Hidden Pathways (BOOK 1)

Shadow Reckoning - Chapter 131

A new day dawns over Ember Wind village, and Zach's voice rings out through the wooden door of the bedroom, rousing his companions from slumber.

"Everyone, rise and shine! It's a brand new day," Zach's announcement echoes in the room.

Jiighual, Qarek, Leeani, Kazaks, and Andhur stir awake, stretching and yawning as they climb out of their beds.

"Captain, is it really morning already?" Andhur's voice carries a hint of disbelief.

"Yes, indeed it is. Time to start the day. Today, we're going to blend in with the villagers, lend a hand with their tasks, and earn their trust. Or, if you prefer, just enjoy a day of relaxation. Just remember not to blow our cover as the Renaissance band. Lyra, Seraphina, and the others haven't spilled the beans, so let's keep it that way until Hearak returns," Zach explains.

"Sounds like a plan, captain. Finally, a chance to chill without having to go anywhere," Andhur replies with enthusiasm.

Qarek's eager voice sliced through the morning air like a clarion call. "Oh yeah! Kazaks, you ready to spar again?!"

Kazaks's response was swift and resolute. "Don't even ask twice, Qarek! I'm always ready for a bout!"

But before their enthusiasm could escalate, Leeani interjected with her signature blend of authority and teasing. "Hold your horses, boys! We don't need any more trips to the healer's hut, do we? Qarek, don't go swinging like a berserker, and Kazaks, remember, we don't want any accidental reenactments of the spear incident."

Jiighual, ever the jester of the group, couldn't resist a playful jab. "Leeani, are you sure you're not secretly their mother? You've got the scolding down pat!"

This remark elicited a chorus of laughter from the group, punctuated by Andhur's infectious chuckle. "I can almost see it now, Leeani with her hands on her hips, giving us the 'mom' lecture!"

Kazaks, grinning broadly, added his own jest to the mix. "Well, if Leeani's our mom, then captain must be our dad, always keeping us in line!"

Andhur, unable to resist joining the lighthearted exchange, chimed in with a mischievous grin. "Nah, Kazaks, you've got it all wrong! Captain's not our dad; he's too busy being Ruby's knight in shining armor!"

This remark earned a round of laughter and playful teasing from the group, each member adding their own jest to the mix.

"Ah, true, true! Zach's got his hands full with Ruby," Qarek quipped, his eyes twinkling with amusement.

Jiighual, never one to miss an opportunity for humor, added, "Yeah, I heard captain's busy writing love sonnets instead of battle plans!"

Leeani rolled her eyes in mock exasperation, but a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "Well, someone's got to keep the romance alive in this band of warriors!"

This remark earned a round of laughter and playful teasing from the group, each member adding their own jest to the mix.

As their laughter subsided, the group's excitement bubbled up once more, filling the room with palpable energy.

"Can you imagine, guys? Finally, a break from all the traveling and fighting!" Andhur exclaimed, his eyes bright with anticipation. "I can't wait to just relax and enjoy the village life for a change."

"Absolutely!" Kazaks agreed eagerly. "No more sleeping under the stars or worrying about ambushes. Just good food, good company, and maybe a little friendly sparring to keep things interesting."

Jiighual nodded enthusiastically, already envisioning himself exploring the local cuisine. "I've heard rumors of a legendary stew made by one of the village elders. I'm determined to find it and taste it for myself!"