Aries and Thrain met in a bustling market square, surrounded by vibrant stalls and colourful characters. Aries with her wild hair and mischievous grin,was attempting to "acquire" a few fresh pastries from a nearby bakery. Thrain with his noble upbringing and chivalrous instincts, happened upon the scene and mistook Aries for a thief.
Without hesitation,he drew his sword and pointed it at Aries, demanding she return the stolen goods. Aries,taken aback by the sudden interruption,stood frozen with a pastry in each hand. The baker realizing the misunderstanding, tried to intervene but Thrain's pride wouldn't let him back down.
Aries feeling embarrassed and amused by the situation burst out laughing.
"You really think I'm a thief? me? ha!. I'm just a hungry traveler!". She held up the pastries and Thrain's face turned red as he realized his mistake.
The market square erupted in laughter and Thrain, sheathing his sword,approached her with a sheepish grin.
"I suppose I overreacted. My apologies traveler".
Aries still chuckling, offered him a pastry, and they shared a laugh and a snack, marking the beginning of their unlikely friendship.
"It was not funny Aries,it was actually one of the most embarrassing moments of my life". Thrain cringed at the thought of it.
Aries giggled,her eyes sparkling with mirth "oh Thrain,it was a little funny,I mean, you drew your sword over a few pastries. And your face was so serious, like you were about to slay a dragon".
Thrain shook his head his face flushed with abashment.
" You don't understand,as a knight am supposed to be dignified and composed at all times. And then I go and make a fool of myself in front of a beautiful woman ".
"Aries grin softened. "You are too hard on yourself,it was just a misunderstanding, and it's not like I didn't find charming. You're human and besides,I think it's sweet that you were so eager to protect the baker's pastries".
Thrain's expression turned skeptical, but a small smile played on his lips.
"You're enjoying this, aren't you Aries, Teasing me about my noble pride?".
"Maybe just a little, but hey someone's got to keep you humble". They both laughed.
They crested a small hill, and the tower came into view,its slender spire reaching for the sky. The walk had been relaxing with easy conversations and laughter accompanying them along the way,as they approached the tower,a sense of homecoming washed over them.
"We're here, finally". Thrain said,a warm smile spreading across his face." The tower of knowledge". He added.
Aries gave him a slight nod then said. "I'm eager to tell Lyrien everything".
"I know you are. And I know Lyrien is also waiting to hear everything you've got to say, come on let's go in already".
As they entered the tower,the familiar musty scent of old books enveloped them and the soft murmur of Lyrien's voice drifted from the library above.
"Aries, Thrain, what in the light's name took you both so long?". He asked,his eyes expressionless as they ascended the stairs.
"Well,we decided to take a stroll,I needed it though,to clear my head and get my mind off somethings". Aries said, shivering slightly.
Lyrien's gaze turned grave as he observed Aries.
"What did you learn?". He asked.
"He showed me a vision of my parents". Aries was saddened all over,as she recalled what she saw in the crystal.
"Your parents?. Tyrone's visions can be...intense, what did you see if you are willing to share". Lyrien said his expression more severe. Aries eyes welled up with tears,her voice cracking.
"I saw... I saw my parents, Lyrien. They were happy, smiling... and then killed. Murdered by a man named Malakai and a woman,a sorceress called Xylara".
"I remember now, Tyrone spoke of a rival clan's treachery and a sorceress's dark magic ". Lyrien said, his expression cold and his jaw clenched.
Aries tears spilled over.
"I want to know why,why did they have to die?. What did those people gain from their murder ?".
"We'll uncover the truth Aries and when we do, we'll make sure those responsible face the consequences for spilling innocent blood ".
Thrain stepped forward,his voice supportive. "We're with you Aries ". He said looking at Lyrien. "We will stand by you..."
Aries felt assured by these words, Lyrien and Thrain's support is all she needs right now. She wiped her tears and gave them a firm nod.
"So what else did you find out?.
"The ancient ones spoke to me ".
"Oh Aries, you are indeed the chosen one, what did they say?". Lyrien asked with an intense facial expression.
"They said that I should redeem my past and seal my destiny,I have to stop this great darkness that is coming,I have to stop it by all means".
"Aries, this is a grave responsibility. Are you prepared for what lies ahead?".
Aries stood tall her voice firm.
"Yes,am ready ,my years of training is about to pay off, here I was thinking I was going to grow old without any achievements ". She said slowly.
Thrain chuckled"Am surprised your sense of humor is still intact ".
"I feel like the ancient ones just gave me the opportunity to heal myself and others , you are right Lyrien,a gift like this should not be taking for granted".
"You're more than ready then,I believe this is your true destiny ". Lyrien said letting out a dry grin .
"Kamaita!". Aries said snapping her fingers. Lyrien became curious.
"Kamaita?, What about her?.
"Tyrone said I have to find her , she's going to play a critical role, fighting the darkness without her,is like going to war without weapons".
Thrain cleared his throat and said "Erm... Kamaita, isn't that the mythical dragon of the elements, you know back at the cottage when Tyrone mentioned her, I thought to myself , he definitely can't be serious right. She just a legend,a story told to entertain children around campfires ".
"Am afraid it's no legend, even I used to believe it was, are you sure this is what Tyrone talked about?".
Aries nodded emphatically."Yes Lyrien, his words were as clear as day, kamaita is the ultimate power ".
Thrain shook his head incredulously.
"And where do we start searching for a mythical creature, this is madness Aries!".
"Library of the ancient, hidden deep within the heart of the mystical forest, it's said to contain, ancient texts, maps,knowledge and records from the earliest days of magic. Legend has it that she's hidden away deep beneath the temple of Tamra, others says she's asleep at the bottom of Aaria's ocean of magic, nothing is certain,till you get to the library of the ancient". Lyrien said his eyes gleaming.
"Well we can't just sit around speculating,we need to get to the library of the ancient".
"Thrain nodded in agreement. Yes,l agree, the earlier the better, Lyrien,I suppose you know the way to the library, right?".
Lyrien nodded. "I do Thrain, it's a treacherous journey but with caution and wit, you both will make it. You need to navigate the mythical forest, avoiding it's dangers and temptations. Once you reach the library, you will be put to test, it's called the trials of the elements". He paused, thinking...
"I think I'll have to go with you, we'll need all the help we can get.
Aries hesitated, looking at the Thrain who nodded in agreement
"Lyrien I appreciate your willingness,I know for sure that this journey will be long and grueling,we need to travel light and fast. Thrain and I should go ".
"I see... you're right, I'll stay behind and keep an eye on things here , you should leave at dawn ".
Aries smiled grateful for his understanding.
"Thank you Lyrien". She turned towards Thrain.
"Come on Thrain,we better start getting ready ".