Mystical Saga - The beginning

33. Beginning of the prophecy (F)

A/N

This story is unedited so apologies for grammatical and spelling errors if any.

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Fiora (POV)

"You don't like him, do you?" I asked once the Old Man had walked far enough away that he wouldn't be able to hear us.

"What makes you think that?" Zack responded, sounding defensive.

"It's not that I don't like him," he said, his tone becoming more measured. "It's just that I'm cautious around him."

I smirked playfully. "Are you jealous?" I teased, raising an eyebrow.

"Why would I be?" he asked, eyeing me sceptically.

"That's what I'm wondering. What's there to be jealous of? But you didn't greet him warmly, and he didn't either. Why so cold, bro?" I added, mimicking a graffiti tone.

He sighed in frustration. "Why are you always so cheerful and happy when you meet him?" he asked, irritation evident in his voice.

"Because... I don't know. Maybe it's because he's wise, kind, and doesn't withhold information. If he can't tell me something, he simply says he can't or doesn't know. It makes it easier to trust him and be vulnerable," I answered honestly.

"You're still on about that?" Zack questioned, his annoyance still clear

"No, I'm not still on about that. You asked why I was so cheerful, and I answered honestly. It's more of a trust thing. I know that if I'm having difficulty or don't understand something, I can go to him, and he will answer without expecting anything in return," I replied earnestly.

"How do you know he doesn't need anything in return?" Zack questioned, his irritation clearly growing.

"I asked him," I said simply, meeting his gaze.

"And you trusted him?" he pressed, his voice tinged with disbelief.

"Yes, I did. So far, he hasn't lied to me once," I replied confidently.

"How can you be so naive?" His tone shifted to one of slight anger, and I could see the frustration in his eyes.

"Because sometimes you have to take people at their word. He has given me no reason to doubt him," I said, trying to keep my voice calm. "He's been there for me, guiding and helping without asking for anything in return. That kind of honesty and support builds trust."

"If I weren't so naive, none of you would even be in my life," I said with a hint of frustration, sensing the direction of the conversation but unwilling to dwell on it or take blame.

"You asked if I like him or not. Not even in the slightest," he declared before turning and walking away. I made no attempt to stop him. I knew I was free to talk to whomever I pleased, and that wouldn't change.

I walked back home, determined not to dwell on the exchange. Upon reaching my doorstep, I was greeted by Arnica waiting for me. Without hesitation, I rushed to her and embraced her warmly. She reciprocated the hug, and both of us were filled with excitement. We entered the house, and I quickly brought water and snacks for us to share.

"You've slimmed down," I remarked, noting the change in her figure

"Yes, the past month has been incredibly stressful. I could barely get a wink of sleep. I feel bad that Ethan's been taking care of the kids mostly, and I worry they'll someday refuse to recognize me," Arnica admitted with a laugh, though her concern was evident.