Shadows Never Fade
Over the past few years, Seles had slowly been rebuilt, brick by brick, and stone by stone. It was not an easy task, and the losses of far too many villagers further hampered the recovery.
Worse yet, had even a single villager more fallen... Well, Seles would have probably had to have been abandoned. But, if there was also another truth that could not be changed it was that Dart was stubborn. Even when it seemed impossible, Dart’s resolution bound the few remaining survivors together, and thankfully, progress continued.
However, despite this, Seles was not an island and few of the villagers were able enough to brave the wilderness and face the various monsters.
It was because of this, that Dart often found himself having to leave the village behind, to gain another precious shipment of supplies. In turn, he was forced to learn how to negotiate. (A task he had not enjoyed.)
Dart managed a small smile though as he entered Lohan for what felt to be the hundredth time that year.
“Hey Dart!” A guardsman waved and the swordsman returned the gesture.
“Davis, it’s good to see you.” He returned.
Davis was a good man, cheery, and a bit obnoxious at times, but he had a heart of gold.
“Back for another shipment? I hear the traders from Kazas are bringing some supplies. Might want to check ‘em out before they’re snapped up by Basil or even Lohan.” Dart nodded, managing another small smile.
“Thanks, I owe you one.”
Davis raised his visor, revealing the teen.
“You could buy me a pint.” He suggested hopefully.
“21, and then we’ll talk.” Dart promised.
Shaking his head at Davis’ grumbling, he allowed himself an internal laugh as he headed for the market. It would have been an easy matter for Davis to get a pint from one of the other guardsmen or even his father, but Davis respected the law too much to actually break it.
Lohan had certainly changed.
“Fresh Bread!”
“Precious Gems!”
Passing by several stalls, Dart paused as he sensed something... Truly strange.
No, it wasn’t possible. Stiffening, he spun, his head snapping upward to the raised boardwalks of Lohan. It just couldn’t be! He saw her die!
“ROSE!” Dart’s voice echoed across the stalls, and for a few moments the entire area fell silent, stunned by the shout.
It just wasn’t possible, but even the Divine Dragon’s spirit shimmered, as if greeting their old friend.