https://vocal.media/fiction/before-the-war-broke

By Alice Benson

In a quaint village nestled between rolling hills and lush forests, life thrived in harmony before the ominous clouds of war cast their shadow. The village of Eldenwood was a place where laughter echoed through cobbled streets, and the scent of freshly baked bread wafted from the bakery on every corner.
At the heart of Eldenwood stood a centuries-old oak tree, its gnarled branches reaching skyward as if guarding the secrets of time. Under its wise presence, lived a young artist named Aria. With her vibrant spirit and a heart full of dreams, Aria spent her days capturing the beauty of nature on her canvas.
Beside Aria lived Caleb, a gentle blacksmith with strong arms and an even stronger sense of duty. Though his forge blazed with fiery heat, his heart was warm, and he often crafted trinkets for the children of the village, earning him the nickname "Uncle Caleb."
As the sun painted the horizon with shades of orange and gold one evening, Aria and Caleb found themselves seated on a weathered bench beneath the ancient oak. The air was crisp, and the distant sound of laughter carried on the wind.
"I can't believe how blessed we are to live in this peaceful place," Aria sighed contentedly, resting her head on Caleb's shoulder.
Caleb nodded, gazing at the village with a mix of fondness and concern. "Indeed, Aria. But news from the world beyond the hills has been troubling lately. Rumors of conflicts and unrest have been reaching our ears."
Aria's smile faded as she absorbed Caleb's words. "War? Here, in our village?"
Caleb's hand found hers, offering comfort. "We mustn't jump to conclusions, my love. But it's wise to stay informed and prepared."
Over the coming weeks, Eldenwood's idyllic atmosphere remained, yet an undercurrent of uncertainty tinged every interaction. The villagers gathered more frequently at the town square, discussing the distant rumblings of war and its potential impact. Despite their fears, they worked to maintain their routines, hoping the threat would pass them by.
One day, as the sun blazed overhead, Aria and Caleb decided to visit the hilltop overlooking Eldenwood. With each step, they felt the weight of impending change, and their fingers intertwined as they reached the summit. Below, the village lay nestled like a jewel in the embrace of nature.
"It's as if the world is holding its breath," Aria whispered, her voice carrying a tinge of melancholy.
Caleb held her closer. "No matter what may come, Aria, we'll face it together. Our love and the strength of this village will be our guiding light."
As autumn's vibrant hues painted the landscape, whispers of uncertainty grew louder, and the distant sounds of marching echoed through the wind. Eldenwood's peaceful ambiance was now marred by apprehension, casting a shadow over the once-jubilant community.
One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, a messenger arrived at the village square. With a heavy heart, he delivered news of impending conflict. War had indeed reached their doorstep, and the village needed to prepare for the inevitable.
Fear and determination intertwined in the eyes of the villagers as they gathered to discuss their fate. Aria and Caleb stood before their neighbors, united in purpose. Aria spoke with fervor, her voice trembling yet resolute.
"We may face uncertain times, but our bonds run deep. Together, we have weathered storms and celebrated joy. Let our unity be our strength, and let Eldenwood stand as a beacon of hope amidst the darkness."
Caleb's blacksmith hammer struck the anvil, ringing out like a rallying cry. "We shall forge not only weapons, but also the spirit of our village. Our resolve will be unbreakable, and our love unshakable."
The villagers worked tirelessly, transforming the town square into a makeshift fortress, while others honed their skills for defense. Aria's brush captured the courage of her fellow villagers as they stood together, determined to protect all they held dear.
As winter's chill settled upon Eldenwood, news of the approaching enemy grew more ominous. The village had become a bastion of resilience, its streets lined with barricades, its people armed with both weapons and hope.
Then, one fateful morning, the enemy's advance could be seen on the horizon. Aria stood at the edge of the village, her heart pounding in her chest. Beside her, Caleb gripped his hammer, his expression a mix of fierce determination and love.
The clash of swords and the cries of battle filled the air, a stark contrast to the peaceful melodies that once echoed through Eldenwood's streets. The village's defenders fought valiantly, their unity unwavering. Aria and Caleb stood side by side, a symbol of the village's resilience.
As the battle raged on, Eldenwood's spirit shone brighter than ever before. The enemy was repelled, their advance halted by the villagers' unyielding strength. The once-troubled whispers of war were replaced with cheers of triumph, and the village celebrated its hard-fought victory.
Underneath the ancient oak, Aria and Caleb shared a quiet moment. Their eyes met, reflecting the trials they had overcome and the love that had sustained them. The war may have tested their resolve, but it had also revealed the depths of their courage and the power of unity.
In the end, Eldenwood emerged not as a village defined by conflict, but as a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people. Before the war broke, it was a place of beauty and laughter, and in its darkest hour, it became a beacon of hope that would forever shine in the annals of history.