The walk back to Oakhaven was slow and peaceful. Despite their fatigue, the villagers' steps felt lighter than before. They were heading home, and it felt like the nightmare was finally coming to an end.
When the small procession reached the edge of the village, everyone's reaction was instant and full of emotion.
Torches lit up the night. Doors swung open eagerly. Voices rang out, filled with disbelief and happiness. The village square, which had been clouded with fear and sorrow for so long, suddenly burst with energy. Mothers rushed into the arms of their returned daughters. Husbands knelt down to hold their wives tightly. Children, whose hopes had been dashed with the thought that their parents might never come back, were lifted into loving, tear-streaked embraces.
