Echoes of the Fallen

Before they departed, they decided to go to the inn to eat their last meal in the big city. Amukelo, playing with a coin, finally broke the comfortable silence between them. "You know, Eliss, before we chase the horizon and seek out our next big adventure, there's something we ought to do."

Eliss looked up, a soft forced smile on her face. "You mean honoring Kael?"

Amukelo nodded, a hint of nostalgia in his eyes. "Yes. We've achieved so much, and it only feels right to share our blessings with his family. Let's offer them part of our reward. They reside in the capital, and it's about time we visited."

Eliss nodded, "I agree. Part of the reward for them. Kael would have wanted his family to be taken care of. This is the least we can do for him."

With a sense of purpose, the two set out the next day to the bustling capital, its stone streets lined with vendors, artisans, and musicians. The heart of human civilization, it was a testament to resilience and hope.

Navigating through the lanes, they reached a well-kept house, standing elegantly amidst its neighbors. Amukelo hesitated for a moment, then knocked.

The door opened, revealing a woman with familiar eyes — sorrowful yet strong. Beside her, a young girl peeked out, curiosity shining in her gaze.

Amukelo mustered a warm smile. "Mistress Jaela, I'm Amukelo, and this is Eliss. We journeyed with Kael and have come to pay our respects."

Jaela nodded, allowing them entry. "Kael spoke of you often. Please, come in."

The interiors were dimly lit, but tastefully adorned with beautiful tapestries and intricate drawings. Among them, hand-drawn portraits of Kael captured in various stances — a testament to a life lived fully, yet cut short.

Eliss, placing a pouch on the table, said, "We brought this for you and your family. It's part of our earnings from saving the world . We wanted to ensure you both are taken care of."

Jaela's eyes widened, surprise evident. "This... this is generous. But you both earned it."

Amukelo shrugged, "Kael was family, Mistress Jaela. We're just sharing what's rightfully his. It won't come even close to loose you have."

A heavy pause filled the room, a mix of gratitude and grief. Then, the young Aria, Kael's sister, holding one of the drawings, whispered, "He used to tell me stories about your strength."

Amukelo knelt down, placing a hand on her head. "Now, we will tell stories about the hero he was."

Upon leaving the capital and the memory-laden home of Kael's family, Amukelo took a deep breath, looking momentarily lost in thought. Eliss, sensing a certain restlessness in his gaze, inquired, "What's on your mind?"

Amukelo met her gaze, determination evident in his eyes. "There's one more place we must visit before setting out on our new journey. My village. I made a promise to Eagor."

Eliss remembered the bond between Amukelo and Eagor from his story. "Of course," she nodded in understanding. "Lead the way."

Upon approaching the village, even from a distance, Amukelo could discern the stark differences. Houses were showing signs of neglect and disrepair, even more than they used to be. The laughter of children, which once echoed cheerily, seemed notably absent. The village, which even though being poor used to grow every day, was a mere shadow of its former self.

As they made their way through the village, they were met with somber nods and hushed greetings. Eventually, they found Eagor, who despite the weight of years and recent hardships, still carried a strength and resilience in his posture.

Amukelo embraced him warmly. "Eagor, it's been too long."

Eagor smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "Amukelo, it warms my heart to see you. And you've brought company." He nodded towards Eliss.

"We've been through a lot together," Amukelo gestured towards Eliss, introducing her. "This is Eliss, my companion in both battle and spirit."

Amukelo's old friend smiled, "Any friend of Amukelo is a friend of the village. Welcome, Eliss."

With a concerned look, Amukelo surveyed the surroundings. "Eagor, what happened? The village... it's changed."

Eagor sighed heavily. "Times have been hard, my friend. After you left, a series of unfortunate events struck. Poor harvests, illnesses, and assault from undead."

Amukelo's heart ached at the revelation. "I had no idea. I've been so wrapped up in my own journey..."

Eagor placed a reassuring hand on Amukelo's shoulder. "It's not your burden alone. But tell me, how have you been? The world outside must be vast and challenging."

The two sat down, and Amukelo shared tales of his adventures, his battles, the loss of Kael, and the support he found in Eliss. They laughed at some memories, while others brought tears to their eyes.

Eagor listened intently, nodding from time to time. "You've grown, Amukelo, not just in years but in wisdom."

Amukelo looked at the pouch he had. "Eagor, this is for the village," he said, handing over most of the money left from their reward, leaving some for their future adventure. "Use it to rebuild, to support the villagers. I can't stand by and do nothing."

Eagor looked genuinely moved. "This is too generous." But with current state of the village he couldn't decline.

The two men shared a deep, emotional moment, recognizing the bond between them. It was then that Amukelo spoke up, his voice softer, "Eagor, before we leave, I wish to visit my mother's grave."