Epilogue

" Lo, as dawn doth break, so too must the yoke of our burdens be lifted; for the light of the Three shall yet guide all who endureth the long dark of night."

— Book of Redemption, Church of the Three

The sun crept over the horizon, its golden rays piercing through the dissipating mist that lingered over the forest. The trees stood still now, their crooked branches no longer grasping for shadows but basking in the faint warmth of morning. The air smelled of damp earth and pine, mingled with the faint sweetness of wildflowers stirred by a gentle breeze.

Alec rode slowly down the dirt road, his posture weary but upright. His torn coat flapping on the wind, showcasing bloodied bandages from beneath his sleeves. His eyes stood sharp, fixed on the village ahead. Strapped to his saddle, wrapped in thick burlap, was Brask’s severed head.

The gates of Briar's Hollow stood ajar, the crude palisade casting long shadows across the ground. A few villagers had gathered near the entrance, their faces pale and tired from a night spent on edge. They froze as Alec approached, their eyes widening as they took in the battered hunter and the grim trophy he carried.

From the shadows of the gate, Sheriff Hadrian stepped forward, his coat hastily thrown over his shoulders. His face bore fresh bandages, and his eyes carried the exhaustion of the night. His gaze met Alec’s, relief softened his hardened features.

“You made it,” Hadrian said, his voice steady despite the flicker of disbelief.

Alec nodded, dismounting with a wince as his boots hit the ground. He unhooked Brask’s head and tossed it to the dirt with a dull thud. “It’s done,” he said simply.

Behind Hadrian, Lenora stepped into view, leaning heavily on her father. Her face was still bruised, and her movements were slow, but her eyes sparkled upon seeing the hunter. She took a tentative step forward, Blackwell steadying her.

Lenora’s gaze lingered on Alec, her voice soft as she broke the silence. “You didn’t have to do it all alone,” she said, her tone a mix of gratitude and quiet reproach.

Alec glanced at her, his lips curving into a faint smirk. “Didn’t plan to. Just how it ended up.”

“You could’ve died,” she murmured, her brows knitting.

“Been close before,” Alec replied, his tone even but not dismissive. “Still here.”

Lenora shook her head, a faint smile tugging at her lips despite her weariness. “You really are impossible.”

“Not the first time I’ve heard that.” Alec’s smirk deepened slightly, but his gaze softened. “Glad you’re still here too.”

Blackwell shifted, his voice gruff but carrying a note of unspoken respect. “You’re a reckless bastard, Corvain. But I’ll admit—you get results.”

Alec adjusted his coat, his eyes meeting Blackwell’s. “I’ll take that as thanks.”

Blackwell chuckled faintly, though the sound was more strained than amused. “Yeah, well… thanks. For her.” His gaze flicked to Lenora, then back to Alec. “Owe you one.”

“Just make sure she stays out of trouble,” Alec said, his tone dry but tinged with sincerity. “One rescue’s enough for me.”

The villagers began to gather, whispers spreading among them like wildfire. Eyes filled with awe and gratitude turned to Alec, their hushed voices carrying words of praise and wonder.

Hadrian stepped closer, his hand extended. Alec hesitated for a moment before clasping it, the sheriff’s grip firm but respectful. “You’ve done more than anyone could have asked,” Hadrian said. “Briar's Hollow owes you a debt we can’t repay. But… these golden marks will have to do.”

Alec accepted the pouch of golden marks, weighing it briefly in his hand. He pulled out a fistful and tucked it into his coat, then handed the rest back. “Give it to the families of the ones we lost,” he said firmly. “And to Blackwell. They earned it more than I did.”

Hadrian nodded solemnly, his respect evident in his gaze. “I’ll see to it.”

As the village began to stir with cautious hope, Alec turned back to his horse. He adjusted the reins, his movements deliberate, and cast one last glance at Lenora and Blackwell.

“You’ll heal,” he said, his voice low but certain. “Both of you.”

Lenora stepped forward, her bruised face softening with a faint smile. “And you?” she asked, her tone laced with curiosity and concern.

Alec tipped his head slightly, his smirk shadowed by fatigue. “There’s always another hunt.”

Lenora hesitated, then spoke, her voice gentle but insistent. “Stay. At least for a little while. You’ve earned a night’s rest.”

Hadrian added, “She’s right. There’s a celebration to be had, and this town owes you more than a handful of coins. You’ve given us hope, Corvain. Stay and share in it.”

Alec’s gaze lingered on Lenora and Blackwell, then shifted to the townsfolk. Their faces were worn, but their eyes carried a flicker of hope he hadn’t seen before. For a moment, he allowed himself to consider their words, the idea of rest, however fleeting.

He nodded once, his voice calm. “One night.”