Bab 9: The Four Paths
Lyria's gaze wandered into the distance, recalling fragmented memories of the paths, her voice tinged with a mix of wonder and uncertainty. "There are four distinct paths we must traverse to reach the Ethereal Pools where the ritual takes place. Though, I'll be honest, the elders always knew shortcuts and ways around the main challenges, so I can't quite say what we might face."
Vael leaned in, sensing the importance of each word. "Tell me what you remember."
She hesitated briefly, gathering her thoughts. "First, there's the Mistshade Thicket. It's a dense, near-impenetrable forest where trees crowd the space so tightly that daylight struggles to pierce through. I've heard tales of elusive shadow creatures that dwell there, but they neither harm nor aid travelers. Without the elders, we won't know the paths they took to bypass them."
Next, she continued, "Is the Moonpetal Meadows. It's a clearing unlike any you've seen. During the day, it appears barren, but come night, it's illuminated by moonlit flowers. These aren't ordinary flowers, Vael. They're said to hold the memories of those who've tried the ritual before."
Vael, absorbing this, interjected, "So, these flowers could guide us or mislead us, depending on whose memories they've captured?"
Lyria nodded, "Exactly. After the meadows, we ascend to the Lunarbridge Canopy. Here, giant trees intertwine, creating natural bridges way above the ground. We'll have to navigate this intricate network to get closer to the Ethereal Pools."
Vael's brow furrowed, recalling a faint memory of watching the elders ascend into the canopy with grace and purpose. "And the last path?"
"The final step," Lyria replied with reverence in her tone, "is the Silvermist Falls. It's not just a cascading waterfall but a guardian. Behind its silvery veil is a hidden cavern, and it's through this cavern we'll find our way to the Ethereal Pools."
Silence lingered as Vael processed the journey ahead. "It won't be easy, especially without the elders' guidance. But we've got no choice."
Lyria offered a small smile, "Together, Vael. We'll get through it together."
As Lyria left to gather her belongings, Vael found a quiet corner in her house. The weight of his recent experiences pressed on his mind, but there was also an unwavering resolve building within him. He would see this through, not just for himself, but for the old Vael and the Elysian people.
When Lyria returned, Vael couldn't help but truly take in her appearance, something the old Vael might've taken for granted. Lyria was of medium height, with long, cascading raven-black hair that shimmered with hints of blue under the dim light. Her skin had a soft luminescence, a characteristic trait of the Elysian people, with the shade of early dawn. Her eyes, large and almond-shaped, were the color of fresh lavender and they always seemed to hold a secret or two.
She was clad in a form-fitting tunic of deep green, which contrasted beautifully with her skin tone. It was embroidered with silver patterns that depicted the ancient tales of their land. Her pants were a darker shade of brown, looking sturdy and meant for travel. Wrapped around her waist was a belt with pouches containing various herbs and tools. Her boots, made of soft leather, were designed for silent movement through the forest.
A pendant hung around her neck, a silver crescent moon encasing a crystal which caught and reflected the room's light in a myriad of colors. Vael remembered it was a heirloom passed down in Lyria's family.
"Vael," she began, a hint of hesitancy in her voice, "I've let Elrik know about our journey. He's coming with us."
At the mention of Elrik, memories flooded Vael's consciousness. A boy with a fiery mane of red hair, sharp green eyes that always sparkled with mischief, and a tall, lanky frame. He recalled laughing with Elrik and Lyria, engaging in pranks, and the three of them being inseparable. Elrik was adventurous and had a knack for getting them into and out of trouble with his quick thinking.
Vael offered a nod, trying to conceal his surprise at the sudden rush of memories. "Elrik, huh? It'll be good to have him. We can use all the help we can get."
Lyria smiled, relieved, "Yes, and he's always been resourceful. I thought he'd be the perfect addition to our team, especially since we're treading into the unknown without the elders."
But as Vael stared off, he couldn't help but wonder, who betrayed Vael in his memories?
A sudden knock at the door broke his reverie. Both he and Lyria exchanged worried glances. Lyria's parents had left earlier, and they never knock. With a slight roll of her eyes, Lyria sighed, "That must be Elrik. Always trying to make an entrance."
She strode to the door, hand already forming a playful jab at Elrik's tardiness. However, the moment the door cracked open, her playful demeanor shifted to alarm. Before her stood not Elrik, but a tall, intimidating figure draped in the characteristic dark cloak of the Sable Serpents. His piercing eyes scanned the room, settling briefly on Lyria.
"Have you seen Vael?" His voice was cold, emotionless.
Lyria hesitated for a split second before mustering the strength to feign indifference. "Vael? No. Why would he come here?"
Without waiting for an invitation, the serpent pushed the door wider, nearly toppling Lyria in the process. "Mind if I take a look?" It wasn't really a question. Before Lyria could protest, he was already inside, his nose twitching as he tried to catch any unfamiliar scent.
Lyria watched with bated breath as the man inched closer to her room. She desperately hoped Vael had found a good hiding spot. As the serpent reached the doorway, he paused. The room appeared empty.
Outside the window, Vael held his breath, clutching Moxy close to him. From his vantage point, he could see the Sable Serpent scanning the room. Every muscle in Vael's body was tensed, ready to flee at the slightest sign of danger.
After what felt like hours, the serpent turned back to Lyria, his gaze unwavering. "Lord Zephyrian is looking for him. There's a reward for any information about his whereabouts. Remember that."
Lyria nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'll keep that in mind."
As the door shut behind the serpent, Lyria sagged against it, relief flooding through her. Vael slowly climbed back through the window, his eyes filled with a mixture of anger and worry.
"They know," Vael murmured, more to himself than to Lyria. "They must have found the bodies."
Lyria nodded, her eyes darting to the door. "We need to leave, now."
Hadiah
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