Chapter 18

Zoran, now back outside, watched as the sun reached its peak, signaling the time. On a regular day, there wasn't much for him to do besides the occasional hunt for wild game. But with danger on the horizon, leaving wasn't an option. Zoran decided he would patrol the village and see if he could help the community.

As he walked, he thought about the conversation that had just transpired. Was training Asha the right thing to do? Her mother was clearly against it, but in his mind, learning even basic combat could be a lifesaver. For all he knew, she might have a talent and could eventually awaken in the future. Then she could protect this village with him and take over when he grew too old. It wasn't a bad idea to have a protector for this place.

On the other hand, he understood why her mother would be so reluctant. Losing a child was the hardest grief of all. It was unnatural; children should one day bury their parents, not the other way around. Still, if she grew stronger, wouldn't her chances of surviving increase?

These complicated thoughts accompanied him as he passed the largest house in the village—the home of the chief. As the elder and decision-maker, the chief was the glue that held this place together. Once he died, a new chief would be selected through a rudimentary vote. Zoran admired this system and wished it was used elsewhere in the world. Having a single bloodline rule indefinitely often bred mediocrity and arrogance. Though not well-studied on the subject, Zoran believed in working hard for what you earned, and this system fostered accountability.

He passed the large house, feeling the cool breeze push against him. As he moved aimlessly, his mind recalled various places of interest. There was the mess hall for gatherings and feasts, Old Man Red's workshop with his students, and the storehouse with the village's limited possessions. The village was small, with just over two hundred people, but Zoran felt more attached here than he ever had in the bustling city of tens of thousands. Here, he felt seen and known, and this connection made him care deeply about protecting every soul within its borders.

Zoran knew everyone, and everyone knew him, fostering a camaraderie he had never felt before. He remembered the nights spent sharing stories by the fire, the collective mourning of losses, and the simple joys of harvest festivals. He felt pride in knowing that his presence made a difference here. As he wandered, he saw Freir, the rider who had seen the destruction, running toward him, waving emphatically.

"There you are! I went by Salvia's, thinking you'd be there, and got an earful."

"Sorry. I wanted to see if anything needed doing. Did you speak to Old Man Red yet?"

"Of course! Who do you think I am? He's not happy about it, but he said he'll make our 'pointy sticks.'" Freir emphasized "pointy sticks" with mock seriousness.

"The man never changes. Have you found volunteers?"

"That's proving tougher. A few said yes, but not enough. More agreed to the night watch but not the training. Most just said no. I guess they don't see the danger. If they'd seen what I did—" Freir vented his frustration but was interrupted.

"It's better they didn't. That sight isn't fit for most."

"But tha—" Freir caught himself and sighed dramatically. "You're right. They'd lose their stomachs. It'd be a mess."

The two walked together, discussing details of the night rotation and plans for emergencies. They talked about the logistics of shifting guard positions, the need for signal flares, and contingency plans for evacuation. Every detail mattered, and both men knew that their lives, and the lives of the villagers, depended on these preparations. When they had settled the details, Freir changed the subject.

"Salvia said she's making a run into the city. She wants me to go with her. Is that okay with you?"

Zoran raised an eyebrow. "Of course. Why wouldn't it be?"

A grin spread across Freir's face. "Well, I figured you'd want to go, you know, to protect her and... maybe something would happen on the trip, like you saving her at the last second. Then you two could—ouch!"

"Knock it off. Act your age. We're not children." Zoran lightly punched his friend's shoulder.

"Then stop acting like one and just tell her how you feel."

"My relationship status isn't a priority right now. There are pressing issues."

"You'll have to tell Salvia someday. Preferably before you croak."

"Tell me what?" A third voice joined them from behind, causing Freir to jump. Zoran, who had sensed someone approaching, was still a little surprised by the identity.

"Salvia. What's the matter? It's rare to see you out," Zoran said calmly.

"Hey, Salvia! Been a minute! You scared me, haha!" Freir spoke nervously, glancing between them.

"Freir, we spoke half an hour ago. What were you two talking about?" Salvia asked.

"Nothing. Just the night patrol thing," Freir blurted, quick on his feet.

"Can you set that aside for a moment? I can't find Asha anywhere. I think she's gone into the forest again. Can you please go look for her?" Salvia's worry was evident in her eyes. Her hands trembled slightly, and Zoran knew how deep her concern ran.

"I think I might know where she's gone. Salvia, stay home in case she comes back. Freir, let's go," Zoran took charge and began jogging toward the forest.

"Wait up! Damn that awakened stamina!" Freir huffed, quickly losing breath. Salvia watched for a moment before returning home to wait for her daughter. As Zoran and Freir moved into the dense woods, Zoran's mind raced as he quickly neared the shallow treeline.