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Chapter 22: Chapter 22 - Village of Duskdale (1)

As they began entering the village, the beauty of Duskdale became evident. Structures seamlessly integrated into nature, homes nestled within giant tree trunks, and bridges made from woven vines showcased the village\'s harmonious relationship with the environment. The luminous butterfly danced around, adding a magical ambiance.

Zalya, captivated by the building before her, couldn\'t help but express her awe. "It\'s as though they\'ve nurtured these homes right from the trees themselves."

On their way, children playing around could be seen using minor magical tricks, hinting at the village\'s intrinsic magical culture. Old folks told tales under the shade of trees, and the aroma of freshly baked goods wafted in the air. It was a peaceful place.

Liam gazed around a sense of wonder evident in his eyes. "This place is really amazing. There\'s such a palpable energy around us."

Alric nodded, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "The design here is reminiscent of the architecture I\'ve encountered in ancient texts."

Irys remained quiet, simply soaking in the enchanting ambiance.

Liora gave them a confused and skeptical look. "Have any of you ever been to a rural area? Most of our countryside villages are constructed with Abodebough Tree." Her eyes sparkled with admiration as she added, "I\'ve always wanted to meet the genius behind it, Bough Luminar. His creation is truly remarkable."

Liam responded quickly, "Yes, it\'s our first time in such a rural area. We\'ve been stationed in the city mostly."

Sensing an opportunity, Irys, eager to test the limits of her new ascended power, proposed, "The environment here seems perfect for training. How about it, Liam?"

Liam glanced around, considering, "We could all use a session, I suppose. But let\'s get settled in first."

Elder Marea interjected, "For the majority of you, accommodations have been arranged at the inn. However, as space is limited, I\'d like to extend an invitation for the lieutenant to stay at my residence." She paused, her gaze shifting toward Irys, "And if training is in your plans, I recommend the area just outside the village. We have many children playing around here, and it would be best to keep such activities at a distance."

As the group nodded in agreement, Liam expressed his gratitude. "Thank you, Elder Marea, for your hospitality. We will make sure to follow your suggestions to ensure the village remains undisturbed."

A playful smirk crossing his face, Alric remarked, "Perhaps the kids might be interested in a quick lesson in defense during our training?"

Elder Marea responded with a soft laugh, "Oh, trust me, once their curious eyes spot you all, keeping them at bay will be the real challenge. But then again, they\'re always off on their own little adventures."

Interrupting the moment, with a brisk stride, a soldier stepped forward, raising his hand in a military salute. "Lieutenant William, we\'ve been assigned lodgings at the inn," he announced with a tone of formality.

Recognizing the soldier\'s emblem, Liam responded, "Very well, Ensign Caelum. Elder Marea, could someone guide us there?"

Before Elder Marea could summon a villager to assist, Ensign Caelum interjected confidently, "No need, ma\'am. I know the way." With another sharp salute, he pivoted on his heel and started leading the troops toward their designated accommodations.

Liam\'s brow furrowed slightly, feeling confused. Does he know the way? He pondered silently. \'From the memories I possess, no one in our unit originates from this village.\'

As the soldiers split up, the group continued their walk through the heart of the village, leading them to the central area, a blend of natural beauty and vibrant activity.

A captivating fountain, intricately designed from intertwining tree roots, stood as the heart of the marketplace. It gushed clear water, the droplets reflecting the radiant sun and serving as a gathering point for villagers and travelers alike.

Stalls were erected around, with vendors showcasing their fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and regional specialties. The chatter of negotiations, laughter, and the general hum of community life filled the air.

As they strolled through the village, a sizable two-story house came into view, exuding a mix of traditional elegance and warmth. Upon arriving at the doorstep, Elder Marea gestured, "Welcome to my humble abode." She then raised her voice touch to announce their arrival, "Elara, Alice, Theron, we have guests."

Emerging from the doorway, four figures presented themselves. The first was a woman evidently in the late stages of her pregnancy, looking as though she could give birth at any moment. A concerned man, presumably her husband, tenderly held her hand, ensuring her steps were steady.

Beside them stood a radiant young girl with the charm characteristic of village belles. Next to her was a handsome young man who carried himself with a poised air.

Elder Marea\'s eyes rested on the young man, a note of surprise in her voice, "Ah, Timothy, you\'re here as well?"

Timothy, with a nod, replied, "Yes, mother. We were discussing some wedding preparations to ensure everything runs seamlessly."

The woman beside him, her excitement evident, chimed in, "We were thinking of making some alterations to the dress. Mother

Elder Marea responded with an understanding nod, "Very well, we can talk into the details later. Right now, we have esteemed guests." She turned her attention back to Liam and the group, "Lieutenant, my apologies for the impromptu family gathering. My youngest daughter is eagerly anticipating her wedding day."

Alice, noticing the formal disposition of the guests, blushed and said apologetically, "I\'m sorry, Lieutenant. As my mother mentioned, the wedding preparations have me quite excited."

Elder Marea continued the introductions, "This is my youngest, Alice, and beside her is her fiancé, Timothy. The expecting woman is my eldest, Elara, and with her is her husband, Theron."

Both Theron and Elara nodded in acknowledgment, and Theron spoke up, "It\'s an honor to meet you, Lieutenant. We\'re delighted to have you here. However, I must ask your understanding as I need to take my wife for a medical checkup."

Elara shot Theron a sharp look, whispering, "Not now," but Theron, with a hint of urgency in his eyes, replied, "Darling, we\'ve already delayed a few weeks. We need to ensure the safety of our baby."

Zalya\'s gaze shifted towards Elara with concern. , "Is everything okay with the pregnancy?" she asked gently. Before Elara could answer, Elder Marea interjected, "Perhaps we should move this conversation indoors. It\'s not appropriate to discuss it out here." She led the way, her robes rustling gently with each step.

Upon entering, the interior was more expansive than its exterior suggested, exuding warmth and tradition. Detailed wooden carvings adorned the walls, complementing a long wooden dining table that seemed to be the heart of the living area.

Elder Marea, noticing the visitors\' subtle admiration, gestured towards the seating area, inviting them to settle. "Please, make yourselves comfortable," she said. Liam and his team obliged, taking their seats while the Elder motioned Alice and Timothy to prepare refreshments. The couple promptly excused themselves, moving towards the kitchen area.

Once seated, Elder Marea began, her tone solemn, "Lieutenant, to address your question, Elara has been overdue by two weeks now. We\'ve consulted healers and doctors alike, yet they\'ve found no complications or reasons for the delay." Her gaze held a mix of worry and hope as she glanced at her visibly expectant daughter.

Zalya, recognizing the family\'s concern, softly said, "Being overdue can be a concern. With your permission, I\'d like to use my sensory abilities to check on the baby\'s well-being. And Elder Marea, please, just call me Zalya."

She then gestured to her group, introducing them. "The tall individual with the silver hair is Alric," pausing for a while, she continued, "beside him is Liam." She pointed towards a spirited young lady, "Meet Irys, and the one next to her is Liora." Turning back to Elara, Zalya gently inquired, "May I?"

Elara gratefully nodded. As Zalya gently positioned her hand on Elara\'s protruding belly, a soft, ethereal light glowed beneath her touch. After a few silent moments, Zalya confidently stated, "Your child is strong and healthy, showing no signs of distress or complications."

Both Elder Marea and Elara breathed sighs of relief. However, Theron\'s brows remained knitted with concern. "Is there anything we can do to help her give birth?" he asked, glancing anxiously between Zalya and his wife. "I\'m just concerned with the baby being overdue."

As Zalya pondered a solution, Liora interjected, "I might have a method to assist with that, but you\'ll need to make preparations for the birth. My ability allows me to potentially induce labor."

Elder Marea quickly rose from her seat, her eyes moist with gratitude. "Lieutenant Liora, we\'ll forever be in your debt. Allow me a moment to make the necessary arrangements. Might you be available later this evening to assist?"

Liora smiled, "Of course, Elder. No need to worry. We\'re here to help." Zalya added, "A new life being born is an important occasion. Do let me know if I can be of any assistance."