Marked By Darkness

Chapter 75- Threads of Fate

Morning light seeped through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room as Ruhi stirred awake, still feeling the weight of last night's dreams. She glanced around, her gaze eventually landing on Ruhan, who stood near the doorway, readying himself to leave.

He looked at her and spoke softly, "I have to go out for a bit. Stay here until I'm back, alright?"

Ruhi sat up, her curiosity piqued. "Where are you going?" she asked.

Ruhan hesitated, then replied, "I'm going to meet Father Daniel."

Ruhi's gaze sharpened, and before he could turn away, she called out, "I'm coming with you."

Ruhan paused, turning to face her with a questioning look. "Why?"

She looked him in the eyes, determination in her voice. "I want some answers."

After a brief silence, Ruhan nodded. "Alright. Let's go."

The two of them arrived at the church a short while later, the old building looming before them, its stone walls and arched windows casting an air of mystery. As they stood outside, Ruhan took a step forward to enter, but before they could proceed, Father Daniel appeared in the doorway, his gaze finding Ruhan and then shifting to Ruhi. His expression immediately turned wary, worry mingling with something sharper-anger, perhaps.

Ruhan and Ruhi exchanged a confused glance. Sensing the tension, Ruhan cleared his throat and spoke, "Father, is something wrong?"

Father Daniel blinked, as if coming out of a trance. He forced a smile and replied, "No, my son. Come here."

Ruhan entered, holding the door open for Ruhi. As she moved to step inside, an odd heaviness overcame her, like an invisible weight pressing down on her shoulders. She stopped, clutching her arm with a frown. Ruhan turned, concern in his eyes. "What's wrong?"

Ruhi shook her head, trying to brush off the feeling. "It's... nothing, I think."

But before she could take another step, Father Daniel approached her, producing a small vial of liquid from his pocket. With a swift motion, he sprinkled a few drops on her, murmuring a quiet prayer under his breath. The weight lifted instantly, and Ruhi blinked in surprise as she found herself able to enter the church with ease.

Ruhan watched, puzzled, but Ruhi avoided his questioning gaze. Father Daniel gestured them inside, his gaze lingering on Ruhi, as if measuring something he alone could perceive.

They took a seat, the atmosphere tense. After a few moments, Father Daniel turned to Ruhan and spoke indirectly, his voice soft but filled with meaning, "So... have you given more thought to your decision?"

Ruhan's expression faltered, a flicker of hesitation crossing his face. He glanced at Ruhi, uncertain how to respond, but before he could answer, Ruhi interjected, her voice unexpectedly firm.

"Father, there's something I need to tell you."

Father Daniel looked at her, his gaze attentive as he nodded. "Go on, my child."

Ruhi took a deep breath, her fingers fidgeting slightly. "Since last night... I've been having nightmares." She hesitated, then continued, "I was... dressed as a bride. Everyone was there, my friends, my loved ones... But by the time I reached the stage, they were all... lying in blood. And behind me, there was laughter... Hina's laughter."

Ruhan's expression darkened as he listened, his jaw tightening. The details of her dream struck him, and he reached over, his hand covering hers in silent support.

Father Daniel was silent for a few moments, his eyes filled with a sadness and understanding that sent a chill down Ruhi's spine. Finally, he spoke, his voice barely above a whisper, "She is with you, Ruhi."