"According to the map, there's a village here close by with an inn. We should take the time to rest here and buy some supplies. After this village, there won't be another place to stop by until we reach the town of Evras, and that's a day and a half of traveling," Gino said as we took a short breather for the horses, standing under a lush tree.

After we saved the village from the bandits, we continued traveling until night, and with the moon up in full view. It was silent, no other person in sight for the rest of the way.

"Ahh, the beauty of the land at night never ceases to captivate me. That's why I love the countryside of Ylithia. I just reels me in from our home kingdom," he added, taking in the fresh air passing us by with his arms outstretched.

He was not mistaken about that, though. It was a clear night, the countless stars shimmering up in the sky, and the vast expanse of the world beyond the skies. It's just unbelievable that despite having seen this from where I lived beyond the forests many times over, I can't help but feel amazed each time. Maybe it's one of the many things that still bind me strongly to my parents.

Yes, I remember it very clearly. There's no way I can forget. When I was still small, Dad, Mom, and I would often look at this same sight by the slope, lying flat on our backs. I could still see them smiling and enjoying it with me. It's hard to believe that they're gone.

"Oh, are you alright, Zachary? You seem absent-minded, and quite teary eyed. Is there something that you remember that's bothering you?" Gino said, concerned, but comforting. Same with Alexandre. Despite not having taken off his helmet, he has his sight on me as well.

"No, it's nothing that bothers me at all. Rather, it's a fond memory of mine that I would never dare forget. Everything's just come by me so fast that it's unbelievable what's been happening to me. Though I went down this road, I can't help but feel overwhelmed."

"A fond memory, is it? They say that some of the greatest treasures are of memories, and not something materialistic like gold. But that's just the philosopher in me talking. The vast majority would prefer gold. I say it's how you treat something that you have that makes it special or not. You can treat something as similar to gold, or maybe something useless. But judging from the look on your handsome face, I can see that it's a precious treasure indeed."

"It definitely is. But by the way, you were saying something about this place not being your homeland. Where are you two from?"

"A kingdom close to this one. We come from Kahluvia. Well, to be precise, we're not exactly sure where we’re from. Alexandre and I simply met up by chance during our travels, and we agreed to go somewhere far away from home for a change. It's quite the story. And it would have been enjoyable as well if not for the demons and the various wars being fought across the land. But, there will be more time for that later. Come, let us not waste time. I feel a bit drowsy after today's events," he mounted his horse and started heading back on the road slowly, waiting for me.

It was then that we came to a small village in the middle of the road. There were plots of land used for farming for wheat grew there, and some other types of crops that I am familiar with. The village itself was quiet by the time we arrived, and not a lot of light could be seen from the open windows. The only people present were a few guards, which looked sleepy themselves, only awakened by our presence as we approached the entrance of the village.

"Excuse me, men, but have you any idea where the inn is located? My companions and I would like to seek shelter for the night, and camping out would be less preferable," said Gino.

"If you're looking for the inn, head there," he said, pointing westwards, where a two-story wooden building stood in the distance. "Say, you haven't seen any demons on your way here, have you?" asked the man, looking a bit unnerved.

"Not at all. In fact, it was suspiciously silent. No other villager was in sight. Why? Is there something the matter?" Gino replied.

"Well, you see, that's the thing. There haven’t been any sightings, especially for this village located in the middle of nothing! Heard of the town of Caspia being overrun by demons? That much was enough to spook the living hell out of everyone here. And what's more, the lords and generals of the kingdom are all heading to Exaltier for another conference. That leaves us villages without much of an army to defend us. I may be from the army, but I sure am terrified of being killed by demons."

"Don't worry. I'll be sure to do anything that I can to help you and everyone here. I may not look like much, but I will do my utmost to do something if it ever comes to that," I said, reassuring them. I wonder how I could still muster the courage to keep saying something like this despite being beaten up by bandits?

"That's plenty reassuring. Thanks. We'll need every bit of help that we can get if something does happen. Are you three adventurers?" he added, smiling at what I said, making me reluctant for speaking up.

"Travelers is a better way of saying it."

"Well, I won't keep you all here. Thanks for your time," he smiled, allowing us to pass.

"Well, well. Look at you, the brave and ever so courageous young man who can't seem to stray from trouble. Do you even know what a demon is? Seeing as you don't know that much, I can't tell whether it's pure recklessness, or a pure desire to help," said Gino, grinning.

"I'd say it's the latter. I know about demons and what they are. I've already encountered them. But don't you find it strange as well, Gino? That a great threat such as the demons haven't been seen roaming around anywhere?"

"I do find it peculiar. But who knows what's going on in their minds. If I had to take a guess, then maybe I'd say it's because of that dazzling burst of light that appeared a few days ago. It might have reminded them of the light of a Thalisean. It is etched unto their minds to fear that light and its wielder. They may be hiding somewhere, trying to avoid a possible Thalisean still living in this land. But that would be wishful thinking for us. A relic can't possibly still exist here, not after how many years they've gone," he paused, taking a breath before continuing.

"But, it might not be that bad if the light was fake. That alone was enough to rekindle our hope that a savior still exists. For it to be true or not, that is an entirely different story," he looked sad for a split second. It was as if the cheerful guise that he was hiding under had been taken off by mistake. "It was beautiful... Unlike any light I can make with my magic. It felt like my soul was purified after gazing at it. I can go on and on, but for now, we have reached our first destination."

We entered the inn, welcomed by a rowdy crowd drinking merrily with a bunch of other burly men. A few female workers wearing aprons over their clothes rushed here and there to give trays of food and drinks to the men, looking a bit uncomposed when the men try to sneak in a few lucky passes at them.

"Welcome to the Roost. What can I do for you tonight?" an energetic girl asked upon welcoming us, covering herself with a wooden tray. She had a bright smile to her face as she greeted us.

"A room for two, please," said Gino, his eyes sharpening, and his lips curling into a smile. It was as if he was trying to charm the girl right after meeting her. "Alexandre likes his privacy a bit too much, so I hope you don't mind sharing a room with me, Zachary," said Gino, following the girl to the counter.

"Not at all," I said, shrugging my shoulders.

It was a two-bed room, furnished with a two cabinets, but nothing else other than a curtain to serve as the sole decorum of the wooden room.

Gino placed his belongings near his bed, taking off his boots with a relieved face. "Traveling here and there really tires one out. It's almost rewarding to be lying down on a bed," he said, falling flat on the comfortable white blanket bed.

"So, Zachary, why don't you tell me about yourself. I think that this is a good time to get to know each other a bit more," he said, glancing to his side to face me.

"Something about me... Where to start," I said to myself, staring at the ceiling. "Well, I guess you could say that I was taught how to fend for myself ever since I was little. Living in the forests wasn't that bad, too. I was taught how to maintain the land and grow our food. Most of the things I know are based off from books that I borrowed from my father, and some that we bought from a travelling merchant that would pass us by every so often. I guess, that's been it until now. I help out Sir Hark with some things, and he repays me with training."

"How old are you now by the way? You don't seem that old, nor that young."

"If I remember correctly, I'm seventeen. My parents would make a great deal out of it and prepare something extravagant, but sometimes they don't know that the things they make are presents enough," I gave out a wry laugh upon remembering those times.

"You know, you look like an earnest person, but there's something about you that I can't quite put my finger on. It's like you're hiding a secret, but at the same time, you're not. I can't quite understand it, but it fascinates me as well."

I caught Gino's stare, a bit astonished at what he said, but I managed to keep my composure. I'm sure that it's not about my secret, but I'm not really that good at hiding things, huh?

He smiled after, as if dismissing his suspicions. "I can't read you at all, Zachary, but something tells me that I'm glad to have met you on the road."

"Thank you. But what about you? You already told me a few things about you and Alexandre, but I'd like to know a bit more about you two."

"Hmm, that's quite difficult. I myself am hiding secrets that should remain secrets. Needless to say that I sound very untrustworthy right now, and I can understand if you don't trust me as well, but rest assured that I am going to tell you everything in due time. Just when I've confirmed something. Is that alright with you?" he took on a slightly more serious tone, but changed into a joking one in the end.

"I'm fine with that. I'm just happy to have some people with me. I guess you could say that that's enough for me. We all have secrets to hide."

"Thank you for understanding, Zachary. I'm certain that the day for that won't be too long with what I'm seeing from you. It's like you naturally draw trust from those around you, but maybe that's just me," Gino yawned loudly, stretching his arms and legs as he removed his robe and lazily dropped it on the floor, leaving him with his casual clothing on. "Now, if you'll excuse me I'd like to get some shut eye. using magic truly drains a simple man," he said, covering himself with the blankets.

"Hmm, I guess it'd be a great time to take a bath. I've got nothing to do after all," I started for the door, seeing tenants walking to and fro from their rooms and the tavern downstairs. Most of them look more like soldiers than residents of the village, boasting muscular builds and intimidating faces.

Descending the stairs, the tavern was still as lively as when we left it. The number of customers might have just doubled, or maybe I'm just overthinking it.

"Uhm, excuse me, but are there any bath houses around here?" I asked the man behind the counter, a large man with a scruffy beard and a protruding belly. He had a brimming smile while looking at his customers.

"I'm afraid that those closed down a couple hours ago. Well, if you're looking for another place, then there's one that no one goes to since they're scared of being attacked by demons, but I say they're too scared. If you follow the path to the west from here, and keep going until you enter the forest, you'll come to a small river. That's the best place to go to if you're desperate."

"Thank you. Then that's where I'll go."

"Hold on, aren't you the ones that came in earlier?" he asked.

"Yes. Why, is there a problem?"

"No, not at all. I think that fully armored friend of yours just went out. I don't know if it's to the river, but I thought you wanted to know."

"Is that so? Thanks again. I'll keep an eye out for him," I said, finally leaving.

Stepping out, there was a tranquil atmosphere. Crickets singing, owls hooting, just like an ordinary night back at home, except it was different, both the circumstances and the place.

The village houses had no light anymore. No one roamed the streets other than the guards. I expected as much, seeing as it's already a quarter past midnight. The moon, up in full view.

I followed the trail, stating my reasons to one of the guards that stopped me, then heading back on my way.

The forest itself wasn't that dense. The moon lit up my surroundings, making it easy to keep track of where I am going. I sensed no sign of wildlife as well, nor the signs of any demons. It might just be a hunch, but it seems that I can faintly sense the presence of demons whenever I am focused. But that might just be my intuition speaking.

Having gone further into the forest, I could faintly hear the sound of water gushing gently. Following the sound, I arrived to the sight of a shallow looking wide river. It reflected the light that the moon beamed down, making a beautiful collage around the forest, ebbing and flowing calmly.

But something else captured my attention. A figure standing in the middle of the river, a beautiful looking, slender woman with a fair complexion, almost like she was being bathed by the moon's light, a mirage created by it.

She had a short, smooth blonde, but neat hair until her shoulders. Small chested, but attractive enough that she didn't need it. She moved fluidly and calmly, not noticing my presence as I gawked on, unable to tear my eyes away from her.

It was the first time I had seen something like it, but I can't shake the feeling that I was blessed by it. I felt my breathing getting tense, and my body getting heavier. But for some reason, I took a step forward, unconsciously, emerging from the cover of the first and into the open, where she could see me.

She turned her head quickly, covering herself as she turned her body away from me. "Who are you? I know you're there. Show yourself! she beckoned with a certain amount of authority. She had no once of fear on her body, and she did not so much as shudder.

Her fierce eyes are on me, and it seems that the trees had shaded my face from her intimidating gaze. A sudden hostility rose from her aura, almost like it was a killing intent, or maybe it was.

I slowly retreated, trying not to make a sound. Then I bolted into a run after shouting out a response to her. "Sorry! You were very beautiful! I didn't mean to see anything!"

I felt my body working unnecessarily hard just so no one could catch me. All my energy for the night, poured into my legs until I returned to the comfort of the inn, heading up the stairs without conversing with the tenants, the waitresses, or the owner.

Opening the door to our room slowly, I creeped into my bed with an uneasy feeling in my stomach, and finally tired out. Her image couldn't ever be erased in my mind for some reason. I tried my best so I could sleep peacefully, but it seems that it made me even more tired thinking about it.

"Hmm? What's this? You look like you didn't have enough sleep. Did something happen in my absence?" Gino leaned forward, inquiring with a cunning gaze, one that would give the impression that he already knew about it.

My eyelids felt heavy, and so did my body. I felt my body tilting from side to side, trying to stay upright, but it seems my lack of sleep deprived me of my energy.

"Don't worry. It's nothing. I just didn't get enough sleep," I yawned. Gulping down the cup of water on our table was the only way to keep me awake till the morning.

Gino and I sat at one of the tables in the tavern, waiting a meal we had ordered. Most of the female staff from last night were not present, and it was the owner who tended to the request of his tenants, working enthusiastically and efficiently, alone.

"Don't think I'll let you go on this one. Now, confess. To build a better friendship, we must learn to confide. For now, I am an exception," he persisted, leaving me no choice as he continued to smile deviously.

I began telling him of what I saw, and what I thought about it. He gave a wry laugh and couldn't seem to stop. But as I began to describe what she looked like, he stared and smiled at me narrowly and suspiciously before dismissing it, then laughing once more due to my inexperience.

"I don't even know what to say. I'll let you work things out in case something happens. Who knows, you might even meet her again by chance," he said, avoiding my gaze.

"Here you go! Two freshly cooked thin pig meat with some eggs on the side, and two bowls of our best vegetable soup with seasoned herbs and spices," he laid down the bowls and plates from his tray and left quickly back to the counter without delay.

Steam wafted from the food, and so did a very scrumptious aroma that awakened my senses. "It looks plenty appetizing," I said, eating away at the still warm meat.

"Good food and good service. Not bad for a village in the middle of nowhere. No wonder it's always packed at night."

"Where's Alexandre? I thought he would've been up by now. I haven't seen him since last night before we turned in," I looked around, not seeing our fully armored companion anywhere.

"He must be sleeping in. No matter, I'll simply bring him some food after we finish. But I'm curious once more, Zachary. Tell me, have you seen the bright light that blasted through the entire land a few days ago?"

His question makes me stop as I almost choke. I recompose myself and answer him. "Yes, I have. Why do you ask?"

"Well, since you say that you've been cooped up for a long time, I was wondering whether you know about a race called the Thalise? The fabled people of hope, or rather, the lost people of hope."

"A few times. My father would tell me stories about them, but I know very little about who they really are, other than demon slayers. If I'm correct, almost everyone knows about it."

"Hmm, then if you'll allow me, I shall enlighten you about something. They are capable of so much more than defeating demons. Books will only tell you the bare minimum, but they have never told many about the great war of succession. A war so devastating and brutal that it almost wiped out the race. But ironically they were wiped out anyway, but by something else, something unknown to the rest of the world. You see, I and a few others have a belief that the Thaliseans were able to ascend themselves into higher beings, much more than simple sons and daughters of the creator, but something that far surpasses it. The war of succession is a fable that tells of a war between the ascended Thalisean and their creator. They sought power surpassing their ascended form, but to achieve it, they must as you might say, succeed their creator and become one themselves. These of course are pure speculation, since all everyone knows are the ones bathed in the light and hope. There are those bathed in the darkness as well, those who sacrificed their own lives for the attainment of something far greater. Who knows if they attained it, but with the race having gone missing, it is unlikely that my theory is wrong. But that does not conern much of our agenda. It has more to do with the people of hope rather than what happened to them."

"Why are you telling me this all of a sudden?"

"I was thinking of telling you a bit concerning our true motives. Trust me, they are not that devious or malicious, but something that will benefit many. All I can tell you for now is that we seek someone of great importance, that is if he or she could be found at all."

With a grin, he returned his attention to his food. But with what he said about the white veil of light, the Thalise, and then their motives of seeking someone of great importance. I can't understand anything from these three, but then again, the two of them are a vague mystery in itself. Maybe in due time I will come to understand who they truly are and what they stand for, but for now, I am content with having them as companions.

After wolfing down our meals, we began preparing to go on the road once more. While I tended to the horses, Gino woke up Alexandre.

"Let us be off again, shall we?" he said, gently pulling the reins of his horse as he started galloping away slowly, leaving Alexandre, who looked absentminded despite having hid his face in his helmet. He doesn't move, simply staring at the horizon without making even a single sound.

"Are you alright, Alexandre?" I asked him, having my horse inch up towards him. I nudged his shoulder eliciting a jerking reaction and a strange sound of surprise, almost not fitting for someone with his image. But looking at the glimmer of light being reflected near me, his sword was drawn, ready to cut me with a single stroke.

But without saying anything, he sheathes the sword and ignores me, following Gino.

I don't think I remember having done anything to make him mad, but who knows for sure if he was daydreaming or not. It didn't seem intentional as well, so I guess I'll just have to work things out with him when I get the chance, otherwise It'll strain our bonds, not that it's strong between the two of us right now. But with enough wondering in my mind, I caught up to Gino and continued our journey.