The early morning sun filtered through the trees, casting a gentle glow across the village of Elaria. The realm was peaceful, yet there was an unspoken excitement in the air—a sense of change and renewal that had been lingering for days. As Ethan strolled alongside Amara, he could feel her quiet energy. She was usually lighthearted, filling each step with laughter or a story, but today, she seemed unusually introspective.
Ethan glanced at her, concern softening his gaze. "Amara, you seem... different today. Is everything alright?"
Amara looked up, her lips curving into a soft smile that hinted at something she was holding back. “There’s something I’ve been wanting to share with you,” she began, her voice barely above a whisper as she placed a gentle hand on her stomach.
His eyes fell to her hand, and his heartbeat quickened as he began to guess what she might be about to say. "Amara...?"
She took a deep breath, her gaze steady and filled with warmth. “Ethan, I’m with child.”
The words seemed to hang in the air, echoing in the quietness around them. Ethan felt a surge of emotions, from surprise to joy and a deep sense of pride. His face broke into a wide smile as he reached for her hand. “Amara... that’s wonderful! I... I can’t believe it. How are you feeling?”
Amara chuckled softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “At first, I was nervous. It was... unexpected, even though we both knew this was our purpose. But now, I feel so peaceful. It feels like a gift, something precious that’s been given to us.”
Ethan’s grip on her hand tightened as he nodded. “I can’t imagine how it must feel for you. Knowing that... that life is growing inside of you. It’s a miracle, really.”
Amara’s expression softened. “Yes, it is. And to know that this life is part of both of us, that we’re bringing something new into Elaria together... it’s overwhelming, in the best way.” She glanced away for a moment, her voice becoming more thoughtful. “I’m glad it was you, Ethan. Out of anyone, I’m glad you’re the one here by my side.”
A warm silence settled between them, filled only by the distant sounds of the village awakening to the new day. Ethan felt deeply moved, aware of the significance of their bond and the future they were building together. He reached out, touching her cheek gently. "You’ve given me a sense of purpose here, Amara. This child... it's a piece of both of us. I’ll do everything I can to protect and cherish both of you.”
Amara’s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she looked up at him, nodding. “Thank you, Ethan. It means more than you know.”
After a moment, she took a breath and continued, “I wanted to tell you before anyone else, but some of the women know. The council is thrilled; they were already talking about preparations for the baby’s arrival. I think they’re as excited as I am.”
Ethan chuckled, imagining the village women bustling around, planning and preparing. “I can see them now, planning every little detail. This child will be so loved, Amara. And I’ll be there with you through it all.”
Amara’s gaze softened, and she took his hands in hers. “That’s all I could ever want, Ethan. For you to be a part of this journey, to help me raise this child and guide them. I know it might be difficult, being the only man here, but... would you? Would you help me in this, more than just as a duty?”
His heart swelled at her words. “Amara, you don’t even need to ask. I want to be there for every moment. I want to be a part of this child’s life, and yours. It’s not just a duty for me anymore; it’s a choice. And I choose to be here with you.”
A look of relief washed over her face as she smiled up at him. “Thank you, Ethan. Truly.”
They shared a long look, one that spoke of shared dreams and silent promises. Ethan pulled her close, wrapping his arms around her as they stood beneath the towering trees, letting the calm of the moment settle into their hearts.
After a while, Amara pulled back, her eyes bright with excitement. “The council mentioned something about a blessing ceremony,” she said with a playful grin. “They want to make sure that every tradition is followed, to honor this new life and ensure its strength.”
Ethan raised an eyebrow. “A blessing ceremony?”
Amara nodded, a glint of mischief in her eyes. “Oh yes, it’s quite an elaborate ritual. It involves offerings, dancing, singing... and, if I’m not mistaken, a bit of paint on your face.”
Ethan laughed, shaking his head. “I don’t think I’ve ever had to undergo a ritual like that before. But I’ll do it. If it means celebrating this child and giving thanks, I’m all in—even if it means looking ridiculous.”
Amara chuckled, her laughter filling the air around them. “You’ll look fine, I promise. The blessing ceremony is a beautiful tradition. It’s meant to welcome the new life, to invite the spirits of our ancestors to watch over the child and guide them.”
Ethan nodded, understanding the significance of such a ceremony. “Then I’ll be honored to take part. This child deserves all the love and protection of Elaria’s traditions.”
They continued walking, the village bustling to life around them. Ethan noticed the smiles of the other women as they passed, some whispering excitedly to each other, casting curious glances their way. The news was spreading quickly, and with it, a new wave of joy and hope seemed to sweep through Elaria.
As they approached the council hall, a few of the elder women emerged, beaming with excitement. One of them, a tall woman with silver-streaked hair and a warm smile, stepped forward. “Amara, Ethan,” she greeted them with open arms, her gaze lingering fondly on Amara. “We’ve heard the news, and we couldn’t be more thrilled. This child will be a blessing to us all.”
Amara nodded, her smile widening. “Thank you, Elder Maren. It means so much to have your support.”
Maren turned to Ethan, her eyes twinkling with pride. “Ethan, you’ve done well. This child will carry on the legacy of Elaria, and we’re grateful to you for embracing this role with such dedication.”
Ethan felt a surge of pride at her words. “Thank you, Elder Maren. It’s an honor to be part of this community and to share in this journey.”
The elder woman nodded, her expression softening. “We will begin preparing for the blessing ceremony soon. This is a time of great joy, and we want to honor it properly.”
Amara’s gaze shifted to Ethan, her eyes bright with anticipation. “Are you ready for this?” she whispered.
Ethan smiled, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. “More than ready, Amara. I’ll stand by you through all of it.”
Maren patted his shoulder. “Good. You’ll find that Elaria is a place of deep roots, Ethan. We honor our past, but we also look forward to the future. This child is our future, and we are grateful for your commitment.”
As the elder turned to rejoin the other council members, Amara leaned closer to Ethan, a playful smile on her lips. “Looks like you’re stuck with us now,” she teased.
Ethan chuckled, nodding. “I wouldn’t want it any other way.”
As they walked back toward the village, Ethan looked around, taking in the warmth and acceptance that surrounded them. The women of Elaria were like family, and he could see the genuine happiness on their faces as they passed by, offering congratulations and kind words.
When they reached the edge of the village, Amara stopped, turning to face him. She placed her hand over his heart, her gaze filled with love and gratitude. “Ethan, whatever lies ahead, I’m grateful to share it with you.”
He covered her hand with his own, feeling the steady rhythm of her heartbeat beneath his fingers. “And I, with you, Amara. This is just the beginning, and I couldn’t ask for a better one.”
They stood together, basking in the warmth of the morning sun, knowing that their journey was only beginning.
YOU ARE READING
The Promised Of Elaria
ФэнтезиEthan is pulled from his ordinary life into the mystical realm of Elaria, a world where women reign and the ancient prophecy foretells the arrival of one man. Hailed as the "Promised One," he becomes the key to restoring their dwindling bloodline. ...
