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And as I looked into Thillak’s eyes, I felt the first stirrings of recollection.
A promise of love, strength, and defiance against the odds.
* * *
The soft glow of the morning light bathed the landscape in an ethereal sheen.
Birds (or what passed for birds on this world) warbled, their chorus a serenade to a new day.
Everything felt, smelled, and looked sharper, the impending peril heightening my senses.
The sound of leaves rustling with the soft breeze, the tang in the air hinting at a coming rain — everything felt so profoundly alive.
Brin and Mina, the dwarven couple, were a whirlwind of activity, despite their age.
Brin moved with practiced ease, making sure everything was secured for our journey, while Mina was busy packing a hamper.
The aroma wafting from it was an eclectic mix — fragrant herbs, roasted meats, and some kind of sweet pastry that made my stomach grumble in anticipation.
Once the hamper was ready, the four of us made our way to the clearing where their shuttle rested.
It was sleek and compact, looking every bit a model of efficiency.
The reflective surface gleamed, catching the dappled sunlight, making the vessel appear as if it was carved out of liquid silver.
While Brin and Thillak were engrossed in a conversation that revolved around the shuttle’s mechanics and handling, Mina beckoned me over with a knowing smile.
Her gaze was intent as she looked me over, her eyes seeming to pierce through the veil of my existence.
She reached out, her fingers cool against my skin as she gently tilted my face, examining my eyes.
Then, with a look of approval, she motioned for me to stick out my tongue.
I complied, albeit a little confused.
Her nod was brief before she handed me a small vial filled with a luminescent liquid.
“Drink this when the time’s right,” she instructed, her tone gentle yet firm.
“When will I know when the time’s right?” I asked.
She gave me a look as if I had asked the dumbest question in the galaxy. “Why, because it will be the right time, of course.”
Confused, I tucked it in my pocket.
“There’ll be times when the path ahead seems dark, but always remember, dawn follows the night,” Mina whispered, her tone soothing. “This will help you when the memories threaten to overwhelm.”
My gaze sought hers, seeking reassurance. “How can you be so sure everything will turn out all right?”
A mischievous twinkle appeared in her eyes, the corners crinkling as she smiled. “You think you and Thillak are the only star-crossed lovers reborn time and again?”
The implication of her words slowly sank in, and my eyes widened in realization. “You and Brin…?”
She chuckled softly, nodding. “Not all stories are writ large across the canvas of the cosmos. Some are quiet, gentle, yet no less profound.”
The wistfulness in her voice resonated with a deep truth, echoing lifetimes of love, loss, and reunion. “We’ve chosen a life of simplicity, of quietude. It’s how we’ve managed to live, love, and elude those who might wish us harm for so long.”
Before I could respond, she gently nudged me toward the shuttle. “Now, off you go. Time’s a luxury neither of you can afford.”
