The gathering shadows

The days passed quickly, each one filled with quiet moments and laughter as Ciara settled into the peaceful rhythm of life in the village. She cherished every moment with Ethan and Emery, savoring the warmth of their hugs, the light in their eyes, and their endless curiosity about her world. They peppered her with questions about her allies, the powers of light and shadow, and her encounters with Kael's forces.

Though she remained vigilant, her guard lowered in the safety of the village, reassured by the strength of Mother Agar's wards and Fidel's watchful presence. Here, her sons were just boys, free from the fears and pressures of the life that waited beyond the village's protective bounds.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the mountains, Ciara sat with the boys by a small pond on the edge of the village. The water was still, reflecting the golden colors of dusk as Ethan and Emery threw pebbles across the surface, laughing as they tried to outdo each other.