The thought of the first time he met Emilie took him back to that happy time in his life, just like it did every other time. Meanwhile, Septim was getting exhausted from galloping all morning, afternoon, and evening. Quint himself was also tired. After all, horse-riding for so long without stopping is not an easy task. Fortunately, they were getting closer to Eldora, the town where the Magnus family now lived. And Quint was full of energy again when he realized that he would soon be able to hug and kiss his wife again. At the same time, Quint is going to tell Elladan hundreds of interesting stories he heard during his time with Zeus and Hera's Familias.
Once the man-horse duet entered the town, they directly headed to their home. However, it wasn't as quick as they expected. Everyone, who has seen them, began greeting Quint and asking about his journey. Mr. Magnus tried to be brief and informative since he found it very rude to neglect public expectations.
"Everything is fine, I swear! I will tell you the whole story in detail this evening in the town hall…" began Quint, but he was interrupted.
"Maybe we shall better gather in the tavern and listen to your ballad with a fine pint of great beer? What do you think, Mr. Magnus?" the owner of the-only-tavern-in-the-town made a new proposal.
Quint quickly got what was the point and decided to play his own cards.
"Sounds great, Jesper! However, I bet you owe me some of your good wine, don't you?"
"I surely do! So, get yourself into my place as soon as possible. I will make sure that everything is ready for ya!" tavern owner shortly confirmed their deal. Quint instantly nodded that he is good as well and then yelled,
"The ones who are interested in knowing what has happened after my departure with adventurers of Orario, come to Jesper's place in 2 hours. I got something to tell you!" After making sure that dozens of people heard his speech, Quint headed to his family manor.
As the sun began to set, it cast a warm, golden glow over the small town. At the end of a quiet street, the cozy family house of the Magnus family could be seen. With its classic design and well-kept facade, the outside of the manor had a timeless charm. Its walls were a soft cream color, and the dark wooden beams that wrapped around the building were a beautiful contrast.
Cobblestones that had been worn down over time formed a path that went to the front door. The path smelled like flowers and was lined with small lavender bushes that gave off a light scent. At the front of the manor was a grand wooden door with elaborate carvings that hinted at the skill and attention to detail inside.
The small gardens around the house gave the scene a touch of natural beauty. Climbing roses grew well along the walls, their bright leaves reaching up to the sky. The air was filled with the smell of flowers in bloom, which made bees and butterflies want to dance among the colorful leaves. The grounds were surrounded by a white picket fence with climbing vines that made the area look idyllic and picture-perfect.
The backyard was tucked away behind the house and gave off an air of peace. A stone path wound through the green grass and led to a cozy place to sit in the shade of a big willow tree. A rustic wooden bench with soft cushions on it was the perfect place to think quietly or have a private chat. The yard also had a charming veggie garden that was full of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Tomato vines grew up trellises, and Emelie took care of neat rows of herbs and veggies that grew well. Therefore, the yard produced a lot of food, which the family often used in their meals. This gave their food a fresh, homegrown taste.
Last but not least, a charming stable stood proudly just beyond the cozy family manor, the housing of the horse Septim. Constructed of weathered red bricks and adorned with white trimmings, the stable emanated a rustic charm that harmonized with the surrounding countryside. A weathervane, shaped like a galloping horse, perched atop the stable's peaked roof, gently swaying with the breeze. Inside, Septim's stall was adorned with fresh straw and a polished brass nameplate, signifying the majestic creature's rightful place. The aroma of hay and the rhythmic sound of hooves on wooden floors filled the air, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere for both horse and guests alike.
Once Quint made sure that Septim was comfortable in his stable, he went to the front door. As soon as he walked through the door, Emelie was there to meet him with a passionate embrace and a passionate kiss.
"Quint, you're finally home! I've missed you so much!" Emelie's arms wrapped tightly around Quint, her voice filled with longing.
"And I've missed you too, Emelie! It feels like an eternity since I last held you in my arms!" Quint held her close, his voice filled with relief.
They stood in the entryway, their foreheads resting against each other, cherishing the closeness they had been yearning for. Emelie's eyes searched Quint's face, as if trying to memorize every detail.
"Tell me, Quint, how was your journey? Were you able to accomplish what you set out to do?" Emelie asked, her voice laced with concern.
Quint nodded, a glimmer of pride shining in his eyes.
"Yes, my love, I made my best to assist in completing the last of great quests. Accompanying the members of Zeus and Hera Familias was incredible!" Quint began telling his story with an unbelievable excitement, but soon he stopped, when Emelie's fingers caressed his cheek, and her touch was soothing him.
"I'm so proud of you, Quint. Your strength and determination never cease to amaze me. But remember, no matter where your journeys take you, you shall always return back home, to us!" Emelie said, her voice filled with unwavering love.
At that moment, Quint and Emelie found solace in each other's arms, their love transcending the trials and distances they faced. They stood there, embracing the comfort and warmth of their reunion, finding solace in the sanctuary of their shared love. Nonetheless, Mr. Magnus quickly recalled that there is a third person in their family.
"Speaking of us, honey, where is Ell? He doesn't seem to be at home, does he?"
"He went outside to play with other kids in the town. Once it became clear that you joined the expedition of Orario, he instantly became popular. Yesterday only, he told me that two girls in the neighborhood confessed to him and asked me what he should do." explained Emelie.
"Well, I am kinda proud of him! You know, when I was of his age, dozens of girls were falling to me across the whole contin…" Quint did not have time to finish the phrase, as he received a small punch into the corps from his wife.
"You better keep quiet about your achievements, honey. Never tell this kind of stuff to Elladan. Understood?!" Emelie was looking at him menacingly.
"Surely understood! I am really sorry! No worries about that, Ell will never know about this. I swear!" Quint began apologizing and Emelie seemed to forgive him. But, after Quint became sure that nobody is home but Emelie and him,
"Honey, since there are only you and I…, and since I wasn't home for an entire week… Shall we go upstairs and continue our talks there? What do you think?" proposed Quint with a playful smile.
"Well, my love, I suppose we can continue our talks in a more private setting upstairs." Emelie's eyes sparkled with a mixture of mischief and affection as she gazed back at Quint. She feigned a contemplative expression, though her desire was evident. Quint's heart skipped a beat, his playful smile turning into a full grin. He took Emelie's hand and led her up the stairs…