Kapitel 10: Tales and creatures
After a day spent exploring the hidden village and learning from its inhabitants, Aelion, Kaelith, Liraë, and Elindor found themselves in the village's inn, a large building constructed around an immense tree whose branches extended through the roof, forming a natural canopy. The interior of the inn was warm, with walls covered in carved wood and numerous lanterns casting a soft light. Round tables were scattered throughout the main room, where villagers shared meals and lively conversations.
The group settled around a large table near the hearth, where a fire crackled cheerfully, bringing comforting warmth after the long hours spent in cold, dark tunnels. The servers, smiling villagers, brought them dishes filled with local delicacies: unfamiliar but delicious fruits, stews fragrant with wild herbs, and refreshing drinks with floral flavors.
Kaelith, who usually remained on guard, seemed to relax slightly. He observed the dishes with a rare curiosity. "This village… I must admit, I didn't expect to find such a peaceful place deep underground."
Aelion, savoring a juicy fruit, nodded. "It's a true haven of peace. We have much to learn here, not only about our quest but also about the secrets of this world."
Liraë, her eyes shining, looked around. "Have you noticed? Despite their reclusive life, these people have managed to preserve joy and harmony. It's inspiring."
Elindor, more reserved, but with a discreet smile on his lips, added, "It's good to remember that even in the most remote places, life finds a way to flourish."
As they enjoyed their meal, the inn began to grow livelier. A group of villagers brought out instruments, and soon, a soft and cheerful music filled the room. Laughter echoed, and a few couples got up to dance around the tables. The atmosphere was warm, full of life and simple happiness.
Suddenly, an old man, one of the village storytellers, approached their table, a benevolent smile on his wrinkled face. "Good evening, dear travelers. May I join you?"
Aelion gestured for him to sit. "It would be an honor. Please, have a seat."
The old man settled in and pulled out a finely carved pipe, which he lit before turning to them. "I've heard that you're seeking the Eternal Light. It's a subject few dare to discuss, even here. But I sense in you a strength and determination that could very well change the fate of this world."
Liraë bowed her head respectfully. "We are doing our best to understand and protect this power. But we know there is still much to discover."
The old man nodded and took a puff of his pipe, letting the smoke rise in spirals before speaking. "Let me tell you a story, an ancient tale that might shed some light on your path. It's a legend passed down from generation to generation among the elders of this village."
The adventurers leaned in, captivated by the storyteller's words. The other villagers also seemed to fall silent, attentive to the story about to be told.
"Long ago, before the first trees took root in this cavern, there was a being, a creature of pure light. This being, known as Lumael, was the guardian of the Eternal Light. He watched over this power with unwavering devotion, ensuring that it never fell into the wrong hands. But Lumael was not immortal. Sensing his time was coming to an end, he divided the Eternal Light into fragments and scattered them across the world, each guarded by mystical creatures, chosen for their purity and wisdom."
The old man paused, his eyes sparkling with ancient memories. "It is said that those who seek the Eternal Light must first prove their pure heart and clear mind. Only those who are worthy can gather the fragments and awaken the ancient light. But beware… for each fragment is protected by a trial, a trial that tests not only physical strength but also the soul."
Kaelith, intrigued despite himself, asked, "And what happened to Lumael after he scattered the Light?"
The storyteller smiled, a smile tinged with mystery. "It is said that Lumael fell asleep, becoming part of the earth, of nature itself. His spirit still lives, watching over those who protect the world. Perhaps, just perhaps, one day, Lumael will awaken to guide the worthy. But that is another story…"
The group remained silent for a moment, each reflecting on what this story might mean for their own quest. Liraë turned to Aelion, her gaze filled with new questions. "Perhaps the Eternal Light is more than what we imagined. If it was scattered, that could explain why we feel its presence in several different places."
Aelion nodded. "Yes. It also means our journey will be longer and harder than expected. But now we know we must prove our worth at every step."
As they pondered the implications of this legend, a movement caught Kaelith's attention. A small animal, one he had never seen before, timidly emerged from under a nearby table. The creature was small, barely larger than a rabbit, with soft, shimmering pale blue fur and enormous curious eyes. Its long ears perked up at every sound, and a small fluffy tail twitched behind it.
The creature approached their table, its eyes fixed on Kaelith. It seemed to hesitate for a moment, then, with unexpected determination, it jumped onto the bench beside him. Kaelith, initially surprised, remained still as the animal snuggled against him, emitting a faint purring sound.
Aelion couldn't help but smile. "Looks like you've made a new friend, Kaelith."
Kaelith, who rarely showed his emotions, observed the little creature with newfound curiosity. He gently placed his hand on its fur, finding it softer than he had imagined. "This is… unexpected."
The old man burst out laughing, a warm sound that echoed through the inn. "Ah, I see you've met a Faelis. These creatures are very rare and only show themselves to those they see as having a trustworthy heart. It's said that when a Faelis chooses a companion, it protects and guides them in the darkest times."
Kaelith, while gently stroking the little creature, murmured almost to himself, "I suppose I should feel honored."
The atmosphere around the table lightened even more, with everyone sharing smiles and laughter, savoring this moment of respite in their quest. For a moment, the weight of their responsibilities seemed to lift, replaced by the simple joy of being in good company, surrounded by music, ancient stories, and a creature as rare as it was adorable.
As the evening wore on, the villagers continued to share stories, legends of their people, and songs around the fire. Aelion, Liraë, Kaelith, and Elindor allowed themselves to be carried away by this warm atmosphere, aware that these moments of peace and happiness were precious in a world often plagued by darkness.
Kaelith, with his new companion nestled against him, felt something new that night: a connection, a trust, not only in his traveling companions but also in the world they were trying to save.
And as the night advanced, the group, surrounded by new friendships and old tales, felt ready to face the trials ahead, strengthened by the idea that they were not alone in this quest, and that even in the darkest moments, there was always a light, a warmth, to hold on to.
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
-- Power-
Rangliste 
-- Power-
Stein