Infinite Paths: The Raging Phoenix

Chapter 56  Only one way

Through his grandmother's insights, Rain discovered that the enemies recognized the strategic advantage of controlling Tristan. Its capture would not only grant them a strong position from which to launch further attacks but also disrupt the supply lines and weaken human resistance in the region.

Rain realized that understanding the enemy's focus on Tristan was crucial for formulating effective counterstrategies. He came to appreciate the value of having a network of merchants who could gather valuable intelligence from various sources. The merchants' ability to travel across different regions allowed them to observe and report on enemy movements, troop deployments, and other vital information.

This network of merchants became a valuable asset in acquiring timely and accurate intelligence about the enemy's plans and actions. It provided a broader perspective and helped Rain and his family to make informed decisions regarding their own strategies and movements.

Before long, Leiro joined them and then checked things again; he didn't think that he was truly seeing his daughter and grandkids. He didn't say that, but it was clear that he wished that he could have helped them sooner, but moving to the capital was tough, and it was too risky for everyone.

"Luana should have updated you about everything by now; you did well coming here with four kids," Meiro said. "Leave the rest to us, we will bring your husband here, and then we will think of something to avoid problems after the war."

"I didn't do even half of the work, Rain here is very talented; if it weren't for him, we still would be at the capital," Leiah said while messing with Rain's hair and making him wonder why everyone liked to do that. "He can use magic, and he is very level-headed; he wants to bring back his father as well, with his magic; that should be possible."

"... We will need to do some tests for that, but that can wait," Meiro said while studying his weird quiet grandson. "Just rest until night, and then we will move you all to our house while no one is aware of it."

Rain acknowledged the importance of rest after the arduous journey and the weight of their recent experiences. He understood the value of taking a moment to recharge his own physical and mental strength, as well as that of his family. However, alongside the need for rest, another pressing matter weighed heavily on his mind: the rescue of his father, Roan.

Rain realized that time was of the essence. The longer Roan remained in the war, the greater the risk to his safety and well-being. Moreover, the journey back to the area would undoubtedly be a lengthy one, fraught with its own set of challenges and uncertainties. This knowledge compelled Rain to act swiftly and decisively.

When night came, the group moved toward the house that Leiah grew up in. It was on the back of the commerce association of the village and the warehouses. There was nothing on that side of the village, only an endless sea of crop fields in the darkness of the night. They could live calmly for certain and beyond the prying eyes of possible enemies.

Leiah's parents reveled in the joy of spending time with their granddaughters, Dana and Kei. Their playful laughter filled the air as the little girls giggled and delighted in the attention from their grandparents. Leiah's parents had always longed for a son, and while Rain was a loving and caring brother, his reserved nature sometimes made it challenging for them to connect on a deeper level.

However, at this moment, the worries and concerns of the outside world seemed to fade away. Leiah's parents embraced the opportunity to engage with their granddaughters, showering them with affection and playfulness. They eagerly joined in their games, creating fond memories and cherished moments together.

"Even if Mom and those two stay hidden, then it will be fine to leave them here… but to find Dad as soon as possible, I will need some potions," Rain thought while he was having dinner. "Without them, I can only run as fast as the body of a six-year-old body allows me to."

Rain wanted to plan more, but as soon as he sat on the bed, he immediately fell asleep… his exhaustion had reached a whole new level. Rain only woke up the next day with the smell of fresh bread in his nostrils. When he got up, he saw his mother and sisters on another bed, still sleeping.

Rain left the room and found his grandparents eating already. It seemed that they knew that their guests would need a few more hours of rest before they got hungry.

"Join us, Rain," Meiro said. "The bread is fresh, and the milk still is warm."

"Thank you," Rain said.

Rain sat at the breakfast table with his grandparents, a sense of calm and familiarity enveloping the room. The morning sunlight filtered through the windows, casting a warm glow upon the scene.

His grandparents, with gentle smiles etched on their faces, engaged in light conversation, their voices filled with affection and care. They shared stories from their past, recounting fond memories and imparting wisdom acquired over the years. Rain listened attentively, cherishing these moments of connection and the opportunity to learn from their experiences.

The table was adorned with a modest spread of home-cooked delicacies. Crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and steaming bowls of porridge graced the table, a testament to his grandmother's culinary skills. The plates were adorned with vibrant fruits and preserves, adding a burst of color to the scene.

"Your mother said that you are good with magic. Was she boasting a bit too much, or is that true?" Meiro asked.

"There is only one way to find out," Rain replied while he was eating.

"That air of confidence, you sure look like your father," Luana said while showing a gentle smile. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

That was a praise if anything, but considering that Rain knew his father more than them, perhaps not so much. He was too honest in front of him, after all.