As Ivon with his archery set weapon ,led the group of children through the dark passage a flickering sense of hope mingled with anxiety filled the air. The damp walls of the tunnel echoed softly with their footsteps, each child's small voice barely breaking the silence.
They walked for what felt like hours the mild dark light because of the woodfire helped them only to see the path , a stark contrast to the brightness they longed to see, after a turning they saw a dim light thinking that reached the end of the passage, they hurried towards it .
Finally, the passage opened out of a wide valley, they saw the bright morning sun spilling into the space like liquid gold, illuminating the vibrant green grass stretching endlessly across the horizon.
One by one, the children emerged from the passage, their eyes wide with wonder as they took in the breathtaking scenery before them. The valley was alive with the colors of nature, wildflowers dancing in the gentle breeze, and the distant sounds of birds chirping filled the air. Their previous fears faded as the beauty of the landscape captivated them.
A child with curly hair and well trained body stepped forward, glancing up at Ivon with a hint of respect asked respectfully "Young Master, what will we do now?" .
Ivon felt a surge of responsibility wash over him as he looked at the children, their faces reflecting both hope and fear. "Let's find a place for you guys to stay," he replied, his tone reassuring.
The children nodded, their determination rekindled, and they began to scan the surroundings for shelter. After a short search, they stumbled upon a cave nestled into the side of a gentle hill, its mouth yawning like a welcoming embrace. Then they filed into the cave, their small figures disappearing into the shadows.
Inside the cave, a low growling echoed off the stone walls, making some of them alert while most children stiffened, their eyes darting nervously around. Just then, a small girl with big, round eyes stepped forward, her voice soft and shy with cute face said shyly .
"Young Master, sorry… I am hungry," she murmured, her lips trembling slightly. Ivon's heart melted at her shy cute face and a warm smile spread across his face as he knelt down to pat her head gently.
"Let me bring some fruits for everyone," he said with renewed determination, standing up and glancing toward the entrance of the cave. "I'll be right back."
As Ivon stepped out of the cave, the sunlight poured over him like a warm embrace illuminating the lush landscape before him the green grass stretched endlessly towards the horizon, dotted with wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze. It was a beautiful sight so different from the choas he had left behind . Yet, a lingering worry gnawed at his heart as he thought of his mother and father .
With determination, Ivon scanned the area for anything edible . The forest loomed nearby filled with sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds, beckoning him with the promise of sustenance . He stepped cautiously into the underbud keeping his eyes peeled for fruits or nuts that might provide nourishment for the children .
As he moved deeper into the forest the vibrant colors of nature surrounded him , a mixture of green , yellow and purple . He spotted a clusters of berry bushes, their ripe fruit glistening under the sunlight. They were small, dark blue berries and he recalled his mother telling him tales of how sweet they were. "These will do nicely", he thought his stomach rumbling in agreement.
Ivon knelt down , carefully plucking the berries and filling his hands and also ate some , which made him realize that these berries are really delicious.He could already envision the children's faces lighting up when he returned. Just as he was about to head back he heared a rustling in the bushes nearby . His heart raced and he turned cautiously , distancing himself for whatever might emerge.
To his relief , a small beautiful horse like animal peeled through the bushes, it's big eyes wide with curiouslity . The animal paused, it's ear twitching before darting away into the forest . Ivon smiles reminded that not all creature were dangerous, and the forest still held beauty despite the challenges ahead
After gathering a handful of berries, he made his way back to the cave , the children's excited chatter growing louder as he approached. "I'm back !" Ivon called out , entering the cave with a triumphant grin .
The children gathered around him , eyes wide with anticipation. "What did young master find?" One of the older boys asked leaning closer to him .
"Berries!" Ivon announced, pressing his prize. "Thses are sweet and will fill your bellies. Just make sure not to eat too many at once orelse they might give you a tummy ache". He distributed the berries among the children , watching as they tasted them for the first time . Their faces lot up with joy , laughter filling the cave as they savoured the fruits.
The little girl who had first spoken to him — her name was Lila—giggled as juice dribbled down her chin. "These are so delicious, Young Master !" she exclaimed her eyes sparkling, while licking her lips.
"I'm glad you liked them", Ivon replied, feeling a surge of warmth in his chest , their happiness and this laughing talks brought them closer like feeling the warmth of a family .
Then Ivon told them "We'll need to stick together to keep each other safe." And you should all hide here , I need to give a quick visit back to the village.
Hearing this everyone nods but some panic as without young master can they survive .
Ivon could see the panic then , he told " Ravin , Brony , Hisyen come here " ,then three well built boy comes forward out of the group .
" I know you all may be scared , but don't worry , these three are trained by knight , when I will be absent — they will protect everyone, I will come back within a hour ".
Then Ivon tells the three of them " Please take care of them "
" And remember it , some creature in the forest area dangerous so don't let anyone go outside of the cave for this one hour" Ivon reminds them .
" Yes" three of them simultaneously says .
Then Ivon runs towards the passage.