In the ethereal quietude of their shared haven, Ignatius broke the silence with a proclamation that lingered in the air, leaving Evangelina momentarily taken aback. "You are beautiful."
Caught in the spell of his words, she halted, confusion flickering in her eyes. His follow-up, "You are beautiful when smiling," accompanied by the gentle touch of her small hands, unveiled a layer of tenderness that lingered between them. Ignatius, usually reserved, seemed to have unraveled a vulnerability that resonated with Evangelina, the air thick with unspoken sentiments.
Desiring a change of subject, she queried about Mentor Lucius and Saraphim, their absence palpable in the magical atmosphere surrounding them. Ignatius, still holding her hands, suggested tracking them, setting the stage for an unexpected journey through the mystical realm.
As they strolled through the magical wall, passing by Thaddeus and his new team, Evangelina delved into the recent events that had cast a shadow over the realm. "Since the call of the master challenge, they've been silent, and after Nathaniel's demise, no one knows the extent of their capabilities." Tension simmered in the air, and their surroundings tightened, echoing the anticipation of something ominous.
Their conversation was abruptly interrupted by the swift arrival of Lucas, running towards them with an urgency that hinted at imminent danger. "What happened?" both Ignatius and Evangelina inquired simultaneously, recognizing the gravity of the situation in Lucas's hurried demeanor.
"The eternal feasting festival is around the corner," Lucas announced, a smile playing on his lips. Confusion clouded their faces, prompting them to rush towards the magical wall of the notice board in search of answers.
The eternal feasting festival, a celestial spectacle in the heavenly realm, unfolded infrequently, uniting gods, goddesses, and elders of diverse ranks. It provided a rare opportunity for individuals to showcase their prowess and talents. Impress a higher-ranked deity, and your cultivation could ascend; receive a magic seal for protection against malevolent cultivators or forge connections with powerful beings among them. It was a momentous occasion, a privilege for everyone to prepare for, laden with potential rewards and dangers.
Amidst their absorption in the festival details, Aurelian materialized in Raven's room. "You are here; you haven't left the realm," Raven declared, meeting Aurelian's gaze. Crossing his legs and taking a sip of his drink, Aurelian continued, "You don't need to run away again because of the eternal feasting festival. No one dares to harm anyone during this time."
Aurelian, however, cut through the tranquility with an urgency that shattered the calm ambiance. "I'm not here for that. I need your help," he urgently conveyed, introducing a layer of complexity that hinted at challenges yet to unfold. The imminent festival, with its promises and perils, cast a shadow over their paths, leaving the characters entwined in a web of uncertainty as they navigated the intricate threads of fate.