Path Through The Fate

Virella Village - A Silent Morning

The sky was painted in soft shades of orange, and morning dew clung to the leaves of the trees. The narrow, cobbled paths of the village lay empty, untouched by the sound of footsteps or the bustling activity of people. Wooden houses stood far apart, separated by empty fields and tall, shady trees.

Vin stepped out of a modest wooden house, his hand gripping a jet-black obsidian sword that gleamed faintly under the morning light. This was the Astral Demon Darius, a rare heirloom passed down to him. His steps were measured and steady, his expression calm and unreadable, undisturbed by the stillness around him.

In the distance, the crunching sound of boots broke the silence. Emerging from behind the trees was Renz Xinolen, carrying a large wooden shield slung across his back. His posture was confident, and a broad grin lit up his face, a stark contrast to Vin's composed demeanor.

Renz: (in a loud, cheerful voice) "Morning, Vin! You're carrying that sword again? Isn't it heavy to lug around all the time?"

Vin halted his steps and turned slightly toward Renz. His eyes narrowed faintly, but his face remained neutral.

Vin: (in a low, calm voice) "It's not about the weight."

Renz: (chuckling, walking closer) "Oh, I know. You see that sword as more than just a weapon, don't you? But don't think it scares me just because it looks terrifying." (he taps his shield with confidence)

Vin said nothing, simply turning back to the cobbled path leading to the open fields beyond the village. His footsteps were soon accompanied by Renz, who now walked beside him, his energy as vibrant as ever.

Renz: "You know? Us Capricorns never give up, even on quiet mornings like this." (smiling widely) "We're stubborn, tough, and relentless. You agree, don't you?"

Vin: (glancing at Renz briefly, his voice still even) "You're stubborn, that's for sure."

Renz laughed heartily, brushing off Vin's dry tone. The two continued walking aimlessly, soaking in the crisp morning air. The village of Virella was enveloped in a serene silence, broken only by the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze and the earthy scent of damp soil.

Renz: (eyeing Vin's sword) "Are you sure you don't want to test that sword on me? I've said it before—my shield is tougher than you think. Now's the time to prove it!"

Vin stopped in his tracks, lifting his gaze briefly to the sky before turning to Renz.

Vin: (calmly) "Are you sure you want to test this sword? It's not an ordinary blade."

Renz: (grinning wider, raising his shield) "That's exactly why I want to try it! Don't worry. We Capricorns are always ready for a challenge."

Vin didn't respond. He simply lifted the Astral Demon Darius with one hand, the tip swaying slightly in the air. The sword's obsidian-black design and faint dark aura made the atmosphere around them feel heavier.

Renz planted his feet firmly on the cobbled ground, his face shifting to a serious expression despite the gleam of excitement in his eyes.

Renz: "Alright, show me what you've got!"

Vin: (taking a slow step forward, his voice steady) "Very well. Don't regret this."

With deliberate precision, Vin moved. The swing of his sword was sharp but not rushed, as though testing the limits of Renz's wooden shield. A loud clash echoed through the quiet village, the sound reverberating off the distant houses.

Renz staggered back slightly but quickly regained his stance. A small smile crept onto his face, even as a bead of sweat rolled down his temple.

Renz: (chuckling softly) "That's strong. But I'm still standing, Vin!"

Vin didn't respond. He swung again, this time at a different angle, forcing Renz to sidestep clumsily. The rising sun cast its golden rays over them, illuminating their increasingly focused practice.

After several minutes, Vin lowered his sword. He rested it by his side as Renz smiled triumphantly, patting his now-scarred shield.

Renz: (with a confident tone) "You're getting stronger, but don't think for a second that I've lost."

Vin: (sheathing his sword, his gaze fixed ahead) "I never thought so."

Renz laughed once more as Vin began walking away, leaving the tranquil morning behind them. The quiet, secluded village of Virella stood as a silent witness to their friendship and resolve.

Chapter 5