FIORA: DARKNESS BEFORE DAWN

VOL 2 - Chapter 20 - Family

The morning sun bathed the forest in a warm, golden light, casting long shadows that danced with the leaves in the gentle breeze. The sound of birdsong and rustling foliage filled the air, creating a peaceful symphony that belied the recent turmoil in the Fiora family cabin.

Antrodos stirred from his sleep, his gaze moving from Max's injured form to Agnes, who lay sprawled on the floor, utterly exhausted from her efforts. She had toiled tirelessly, tending to Max's wounds, feeding him and their father, and keeping their small home in order. The sight of her sleeping so peacefully tugged at his heartstrings, and he knew that she deserved a more comfortable resting place.

Gently, with the care of a loving father, Antrodos picked up Agnes and carried her to her bedroom, laying her down on the soft mattress and covering her with a warm blanket. As he turned to leave, he whispered, "Rest well, my dear. You've done more than anyone could have expected."

Returning to the living room, Antrodos was suddenly alerted by the unmistakable sound of hooves and the neighing of a horse just outside the cabin. He furrowed his brow in confusion; the sounds belong to his own steed, whom he departed with back at Butterhame.

Opening the door, he found Shadowstride, the majestic black horse with a storied history in the Fiora family. Antrodos couldn't contain his excitement as he dashed toward the horse, enveloping it in a heartfelt embrace. The equine creature seemed to recognize him, softening its gaze and nuzzling against him in response to his affection.

"Shadowstride, my old friend," Antrodos said with a wide grin, "I never thought I'd see you again. What brings you here?"

As he spoke, he noticed the unconscious blonde girl slumped over Shadowstride's back. His expression shifted from joy to concern. Who was this stranger, and why had Shadowstride brought her here?

It was then that he saw the glowing red butterfly, Terrace, alighting gently on Shadowstride's mane. Antrodos's eyes widened in recognition, remembering the tales his wife and Agnes had shared with him. This was the magical creature that had been a loyal guardian to their family for generations.

"Terrace," he breathed, his voice a mix of awe and disbelief. "What brings you here, and who is this young girl?"

The butterfly fluttered its wings, seemingly understanding his query. It began to emit a series of soft, melodic tones, creating an ethereal song that wove a story of desperation and hope.

Antrodos listened intently, his heart pounding as he deciphered the melody's message. The girl was somehow connected to their family's fate, and it was crucial that they protect her.

He approached Shadowstride and carefully helped the unconscious girl off the horse. Cradling her in his arms, Antrodos turned to Terrace and said, "We will do whatever it takes to keep her safe, Terrace. I promise you."

With a renewed sense of purpose, Antrodos carried the mysterious girl into the cabin, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. And deep within his heart, he knew that their family would rise to meet these trials together.

The morning air was filled with the hum of activity, as the Fiora family cabin buzzed with newfound energy. The sound of commotion stirred Agnes from her slumber, her eyelids fluttering open to reveal the sunlit room. Her heart raced, a mixture of excitement and apprehension coursing through her as she sprang to her feet and hurried toward the source of the noise.

As she entered the living room, her gaze fell upon Terrace, the beloved magical butterfly she hadn't seen in what felt like an eternity. Her face lit up with joy, and she eagerly extended her finger for the creature to alight upon. But then, she quickly withdrew her hand, her expression turning somber.