บท 8: Immortal Descends!
Zeke and Lila strolled through the vibrant streets of Wysteria, the setting sun casting a warm glow over the bustling city. Zeke's golden eyes sparkled with mischief as he teased, "So, Lila, any last-minute warnings about your dad? Is he a demon in disguise too?"
Lila playfully nudged him, her eyes dancing with amusement. "No, he's more of a gentle giant. Just don't mention his terrible singing voice, or we might never hear the end of it."
As they approached the grand gates of the Evergreen family estate, Zeke straightened his posture, a grin playing on his lips. "Alright, let's face the music, or in your dad's case, the out-of-tune singing."
Upon entering the estate, they were greeted by two guards. Learning her situation, one guard rush to the patriarch.
They were welcomed by the sight of Lila's family waiting on the veranda. Her father, a towering man with a jovial smile, enveloped her in a bear hug. "Lila! You've returned! And who's this man at your side?" Zeke flashed a charming smile and extended his hand. "I'm Zeke, a humble companion to your daughter on our journey back to Wysteria. It's a pleasure to meet you, sir." His tone was polite, but a mischievous glint lingered in his eyes.
Lila's father laughed heartily, a booming sound that echoed through the courtyard. "Zeke, you say? Welcome to our home, Zeke! Any friend of Lila's is a welcomed guest here." His gaze held a shrewdness that suggested he saw through Zeke's playful facade.
Zeke chuckled, unfazed by the man's piercing look. "Thank you for your warm welcome, sir. I've heard much about the Evergreen family's legendary hospitality and now I can attest to its truth." Lila shot Zeke a grateful look, appreciating his smooth words in the face of her father's scrutiny.
As they settled into the lavish living room, adorned with intricate tapestries and plush furnishings, Lila's father leaned forward, his expression turning serious. "Lila, my dear, we must speak of your journey and the dangers you faced. And who is this young man by your side? Zeke, was it?"
Zeke nodded, his tone respectful but tinged with a hint of cheekiness. "Yes, sir. Zeke at your service. Your daughter has been a steadfast companion on our travels, and I am honored to have escorted her safely back to your care."
Dom, Lila's father, clasped Zeke's shoulder, gratitude shining in his eyes. "Zeke, I cannot thank you enough for saving my daughter and ensuring her safe return. You have my deepest gratitude and respect." Zeke nodded humbly, a rare solemnity settling over him. "It was my honor, Dom. Lila is a remarkable companion, and her safety was my utmost priority." His words carried a sincerity that resonated with Dom, who recognized the genuine bond between Zeke and his daughter.
Lila, touched by the exchange between her father and Zeke, interjected softly, "Thank you, Zeke. Your presence has brought me comfort and courage throughout our journey." Her eyes held a warmth that Zeke had come to rely on, a silent understanding passing between them.
As the evening progressed, a lavish feast was prepared in honor of Lila and Zeke's return. The table overflowed with delicacies, and laughter filled the air as the Evergreen family and their guests shared stories and enjoyed the bountiful meal.
Zeke found himself sitting next to Lila's younger brother, a mischievous boy with a penchant for adventure. The young boy, named Finn, eyed Zeke with curiosity. "So, Zeke, are you a warrior like my father? Do you fight dragons?"
Zeke's eyes sparkled with amusement as he replied, "Dragons, eh? Well, Finn, let's just say I've had my fair share of battles, though dragons might be a bit out of my league."
Finn's eyes widened in awe. "Wow, that's so cool!" Zeke winked playfully at Finn. "Maybe one day, little buddy. But for now, I'm content with facing the challenges that come our way, big or small." The young boy nodded enthusiastically, clearly inspired by Zeke's words.
As the feast continued, Zeke found himself engaged in lively conversations with Lila's family members, sharing tales of his adventures and experiences from their journey. Each story was met with laughter, intrigue, and admiration, further solidifying the bond between Zeke and the Evergreen family.
As the night wore on, and the last of the feast was enjoyed, Lila's father stood, raising his goblet. "A toast to Zeke, the valiant protector of my daughter and a true friend of our family. May your journeys be filled with courage, wisdom, and the strength to overcome any obstacle in your path." The room echoed with cheers and clinking glasses, a moment of shared camaraderie and mutual respect.
As the night drew to a close, Zeke found himself standing on the veranda, gazing out at the moonlit gardens of the Evergreen estate. Lila approached quietly, her presence a reassuring comfort amidst the peaceful surroundings. "Thank you, Zeke," she said softly, her voice carrying a mixture of gratitude and fondness. "For everything, truly."
Zeke turned to face her, his golden eyes reflecting the moon's gentle glow. "It was my pleasure, Lila. Your family has welcomed me with open arms, and I am honored to have been a part of your journey back home." The sincerity in his voice touched her heart.
Next morning arrived and Zeke woke up in the guest room. The sun's rays streamed through the window, bathing the room in a warm glow. Zeke stretched his arms above his head, feeling a sense of contentment as he recalled the previous night's festivities. A soft knock on the door interrupted his reverie, and he called out, "Come in."
The door opened to reveal Lila, her eyes bright and a smile playing on her lips. "Good morning, Zeke. Sleep well?"
He grinned at her, his golden eyes sparkling with mischief. "Like a baby dragon. I could get used to this life of luxury."
Lila laughed, a joyful sound that echoed through the room. "I'm glad to hear it. Now, enough lazing about. Get yourself ready. I want to show you around Wysteria."
Zeke's eyebrows shot up in mock surprise. "Oh, so the damsel in distress is now my tour guide? Lead the way, milady.
They strolled through the bustling streets of Wysteria, the morning sun casting a soft light on the vibrant city. Lila led the way, her steps lively and full of purpose. "First, we must visit the market," she declared. "The vendors there sell exotic food and handcrafted goods from far-off lands."
As they wandered through the market, Zeke's senses were assaulted by a myriad of smells and colors. He picked up a delicate silk scarf, running it through his fingers with appreciation. "This craftsmanship is exquisite," he remarked. "It feels like butter."
Lila smiled at his enthusiasm. "I'm glad you appreciate it. Wysteria is known for its talented artisans. And the spices here are renowned throughout the land." She breathed in the fragrant air, a look of contentment on her face.
They sampled exotic fruits, their juices dripping down their chins, and bartered with vendors for trinkets and treasures. Zeke's natural charm and quick wit enticed a jeweler to part with a rare gem at a bargain price.
Lila shook her head, laughing. "Your silver tongue will get you everywhere, Zeke."
He flashed a grin, slipping the gem into his pocket. "It has its benefits."
As they continued their exploration of the city, Lila pointed out landmarks and shared anecdotes about growing up in Wysteria. They paused before a grand fountain, its waters dancing in the sunlight. "This is where I used to play hide-and-seek with my cousins," Lila said, her eyes sparkling with fond memories. "We'd spend hours running through these streets, creating our own adventures."
Zeke listened intently, envisioning a younger Lila navigating the city with curiosity and mischief.
As they strolled further, their footsteps carried them to the heart of the city, where the bustling marketplace gave way to a serene park. Verdant trees offered shade, and the gentle sound of a nearby fountain created a peaceful ambiance. Families picnicked on the grass, and children chased after butterflies, their laughter filling the air.
Lila smiled softly, taking in the familiar sights. "This park holds a special place in my heart. It's where I found solace during challenging times." She paused, a faraway look in her eyes. "I would come here to clear my mind, to escape the pressures of expectations and responsibilities." Zeke listened quietly, sensing the weight of her words. "It was my sanctuary," she continued, "a place where I could simply be myself, free from the watchful eyes and judgments of others." Zeke placed a hand on her shoulder, a gesture of comfort and understanding. "We all need a place like that," he said softly. "A sanctuary to remind us of who we are beneath the weight of the world." Lila smiled, grateful for his empathy. "Indeed. And now, I'm glad to share it with you." They sat side by side on a stone bench, taking in the peaceful surroundings. "Wysteria has always been my home," Lila said, her voice tinged with affection. "But it's more than just a place. It's a part of me, a piece of my soul." Zeke nodded, understanding the depth of her connection to this city.
As Zeke and Lila sat on the bench, enveloped in the serenity of the park, an otherworldly presence suddenly disrupted the tranquil atmosphere. The air crackled with electricity, and an immense pressure descended upon them, as if the weight of a mountain had settled on their shoulders. Before they could react, a figure appeared in front of them—an immortal, clad in flowing robes, descended from the sky. The immortal's eyes, ancient and wise, fixed upon Lila, and a voice like the rumbling of thunder echoed through the park.
"Lila Evergreen, I presume?" The immortal's voice, deep and resonant, seemed to vibrate through the very air. "It is time for you to return to your true home."
Lila stood, her eyes widening in surprise. "I... I don't understand. What do you mean?"
The immortal's gaze softened, and a hint of sadness crept into his eyes. "You are not of this realm, child. Your family, the Evergreens, are but a foster family who took you in when you were lost. Your true home lies beyond the boundaries of this world."
Zeke stepped forward, his body tense, ready to protect Lila at all costs. "What do you mean she's not of this realm? Lila belongs here, with her family and friends."
The immortal turned his piercing gaze upon Zeke, assessing him for a moment before speaking. "Young warrior, your bond with Lila is strong, and your loyalty is commendable. But your concern is misplaced. Lila's true nature is not of this world, and her presence here has always been temporary."
Lila's eyes widened, and she shook her head, as if struggling to accept the immortal's words. "I... I don't understand. Why am I not of this realm? Who am I, truly?"
The immortal's expression softened, and she regarded Lila with a mixture of compassion and regret. "You, Lila Evergreen, are the daughter of a powerful immortal family. Your true name is Lilac Silva, and your family awaits your return in the immortal realm."
Lila staggered back, her eyes reflecting a tumult of emotions. "Lilac... Silva?" She whispered, tasting the unfamiliar name on her tongue. "I don't understand. Why was I sent here? And why am I just learning of this now?"
The immortal's eyes, ancient and wise, held a hint of sorrow. "Your family sent you to this realm for your protection, young Lilac. A great danger threatened your family, and it was deemed safer for you to grow up beyond the reach of our enemies. It was always intended that you would return once the threat had passed."
Zeke's eyes narrowed, his protective instincts flaring. "And why should we believe you? How do we know you're not the enemy come to take her away?"
The immortal's expression darkened, a flicker of impatience crossing her ancient features. "Belief is a choice, young warrior. But mark my words, you will come to understand in time. The truth will reveal itself." She turned her piercing gaze upon Lila, her tone softening. "Lilac, it is time. Your family awaits your return."
The immortal's eyes narrowed, and with a swift motion, she grabbed Lila by the arm, her grip like iron. Lila cried out, her eyes widening in fear. "Zeke—" she managed to utter before the immortal's power surged, enveloping them in a blinding light.
Zeke reacted instinctively, lunging forward to protect Lila. "Let her go!" he roared, his voice laced with fury. But as he moved, he felt an invisible force push him back, as if an impenetrable barrier stood between them. "You dare challenge me, mortal?" The immortal's voice boomed, echoing through the park. "Your bravery is commendable, but it will not save you."
Zeke gritted his teeth, his body trembling with suppressed power. "I'll do more than challenge you. I won't let you take her!" he shouted, his golden eyes flashing with determination. With a surge of energy, he summoned his cultivated power, a brilliant golden aura surrounding him.
The immortal's eyes narrowed, hier grip on Lila tightening. "Foolish mortal, do you think your meager powers can stop me?" she boomed. "You are but an ant before my might!"
The immortal launches an attack at Zeke. This attack could very well end his life and he was too powerless to stop it.
Zeke felt the weight of the immortal's power bearing down on him, an overwhelming force that threatened to crush him. But just as he braced for the inevitable, a shimmering barrier materialized before him, deflecting the immortal's attack with a thunderous clash.
"You dare intrude on my world?" A voice, familiar and otherworldly, echoed through the park. "Your arrogance will be your undoing."
Zeke, his body still trembling from the residual force of the deflected attack, turned to see a translucent figure standing beside him—the System, a mysterious entity that had guided him since their encounter in the ancient forest. The System's eyes, glowing with an ethereal light, fixed upon the immortal with an unwavering intensity.
"It seems we have an uninvited guest," the System remarked, its voice carrying a weight that seemed to resonate through the very fabric of reality. "One who does not understand the consequences of their actions."
The immortal, taken aback by the System's appearance, loosened her grip on Lila and regarded the mysterious entity with a mixture of suspicion and curiosity. "And who are you to interfere, spirit?" The immortal's voice, though laced with contempt, held a hint of uncertainty.
The System's translucent form seemed to shimmer, its eyes glowing with an otherworldly light. "I am the guardian of this realm, the protector of its balance. And you, immortal, have violated the laws that bind our worlds." The System's voice, calm and authoritative, resonated with an ancient power.
"Laws?" The immortal scoffed, a fleeting smirk crossing her face. "I answer to no laws but those of my own realm. This world is but a stepping stone, a place to gather resources and strengthen our forces."
"Your arrogance knows no bounds," the System replied, its voice laced with a quiet fury. "This realm is under my protection, and I will not stand idly by while you plunder and destroy." The immortal's eyes narrowed, a mix of anger and curiosity flickering across her features. "Very well, spirit." With that, the immortal turned and, with a surge of power, ascended back to the immortal realm, taking Lila with her.
Zeke, his body still shaking from the encounter, turned to the System, his eyes wild with worry. "We have to go after them! Lila—" The System held up a translucent hand, its eyes glowing with an otherworldly intensity. "Zeke, calm yourself. The immortal realm is beyond my reach. Our influence does not extend there." Zeke's shoulders slumped, the weight of the immortal's words settling upon him. "But Lila..." he whispered, his voice laced with concern. "At least not yet." The system added.
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