The dim lights in the room reflected a sense of quiet simplicity. Marlin and Ryan sat together at the small wooden table, where the meal was simple but filled with care. A bowl of warm soup and plates of fresh bread were enough to create a cozy atmosphere. Yet in Marlin's heart, something else lingered. Between each bite, the longing for his old family crept in. He missed them, missed that sense of belonging that had once been part of his life. On the other hand, he felt a deep sense of guilt over the lie he had told Ryan, the truth he had hidden.
As he continued to eat, his thoughts grew more focused on the decision he had made. He had decided that he would go to the university in a month. He knew it was the right thing to do, but the truth was, it wasn't just for his own sake—it was for Ryan as well. He wanted to give him some peace, to make up for the years lost in their lives. "I promised him I'd help him carry the weight... I'll start repaying him for those lost years."
As he took a breath and continued his meal, he looked at Ryan and spoke softly, "Thank you for everything, brother."
Immediately, Ryan stopped eating and looked at Marlin in surprise. "Brother?" he said gently, as though the word was unfamiliar. "You've always called me by my name—why now?"
Marlin fell silent for a moment, and that moment felt strange. "I didn't know how to say it, but... I think I never truly appreciated everything you've done for me." Marlin replied hesitantly. He felt a deep urge to get closer to Ryan, but at the same time, he knew these words would spark many questions.
The atmosphere in the room grew tense, but Ryan smiled faintly and said, "No problem, Marlin. I'm just glad you're here."
Marlin's emotions mixed between hesitation and relief in that moment. He wasn't fully ready to reveal the truth, but he started to feel that someday he would have to.
After dinner, they decided to visit the nearby cathedral. There was a mass for the God of Darkness on Saturday, and it seemed like a perfect opportunity for exploration. As they walked through the streets, Marlin felt something unusual in the air. The peace that surrounded the cathedral was unlike any other place. They entered through the massive doors and discovered the intricate decorations that adorned the walls. Despite the darkness surrounding the place, there was a sense of tranquility that emanated from every corner. The soft light from the candles created an atmosphere of calm, despite the cryptic symbols and incantations. The devotees within the cathedral whispered words of reverence, as though they were communing with something higher.
"This place... it's so peaceful despite the darkness surrounding it," Marlin said quietly, gesturing towards the vibrant decorations that seemed to come alive in the faint light.
As they wandered between the tall columns and ancient statues, Marlin felt as though this place reflected a part of his own lost self— a place that combined tranquility and mystery.
After finishing their visit to the cathedral, they decided to return home. The day was beginning to draw to a close, and as time passed, each of them felt a sense of inner peace, despite the challenges that awaited them.
The following morning, they decided to go to the market, since it was a holiday. "Let's go shopping tomorrow. Looks like we need a lot of things," Marlin said with a smile, while his thoughts lingered on the changes that would soon come into his life.
As Ryan prepared to go with Marlin to the market, Marlin's mind was filled with questions and doubts. What did all of this mean? Why the same names for the days of the week and months? Could this be a law or system that governs all realms?