The suns were shining beautifully, coated in clouds and fog from the rain of the night. Footsteps could be heard coming towards the Silver home, the door creaked open ever so slowly, "Hello? Are you guys awake?" whispered a shy Rokas. Elias and Ariah were still sleeping, Elias was moving a little in his sleep and murmured "Ari, can you shut the door? You didn't close it all the way last night."
Rokas was peeking one eye into their small home and saw the bed Elias was sleeping on but couldn't see Ariah. "You're so annoying, why don't you get up and close it next time" she replied while slamming the door shut. Rokas was hit by the door harshly and the twins could hear his body tumble onto the ground beside their door. The twins looked at each other, frantically jumped out of bed and quickly opened the door.
"You know, I thought you two were the sort to be awake early. I brought these books so we could study what lies ahead on our journey, but now, I have this gash on my forehead, and it hurts, bad." Rokas groaned as he was holding the wound with his hand.
Ariah got close to Rokas and moved his hand and said, "Let me help you, casting Aquatic Restoration". A sphere of rotating water mana swiftly penetrated the wound, it graciously brought the large bump down to a minimum and also stopped the bleeding.
Elias grabbed a wet rag and cleaned Rokas' face off, "what were you planning to show us in these books? I'm sorry this happened, I hope her healing spell helped." he said with a tone of regret.
"Before I get into that, Ariah, you're a healer too?! Not to be weird but I thought something was special with you two, so I was kind of stalking you and Dusty when everybody was coming here from Dockton. When y'all were in the woods setting up the attack on those Orcs, the spell that Ariah used is taught to high-ranking mages of the Artos Military. So that led me to wonder, how did she learn that spell, where are the parents to these twins and why have they been left in small-town Starch to fend for themselves?” Rokas asked intuitively, then he would point a finger up with a dramatized look of understanding, “The answer clicked right away, please do not be offended, but you twins are unmarked humans. Other known as non-reported births because King Artos doesn't believe that twins should be allowed to be born. The other reason for your parents being quote on quote missing is because they serve the military of which they despise, but they are forced into it." Rokas said straightforwardly.
You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.
The twins stared at the boy, surprisingly they started smiling and thought that he was very astute for someone of similar age. Ariah would reply "I don't believe we have much to debate, you have your facts right, strictly based on watching us. With that being said, it is time that we learn what else you know, because we will be leaving after the festival ends today as a farewell goodbye, for now anyway to our town folk. So, let's get to it."
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With the morning sun painting the sky in hues of gold and amber, Ariah, Elias, and their loyal companion, Rokas, stepped out from the confines of their modest home. The twins' residence, nestled amidst the quiet lanes of Starch, exuded a sense of warmth and familiarity, yet today, an air of anticipation tinged their departure.
As they strolled through the now bustling village, Ariah's bright eyes swept over the familiar faces that populated the gravel streets. Merchants hawked their wares, their voices mingling with the cheerful chatter of townsfolk going about their daily routines. Elias, ever observant, took note of the lively energy that pulsed through the heart of Starch, a testament to the resilience and camaraderie of its inhabitants.
With Rokas bounding happily at their side, they wound their way through the throngs of people until they reached the town's bustling tavern—a hub of activity nestled at the heart of Starch. The tavern's inviting glow spilled out onto the street, beckoning weary travelers and locals alike to its welcoming embrace. As they pushed open the heavy wooden door, the sound of laughter and merriment washed over them, mingling with the aroma of hearty fare and ale.
Taking their seats amidst the lively crowd, Ariah, Elias, and Rokas settled in for a moment of respite, eager to partake in the warmth and camaraderie that flowed freely within the walls of the tavern. Here, amidst the spirited banter and jovial atmosphere, they found solace and kinship—a reminder of the bonds that bound them to their beloved village of Starch.