A World With/Out Home

Chapter 26: A Brief respite. (Part 2)

"This is oddly nostalgic even though it wasn't too long ago," Lillia breathed in the fresh air and twirled as she took in the vivid countryside. The sun was shining and the temperature perfect for a day out. Off the main road, the dirt path suited the relaxed nature. On one side sat a stone wall and the other a view of stretching farmland heading towards the world beyond.

Kyle took a breath as well and felt invigorated, "It really does have a unique feeling." While the Capital was nice and the Garden peaceful, there was something about the openness of the world around them that resonated with his soul.

Lillia smiled softly, "If only Jana could have come back as well."

"I can only imagine what that would be like," though brief, Kyle's memories of the energetic girl were strong. "Maybe one day we can bring everyone here for a trip. Though I'm not sure where we'd all stay." The thought of having the children here as they tumbled around excited had him both hopeful and reeling.

"You know, if it had been a few days ago I'd probably never believe that possible but now," she grinned. "We really might be able to."

"Yeah... we definitely found a Hero, just not the one we were looking for though."

"Which also begs the question, just where is the other one?" Lillia frowned in thought. "Who knows, maybe he's like you your father and you."

"Maybe," Kyle shrugged. Regardless there was not as much reason for them to go looking now, and although he was curious, there were more important matters that needed to be sorted first.

As the two continued to wander the village its residents stared in curiosity. To blame them for not recognising Kyle was unfair as the now young man definitely looked quite different. With his hair free and different sense of fashion, he very much looked like a girl with a boyish haircut and to Lillia, a bit too dazzling as she found herself ogling him several times. It wasn't until reaching the village square again when they were called out.

"There you are!" the voice didn't catch them by surprise as Marisha quickly made her way towards them. "I was wondering when I would catch you two again. Your friends from the other day certainly made a show last night at the bar."

"Sorry about that," Kyle apologised meekly. "They mean well."

The well-meaning smile caused Marisha to fluster as she bought up her fan in defence, covering her face, "Ah umm, Kyle your new attire is quite a bit bolder. It does suite you however."

"Thank you, though I'm still getting used to it."

Lillia didn't miss the girl's obvious fawning and purposefully pressed tighter against Kyle, "Yep, he really does look good."

"Yes...," Marisha took a step back. "You'll be heading off soon won't you? Your father came by this morning to inform us."

Kyle nodded, "Early tomorrow."

"I see," Marisha looked about and seeing as no one else was nearby looked at the pair seriously as she tucked her fan away. "Kyle, though my father is only a village Mayor, he used to be quite a bit more and has some strong connections. Those connections have informed me something is stirring, especially in Lavise."

"What do you mean?" Kyle returned her gaze with the same depth.

"The guard there suddenly tightened since about a week ago. I'm afraid you might get involved with something strange again." She shivered, "Those men who kidnapped you, who threatened us, they were from Lavise."

Wanting to calm her Kyle smiled, "It's probably nothing. The last incursion had lots of people involved, including Lavise. They're probably just settling down from the aftermath."

"I hope you're right." Ignoring Lillia, Marisha took his hand and gently curtsied touching her lips against his skin. "Stay safe." Before anyone could react she turned and left much quicker than she came.

"That little-!" Lillia huffed before snatching Kyle's hand and vigorously rubbed it with her shirt.

"Umm, I-."

"Don't you say anything, I already know," she moped and continued to hold his hand, only looking up after she was satisfied it was disinfected. As she let go Kyle took hers instead and kneeling he kissed her hand causing the girl to blush. "W-what are you doing?"

Kyle stood back up and smiled, embarrassed, "I was showing my intentions towards you."

"You!" Lillia's arms bounced up and down unable to contain her emotions.

"Wooo!" the jeer came from a few metres away. Valandus stood smirking, "You've got quite a mood going there. It's just a shame we have an order to keep everything PG between you two."

"You think you could stop me?" Lillia glared at him.

"Umm Lillia please calm down," Kyle said gently, unsure if she was joking or not. Luckily Melissa came by soon after and stopped the two from fighting.

*

"You sure you have everything?" Arvel asked Kyle as they stood outside the bakery.

"Dad, it's not like this is my first time leaving," Kyle laughed.

"I know- it's just- well," he sighed and shook his head. "Never mind. I'll see you in maybe a week or two. I'll try make it less but that depends."

"I understand." He hugged the man, "Though I should be asking you, do you have everything?"

It was Arvel's turn to laugh, "I may not be as strong as I was in my hay day but trust me I'm no push over. You stay safe." He leant in closer, "You haven't grown to your full potential. Don't do anything drastic."

"Don't worry, I won't."

As they separated Arvel couldn't help but smile wryly, "You know Estile used to say the same thing and we could never settle down back then either." He turned to Lillia, "Look after Estile for me, she tends to make trouble when she's alone."

"I fully intend to!" she saluted in reponse.

He smiled, "I'll see you soon."

"Until then." With that the two parted ways and Kyle walked with Lillia to where Valandus and Melissa waited. Arvel headed the opposite way, out of the village and towards the fog at the end of the world.

Author's note: Part 100 yay.