Hidden Pathways (BOOK 1)

Covert Expedition - Chapter 60

The new day began with Zach stirring awake, greeted by the soft crows of nearby chickens in the tranquil morning.

"Oh, you're up, Zach," Gargeal remarked quietly, careful not to disturb the slumbering others.

"Hey, Gargeal. Didn't expect to see you awake so early," Zach responded with a faint smile.

"Just woke up myself," Gargeal admitted, his voice gentle in the hushed atmosphere.

Observing Zach rising from his bed, Gargeal added, "You're always an early riser, Zach."

Zach paused, meeting Gargeal's gaze with a sense of gratitude in his eyes. "Well, every sunrise is a chance for new beginnings. And I intend to make the most of it."

Gargeal's expression remained stoic as he responded to Zach. "You've always had a way with words, Zach," he remarked flatly, his tone devoid of emotion. "And your determination to seize each new day with hope and purpose... it's commendable." He paused briefly, his gaze unwavering. "You've come a long way. And I have no doubt that you'll continue to lead us forward."

A sudden knock interrupted the quiet of the house, prompting Gargeal to rise and approach the door. As he opened it, Haerak greeted him with a calm demeanor, standing patiently outside.

"Good morning, Gargeal," Haerak greeted, his voice carrying through the doorway.

"Morning. What's the matter?" Gargeal responded, his tone steady and unaffected.

"I'll be convening a meeting at the Chieftain's Hall later. It's important, concerning the village's well-being. Your presence would be appreciated," Haerak explained.

"We'll be there," Gargeal assured him.

With that, Haerak continued on his way to notify the other villagers of the upcoming meeting.

Gargeal observed Haerak's actions with a thoughtful gaze, quietly contemplating the chieftain's dedication.

"The chief himself is overseeing this," he muttered to himself, a note of admiration in his voice.

"He truly embodies the qualities of a leader that commands respect and gratitude," Gargeal remarked, acknowledging Haerak's leadership.

Meanwhile, Zach pondered the significance of the upcoming meeting, his thoughts drifting as he processed the news.

"A meeting, huh," he murmured to himself, his mind already turning to the matters that would be discussed.

Gargeal caught Zach's words and turned to him, seeking confirmation.

"Yes, a meeting," Gargeal confirmed, his tone decisive. "Shall I rouse the others, Zach?"

"Yes, let's gather everyone. We need to prepare for the meeting," Zach replied, his voice firm with determination.

Following Zach's directive, Gargeal set about waking the rest of the Shadowed Symphony, gently rousing Andhur, Kazaks, Qarek, Jiighual, Leeani, Yzavynne, and Nert from their slumber. Meanwhile, Zach took it upon himself to wake Ruby'ck, ensuring that the entire group would be ready for the important gathering ahead.

"Alright, listen up," Zach called out, his voice carrying through the quiet morning air. "We've got a meeting scheduled with Chief Haerak later today. It's happening in the Chieftain's Hall and it's regarding the current state of the village. We need to be there, not just because the chief said so, but because it'll help us understand this island and its people better."

The Shadowed Symphony then goes in conversation with each other regarding Zach's announcement to them. But Nert was the only one who remained unfazed from Zach's announcement and couldn't help but mutter to himself.

Upon hearing Zach's announcement, Nert couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion. Reflecting on the importance of knowledge, he whispered softly to himself,  "I guess in life's voyage, knowledge isn't just a sail; it's the guiding star navigating us through uncharted waters."

"Although, I must say. Knowledge can illuminate the path, but too much can cloud the mind with doubt," Nert advised, his tone filled with a hint of caution, as he looks at the window observing a fox in its natural habitat, he couldn't help but marvel at its intelligence and cunning

The bell then rings coming from the Chieftain's Hall, intention of welcoming all the villagers of the village because of the meeting.

The Shadowed Symphony made their way towards the Chieftain's Hall, a modest distance from the Wooden House they had been assigned. As they walked, Leeani couldn't help but offer a word of caution to Kazaks, who strode alongside her.

"Hey, Kazaks, let's keep it low-key this time, alright? We don't want any unnecessary attention," Leeani advised, shooting him a meaningful glance.

Kazaks chuckled in response, his usual boisterous demeanor tempered by a rare moment of reflection. "Relax, Leeani. Let's savor this moment. Who knows when we'll get another chance like this?"

The weight of Kazaks' words lingered in the air, a reminder of the fleeting nature of their adventures.

"Alright, Kazaks, I'll try to keep my excitement in check," Leeani retorted with a grin, rolling her eyes playfully. "But if you start roaring like a wild beast, don't blame me if we end up causing a commotion!"

Her light-hearted banter brought a smile to Kazaks' face as they walked on, their camaraderie adding a touch of warmth to the cool morning air.