บท 11: The Path of Lions Focus
The companions emerged from the mountain pass, their footsteps now cushioned by the soft forest floor that surrounded Erian Glade. Shafts from the sunrises filtered through the dense canopy above, painting dappled patterns of light and shadow across their weary faces. The air carried a fragrant blend of pine and distant promise—a bustling city where their next chapter awaited.
As they stood on the edge of the forest, Helena's voice broke the stillness, her words almost lost in the rustling leaves overhead. "We can't continue like this," she murmured, her eyes flickering between Jaxon and Renn, both weariness and determination etched on their faces. "We need supplies, and we need to learn more if we're to face what's ahead."
Jaxon nodded, his gaze fixed on the distant spires of Elarian Glade. "Elarian Glade is our best chance. We can't risk moving forward unprepared."
Renn scanned the forest thoughtfully, his brow furrowing with contemplation. "And maybe we'll find someone who can help us," he added quietly, his eyes narrowing with resolve.
Kael remained silent, his demeanor calm yet attentive as he seemed to listen to the murmurs carried on the wind. Finally, he nodded in agreement, his voice steady. "We'll find what we need in the city. Supplies, knowledge, and perhaps a guide to aid us."
With silent accord, they followed a faint trail through the forest, winding toward the outskirts of the city. The journey was eased by the shade of towering trees, their leaves whispering secrets in the gentle breeze. Birds sang overhead, their melodies weaving through the rhythmic crunch of footsteps on fallen leaves.
Days passed in their journey through the forest until Elarian Glade emerged on the horizon—a sprawling tapestry of life where traders haggled and travelers sought respite. They settled in an inn nestled on a quiet street, its wooden sign creaking softly in the breeze. While Renn and Kael ventured into the main avenues of the city to secure provisions, Helena and Jaxon sought information about potential mentors or guides who could aid them in their quest.
Their inquiries led them to an ancient temple nestled on the edge of the city—a sanctuary dedicated to the mastery of meditative arts. The temple, with its weathered stone walls and intricately carved pillars, exuded an aura of tranquility and wisdom. Inside, the air was heavy with the scent of incense and the soft murmur of prayers echoing off polished marble floors.
It was here, in the hallowed halls of the temple, that they first met Elandor. A towering figure cloaked in robes of deep blue, he possessed an air of serene authority that seemed to command respect from the stone itself. His eyes, a piercing shade of amber, held a wisdom forged through years of introspection and study.
Helena and Jaxon stood before Elandor, their gazes respectfully lowered in deference to his presence. The monk regarded them with a measured gaze, his expression unreadable yet not unkind. He gestured for them to sit, his movements deliberate and fluid, as if every action held a deeper meaning.
"You seek guidance," Elandor intoned in his voice a deep resonance that filled the temple's sanctum. "Meditation is the path to understanding oneself and the world around you. Here, we teach the way of Inner Stillness as the foundation, a method to calm the mind and harness the aura within."
Helena and Jaxon nodded, recalling their basic training in Aether focus, which they knew was at the beginner tier of meditation, just like Inner Stillness. Inner Focus was a technique that focused on quieting the mind and centering one's thoughts much the same as the technique they learned.
After Using Aether Focus for over a month, the two eventually escaped the Gulag. They had learned to sense their aura, a subtle energy field that surrounded the entire world, though mastering it was still challenging.
Elandor's gaze shifted and after waiting a moment began to speak again, his amber eyes seeming to peer into their very souls. "Beyond Inner Stillness and the beginner tier, lies Lions Focus Meditation and the novice tier," he continued, his voice taking on a scholarly tone. "It draws forth the aura with greater clarity, enhancing your senses and fortifying your presence. It is the next tier of meditative mastery, where one learns to extend their aura beyond mere perception."
Helena felt a thrill of anticipation, her mind racing with the possibilities that Lions Focus offered. She imagined her aura as a vibrant cloak of energy, pulsing with life and potential. Jaxon's expression mirrored her curiosity, his eyes brightening with newfound purpose. They were both enthralled with the idea of learning this new technique but knew they had to wait and inform their companions of the situation before making a decision.
Renn and Kael returned to the shack later that day, bearing provisions, and new armor with weapons. (They used the money that Helena stole from her old apartment).
Jaxon explained what happened in the temple to his companions, and noted, "When Elandor agreed to take us under his wing, it was not simply out of obligation, but a recognition of our shared determination and the weight of their quest."
He continued stating, "It would be a mistake not to become his students and learn from a master."
The companions sat in a circle, their expressions a mix of weariness and determination. The events of the past days had brought them here, seeking guidance and strength amidst the turmoil of their journey.
"It's not just about survival anymore," Helena said, her voice carrying the weight of their shared experiences. "We've been lucky so far, but luck won't carry us through what lies ahead."
Jaxon, his gaze fixed on the distant city walls, nodded solemnly. "Helena and I have seen what Lions Focus can do. If we're to face whatever challenges await us, we need to harness that power."
Renn, typically skeptical of anything beyond practicality, scratched his chin thoughtfully. "I'm not one for mysticism, but I've felt the difference in my abilities. Maybe there's something to this meditation."
Kael, always attuned to the currents of magic and strategy, spoke up quietly. "We've come this far together. We owe it to ourselves to explore every advantage, especially if it means mastering something as potent as Lions Focus."
Their conversation ebbed into a contemplative silence, each member reflecting on their journey and the perils they had overcome. They had faced adversaries and challenges that tested their limits and now stood at the threshold of a new path. One that promised growth and empowerment. No one uttered a word after that, but the decision was made.
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