Chapter 59: Reunion at the Village

Chapter 59: Reunion at the Village

The sun was high in the sky as Kazuki and his companions approached the small village where Lina's brother was recovering. Lina looked anxious, her steps quickening as they neared the village gates. Elara gave her a reassuring nod, while Tara kept an eye on the surroundings, always wary.

As they entered the village, a group of villagers gathered around, their faces a mix of curiosity and relief. One of the men stepped forward, his arm in a makeshift sling. His eyes widened when he saw Lina.

"Lina!" he shouted, rushing forward despite his injury.

Lina's face lit up as she ran to him, throwing her arms around his neck. "Brother!"

The villagers murmured in relief, a few wiping away tears. Kazuki smiled faintly, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders.

The man pulled back, his hands trembling as he held Lina's face. "You're safe... Thank the gods."

Lina nodded, her voice choked with emotion. "These people saved me."

The man looked over at Kazuki and his companions, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you... I thought I'd lost her."

Kazuki shook his head. "Just glad we could help."

One of the village elders stepped forward, bowing deeply. "You have done a great service for our village. Please, let us offer you food and rest."

Elara glanced at Kazuki, who gave a subtle nod. They had been on the move for days, and a chance to rest would be welcome.

Inside the elder's house, a simple but hearty meal was prepared. Kazuki tried to eat slowly, but his hunger got the better of him. Tara snickered as she watched him devour his stew, while Elara politely sipped her soup.

Lina and her brother joined them, looking far more relaxed now. Lina hesitated before speaking. "Um... Kazuki?"

He looked up, wiping his mouth. "Yeah?"

Lina's cheeks flushed. "I just... I don't know how to thank you."

Kazuki shrugged, feeling a bit embarrassed. "You don't have to. It was the right thing to do."

Lina's brother smiled warmly. "You didn't just save Lina. You saved me, too. I wouldn't have survived the guilt if something had happened to her."

Kazuki felt a warmth spreading through his chest. It was rare to hear such sincere gratitude, and it made the struggles of the past few days feel worthwhile.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the villagers celebrated, lighting lanterns and sharing stories. Kazuki leaned back, his muscles finally relaxing. Elara sat beside him, her gaze soft.

"You did good," she murmured.

Kazuki smiled faintly. "For once, I feel like I did."

Tara rolled her eyes from across the room. "Don't let it go to your head."

Lina approached again, hesitating. "Kazuki... I was wondering if I could... travel with you?"

Kazuki blinked in surprise. "You want to come with us?"

Lina nodded, determination in her eyes. "I want to learn how to fight. I don't want to feel helpless again."

Tara raised an eyebrow, but Elara smiled. "It might not be easy."

Lina met her gaze, her expression firm. "I know. But if I'm with you, I'll be safe. And I can learn."

Kazuki glanced at Elara and Tara. They both seemed to have their reservations, but neither outright objected. Taking a deep breath, Kazuki nodded. "Alright. We'll help you learn."

Lina's face lit up with a mixture of relief and excitement. As the village celebrated around them, Kazuki couldn't help but feel that their small group was growing, and perhaps, his burden was a little lighter.