Jack and Kleo found Chief Harold and Chester waiting at the village's northern edge. Chester stood ready for the journey. He was equipped with a large travel bag on his back, a sturdy spear in hand, and boots laced tight over his travel-worn clothes. Though his expression was resolute, excitement flickered in his eyes. This was more than a simple delivery mission—it was a chance to explore and bring news to Clan Ulgan and, unknown to Chester himself, to play a part in Chief Harold's matchmaking scheme.

  Chief Harold greeted them warmly, his weathered face crinkling into a fond smile.

  "Ah, my friends, the time has come—your greater destiny awaits. But promise me this: never forget your family here. Every word of your travels will ease our minds. Though we have faith in you, we'll worry nonetheless."

  Jack nodded solemnly, his hand resting on Bitter's massive head.

  "Of course, Chief. We'll send word through the clans whenever possible. And Kleo and I would welcome news from you as well. Word of Clan Ulgar will comfort us on our journey."

  Kleo added with a gentle smile, "This isn't goodbye, Chief—only farewell for now."

  Chief Harold's expression softened further as he turned to Kleo.

  "Do you have the map? It's a rough sketch, but it should guide you well. When you reach Clan Ulgan, show it to my brother—he may be able to improve it."

  Kleo patted the small leather pouch at her side.

  "Yes, it's right here, and it will be invaluable. Thank you for preparing it, Chief."

  She gestured toward Jack with a grin. "And thank you for the gig. Jack loves it."

  Jack brightened at the mention.

  "I really do. I can't wait to use it. I haven't given up on mastering the singing technique entirely, but gigging feels... well, more straightforward."

  Chief Harold chuckled, his sharp teeth glinting in the sunlight.

  "A practical approach, my boy. That gig will bring you great luck with the fish—not that you'll need it, with Kleo's talents."

  "True," Jack said, flashing Kleo an affectionate glance. "But I don't want her doing all the work. Besides, I'll master fish singing eventually."

  Kleo rolled her eyes, but her smile betrayed her fondness. "We'll see about that."

  The Chief's expression grew solemn, his gaze lingering on them.

  "All right, then. Chester will see you safely to Clan Ulgan, but beyond that, you'll be on your own. You have strength, courage, and each other—that will carry you far."

  Jack and Kleo bowed a gesture of respect and gratitude.

  "Thank you, Chief. Please take care of the village while we're gone."

  "Of course, my dear. And remember, no matter how far you travel, you will always have a home here."

  The Chief stepped back, his expression mingling pride and melancholy. Chester adjusted his pack and spear, standing beside Jack and Kleo with clear resolve. Bitter padded alongside them, his massive form casting long shadows in the morning light.

  As they took their first steps along the northeastern path, a wave of emotions swept through them—sadness at leaving the village, excitement for the journey ahead, and a quiet anticipation of the unknown.

  The village receded behind them, the cheerful calls of the Woogs echoing in the morning air.

  As they approached the village of Clan Ulgan, Jack and Kleo walked hand in hand, enjoying the late morning sun. Ahead, Chester chatted with Bitter as though the wolf could understand every word. Bitter huffed in response, only encouraging Chester’s one-sided conversation.

  You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

  They had camped in a quiet grove off the main path the night before. Jack had proudly shown Chester his floating orb of light while Chester gathered wood, humoring Jack’s enthusiasm for his newfound magic.

  The plan was simple—get in and out within an hour. Being famous, Jack would greet the villagers while Chester and Kleo slipped away to meet with Chief Barry. Kleo hoped the chieftain would have a better map; Chief Harold’s version was little more than scribbled guesses.

  Not that they needed it—Kleo knew they’d find their way. But it gave her an excuse to skip the Jack and the Dark Witchshow in the village square.

  As they neared the village, Woog villagers paused their work, eyes drawn to the approaching group. Murmurs spread, and a hush settled over the growing crowd.

  A young Woog’s voice cracked nervously. “Are you… are you the Jack from the Battle with the Dark Witch?”

  Silence followed, all eyes locked on Jack.

  He blinked, caught off guard, then grinned, rocking his heels. “Yes, yes, I am.”

  A collective “Oooh” rippled through the crowd before they surged forward with eager questions.

  “Did you really fight her alone?”

  “Is it true she had a thousand minions?”

  “What’s your finishing move?”

  Jack laughed, holding up his hands. “Whoa, whoa, one at a time!”

  Kleo rolled her eyes and shot Chester a knowing look. “Nailed it.”

  “At least he’ll be occupied,” Chester chuckled. “Let’s find Chief Barry.”

  They found Barry in his office, a modest space kept in meticulous order—scrolls stacked in order, ink pots arranged by size, a single wooden chair behind a compact desk. It suited him, Kleo thought—practical and disciplined.

  She handed him the map. “Your brother made this for us, but I’m afraid it’s only a rough sketch.”

  Barry squinted at it. “Hmm. No, no, no. This won’t do. Distances are off, terrain’s incomplete. Let me fix that.”

  He pulled a fresh sheet of bleached canvas and a charcoal stick from his desk, redrawing the map with practiced strokes. While sketching, he turned to Chester. “You’ll be staying for a few days before heading home. I could use your help arranging some things.”

  Kleo, aware of Barry’s matchmaking scheme, stole a glance at Chester. He remained oblivious.

  “I’ve assigned Matilda to ensure you have everything you need.”

  Kleo held back a snicker—still nothing from Chester. “Thank you, Chief,” he said.

  Barry smirked but said nothing. With a few final strokes, he set the charcoal down.

  “There. This should serve you much better.”

  He rotated the map toward Kleo and Chester, explaining its details. It was precise, far superior to Harold’s crude scrawl.

  Kleo nodded, impressed. “This is excellent. Thank you. It’ll make our journey easier.”

  Barry folded the map and handed it to her. “You’re welcome. You’re free to stay as long as you like. The village would be delighted to host you.”

  Kleo smiled. “We appreciate it, but we need to move on. Jack’s recovery took time, and now that he’s well, we must keep going.”

  Barry nodded, though disappointment flickered across his face. “Understandable. But when you return, you must stay a while.”

  “We’d love to,” Kleo said. “I don’t know when, but we’ll stop by when we return to the area.”

  “Good,” Barry said, standing. “It’s settled then. Chester, let me show you to your quarters.”

  Kleo smiled as Barry motioned Chester toward the door. Poor guy—he’d never see it coming.

  Kleo was with Chester when he met Matilda, and from his dumbfounded expression, she knew he was instantly smitten. Matilda carried herself with quiet confidence, auburn curls framing her warm face, green eyes sparkling with kindness. Chester, usually full of chatter, was stunned into silence.

  Kleo patted his shoulder. “I’ll leave you two to get acquainted.” She left to find Jack.

  She found him near the village’s edge, still surrounded by Woogs. When he spotted her, relief lit his face. With a final wave, he excused himself.

  “Pardon me, everyone, but I see my wife waiting for me.”

  As he reached her, he sighed. “I’m exhausted. Can we rest and eat before heading out?”

  Kleo studied him. He had enjoyed the attention, but she could tell it had drained him. One day, he’d realize fame wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. Then again, this was Jack.

  “No, and no,” she said with a sly smile. “Grab a sandwich and eat while we walk. I want to cover another seven or eight miles before camp.”

  Jack groaned. “Ugh. Fine.” He kissed her, adjusting his pack.

  As they passed through the village, Chester stood with Matilda, his usual charm returning as she giggled at something he said. Noticing Jack and Kleo, he jogged over.

  Jack nodded toward Matilda. “Who’s your new friend?”

  “Oh, uh… that’s Matilda,” Chester stammered. “Chief Barry said she’d ensure I have everything I need.”

  Jack arched a brow. “I bet she will.”

  Chester flushed. “I don’t think that’s what he meant.”

  “Or maybe he did,” Kleo teased.

  Chester opened his mouth, then shut it again, defeated.

  Kleo softened, placing a hand on his arm. “We wanted to say goodbye and thank you. We’ll miss you.”

  Tears welled in Chester’s eyes. He pulled Kleo into a warm hug and shook Jack’s hand. “Take care of each other, all right?”

  “We will,” Jack assured him.

  “And take care of Bitter for me. He’s a good boy.”

  Chester gave Bitter a final pat before stepping back toward Matilda. “I’d better go. She’s got… a lot to show me.”

  Jack and Kleo waved as they walked on, packs heavy but hearts light.

  As the village faded behind them, Jack smirked. “I give them two days before they’re inseparable.”

  Kleo laughed. “Two days? I’m betting one.”

  With that, they finally pressed on toward Ilimar.