The fortress hummed with activity as Ayberk, Luke, and the chosen members of the Ay Brotherhood readied themselves to depart. Samuel stood by Ayberk, his expression unwavering.
"Take care of the Brotherhood, Samuel," Ayberk said, gripping Samuel's shoulder tightly. "I trust you."
"I won't disappoint you, Ayberk," Samuel replied with determination.
The men checked their equipment, mounted their horses, and set off. As they traversed the rugged terrain, Ayberk's thoughts drifted back to his childhood. Memories of Riveria were fleeting and blurry—a jumble of faces and places without clear context. He could recall more vividly his early days in Skarvaria, adapting to life under Aunt Dakota's guidance.
Ayberk, adrift in his thoughts.
Following a lengthy journey, Ayberk and his companions arrived at a small fort where some squadrons of Skarland's soldiers were stationed. Recognizing Ayberk and his men by their distinctive black attire, the gatekeeper swung open the gate. The presence of the Ay Brotherhood intrigued every soldier within the fort. As Ayberk and his men entered, whispers spread among the soldiers. "I've never seen anyone like him before; I wish I could join them." Others commented on Ayberk's appearance, remarking on his rumored handsomeness. Ayberk, accustomed to such reactions, dismounted his horse and was greeted by a man with a warm smile. "Ayberk, my boy, you've grown into a fine young man," the man said. "Uncle Ned!" Ayberk greeted him with a smile, embracing him. "I'm sorry about your father, Ay," Ned whispered. Ayberk simply nodded. "The Ay Brotherhood is welcome here," Ned acknowledged, leading Ayberk into the fort. Ayberk and Ned reminisced about old times as everyone settled in. Later, Ayberk found himself alone on top of the fort, gazing out at the scenery of trees and jungles they had traversed. His mind seemed far away. Luke joined him, commenting on the beauty of the trees. "Not so beautiful when riding through them," Ayberk replied. "True," Luke agreed. "Ay, I can tell you're distancing yourself again. Remember, I'm here for you," Luke reassured him. "I know," Ayberk replied, and they stood in silence, watching the jungle below.
That night, the Brotherhood gathered around a campfire. The other members Kevin Starc, Drew Starc and lord Bareek was having chatters.While Ayberk was lost in thought and seemingly detached from the group's chatter, he suddenly spoke up. "I need answers." Luke inquired, "What do you need?" Ayberk confessed, "I barely remember my father, but his death haunts me like a void. I need to uncover the truth." "Is it about the dreams, Ay?" Lord Bareek asked. "Those dreams don't come very often now," Ayberk acknowledged. "I find meaning in dreams," Bareek added. "Enough, Barry," Kevin interjected. "Everyone has their beliefs," Bareek retorted. "Your beliefs are as dull as you," Kevin countered. "Says the man fearful of spiders," Bareek taunted. "They have eight legs, it's unnerving," Kevin defended. "A warrior frightened by spiders," Bareek chuckled. The banter drew laughter from the group, including Ayberk. "We stand by your side, Ay," Drew affirmed. "Always," the others echoed. "Thank you, brothers," Ayberk expressed with a smile. As night waned, they retired for sleep, knowing they had to depart for Skarvaria in the morning.
In the morning, Ayberk, Luke, and the Ay Brotherhood readied themselves to depart.
At the time of leaving Ned addressed the brotherhood for the farewell. He hugged Ayberk before he got in his horse " You'll reach there in three days" Ned assured " Take care Uncle Ned" Ayberk said and mounted on his horse and all others also got on their horses. Ayberk with a smile on his face bid " Farewell" to his Uncle. "Open the gates" Ned ordered the gatekeepers. Gate opened and Ay brotherhood left the fort and sound of horse steps echoed throughout the
trails.