Opaque reality [ 30 ]

At the first rooster's crow, the village began to awaken. Soft sunlight peeked over the village, casting a warm glow on the streets. Doors opened one by one as villagers stepped out, stretching and breathing in the fresh morning air.

"Good morning, Mary!" a woman called out, a bright smile on her face.

"Morning, Helen! Isn't it a lovely day?" Mary replied, her eyes shining with joy.

Children ran along the paths, laughter echoing as they played. Farmers headed to the fields, tools in hand and spirits high. The blacksmith stoked his forge, humming a cheerful tune. Everywhere, there were smiles and greetings.

"Did you sleep well?" a man asked his neighbor.

"Better than ever, knowing we're safe," the neighbor answered, nodding gratefully.

The memory of yesterday's danger had been replaced by relief and gratitude. The villagers went about their tasks with a renewed energy, thankful for the hero who had saved them.