Zelgadis had been watching Lina ever since they left the cabin. She was unusually quiet and had them make camp early. He watched her sit upon the rock and lose herself in thought.
Something was definitely bothering her.
She then looked at Gourry and smiled. Her eyes lingered for a moment then went to Amelia. After a moment they shifted to him. He made himself look into his drink while trying to keep the corner of his eye on her. When she looked at him her face registered pain. It was clear and obvious. She hadn't tried to cover it.
But the pain was mental pain. Closer to anguish than anything. Why did she look like that? What was she thinking? She finally looked away and he let out the breath he was unconsciously holding.
She looked on the verge of tears, then punched the rock that she sat on. She then stood, tightened her cape and said that she was taking walk. Soon, she was out view.
Zel turned his gaze back to the campsite. Gourry had finished polishing his sword, and had quickly fallen asleep. Amelia was pulling out a bedroll and spreading it out. He waited, and soon she was asleep. On cue, Zel stood and proceeded to follow Lina, wherever she went.
Lina had walked for a ways, not focusing on her surroundings. She came across a gently flowing stream and stared at it. After a moment, she sat down next to the water's edge. Pulling her legs to her chest, she wrapped her arms around them and placed her chin on her knees. She sat and stared at the water, only thinking of Negha's words. 'Time is short. We will live our lives to the fullest; this I swear. Because that's all that really matters. I want you to do the same.' Lina thought and thought. One tear trickled down the side of her cheek. "I can't," she whispered, "I can't..."
Zel walked along the path made by Lina. He wondered where exactly she was going, then stopped wondering when he saw her. She was sitting by a small stream with her back to him. He walked up behind her, as casually as possible. His foot hit a twig and it made a sharp snapping sound. Brushing something away from her cheek, Lina spun around, staying seated. When she saw him, that pained look came back to her face. She slowly turned to face the stream again.
"Hi Zel." Was all her reply. He frowned slightly, taking a seat next to her, and looked at her face. She had her knees drawn to her chest with her arms folded around them. Her chin rested on her knees and she just blankly.
Zel looked at her with worry. "Lina...what's wrong?"
She didn't answer.