Epilogue

Sitting on the porch overlooking the valley, I smile as Ella comes out with two cups of tea. Handing one to me, she takes a seat on the seat and cuddles into my arm, taking a sip of her drink.

"Winter looks like it might set in early. We'll have to get the crops picked in the next few weeks, Oscar, if we want to have enough for winter."

"I thought that. How do our stores of dry goods look?"

“We could do with a trip to town."

"Maybe the day after tomorrow. We still have time."

"While we're in town, it might be nice to send a message to Marianne. We have not seen her for some time."

"Perhaps. Though she may not make the trip before Winter freezes the pass over. I think we should get another keg from the Alehouse." Smiling, she shakes her head and leans against me.

"You never change.

"You wouldn't have me any other way." Laughing, she leans back and gives me a kiss.

"True." As the sun begins to set, a magic missive comes flying through the sky, stopping in front of me. Taking the note, it disappears straight away.

"Who's it from?" Unraveling the note, I take a quick look at the signature before reading it.

"It's from Hannah."

"What's it say?" Clearing my throat, I read the letter out loud.

"Hey Dad and Ella,

Just checking in to let you both know I'm doing alright. Myself, Ari and the rest of the gang are heading towards the demon lands soon. Just wanted to give you an update as it looks like I won't make it back in time for Christmas, Dad.

I also wanted to let you know that there are signs already that Saetaen is on the brink of resurrecting. We knew this day would come, and I know you will worry, but I've got this. I've been training hard these last few years, and I'm more than strong enough now. Anyway, I love you both, and I will be home as soon as I can.

Hannah.

P.S. Ella, when I get back, we are so having a girls' night at the hot springs again. That was amazing."

Shaking my head, I put down the letter and look at Ella.

"No point looking at me. She's your daughter. You raised one hell of an independent woman."

"I know. I always had a feeling it would come back and bite me one day." Laughing, I roll up her note and tuck it inside my shirt.

"I just hope she'll be alright."

"She will be fine, Oscar. Now, let us head inside and have some dinner." Watching her get up, I hold her hand for a moment.

"I'll come in just a sec." Smiling softly, she lets go of my hand and walks to the door. Turning to me, she looks me in the eye.

"Do not stay outside too long." Nodding, I watch her go inside and I stand and walk to the edge of the porch. Looking up into the sky, I see a winged dragon flying into the distance, and I smile to myself. Folding my hands over one another, I bow my head.

"Thank you for bringing me to this world, Firentia. I have found my place." Turning from the porch, I head inside to enjoy my quiet life.