Chương 49: The Calm Before the Storm

Ethan was sitting beside Renlin, his arm wrapped around her shoulders. He held her close naturally, as if it were the most ordinary thing in the world.

"It's strange to be seen like this in public…" she murmured, resting her head against his chest.

"Are you absolutely sure Elrohir really gave us his blessing?"

"Absolutely sure", Ethan replied, gently brushing a strand of hair away from her face. Renlin smiled, then lifted herself slightly to kiss him on the lips. Afterward, she looked around. Some elves watched them with sincere smiles, others ignored them entirely, while a few stared with puzzled expressions, as if they weren't quite sure what to think.

"Maybe I misunderstood my people", Renlin said softly.

"They're not as narrow-minded as I thought". Ethan pulled her a little closer.

"Or maybe no one has the courage to disagree with Elrohir". Renlin smiled again.

"That's probably true too". They remained seated for a few more minutes, watching the elves go about their daily activities. She intertwined her fingers with his. Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.

"What are you thinking about?"

"That I'd like to have more days like this". Renlin lowered her gaze.

"So would I". The following morning, Ethan woke up slowly. Renlin was still lying beside him, wrapped in the blankets. She was sleeping soundly. A lock of hair had fallen across her face. Ethan smiled. She looked incredibly peaceful. Gently, he tucked the strand behind her ear and kissed her forehead. Then he pulled her slightly closer. She woke up shortly afterward, yawning.

"Good morning".

"Good morning to you", Ethan replied with a smile. Renlin sat up and climbed on top of him.

"You're in a good mood this morning".

"I woke up next to you. It would be difficult to be in a bad mood". She shook her head, amused.

"Flatterer". She leaned down and kissed him slowly on the lips. For a few moments, the world seemed to stand still. But suddenly, the air was torn apart by the deep blare of horns.

"We're under attack!"

"Goblins! Everyone out!"

"Shit…" Ethan cursed.

"Those damn bastards", Renlin growled. Goblins were pouring into the camp from every direction, armed with spiked clubs, staffs, knives, and anything else that could kill. They shouted, laughed and struck at everything in sight. Behind them walked Xarath, cloaked in his dark mantle, his hood pulled low over his face. He moved through the chaos undisturbed, as though nothing in the world could touch him.

"Good goblins!" he shouted with satisfaction.

"Do what you do best: plunder, rape and kill!" Then he raised his hands toward a group of elves standing before him. An instant later, their bodies exploded into a shower of flesh and magical light. Ethan and Renlin found themselves standing side by side, back to back. A goblin charged at Ethan with a massive club. He dodged every swing before driving his sword into the creature's stomach, sending it collapsing to the ground.

Renlin parried a slash, spun on her heel and with a clean stroke cut open her opponent's throat. For a moment, their eyes met. Without saying a word, they charged together into the heart of the camp, ready to fight to protect their people.