Ori & Aris the Journey Through Nibel (proofreading and improving chapters)

The majestic yet perilous Taunder Summits (editing)

—Recap—
After a grueling duel against Vaeth, Ori emerged victorious, though he couldn't have done it alone. Once his enemy was defeated, a wisp remained in the aftermath. They are neither Ilani nor Vaeth but whoever the trio chooses to call them. They recounted how they lost their way and also warned the group about Nibel's fate. Mount Horu had reawakened. Now, only an artifact from the summits could aid them. In a place which Ori never knew existed.

The trio ventures across Nibel's territory, heading towards its outer borders. Ori's home is situated right at the forest's edge, with unexplored land stretching beyond it. Throughout their entire quest so far, Aciros was utterly lost. Confused about their destination, even though Ori's home seemed to be the apparent objective.

"Where are we going?!" He shouts.

"To my home! They'll have everything we need, especially things to keep us warm!" Ori replies.

"Are you sure this is the best time to visit them?! They'll be panicked!"

"What other choice do we have?! It's the only way!"

Aciros remains silent after this but continues to follow Ori. Aris, trailing behind without uttering a word, also follows.

At Ori's home, his family is understandably panicked. The unmistakable sign of Mount Horu's awakening is evident from Swallow's Nest—a cloud of smoke and ash rising into the sky. Ori's whereabouts being unknown is of no help either.

"Where's Ori?! He should be here!" Naru cried out in panic, frantically searching for her missing son. Gumo did his best to help her, but despite his efforts, they couldn't find Ori anywhere.

Ku could only sit there and watch as Swallow's Nest was engulfed in panic and distress. He sat back by the cave's mouth, fiddling with the Light Burst Ori had given him.

Ku also recalled the moment his parents had woken up. He had explained where Ori was, but that lie was only partially believed. Gumo accepted it without much thought. Naru, on the other hand, scolded him for his deception. She knew he had lied, and his facade was shattered. However, at least he had tried for Ori's sake.

"Where are you..." He mumbles.

"Ku...!" A shout echoes from afar.

"At least I can hear your voice..." A defeated chirp escapes his beak. His head droops further, expressing his disdain.

"Ku...!" The voice rings out again.

"Wait a minute..."

Ku looks up, chirping in confusion. Glancing around, he realizes there's no one there. "Hello?" he calls back in response.

"Ku!" The voice shouts a third time, louder and closer than before. Ku can now recognize the voice unmistakably.

"Ori?!" He leaps with excitement. To his left, beyond several trees, Ori emerges from the bushes. Aciros and Aris are just a few steps behind him. Ori sprints up towards the cave and gives Ku a big hug. He spreads out his arms like an owl, extending their wings to fly.
"I missed you." Ku chirps. Having almost started crying already.

"It's ok. I'm here..."

The two embraced, displaying their deep brotherly love for each other to the onlookers. Despite Ori's desire to prolong this moment, he reluctantly stepped back, much to Ku's disappointment.