AllFreeNovel
Share Us
As we approached, I could make out his features — scarred but strong, his skin a shade darker than Mayn’s, with silver streaks running through his hair.
His eyes, however, held the most fascination for me.
They were deep-set, reflecting centuries of wisdom, experience, and pain.
This was Keldar.
“Mayn,” Keldar’s voice rumbled, resonating within the chamber, “you return and not alone.”
Mayn nodded, his demeanor respectful yet firm. “Keldar, this is Emilia. We seek your help.”
Keldar’s gaze shifted to me, piercing through as if he could see the very essence of my being.
I felt vulnerable, and exposed, but stood my ground, meeting his gaze.
“She carries the Vendikar curse,” Keldar observed.
I swallowed hard. “Yes. That’s why we’re here.”
Keldar’s eyes softened slightly. “Your journey here was not without peril, young one. But why should I help you, especially after the choices you’ve made, Mayn?”
Mayn lowered his head. “I know our past is filled with disagreements, Keldar. But this is bigger than our differences. This is about saving a life and possibly, our future.”
The room was thick with tension, but beneath Keldar’s stern exterior, I sensed a depth of emotion.
Past wounds ran deep, yet here we were, seeking his help, hoping that the shared history and the gravity of our mission would sway him.
After what felt like an eternity, Keldar finally spoke, his voice softer, contemplative. “Very well. But know this, both of you: The path to the Springs’ salvation is not an easy one. You will be tested in ways you cannot imagine.”
I took a deep breath, and my resolve strengthened. “We’re ready.”
Keldar nodded, his gaze lingering on me for a moment longer. “Then let the trials begin.”
* * *
The inner sanctum of the temple felt hauntingly serene.
The atmosphere was thick, saturated with an age-old power, and I could barely make out the outline of two areas, divided by a shimmering veil yet intricately linked.
Keldar’s voice echoed, carrying with it an air of solemnity. “You will each face your own trial. Emilia, your path lies to the left, Mayn to the right. Remember, the trials are as much a testament of your heart’s intent as they are of your capabilities.”
With a deep breath, I stepped into my designated area, the veil separating Mayn and me.
It was immediately disorienting.
The surroundings shifted, and I found myself back in my quaint bookshop on Earth.
But something was off.
The air was thick with smoke, and the familiar scent of old books was overpowered by the smell of burning.
My heart raced as I saw the flames consuming everything I loved.
I could hear distant cries, and the cacophony of a world turned to chaos.
The pain of loss gripped me, but this was only the beginning.
The scene shifted again, and I was surrounded by darkness, completely alone.
