to Lavan. He glared Lavan down, keeping calm. He saw Lavan’s confusion.

“Are you insane?” Lavan questioned.

“No,” Cain said, whispering. He shook his head before taking a step back. “Just -- in love.”

And he turned, then. He turned, leaving Lavan in the dirt. He was not going to fight the hunter any longer. He was not going to risk causing Edie anymore pain. He planned on returning to town, and seeing her. And he planned on so much more.

Just then, he heard rustling before him. He lifted his head, eyes widening as he watched Edie’s small form come out from between two bushes. She halted in her steps, breathing heavily.

Their eyes locked.

Panting, Edie smiled happily. “Cain.”

Smiling back, Cain took a single step forward. “Edie…”

Then, something caused the captain to freeze. The entire atmosphere became silent. He became cold as he saw Edie’s eyes fill with pain. She balled fists, prepared to scream and run to him. And at first, he was confused by this. Why, so suddenly, had her happy face become sad? After a moment of worrying for her, Cain soon realized why. He soon felt a sting of pain coursing through him. A pain building up from his stomach. And as he heard Edie grievously cry out in a stream of horror, Cain managed to bow his head just enough to find the familiar tip of his own sword, now tainted in crimson, sticking out of his chest.

“NO!” Edie wailed.

Cain tried turning his head. All sound came back as he felt the sword pull out of him. There behind him, Lavan was panting and trembling, holding Cain’s bloodied sword with both hands. As Cain managed a single glimpse at him, he turned his attention back on Edie before falling to the ground. He coughed out Edie’s name as she ran to him.

Lavan stepped back as the captain fell. He watched Cain hit the rocky floor hard. He believed the captain would be dead even before hitting the ground, but to Lavan’s amazement, Cain was still breathing -- he was still alive.

“Cain!” Edie cried. She collapsed to her knees, and put her hands over Cain. They became stained with his blood, but she did not care. A fog of hate washed over her as she glared up at Lavan through her puffed up eyes.

Seeing those eyes made Lavan gap. He still held the sword, but even so, he was quivering like a mad man, lost by Edie’s reaction. He made sure to step back as her eyes dug into him, burning his skin.

“What did you do?“ she cried to him. At first, he did not understand. “Go get Mark! Go!”

And Lavan knew, then. As he dropped the sword, letting it clink to the ground, he knew…

He had just made a huge mistake.

Quickly, he dashed around them, running in the direction Edie had come through.

Through her best effort, Edie examined the wound. She scooted up, touching Cain’s forehead as he coughed.

“Cain?” she wept.

Slowly, Cain looked up at her. He was able to turn his head, and smile at her. “Y -- you got my -- message?”

“Mark brought me,” she cried. “W -- why, Cain? Why did you come up here?”

“I -- I’m not sure,” he said. He managed a chuckle, but it caused him to wince. He knew that his blood was oozing out of him, staining the ground. He did best to lift his arm, and cup Edie’s hand in his own. “I think -- I wanted -- to prove a point. I -- I wanted you to -- see that I was trying Edie -- because -- because I love you…”

“Idiot,” Edie sniffed. She shook his head as she looked back. Where was Mark? He had to hurry! “Both of you were.”

“Listen, Edie -- please?” He struggled to talk, but he knew that what he had to say was important. He had to tell her everything on his mind -- before it was too late. “I -- know that you love -- Lavan. And I -- I know that you belong with him. He -- is your choice…”

“What?” Edie gaped. She shook her head, then. “No! No, Cain! No -- I don’t want to be with him! I --” she paused, and leaned down closer to him, crying. “I choose you, Cain! My choice is you! I want to be with you! I want to marry you, Cain! Please? Please, Cain?”

In all his life, Cain’s never felt so wonderful. Managing a smile, he reached his opposite hand up to caress her cheek. He brushed his thumb along her soft skin, catching a tear.

“You -- you don’t know how -- happy I am to hear you say that.” He chuckled again, coughing. He leaned his head up some, fighting the pain.

“Please don’t die?” Edie whimpered. “I love you.”

Cain sighed happily..

“Edie,” he whispered. “T -- there’s something I’ve -- been meaning to tell you. Something -- that I -- should have told you -- long ago.”

“Please…?” she begged. But Cain continued.

“J -- just let me talk,” he smiled. “Edie -- what I did to you was -- the worst thing I’ve ever -- done, and I -- I…” he groaned, struggling.

A tear left him. He was crying, now, crying with her -- for her… And seeing those tears made Edie feel weak. She closed her eyes, knowing what he was about to say. She’s been waiting to hear the words for the longest time, and now -- finally…

“Edie, I’m -- sorry…”

Sniffing, Edie cried harder. She nodded, ready to forgive him. But she became tensed as she felt Cain’s hand go numb in her own. She shook, feeling his warm hand that had been cupping her cheek fall. Opening her eyes, Edie glanced down, watching horridly as Cain’s head fell back.

Releasing his hand, her own flew up to cover her mouth. She shook her head wildly as she stared into his two motionless orbs.

“No,” she cried, reaching her hands out to grasp his jacket. “No! No -- Cain!” she shook her head again, screaming now. “Please? No! Don’t die, Cain! Don’t die!”

She shook his limp body, praying that he was only fooling her. She prayed this was nothing more but a nightmare, and that at any given second, she’d wake up to find him sleeping beside her, keeping his word on not going off to face Lavan. But no matter how much she pleaded, the nightmare was real.

“Please!” she shook her head. “No -- Cain, don’t die… Don’t die!” She laid her head against his chest, becoming stained in his blood as she held him close. She whimpered loudly, not even realizing that Mark and Lavan had rushed into the clearing through the two bushes she had.

Stunned, Mark stepped forward, sickened by the sight. He gaped, finding Edie laying over his dead captain. He looked back at Lavan. Lavan had his head down, and was trembling madly.

Frowning, Mark slowly went up to Edie. She whimpered quietly now, not ready to let go of Cain. Mark knelt behind her, touching her shoulders. “Edie…”

“No!” Edie cried as Mark tried pulling her away. She opened her eyes, looking to Lavan. As their eyes met, she glared madly at him before burying her head into Mark’s chest. “He’s gone! He’s --!”

Nodding, Mark held her close, rocking her as he looked down at his captain’s body. A tear left him, then. He could not hold it back.

“Let’s go,” he whispered.

Sniffing, Edie turned right back around. She hugged Cain close. “No!” she sniffled. “Just a little longer -- a little -- longer…”

--

A few days later, Edie stood dressed in a velvety black dress. Imprinted into the dress was red rose designs. She wore black boots to match, with a black cape, and matching gloves. She stood there between Tonisha and Leigh on Cain’s funeral day. Her tears had not stopped in days -- drops poured down her cheeks as she watched some of Cain’s men bring in his body, it wrapped nicely in a white sheet he had owned, tied by rich blue silk.

A wonderful grave had been dug for Cain. And before it stood a magnificent marble gravestone. The stone merely had the captain’s name carved into it, along with date of birth, and death. The remainder of it was bare.

Mark stood before it, knowing Edie was close behind him in the crowd. He was watching as well. All was silent as Cain’s body was lowered into the ground. Though none could see him, he still wore his uniform, and was dressed up nicely.

Edie eyed Tonisha and Leigh. Neither were crying. Both kept their faces forward.

Lavan wasn’t there.

And Edie, very heartbroken still, was trembling as she watched Cain disappear into the ground. Everyone remained still as he was buried beneath the sacred dirt. And once he was buried, Edie looked to Mark as he turned and faced a line of Cretchens holding their swords out.

“Salute!” he shouted, and every Cretchen did so.

Mark was in charge, now.

The scene made more tears leave Edie. She kept in place as the funeral ended. Turning her head, Edie found a handkerchief dangling before her. She turned her head to see Leigh smiling softly at her. Edie accepted the handkerchief. She dabbed at her eyes, drying her tears. She accepted a small hug from Leigh as those who showed up for the captain’s funeral started descending out of the cemetery. In seconds, her own feet started to move. She followed alongside Tonisha and Leigh, but she was not ready to face Pig’s Thigh Inn quite yet. She had a place to visit.

--

Cain’s bedroom had never been so quiet before. The room seemed much larger, to Edie. It had not been messed with -- not yet, anyway. Everything was still in place, and Cain’s rich, amazing scent still filtered the air. The scent caused Edie to go crazy as she stepped inside. The door stayed open as she walked forward, taking in everything. She eyed Cain’s working desk, his dresser, and his bed. She frowned some, taking in the memories.

Slowly, she eyed the dresser. A hint of a sparkle caught her eye. She moved up to the dresser, shocked to find Cain’s mother’s ring resting nicely against the polished wood. She gently picked it up, and pinched it between her fingers. She held it carefully, using both hands as she looked at it. She was wondering what had happened to it. Everything that had occurred after her first true romantic night with Cain nearly made her forget. But here it was, this whole time. It wasn’t lost -- she realized it must of somehow slipped off her finger.

Holding it close, Edie walked over to Cain’s bed. She lowered onto it, entranced by the smell. The covers apparently hadn’t been washed in a while. But this made Edie glad. Cain’s strong scent still hovered, and it gave her a final feeling of him. She found herself laying into the covers. She spread them over herself, finally finding herself crying as Cain’s scent surrounded her. She touched the soft covers, missing him greatly.

“Why?” she whimpered. “Why?”

“Edie?”

Cain?

Eyes shooting open, Edie quickly sat up. She smiled -- but, it wasn’t Cain.

It was Mark.

He stood there, staring down at her. To respect Cain, he would not wear the blue uniform. He kept to his green one, still, even if he was no longer second-in-command. Now, he was Captain Mark.

“I -- I thought you were…” Edie began, but she stopped herself. She sat at the edge of the bed, keeping a firm hold on the ring.

“It’s all right,” he whispered. He stepped forward some. “I -- see you found the ring.”

Lifting her head some, Edie nodded. “Yes -- Cain gave it to me…”

“He did?”

Hearing the shock in Mark’s voice, Edie again nodded. “Yes. When I came over, he -- showed it to me, and said he wanted me to have it.”

“It’s yours then,” Mark said.

Slowly, Edie got to her feet. She kept her head bowed, knowing Mark’s stature now. She did not want to call him captain, however. That title will always belong to Cain, according to her.

“You really did love him, didn’t you?”

She lifted her head. She met Mark’s face, now. He was cleaned up nicely, but even so, she saw that he looked just as sad as she. Which was interesting to her.

“I did,” she weakly said.

Mark smiled. “And he truly loved you. You never left his mind, Edie. And I knew that if he were still with us, he’d someday ask you to marry him. He wanted you to marry him.”

Edie believed this now. She remained silent, thinking back on Cain’s apology.

Sighing, Mark kept his distance, but he stepped forward some. He kept his head straight on her, prepared to talk. “Edie, there’s something I would like to share with you. Will you listen?”

Confused, Edie rocked on her feet. She did feel a bit dizzy, but she managed to keep standing. She looked to Mark, and gave him an affirmative shrug. “Okay.”

“It’s the story of how I met Cain,” Mark began. He knew he had gotten Edie’s attention. “It was five years before we raided your village. I was in my early twenties, and living with my mother. Like you, I, too, was raised in a small village. However, we had many people of all ages. Cain came with his men, and sort of took over my village. It was filled with many sick people, and Cain claimed he was there to find those willing to keep alive and work hard. I was once one of them.”

“Of all the men in the village, Cain caught my eye. For some reason, he told me he was going to stay with me and my mother until him and his men continued on to the next village. I felt almost honored, really… But…”

Pausing, Mark bit his lip. He eyed Edie. She was fully alert, listening well to his story. She was intrigued, and wanted more.

“But what?” she asked.

“He noticed that my mother was really sick. And he told me she wasn’t going to last. So he --” Mark paused. He tensed up some. “Cain -- killed my mother.”

Edie’s mouth fell open. She placed her hand over it, not wanting to seem rude. “He did?”

“Yes,” Mark nodded. “She was -- in such pain, and he killed her so quickly that she just died in an instant. I was shocked, really -- I wasn’t expecting him to… But he had killed her right in front of me. And he said to me, then, ‘I want you, Mark. I want you to join me. Become what I am -- become my best man.’”

Stunned, Edie had to sit back down. She moved back, and rested on the bed again. She lowered her head and shook.

“I believe what he saw in me he saw in you -- only differently,” Mark whispered. “In me he saw a man who could go great distances, and someday change things for the better. In you he saw a beautiful woman he had fallen in love with. A woman he knew was strong and able to find a path to wonderful things. It was as if he knew…”

Pausing, Mark put his hands behind his back. He knew he was upsetting Edie, but she had to know the truth. “He’s loved you since the beginning, Edie.”

Edie shot her head up. Her mouth fell open, but even so, she had the feeling Cain had. She nodded gently, then.

“I,” she began. “I -- think I knew that already. And I’ve known -- so much. I mean -- he told me lots about him… He told me his own mother died of being sick…”

“What?” Mark gaped. “He told you -- that?”

“Yes,” Edie nodded. She eyed the ring.

Mark sighed. He went up to her, joining her on the bed. He put his arm on her shoulder. “Edie, Cain’s mother didn’t die from an illness. He used that as an excuse through my mother -- Cain’s mother was murdered.”

“Murdered?” Edie gaped. She shook her head. “N -- no… Why would he lie?”

“Have you ever wondered how Cain became what he was?”

The question pinned Edie like a needle. She winced some. Of course she’s thought of such things! She always wondered how Cain became the leader of a group of distraught men. But she never got the courage to ask him. But did Mark have the answers?

“I have,” she said.

“Sadly, I don’t know the whole story. But I do know some of the truth. You see -- when he was a child, he grew up with -- a nasty father, but his mother, I guess, was an angel… But when he was only -- six, I think, he watched his own mother die.” He turned his head, seeing Edie’s eyes widening. “She was murdered, Edie.”

“She…?” Edie gaped. She could hardly take in this information. “Who?”

Mark frowned slightly. He looked down at the wedding ring in Edie’s fingers. He sighed. “His father…”

“What?”

Edie stood up so fast, she nearly fell over. But she grasped hold of Mark as he stood and steadied her.

“Cain’s father was a wicked man. He stabbed her, and -- well, raised Cain. From what I’ve gathered, Cain’s father started the Cretchen path line… And after his death, Cain took over.”

“Why didn’t he tell me?” Edie cried.

“He’s never told anyone,” Mark said. “He’s only ever told me that much. He grew up like his father -- but inside, he never truly was like the man. And he had you to thank, Edie.”

“Me?”

“If not for you, Cain never would have changed. He struggled so hard. If you hadn’t come into his life, this land would have become a lot worse. I suppose I should be thanking you as well. I am Captain now, and as such I plan on ridding the word ‘Cretchen’ from the land. I will not become what he was, and I will make sure every village Cain ever hurt flourishes again.”

“Mark,” Edie breathed out.

Smiling, Mark pushed off of her. He stepped towards the front door, turning to her one final time. “I plan on selling this place -- and moving into a smaller home of my own. Things are going to be different around here. No more pain -- no more suffering.”

Mark was in charge now. And in his mind, he had the feeling Cain chose him as second-in-command for the very idea of making things for the better, and not for the worse. He kept this feeling to himself, knowing very well that Edie had much of her own. Cain had treated them similarly. But he mostly treated them differently -- for better changes. Mark believed this. He believed that Cain was always a great man -- no matter what anyone else thought. And he knew that Edie felt the same.

“Stay for as long as you need,” he told her, then. “There’s no rush. And feel free to -- take whatever you desire… I know Cain wouldn’t mind.”

“Thank you,” Edie said. She watched Mark leave.

--

Lavan sat alone in the main area of Pig’s Thigh Inn. He waited up for the three, not knowing how long the funeral was. He rubbed his hands furiously together, nervous and upset. Edie’s not talked with him since -- well, since she yelled at him to fetch Mark. He kept hoping and praying that she’d talk with him… He had to be firm, though. He had to tell her how he felt.

Soon, he lifted his head, hearing the front door opening. He watched as Tonisha and Leigh tiredly walked through the door. Their feet ached. Leigh immediately left to take a bath.

Standing to his feet, Lavan raised a brow. “Where’s Edie?”

Tonisha looked up at him. “She went over to Cain’s --” she paused, watching Lavan tense up.

“I see,” he whispered.

“Give her time, Lavan,” Tonisha smiled. “She’ll come around. She still loves you, I’m certain. She struggled to choose between you and Cain.”

Lavan nodded, even if he knew the truth. Edie had chosen Cain, and he had ruined her happiness. He let greed take him over, for the sake of wanting to protect her. He had made a huge mistake, and he regretted it terribly. But like Edie had with Cain, could she find it in her heart to forgive Lavan?

“I’m going to -- wait up for her,” he said. He took a seat on one of the stools. He kept his eyes on the door, hoping Edie didn’t plan on out for long.

“If you want,” Tonisha nodded. “I’m going to call it a day --”

The entire inn was closed up. No one was working, not even the prostitutes. They all had the day off, due to the funeral. For the kind of man Cain was, Tonisha had been surprised to see so many of the villagers attend his funeral. Tiller was there with Lisa, and some other business owners. And other people. She hadn’t realized so many people respected the man -- unless they had faked their offer of showing up. But it no longer mattered, Tonisha supposed. Cain was gone, now. And she hoped to God that Edie would see Lavan’s good side.

“Good night, Lavan,” she smiled.

“Night,” he replied, watching her go.

A few hours had passed. But Lavan never moved from his seat. He kept his eyes on the front door, anxious for Edie’s return. It was getting rather late. He hoped she was okay… He thought about taking the chance of going over, but considering the consequences, he kept glued to the stool. He could wait a bit longer.

Him waiting came through. He soon saw the door creak open. Edie stepped through, looking exhausted as she kept her head lowered. She had not noticed Lavan sitting there as she closed the door, ready to go to bed. As she stepped forward, she lifted her head. And her eyes met Lavan’s. She froze in place, looking startled and, well -- angry. She kept quiet as he stepped up to her.

Lavan tried moving calmly. He showed her his most sorrowful expression, hoping to God that she wouldn’t run away from him. He could still remember their first few engagements, and one look at him made her dash away. He didn’t need that now -- not when he was willing to talk.

“Hi,” he started off, being soft. “I -- was worried about you.”

When she didn’t respond, Lavan bowed his head some. He was used to the silent treatment, now. She’d been giving it to him the past few days.

“Edie,” he went on. “I -- want you to know that I understand that what I did was wrong. And I know that you probably don’t -- don’t want to be with me anymore…” Saying this hurt him. He cringed, wishing it weren’t so. “But -- even so, I -- am not sorry for what I did.” He watched her tense up.

“And I’m not going to leave, Edie. That baby in there could still be mine. I don’t -- want to desert it.”

He finished speaking. He lowered his gaze some, but he did not look away from her. He wanted to gain any sort of reaction from her.

She lifted her head some, looking to be in deep thought. She tiredly stepped toward him, and for a moment, Lavan thought she was going to hug him. However, she turned and stepped next to him..

“Do as you wish,” he heard her whisper before she vanished through the backdoor.

It was the darkest sentence he’s ever heard her sprout. And it hurt him terribly. Scrunching his face, Lavan kept from crying as he wobbled towards his own room. He had missed his chance at a perfect woman -- no, whether Cain had died or not -- Lavan would not even had stood a chance.

He realized this now -- Edie never loved him. She had only loved his comfort. She had loved Cain the whole time.

--

Entering her room, Edie took in the silence. She tiredly went up to her dresser, and started to undress. She paused, for a moment, looking down at the ring now fitted perfectly on her finger. She held her hand up, taking it in. The sight of it made her feel like crying, but she had seemed to run out of tears. She was dry. And she was exhausted.

Slowly, she pulled the ring off. She gave it a gentle smile before placing it where a bouquet of flowers Cain had given her so long ago once rested. It looked perfect there, sitting near her bed. And it glowed beautifully.

Edie was glad she found it there on Cain’s own dresser. And she was glad she had a piece of him as a remembrance. She knew she’d miss him greatly -- but she knew that he’d want her to move on… And be successful and happy.

And that’s what she had planned.

--

Stay tune for the final chapter of ‘Edie’ Plus some author notes. :)