The sky was painted with hues of orange and purple as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the rugged landscape. Lira, Kaden, and Rorik continued their journey toward the village, the air heavy with silence. Despite the calmness of the evening, Lira could feel the weight of the unknown pressing down on her.
"Where exactly are we headed?" Lira asked, her voice filled with both curiosity and uncertainty. She glanced between Kaden and Rorik, hoping for some kind of reassurance.
Rorik, who was walking ahead, did not turn to face her but spoke in a steady voice. "We are going to meet someone who can help you understand the shard. There is an ancient scholar in the village who knows about these matters. He's our best chance to uncover the true nature of its power."
"Why can't you teach me everything?" Lira pressed, her thoughts racing.
Rorik slowed his pace, casting a brief glance over his shoulder. "I know many things, Lira, but not all. The shard's power is ancient and far beyond what I can comprehend. This scholar might know how to harness its true potential. He's the one who has studied it."
Kaden, who had been unusually quiet, added, "What if we don't find what we need? What happens then?"
Rorik's response was simple, yet filled with gravitas. "Then we fight, Lira. We fight to protect what we must."
The words hung heavily in the air, and Lira felt her heart sink. She was not a warrior, and the thought of having to fight was terrifying. But she had no choice—this path was already set in motion, and turning back wasn't an option.
They walked in silence for a while longer, the landscape around them slowly shifting as they drew closer to their destination. The village, tucked into a valley surrounded by thick forests, looked like something out of a forgotten tale. Its stone houses were scattered across narrow, winding streets, and the scent of fresh bread and herbs filled the air.
When they reached the outskirts of the village, Rorik halted and turned to face them. "This is where we part ways. I need to speak with the village elders. Stay here and do not reveal the shard to anyone."
Lira felt a surge of confusion. Why was secrecy so important? But she trusted Rorik, and she understood the gravity of their mission.
Kaden, his eyes sharp with concern, asked, "What if something goes wrong? What if we're not safe here?"
Rorik's gaze softened, yet there was a firmness in his tone. "Stay vigilant. Trust no one. But if all goes well, this will be a sanctuary for you both. Now, stay hidden, and don't draw attention."
With a final, commanding glance, Rorik disappeared into the village, leaving Lira and Kaden standing in the fading light, the weight of their journey pressing heavily upon them.