Chapter 1628 by Marina Vittori
An Understated Dominance
Seth wiped the grime off Hazelâs cheeks. He grinned and said, â Remember, Hazel, eat your meals on time and take care. Iâm off.â
Hazel nodded as she watched him leave. Little did she know, many years later, that the book he gave her would become a priceless treasure coveted by many.
By the Serene Village stream, women chatted and laughed as they washed clothes by the stream. Their discussions covered family matters and local gossip. A shout drew their attention, âLook, a handsome guy!â
A few women turned around, their expressions shifting with slight surprise. âIsnât that Simple Ken?â
âSimple Ken?â
The woman in yellow observed more closely and finally recognized him, exclaiming, âOh, it really is Simple Ken. But why does he seem different today?â
âHis clothes are clean, his hair is in order, and that goofy smile is gone. I have to admit, he looks kind of handsome.â
âBlossom, your Simple Ken is here!â yelled the woman in yellow.
âHuh?â Blossom Dale looked up, perplexed. In his usual good-natured manner, Seth strolled over with a smile. His once goofy appearance had transformed, with well-defined features and deep eyes that changed his whole presence. It was almost challenging for some to recognize him.
âSimple Ken?â Blossom cautiously called out.
âBlossom, Iâm going on a lengthy journey. It might be quite some time before I return. Iâll be relying on you for things back home,â he said with a nod.
His coherent words left everyone taken aback. From what they knew, Seth had never strung together a complete sentence. Typically, he stuck to repeating a few simple words in a somewhat comical manner.
However, in that moment, he spoke with clarity and a resonant voice, presenting an unexpected change in character.
âYou⦠you can talk?â Blossom stared in disbelief.
âThank you for taking care of me all these years, Blossom. Being your husband is my greatest joy and fortune, âSeth expressed. His words flowed clearly and meaningfully.
He continued, âYouâve shown me warmth, taught me the meaning of life, and transformed my dull existence. I used to be arrogant and deluded, thinking I was extraordinary. Meeting you opened my eyes to what truly matters-three meals a day, happiness, and peace.â 1
He approached and handed her a crystal necklace. âI didnât give you anything when we got married, so hereâs a gift to keep you safe.â
âWhere are you going, Simple Ken?â Blossom asked anxiously.
âIâm going to help someone and make amends for the past,â Seth replied, smiling.
âWill you come back for dinner?â she asked, trying to smile.
âIâll try my best,â he promised her.
âIâll cook grilled ribs tonight. Make sure to come back,â she said.
âAlright.â He nodded and, with a heavy heart, left. Blossom watched his gradually receding figure. She remained in a daze for a few moments and then, recalling something, took a few steps forward.
In a shaky voice, she shouted, âI still donât know your name!â
âIâm Seth Hughes,â he answered without looking back, his voice echoing with a subtle resonance. âThe Sword Whisperer of West Lucozia, Seth Hughes!â