The next morning, Ken awoke to find James and Emily already in the dining room of James's mansion, deep in conversation with James's father. As he approached, he caught snippets of their discussion, realizing they were talking about their plans to travel to Verdantia.
"Good morning, Ken," James greeted him with a smile. "We were just discussing our trip to Verdantia. My father has agreed to help us get there safely."
Ken's heart swelled with gratitude. He had never expected such kindness from James and his family. "Thank you, James. I don't know how to repay you for all that you've done for me."
James's father, a tall, distinguished man with a kind smile, turned to Ken. "It's the least we can do, Ken. You've been through a lot, and if there's a chance Verdantia holds the answers you seek, then we will do everything in our power to help you get there."
With a renewed sense of purpose, Ken joined them at the table, ready to embark on the next chapter of his journey, guided by the whispers of the past and the promise of a brighter future.