Elaira's voice broke through my thoughts, asking me to follow her. As we departed from the reception desk, an illusion identical to Elaira materialized in our place, now tending to the adventurers in queue. Awe-struck, I reached out to touch Elaira's hand, verifying her solidity.
She misunderstood my action, her eyes twinkling in amusement. "Oh my," she teased, "if you're seeking a more intimate encounter, we can arrange that for later tonight."
I shook my head vehemently, "No, no, I was just checking if you were an illusion too."
She smirked, a playful spark in her eyes. "Is that so?"
Confirming my intentions, I followed her to a majestic temple adjacent to the Guild Hall. Elaira revealed that this was the home of the Avatars of Life. Before I could voice any inquiries, the sight before me captured my attention entirely.
The temple housed an array of awe-inspiring statues of mythical creatures, glowing with ethereal energy and inscribed with ancient runes. I felt a reverberating power, a life force that echoed from these statues.
Elaira began explaining the Avatars, how they symbolized each individual's destined path in life. A person chosen by the Avatar of the Fairy, she exemplified, was destined to follow the path of the Fairy's Wings, indicating strong magical capabilities and a likely benevolent nature.
Intrigued, I asked about the significance of the Avatar of Chimera. Elaira informed me that those under the Chimera's Claws represented extreme physical strength, dealing massive damage to enemies and embodying devastation. Their characteristic traits were stoic and goal-driven, often motivated by revenge.
But what confused Elaira was the absence of any reaction from the Avatars in my presence. I wondered aloud if I could choose my path, but she negated, stating that the Avatars should be the ones to choose.
Suddenly, she gasped, her eyes wide. "The Dragon's Road," she murmured, a hint of awe in her voice. I stared at her, puzzled.
She explained that those destined for the Dragon's Road were rare, destined to master all Avatars of Life. This path held immense power, akin to reaching the heavens. However, it also carried a risk of becoming power-drunk. Therefore, the Dragon's Road was only to be treaded with altruistic intentions, for the benefit of others.
Her words stirred something in me, lighting up my eyes like the grandest of fireworks.
"Where can I find the Avatar of the Dragon?" I asked, eager to see the statue representing my potential path.
Elaira hesitated before replying. "Do you remember the previous receptionist who was fired?"
My heart sank. "Did he steal it?" I inquired, dreading the answer.
"Yes," Elaira confirmed, her voice laced with regret. It was a heavy revelation, but I was determined to face the journey ahead, even if it meant walking the Dragon's Road.