Hidden Pathways (BOOK 1)

Shadow Reckoning - Chapter 140

"And you, my dear Ruby'ck, never fail to enchant me," Zach replied, his eyes softening with affection.

The two exchanged playful banter and loving glances, they knew that their bond was stronger than ever – forged in the fires of passion and tempered by the sweet moments of laughter and joy. And as they stepped out into the world together, hand in hand, they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, knowing that their love would light the way.

"I'll step outside for a moment to ensure everyone's well-being, including a check on the village's state with Haerak absent," Zach declared with a sense of responsibility woven into his words, his concern palpable in the air.

"Let me accompany you, Zach," Ruby'ck offered, her willingness to share the task evident in her tone.

"Of course, Ruby'ck," Zach replied warmly, acknowledging her gesture of solidarity.

Continuing with resolve, Zach proposed, "Shall we venture outside to assess the situation together?"

"Always ready," Ruby'ck affirmed with a hint of excitement, her readiness echoing Zach's determination.

With mutual agreement, Zach extended his hand towards Ruby'ck, a silent invitation for unity and support. After a moment of hesitation, Ruby'ck delicately clasped Zach's hand, reciprocating his gesture of connection. A tender kiss passed between them, igniting a spark of affection before they embarked on their mission.

As they swung open the door, their eyes widened at the sight of numerous villagers congregating near the shoreline, engaged in animated conversations and movements.

"What's going on?" Ruby'ck inquired, her curiosity piqued by the unusual scene.

Zach, sensing the gravity of the situation, remained silent, tuning in to the snippets of dialogue around them.

"Return of Killian and Micah? Killian? And Micah?" Zach pondered aloud, his voice laced with a mix of uncertainty and recognition.

"Killian and Micah? Who are they?" Ruby'ck questioned, her confusion mirroring Zach's own.

"I'm not entirely certain, but judging by the villagers' reactions, they must be significant figures within this village," Zach speculated, his mind racing with possibilities as they prepared to unravel the mystery unfolding before them.

"Shall we seek some insights from the villagers?" Ruby'ck proposed, her voice tinged with curiosity.

"Indeed, let's," Zach agreed, his resolve mirrored in his tone.

Together, they emerged from their humble abode, their footsteps echoing on the cobblestone path as they made their way towards a villager heading towards the shoreline.

"Excuse me, may we inquire where everyone is headed?" Zach queried politely, his gaze fixed on the villager's retreating figure.

"Ah, Zach, captain of the Shadowed Symphony," the villager acknowledged with a nod. "We're gathering at the shoreline to welcome back Micah and Killian, companions of Haerak during the village's infancy."

"Return of whom?" Zach pressed further, a hint of curiosity coloring his words.

"Oh... It appears you haven't been filled in yet," the villager remarked, his expression thoughtful. "Micah and Killian, hailing from the lofty heights of Everpeak, were instrumental in the village's early days."

Ruby'ck's interest piqued, she murmured to herself, "An intriguing backstory indeed."

"Could you enlighten us further about their tale, and perhaps shed some light on the village's history?" Zach inquired, his desire for knowledge evident in his earnest expression.

"Of course," the villager obliged, settling into a storytelling stance. "Micah and Killian, stalwarts of Everpeak, shared a deep bond with Haerak, our esteemed chief hailing from the distant lands of Drakonium. The Lone Knight of Drakonium."

He continued, his words weaving a tapestry of the past, "Their friendship blossomed from the very foundation of Ember Wind village, forged in the fires of camaraderie and shared purpose."

"He's from Drakonium? Haerak?!" Zach exclaimed, his disbelief evident in his tone.

"Indeed, our chief once hailed from those lands, but he left behind his warrior's past many moons ago," the villager confirmed, his voice carrying the weight of ancient tales.

"The Lone Knight of Drakonium..." Zach murmured, his mind reeling at the revelation.

Ruby'ck observed Zach's reaction, her own thoughts racing as she pieced together the implications of Haerak's origins.

"Is something troubling you, Zach?" the villager inquired, his concern genuine.

"No, it's nothing... Thank you for sharing," Zach replied, his words masking a storm of emotions swirling within him.