Chapter 108: Shadows on the Horizon

Rodrigo spent the night in restless thought, staring at the relic as it glowed faintly in the dim light of the chapel. Its power radiated like a silent hum, reminding him that the choice he faced was not one to be taken lightly. Outside, the wind howled, shaking the old wooden windows as if the world itself was unsettled by what had been unearthed.

The relic wasn't just a tool. It was ancient, far older than any war, any kingdom. And with it came the burden of history. Rodrigo had never wanted such responsibility. He had spent years avoiding the machinations of guilds, kings, and the constant turmoil between nations. Yet, here he was, holding something that could shift the balance of power in ways unimaginable.

As dawn approached, the first pale light filtering through the cracked windows, Sebastião entered the chapel. He looked weary but resolute, as if the weight of the situation had finally settled in for him, too. 

"You didn't sleep either, huh?" Sebastião asked, walking over to Rodrigo's side.

Rodrigo shook his head. "There's too much to think about. This relic… it's not just an object. It feels alive. Like it's waiting."

Sebastião sat down on a worn bench beside him, glancing at the relic. "Do you think the guilds already know?"

Rodrigo rubbed his eyes, sighing. "If they don't know yet, they will soon. Word spreads fast in times like these. And once they find out, every faction will come for it."

Sebastião frowned, his hand instinctively resting on the hilt of his sword. "Then we better get moving. We can't stay here. This chapel won't keep them out."

Rodrigo nodded. "We'll need a plan. And fast."

Dona Maria appeared at the door, her face serious as ever, though a flicker of concern played in her eyes. "I've already packed what we need. If we leave now, we might get ahead of whoever's coming."

Rodrigo stood, carefully wrapping the relic in a worn piece of cloth. The warmth of it dimmed slightly as it disappeared from view, but the weight was still there—a constant reminder of the path that now lay before him.

"We head north," Rodrigo said. "Away from the villages and guild territories. There are places out there where no one goes. It's our best chance to keep this safe."

Sebastião and Dona Maria nodded in agreement. Without further words, the three of them gathered their belongings and stepped out into the cold morning air. The chapel behind them faded into the distance as they began their journey, moving swiftly through the rugged terrain.

But even as they traveled, Rodrigo couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. Every shadow seemed deeper, every rustle in the trees louder. The relic pulsed faintly at his side, as if aware that danger was already closing in.

Somewhere, out there, the hunt had already begun.