Hidden Pathways (BOOK 1)

Shadow Reckoning - Chapter 129

The sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Zach and Gargeal sat together on a weathered log, their conversation drifting into the realm of speculation and mystery.

"There's two Tome of Shrouded Fates?" Zach's voice betrayed his disbelief, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"Yes, two of them. My brother was not only a sorcerer but also a visionary. He anticipated the possibility of me losing it or dropping it, so he created a backup. And I did lose it somewhere while I was looking for you," Gargeal explained, his tone tinged with reminiscence.

"Hmm, where could the other one be?" Zach pondered aloud, his gaze fixed on the fading light of the day.

"I cannot say for certain, but it likely resides somewhere in Aurelia to where I lost it. I ensured that you would discover the book when you were just a child, a decision made at my brother's behest," Gargeal replied, his voice tinged with a hint of regret.

Zach nodded in understanding, piecing together the fragments of their shared history. "So, with enough courage and will, the book will continue to write the pages?" he mused, seeking confirmation.

"Yes, that's correct. But once that courage and will are lost, the book ceases to write," Gargeal affirmed, his expression grave.

Zach's mind whirled with newfound understanding, each revelation shedding light on the enigmatic nature of the Tome of Shrouded Fates. "And the destiny it reveals is shaped by the wielder's goals and desires?" he inquired, seeking clarity.

Gargeal nodded in agreement. "Indeed. The book's pages are a reflection of the wielder's aspirations and ambitions, capturing the essence of their true purpose."

"It only writes what's necessary, what's essential to the person's journey?" Zach surmised, a sense of revelation dawning upon him.

"Yes, precisely," Gargeal confirmed, his gaze steady and unwavering.

As the conversation drew to a close, Zach couldn't help but feel a newfound sense of clarity and purpose. The mysteries of the Tome of Shrouded Fates may never be fully unraveled, but he knew one thing for certain: with Gargeal by his side, he was ready to face whatever destiny awaited him.

"Hey, Gargeal. After I've fulfilled my... no, your brother's goal, what will you do next?" Zach inquired, his voice tinged with a mixture of uncertainty and curiosity.

Zach's question hung in the air, casting a shadow over their conversation as Gargeal grappled with his response.

"I'll let you all be, to live a simple life. To savor each moment, to experience the joys and sorrows that come with living. Kazaks and Yzavynne will build a life together, their laughter echoing through the halls of their home. You and Ruby will find solace in each other's arms, forging a bond that withstands the test of time. Jiighual will channel his passion into the culinary arts, his creations warming the hearts of those who taste them. Andhur will serenade the world with his flute, his music weaving tales of love and loss. Leeani, Qarek, and Nert will cultivate the land, nurturing life from the soil and finding fulfillment in the simplicity of rural living," Gargeal envisioned, his voice tinged with a sense of longing.

Zach's gaze softened as he considered Gargeal's words, his heart heavy with the weight of their impending separation. "But what about you?" he pressed, his concern evident.

Gargeal's expression faltered, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his features. "Oh, me, huh. Me. I... I don't know yet," he admitted, his voice trailing off into uncertainty.

In that moment, amidst the fading light of the day, Zach couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness for his friend. The future was uncertain, but one thing was clear: whatever path lay ahead, they would face it together.

"Maybe, I'll uncover another layer of purpose in my life. A reason for my being, akin to the way you discovered your hidden path amidst the chaos of warfare, after enduring years of relentless conflict," Gargeal reflected, his words carrying a sense of introspection and contemplation.

Zach's voice trembled slightly as he uttered Gargeal's name, his brows knitting together in concern. "Gargeal..."

"But until then, my focus remains on assisting you in achieving my brother's goal, Zach," Gargeal continued, his voice tinged with a hint of melancholy. "For now, my purpose lies in supporting you, guiding you toward the fulfillment of your destiny."

He paused, his gaze shifting to the horizon as if searching for answers in the fading light. "And when the time comes, when you have succeeded in breaking the chains of manipulation and tyranny, I'll find my own path. Perhaps it will be a quiet life of solitude, or perhaps I'll seek solace in helping others find their way."

Gargeal's words carried the weight of unspoken emotions, revealing a depth of longing and uncertainty beneath his stoic exterior. "But whatever path I choose, know that I'll always be grateful for the journey we've shared, for the bonds forged in the crucible of adversity."

He turned to Zach, his expression softening with genuine warmth. "The memories we've shared, Zach, they're etched into my heart. Wherever life may lead us, know that you'll always have a friend in me. You and the rest of the band... you've woven yourselves into the very fabric of my existence. And though our paths may part ways, the bond we've forged will endure."

He paused, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air. "So let's hold onto these moments, Zach, for they're the threads that bind us together. And even as we embark on separate journeys, know that each and every one of you will forever hold a special place in my heart, just as I'll forever hold a place in yours."

With a solemn nod, Zach extended his hand to rest gently on Gargeal's shoulder, a gesture conveying both respect and gratitude for the bond they shared. His eyes reflected a myriad of emotions, from sadness to acceptance, as he spoke softly, each word carrying the weight of their shared experiences.

"Thank you, Gargeal," Zach began, his voice trembling slightly with emotion. "For everything you've done, for the sacrifices you've made."

He paused, allowing the gravity of his words to sink in before continuing. "No matter where our paths may lead us from here, know that you'll always have a place among us. Your presence, your guidance, your friendship—they've all been invaluable to us, shaping us into the people we are today."

A somber smile tugged at the corners of Zach's lips as he spoke, a bittersweet expression of the memories they'd shared and the journey they'd undertaken together. "We'll carry the lessons you've taught us, the bonds we've forged, with us wherever we go. And though our paths may diverge, know that you'll forever hold a special place in our hearts."

He tightened his grip on Gargeal's shoulder, a silent promise of solidarity and support. "So thank you, my friend. For showing us the true meaning of loyalty and camaraderie. We'll always be here for you, just as you've always been there for us."