Zachariah and Rachel

As the moonlight painted the Khan tribe's dwelling in soft silver hues, Derrek returned home to a sight that had become all too familiar. Zachariah Khan and Rachel Khan stood by the entrance, their expressions etched with a blend of worry and relief. Their eyes, fixed upon Derek's approach, held a depth of emotion that resonated through the night air.

Tonight, however, something was different. The intensity in their gazes seemed to speak of a change, a shift in the dynamics of their interactions. Derrek halted his usual course toward his room and instead approached his parents, a gesture that held a silent promise of openness.

The words tumbled from his lips, an apology for his nightly escapades. He explained that he had been training, working to better himself. He assured them that he was safe, that Todo Khan's watchful eye had kept him from harm's way.