Beginnings in the Cabin

The wind rustled through the old wooden cabin where Oliver was born amidst the quiet chaos. His mother, in the last moments of life, kissed his forehead, whispering blessings. The cabin, a modest refuge, was surrounded by towering pines, their needles quivering in the breeze like villagers gossiping tales of sorrow and strength.

Months later, the news of his father's demise at war arrived. At eight, Oliver became an orphan, his parents lost to the cruelties of life. The village gossiped, casting dark glances at the boy with the golden hair and cyan eyes, an outcast for reasons he could never understand.

Despite this, Oliver remained hopeful, wearing a smile that promised peace and unity. He played by the edge of the forest, dreaming of a world kinder than the one he knew.

The Silent Stranger

One crisp autumn day, Oliver was playing near the edge of the forest. The rustling leaves and the softly chirping birds provided a soothing backdrop to his thoughts. As he meandered through the forest, he noticed someone he had never seen before—an adult figure standing near an old, twisting oak tree.

"Hello there," Oliver greeted cautiously, his curiosity piqued.

The man turned, revealing a rugged face framed by dark, unruly hair. His eyes were a deep, piercing brown—like the mysteries they seemed to nestle within. "Hello, young one," the man replied with a nod. "I am Jericho."

Oliver felt a mix of apprehension and intrigue. "I'm Oliver," he said. He couldn't help but notice the man was holding something—a wooden sculpture of a dolphin, intricately carved.

"I have something for you," Jericho said, extending the sculpture. "It was meant to find you," he added mysteriously.

Oliver took the sculpture, feeling the smooth wood against his fingers. "Thank you, Jericho. But why are you giving this to me?"

Jericho's expression softened for a moment. "Because sometimes, the sea whispers to the right hearts," he said cryptically. Then, he turned to leave, blending into the shadows of the trees.

Word of Jericho's appearance spread through the village like wildfire. Most villagers kept their distance, regarding him with suspicion and fear. But Oliver felt an unusual bond with Jericho, believing there was more to the stranger's presence than met the eye.