As the feast continued, Eirik and Kaelix made their way back to the head of the table, though Eirik's thoughts remained on Sadiki.
There was a time when the sight of him with someone else might have stirred feelings of jealousy or regret, but now, Eirik felt only happiness. Sadiki was healing. Drystan, in his own quiet way, was helping him move forward. And for that, Eirik was grateful.
By the time they returned to their seats, Eirik felt more at ease than he had all evening.
The people of Zephyros had embraced him, not as an outsider, but as one of their own. He could feel their love and acceptance surrounding him, and with Kaelix by his side, he knew he could face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As they sat down, Eirik glanced across the table once more, catching a glimpse of Sadiki and Drystan still deep in conversation. For the first time in a long while, Eirik felt a sense of peace wash over him. Things were changing, but maybe change wasn't so bad after all.
