In parallel, the old man and Alexia undertook a meticulous exploration of the library's extensive collection, methodically scanning the pages of each book, and seeking any faint hint of information.
As the final hours of the two-day training period dwindled, Asher's curiosity grew insatiable. He couldn't help but ask, "Did you find anything in your research?"
The old man, his countenance clouded with disappointment, responded with a heavy sigh, "Regrettably, no, I haven't unearthed any substantial leads. What about your training? Have you made any progress?"
Henry replied confidently, "We've diligently practised the techniques you imparted to us. Now, we believe it's time for you to fulfil your promise and enlighten us about Neverland."
Despite their eagerness, the old man, who had spent a lifetime in pursuit of knowledge, counselled patience. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, but haste often leads to missteps. Before we delve into such significant matters, why don't we take a moment to relax and discuss it over tea?"
They gathered around, sipping on their tea, and the old man began to shed light on the mystical realm known as Neverland. "Neverland, as I've mentioned, exists within another dimension, and reaching it is a formidable endeavour. The gateway to this realm, known as the 'gate to heaven,' opens only once a year, and its location shifts with each occurrence, scattered across the globe."
Alexia, her curiosity ever-present, couldn't help but ask, "So, how are we expected to find it?"
The old man, his eyes reflecting a lifetime of accumulated wisdom, started to elucidate the intricate process. "I was just about to explain. The most plausible method, based on my research, is to create your very own gateway to Neverland. However, this endeavour requires a key. These keys are exceedingly rare, with only seven of them in existence, and they are held by enigmatic beings known as the 'Seven Shadow Lords.'"
Asher's curiosity burned brightly as he posed a question that had been gnawing at him. "Could you tell us more about these Shadow Lords? Who are they?"
The old man leaned back, his gaze focused on a distant point as he began to unravel the mystery. "The Seven Shadow Lords are unique beings. They are animals originating from Neverland. Each of them possesses one of the seven keys that can unlock a gateway to Neverland. And yes, you need only one key for your purpose."
Henry, ever the realist, interjected with a sense of concern. "So, if we understand this correctly, you're suggesting that we have to take one of these keys from a devil by... fighting them?"
The old man's response was steady, devoid of illusion. "Precisely. You must confront a devil and acquire a key from them."
The weight of this proposition hung heavily in the air, and Henry couldn't help but voice the stark reality of their situation. "But how can we possibly fight a devil, a being that possesses unlimited magic? It seems like an insurmountable challenge."
The old man met their trepidation with a solemn truth. "Indeed, facing a devil is not for the faint of heart. Their power is formidable, fueled by boundless magic. However, I must emphasize that this is the path you've chosen. While it's fraught with danger, the alternative, finding the ever-elusive 'gate to heaven,' is an unpredictable journey that may span years, if not longer. The choice is ultimately yours to make."
Asher lost in thought, couldn't help but grapple with the immense gap in power that separated humans from devils. "It's hard to ignore the fact that devils exist on an entirely different plane than us. I had an encounter with one when the devil within me emerged."
The old man, whose years were a testament to his wisdom, offered a thoughtful response, "While it's possible that the devil granted you the key without a battle, such an exception would usually demand a compelling reason."
Henry, equally contemplative, voiced the dilemma that occupied their minds. "It's essentially a coin toss, a 50-50 chance. We'll need some time to weigh our options. Tomorrow, we'll inform you of our decision."
The old man, with a gentle nod, conveyed his understanding. "Take all the time you require for your discussions. Once you've reached a decision, please don't hesitate to inform me."
However, there was another question that had been gnawing at Henry, a curiosity that begged satisfaction. "There's something else I've been curious about."
Encouraged by the old man's willingness to share knowledge, Henry delved into the extraordinary events that had unfolded in his life. "You see, a while back, my left hand was severed in a terrible incident. But recently, something miraculous happened. It healed itself after I succumbed to a curse. I was inexplicably revived, and my hand, previously lost, regenerated. I'm left wondering, how is any of this even possible?"
The old man, his years of wisdom deeply etched in his features, offered illumination on this enigma. "What you've experienced is referred to as the 'will to live.' It's the very essence that brought you back to life. The healing of your hand likely stems from its newfound magical abilities, signifying a form of magical evolution."
Henry, genuinely intrigued but seeking further clarity, probed, "Magical evolution? What does that mean?"
The old man embarked on an explanation, aiming to simplify the complex concept. "Imagine your magical abilities as being on a specific stage, say the 5th stage. Instead of advancing to a completely different stage, this magical evolution signifies a significant enhancement of your abilities within that same stage. It's akin to unlocking hidden potential. However, it's essential to understand that this transformation is temporary, lasting only for a certain duration. Eventually, everything will stabilize."
Henry's comprehension deepened as he grasped the concept. "I see now. So that's why I didn't sense any permanent change in my abilities."
****
The old man's guidance had unveiled a new layer of understanding for Henry. As he mulled over this revelation, he couldn't help but marvel at the mysteries that continued to unravel in this extraordinary journey...
*****