Chapter 14 - Celestial Haven

As Ashen settled into his seat at the coffee café, Kaid's bright smile mirrored the cheerful atmosphere of the establishment. Kaid's genuine concern for his friend's well-being was evident as he greeted Ashen with a warm "How are you?"

Ashen returned the greeting with a nod and replied, "I'm fine, Kaid. How about you?"

Kaid's eyes flickered with concern as he leaned forward slightly. "I'm fine too," he said, his voice filled with genuine care. "But how are you holding up with everything? I know it hasn't been easy for you."

Ashen sighed softly and shared the details of his doctor's diagnosis, explaining, "The doctor says it's acute grief and bereavement hallucinations. It might take months or even years for them to subside. The medication helps, but sometimes it feels like a constant reminder of what I've lost."

Kaid listened attentively, his gaze filled with empathy. "I can only imagine how challenging it must be," he said softly. "But I'm glad you found solace in Kingdoms of the Unseen. It's been a game-changer for many."

Wanting to uplift the mood, Kaid eagerly changed the topic. "So, let's talk about the game! How was your first experience in Kingdoms of the Unseen?"

Ashen's face lit up with enthusiasm as he began recounting his initial impressions. "It was incredible, Kaid," he exclaimed. "The moment I entered the virtual world of Kingdoms of the Unseen, I was immediately captivated by the immersive environment. The graphics were stunning, and the attention to detail was extraordinary."

He leaned in closer, his voice filled with wonder. "My planet, Midnight Bay, is unlike anything I've ever seen before. It's a unique and mysterious place, full of vast water with no visible land in sight. The entire planet is perpetually bathed in the gentle glow of the moon, as there is no day or night cycle. It creates a surreal and serene atmosphere."

Kaid nodded, his curiosity piqued. "That sounds fascinating," he said. "Tell me more about Midnight Bay."

Ashen's voice took on a dreamy tone as he continued, "In the heart of the planet, there's a colossal tree. Its branches stretch far and wide, reaching the sky. The tree is a symbol of life and connection, a sanctuary for all the creatures that reside in Midnight Bay."

As Ashen vividly narrated to Kaid about his planet and the mesmerizing game experiences, Kaid found himself utterly captivated, immersed in the enchanting world conjured by his words.

The sensation of air, the fragrances, and every sense within the game seemed ethereal yet tangibly real, blurring the lines between virtuality and actuality for Ashen, even if only for fleeting in-game moments.

With each word that escaped Ashen's lips, Kaid's demeanor transformed into that of a proud father, hanging on to every detail as if his beloved son was enthusiastically sharing his newfound delight, much like a child unveiling a cherished new toy to his dad.

As the conversation between Ashen and Kaid continued, it became apparent that "Kingdoms of the Unseen" was more than just a game; it was an intricate web of emotions, dreams, and desires. For Ashen, it was a sanctuary where he could temporarily escape the pain of his grief and immerse himself in a world of wonder and adventure.

Kaid looked at Ashen with a smile and said, "Must be nice to have such a unique planet like Midnight Bay. The scenery there is breathtaking."

Ashen nodded in agreement and replied, "Yes, the beauty of Midnight Bay is unparalleled. But, developing it has been quite challenging. Building and maintaining an underwater world requires constant attention and effort."

He sighed and looked at Kaid, curious about his own virtual realm. "What about you, Kaid? How's your planet?"

Kaid's eyes lit up with excitement as he proudly explained, "My planet is called Celestial Haven. It's a normal planet with various biomes like grassland, desert, sea, and ocean, similar to Elysium. However, what sets it apart are the unique species that inhabit it."

With a grin, Kaid turned his laptop screen towards Ashen to show him images of his planet. "Here, take a look," he said.

Ashen's eyes widened as he marveled at the incredible creatures that roamed Kaid's planet. Titans towered over the landscape, and mammoths gracefully roamed the grasslands. The diverse and exotic creatures added a whole new dimension to Celestial Haven, making it a fascinating and vibrant world.

Kaid pointed and said, "This is my castle, 'The Colossal Citadel'."

The Colossal Citadel is an awe-inspiring and breathtaking castle of titans that stands prominently on a floating island, defying the laws of gravity as it hovers gracefully above the ground. This architectural marvel is a testament to the extraordinary craftsmanship and engineering skills of an ancient civilization.

The castle itself is an imposing structure, built with majestic white stone that gleams brilliantly under the sunlight. Its pristine and super white colour lends an air of elegance and grandeur to the entire edifice. As sunlight bathes the citadel, it seems to radiate a celestial glow, making it visible from afar and adding to its mythical allure.

Perched atop a massive mountain, the floating island serves as an impregnable fortress, accessed only through a network of well-guarded bridges and gateways. The very foundation of the island is shrouded in mystery, as it is supported by the giant statue of a titan. This colossal guardian figure, with its strong, chiseled features and outstretched arms, stands as a symbol of protection and power, holding the entire floating island aloft with an air of divine strength.

The castle's design showcases a harmonious blend of titan architecture and intricate craftsmanship. Towering spires adorned with delicate carvings and filigree reach for the heavens, while the battlements provide a commanding view of the surrounding landscapes. Elaborate murals and ornate sculptures that depict ancient tales and myths adorn the walls, adding to the richness of its history.

The Colossal Citadel is an awe-inspiring fortress that stands tall and majestic on a floating island, which is held aloft by a gigantic statue of a titan firmly grasping the base of the island.

The entrance of the Colossal Citadel, they are greeted by an impressive sight - two mighty titans stationed on either side of the gate. These titans are adorned in formidable armour, a symbol of their power and authority. In their hands, they hold spears, signifying their role as guardians and protectors of this formidable fortress.

As you step inside, the splendor of the castle's interior matches its external magnificence. The hallway leading to the throne room is adorned with intricate carvings and elaborate tapestries depicting epic battles and ancient tales. The walls seem to emanate a soft luminescence, adding to the ethereal ambiance of the place.

The throne room is undoubtedly the centerpiece of the castle's interior. At each side of the room, majestic titans are seated, their colossal forms exuding an aura of power and wisdom. They face each other, their eyes seemingly filled with ancient knowledge and an air of regal dignity. At the very top of the throne room, perched upon an imposing throne, sits Kaid.