Back at the cathedral, the process of unloading the items began. The courtyard buzzed with activity as everyone pitched in to help. Luke found himself facing the reality of his physical limitations. His thin frame, a remnant of years spent scraping by on the streets, made the task of carrying heavy loads challenging. However, he was determined to contribute.
Luke glanced at Hal, the elderly farmer who had accompanied them. Despite his age, Hal hoisted crates with ease, his muscles rippling beneath his worn shirt. Luke marvelled at the man's strength and endurance. Meanwhile, Luke struggled to manage even a woven sack. He felt a pang of inadequacy but pushed it aside, focusing on doing what he could.
The children, on the other hand, displayed a surprising amount of strength and coordination. The boys teamed up to move crates, their combined efforts making the task manageable. The girls, not to be outdone, efficiently transported the lighter sacks on their own. Their energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and Luke found himself smiling despite his struggles.
As Luke worked, he reflected on his past. His childhood had been marked by neglect and hardship, leaving him with a lean body and a tenacious spirit. The years spent performing street magic and sleeping in alleyways had honed his survival skills but had done little to build his physical strength. Yet, here in the cathedral, he was finding a new kind of strength—one rooted in community and support.
Finally, all the items were carefully stored away. The children chattered excitedly about the bounty of food and supplies they had brought back. Sister Maria and Father Wingate supervised the process, their presence reassuring and steadying.
Hal, having completed his part, prepared to return to the fields. The children gathered around to bid him farewell, their voices filled with gratitude. Luke joined them, feeling a deep sense of appreciation for the farmer's generosity and hard work.
"Thank you, Hal," Father Wingate said warmly. "We appreciate your help, as usual."
"Always happy to help, Father. Take care, everyone," Hal nodded, a humble smile on his face.
With that, Hal climbed onto his carriage, the tiger obediently waiting for the command to move. With a final wave, Hal set off, the carriage rumbling away towards the fields.
As the dust settled and the noise of the departing carriage faded, Luke felt a sense of accomplishment. Despite his physical limitations, he had contributed to the effort and had been part of something meaningful. The experience had given him a new perspective on strength and the importance of community.
Luke looked around at the cathedral, now bustling with activity as everyone settled back into their routines. He felt a growing sense of belonging and purpose. For the first time in a long while, he was not just surviving—he was thriving.
As the evening settled in and the sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden hue over the cathedral, Luke found himself at a loose end. With several hours before nightfall, he pondered how to spend his time. The idea of visiting Gareth crossed his mind. There were still unresolved matters between them, and it felt like the right moment to address them.
Just as Luke was about to inform Father Wingate and Sister Maria about his intentions, Sister Maria approached him, holding a small wooden container. It was intricately carved and emanated a rustic charm. She handed it to Luke with a gentle smile.
"Inside, you'll find some food I've packed for Gareth," she explained. "I thought you might be heading his way."
"You're right, Sister. I was planning to visit him," Luke was taken aback by her perceptiveness but nodded gratefully.
Sister Maria's eyes twinkled with understanding.
"Then it's settled. Please, give him my regards and let him know we're all thinking of him."
With the container securely in hand, Luke thanked her and asked if she could relay the message to Father Wingate about his temporary departure. Sister Maria agreed, and with a wave, Luke set off towards the castle, specifically the barracks.
The walk through the city gave Luke a chance to reflect on the day's events. He passed by the fields they had worked on earlier, now cast in the soft glow of the setting sun. The river, with its gentle flow, added to the serene atmosphere. The sight of the water mill turning steadily was a comforting reminder of the city's resilience and harmony.
As he neared the barracks, Luke's thoughts turned to Gareth. The soldier had been a steadfast ally since their paths had crossed, and despite his injury, Gareth's spirit remained unbroken. Luke felt a mixture of gratitude and a desire to clear the air about his abilities and their implications.
Reaching the barracks, Luke was greeted by the familiar sight of soldiers going about their evening routines. Some were sharpening weapons, others engaged in light-hearted banter, and a few were performing exercises to maintain their combat readiness. The camaraderie was palpable, and it reminded Luke of the importance of solidarity and support.
He found Gareth in his quarters, resting with his leg elevated, a look of mild discomfort on his face. Despite this, Gareth's expression brightened when he saw Luke.
"Luke! Good to see you," Gareth greeted warmly.
"Likewise, Gareth," Luke replied, handing him the wooden container. "Sister Maria sent this for you."
Gareth accepted the container with a nod of thanks and opened it to find a variety of nourishing foods. He smiled appreciatively.
"Bless her heart. She always knows how to lift our spirits."
As Gareth began to eat, Luke took a seat nearby.
"I wanted to check on you and also talk about... things."
"I'm listening," Gareth looked up, his eyes serious yet kind.
Luke hesitated for a moment, collecting his thoughts.
"Do you remember our conversation about the Empire of Virencia? You suggested I seek an audience with Saint Cynthia to understand why I'm here."
"Of course, I remember. It seemed like a solid plan, given your unique situation," Gareth nodded thoughtfully, chewing on a piece of bread.
"How can I find people who want to go there? I don't want to trouble you, just point me in the right direction," Luke leaned forward, a hint of determination in his eyes.
"It's not too complicated. You need to head to the tavern in town. Inside, you'll find a notice board. It's a place where people post all sorts of news—requests for help, job offers, and occasionally, groups looking to venture to the Empire of Virencia. If you're lucky, there might already be a call for a group heading that way," Gareth smiled at Luke's eagerness.
"And if there's nothing there?" Luke listened intently, absorbing every detail.
"Then you'll need to ask around, I'm afraid," Gareth continued. "Talk to the patrons, the barkeep. Someone might know of a group planning to travel there or have contacts who do or someone who take you there if paid. Persistence will be key."
As Luke nodded, considering his next steps, Gareth reached over to a pouch on his bedside table. Untangling the rope that secured it, he produced a couple of silver shillings and a gold coin, handing them to Luke.
"You'll need money, too. Take this. It's a small token of my gratitude for saving my life, not once but twice."
Luke's initial instinct was to refuse. He had always believed that money should be earned, not gifted. However, remembering his promise to embrace change and accept help when needed, he reluctantly accepted the coins.
"Thank you, Gareth. I'll make sure to put this to good use."
"I know you will. Use it wisely and stay safe," Gareth smiled warmly.
As the evening slowly passed and the shadows grew longer, it was time for Luke to leave the barracks and head back to the cathedral. He stood up, feeling a renewed sense of purpose.
"I'll visit the tavern tomorrow and see what I can find."
"Good luck, Luke," Gareth said, his tone filled with encouragement. "And remember, you're not alone. You have friends here. Ad whatever choice you made, I support you."
With a final handshake, Luke left Gareth's quarters and made his way back through the city. The streets were quieter now, with only a few townsfolk going about their business. The cool evening air was refreshing, and Luke felt a sense of calm wash over him.
As he approached the cathedral, he thought about the journey ahead. There was still much he didn't understand about his presence in this world, but he was determined to uncover the truth. And with the support of his new friends, he felt more hopeful than ever.
Back at the cathedral, he found Father Wingate and Sister Maria waiting for him. They were pleased to see him return safely and listened as he recounted his conversation with Gareth. Of course, minus the talk about him wanting to go to the Empire of Virencia.
"Well, Gareth seemed to be doing well," Father Wingate said, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Thank you, Luke, for helping my boy. Whatever you need, don't hesitate to ask."
With a grateful heart, Luke retired to a secluded room in the cathedral, feeling more connected to this world and its people. Tomorrow would bring new challenges and opportunities, and he was ready to face them head-on.