Seeker knelt in front of the ruins for a long time, head in hands, mind reeling. When he finally looked up, Companion stood there, patient, waiting, casual in his stance, unshaken by the ruins.
“Come on, Seeker.” His smile was easy. “You can explore later. Supper’s waiting.”
Then he saw it. Beyond the ruins stood a cottage, candlelight warm and inviting in the windows. Slowly, he rose to his feet, the tension draining from his shoulders. It wasn’t the stately palace he’d imagined from his Book, but it looked wonderful.
The door creaked softly as Companion opened it. The faint scent of stew and warm bread drifted over the smell of dust and old stones. He looked back once, briefly, drawn by the mystery of the ruins—broken and empty, the wind whispering as if it carried secrets from the past. Disappointment faded, replaced by curiosity. Companion stood in the door frame, beckoning.
Then he knew.
He was home.
