Starfall's Wish - Chapter 6 - First Draft (Patreon)

Yuka led Theng and Dīl through the pine grove in a corner of the town, her green eyes sparkling with excitement as they tread softly on the damp earth. The twilight sun filtered through the dense canopy overhead, casting a warm glow on the trio. She glanced at her companions, noting Dīl's curious gaze and Theng's quiet presence.

"Have I ever told you the story of Kök and Änä?" Yuka asked, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. Theng shook his head, his long bright blonde hair swaying gently. Dīl remained silent, focusing intently on Yuka as she began to weave her tale.

"Long ago, in a time of great strife and darkness, there were two brave warriors named Kök and Änä," Yuka said, gesturing to the trees around them as if illustrating the scene. "Kök was strong and fearless, while Änä was wise and cunning. Together, they fought against the oppressive forces that sought to enslave their people."

As Yuka shared her story, Dīl's eyes widened with interest, and even Theng seemed to relax, captivated by her storytelling. They continued walking, passing under an archway formed by intertwining branches, and soon arrived at a small clearing. The smell of freshly cooked food greeted them, a picnic set out by Yuka's servants, and Yuka beamed as she pointed out the different dishes laid out before them.

"Here in Fērizith, we have many unique customs and traditions," she explained, her hands deftly arranging plates of fish soup, wild reindeer meat, various tubers, onions, and berries. "During the summer months, we grow Elven wheat – it's our primary crop. But when winter comes, we rely on the bountiful forest for sustenance, just like our hunter-gatherer ancestors did."

Dīl examined the meal with curiosity, while Theng simply observed, his expression unreadable. Yuka continued, her voice filled with pride as she spoke of her people's resilience and adaptability.

"Though the winters can be harsh, our community has always found a way to thrive. We celebrate festivals throughout the year, honoring the spirits that watch over us and give us strength. The most important one is the Festival of Renewal, which marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring."

Yuka paused, her gaze shifting to Theng and Dīl, concern flickering in her eyes. "I hope that one day, you both will be able to experience these festivities as part of our community."

Dīl offered a faint smile, while Theng remained silent, nodding his head slightly. As they sat down to enjoy their meal, the bond between Yuka, Theng, and Dīl grew stronger, grounded in shared moments and the stories that connected them.

Later that day, the warm glow of the hearth cast flickering shadows on the walls as Yuka, Theng, and Dīl finished their evening meal. The air was thick with a sense of camaraderie, and Yuka couldn't help but smile at the thought that they were no longer strangers but friends.

"Yuka!" Rōshi's voice cut through the tranquil atmosphere like a sharp blade, his eyes wide with fear. "A messenger has arrived from Lord Yukyo!"

Yuka felt her heart drop as she watched Rōshi approach with trembling hands. She glanced at Theng and Dīl, who both seemed to stiffen at the mention of the divine being's name. As the messenger entered the room, it became clear that something was amiss.

"Lord Yukyo has decreed that Theng and Dīl are to be taken away immediately," the messenger said, his voice shaking slightly. "He has sent soldiers to enforce his orders."

"Taken away?" Yuka's heart raced, and she exchanged worried glances with Rōshi. "What does he want with them?"

"Yuka," Rōshi murmured, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We mustn't panic. Let's discuss this privately."

As they moved into another room, leaving Theng and Dīl behind, Yuka couldn't shake the gnawing fear in her chest. "Rōshi, what could happen to them if they're taken away? They've done nothing wrong!"

"Lord Yukyo is not known for his mercy, Yuka," Rōshi replied, his brow furrowed with concern. "He may see Theng and Dīl as threats or curiosities to be exploited. We've heard stories of those who have displeased him... and the fates they've suffered."

"Then we can't let them go!" Yuka exclaimed, her eyes welling up with tears. "We have to protect them!"

"Yuka," Rōshi said softly, his expression somber. "The danger they face is great, but we must be cautious in our actions. Defying Lord Yukyo could bring grave consequences not only for Theng and Dīl but also for ourselves and the entire town."

As Yuka listened to Rōshi's words, she knew he was right. The stakes were high, and one wrong move could lead to disaster. However, the thought of abandoning Theng and Dīl to an uncertain fate was unbearable.

"Rōshi," Yuka whispered, her voice choked with emotion. "We can't just stand by and do nothing. We have to try... We have to help them."

"Yuka," Rōshi sighed, a mixture of pride and worry evident in his gaze. "Your heart is true, and your courage is commendable. Let us think on this matter and devise a plan that will ensure their safety while minimizing the risks involved."

With heavy hearts and racing minds, Yuka and Rōshi returned to the main room, where Theng and Dīl sat in silent apprehension. They exchanged a determined glance before facing the two young men.

"Theng, Dīl," Yuka breathed, her eyes filled with resolve. "We'll find a way to keep you safe. I promise."

---

A single candle flickered, casting dancing shadows on the walls of the dimly lit room. Yuka's eyes were narrowed in concentration as she traced her finger along a worn map, the paper crinkling beneath her touch.

"Rōshi," Yuka murmured, her voice barely audible. "This mountain range here... Is it not said to be impassable?"

"Indeed, Yuka," Rōshi replied, his eyes following her finger as it moved across the map. "Many have tried and failed to cross those treacherous peaks. Even Lord Yukyo dares not to pass the mountains."

Yuka's green eyes sparkled with determination. "Then maybe, just maybe, we can find a way to get Theng and Dīl across the mountains. If we can bring them to safety beyond its borders, Lord Yukyo won't be able to harm them."

"An audacious plan, Yuka," Rōshi admitted, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "But you are right – if we are to protect Theng and Dīl from Lord Yukyo, we must take risks. We must outwit him by taking a path he would not expect."

"Very well," Rōshi agreed, nodding gravely. "We will need to gather supplies and provisions for the journey. Warm clothing, food, and tools for climbing. We should also bring medical supplies, just in case."

"Let's not forget weapons," Yuka added, her mind racing with the details of their daring plan. "We don't know what dangers we might face along the way."

"Indeed," Rōshi conceded. "I will speak to some trusted friends who can help us gather what we need without drawing suspicion."

"Thank you, Rōshi," Yuka whispered, folding the map and tucking it into her pocket. "I know this is a lot to ask, but I believe in us."

"Your courage and conviction are inspiring, Yuka," Rōshi said softly, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Now, let's go share our plan with Theng and Dīl, and prepare for the journey ahead."

Yuka nodded, feeling both excitement and trepidation building within her as they left the small room. She knew that their undertaking was fraught with danger, but she also recognized that the alternative – doing nothing – would be far worse. For Theng and Dīl, she was willing to face any challenge, no matter how daunting.

A few nights passed, the dim glow of the dying fire illuminated Rōshi's face, casting eerie shadows as he hunched over the tattered map once again. He traced a finger along the route they were to take, and Yuka leaned closer, her green eyes keenly locked on the parchment. She could feel the weight of their journey looming in the air, heavy with uncertainty.

"Here," Rōshi said, his voice low and steady, "We'll travel south, skirting the edge of the mountains until we reach Jāĺilbẹ̄lk Pass. It's a longer route, but it's our only option. The mountains are impassable."

Yuka nodded, her reddish auburn hair falling across her face as she studied the route. Her heart raced at the thought of the challenges ahead, but her empathetic nature drove her to protect Theng and Dīl. They had already faced so much, and she was determined to see them through whatever came next. "What supplies will we need?" she asked, her voice soft yet resolute.

"Food and water, of course," Rōshi replied, his gaze lingering on the map. "Warm clothing to protect against the cold winds that whip through the pass. Torches, rope, anything we can use for shelter." He glanced up at her, a hint of concern in his eyes. "This journey will test us, Yuka. Are you prepared?"

She met his gaze unflinchingly, the fire within her spirit burning brightly. "I am," she said firmly, though her thoughts betrayed a flicker of doubt. Could she truly guide them through such treacherous terrain? But she pushed those fears aside, knowing that she must be strong for both herself and her companions.

Theng and Dīl sat nearby, their silent presence a vivid reminder of the reason for this arduous trek. Theng's long blonde hair hung limply around his face, and his tanned skin seemed golden in the firelight. Dīl's eyes were distant and vacant, as if he too was consumed by the daunting task that lay ahead.

"Two months," Yuka murmured, her voice barely audible above the crackle of the fire. "Two months just to reach the pass." She glanced at Theng and Dīl, their stoic expressions doing little to assuage her fears. As much as she wanted to believe that they could endure such a journey, she couldn't help but feel the weight of their silence pressing down on her.

But Yuka knew that there was no turning back. They had come this far, and she would not allow herself to be defeated by doubt. Steadying her resolve, she looked back at Rōshi and forced a brave smile. "We'll make it," she said, her words laced with determination. "Together, we can overcome anything."

Rōshi met her gaze and offered a small nod, his own confidence bolstered by her unwavering spirit. He rolled up the map, tucking it safely away before stoking the fire one last time. "Get some rest," he told her gently. "Tomorrow, we set out at dawn."

Yuka nodded, her heart pounding with anticipation and anxiety as she curled up beneath her threadbare blanket. As the fire flickered and died, she closed her eyes and tried to envision the path that lay before them, praying for the strength to guide her companions through whatever dangers awaited them in the shadow of the mountains.