After a long and tiring journey, they finally arrived back at the Hombre Libertad headquarters. The base, hidden in a dense forest and protected by powerful magic, gives every member a feeling of security. Even though it was night, the atmosphere at the headquarters seemed busy with members still active.
Heather Persley, their firm but wise leader, welcomed the arrival of the expedition team with a smile of relief. "Welcome back, all of you," he said. "We have heard news of your success. However, we still have a lot to discuss and plan."
They were all sitting around a large table in the meeting room, which was lit by a softly glowing crystal chandelier. Heather started talking to Aether and Beatrice about their goals, then they explained about the incident that had happened to them. After explaining the problem, Heather got to know Elena and Aiden.
In the middle of the table, Aiden showed a large map depicting the magical world and the important areas they were trying to understand and control.
"First of all," Heather began, "I want to thank you for your efforts. The information you have brought back has been invaluable. The Temple of Light has been our main focus, and now we have a clearer clue as to its location."
He pointed to a part of the map depicting the Temple of Light, a place rumored to hold the key to understanding and controlling the energy of the sacred weapon, an extremely powerful and rare ancient magical energy. "According to our sources, the Temple of Light is not only a repository of ancient knowledge, but also a sanctuary for Weapons to Exterminate Demons."
During their conversation, someone came in wearing clothes and a big hat like a witch, she introduced herself as Leona.
Leona was one of the most experienced magicians in the group, then after listening to Aiden and Aether's proposal, Leona nodded in agreement. "The Temple of Light is known as a center of ancient magical knowledge. But to get there, we have to overcome several obstacles full of traps and guardian creatures."
But Aether, who was usually quiet, spoke this time. "If we can get that Weapon from the Temple of Light, we can strengthen our defense and also counterattack the enemy more effectively. But we need to prepare ourselves well."
Heather nodded. "That's right. Therefore, we will divide the tasks. Some of us will study more deeply about the ancient magic that exists here, while others will prepare equipment and strategies for the journey to the Temple of Light."
Aether then directed his gaze towards Aiden, someone who was more familiar with Without Of Light. "Aiden, you will lead the team to plan our travel route. Make sure we avoid areas that are heavily guarded by the enemy."
Aiden nodded confidently. "I'll make sure everything is planned carefully. We'll use the safest and most efficient route."
Heather then turned to Leona and Beatrice. "Leona, you will lead a research team to understand more about the magic we may encounter in the Temple of Light. Trice, you will work together with him to develop tools and equipment that can help us."
Leona and Beatrice exchanged glances, both seemed excited about the task at hand. "We will do our best," Leona said firmly.
Then Aether also told Aiden who was there to adjust the navigation to make it easier to travel later to the temple, because Aiden was also a scientist and expert on magic research which was also seen in the previous laboratory. Aiden looked impressed by the elegance of the aether. He nodded and immediately went to carry out the aether's orders.
Heather was amazed, but what was the power because Aether's elegance seemed to be some kind of magic or enchantment for a man, like a queen's order to her people.
then the Discussion continued late into the night, with each member of the group knowing their role and the importance of this mission. They are not only fighting for themselves, but also for freedom and the future of their world.
When the meeting was finally over, Heather stood up and spoke in a softer but more passionate tone. "Tomorrow will be an important day. We will begin preparations for the journey to the Temple of Light. Remember, every step we take, every effort we make, is all for a better future. We cannot afford to fail."
The group members stood up, ready to face the next challenge. With high spirits and strong confidence, they returned to their rooms to rest, knowing that the day ahead would bring them closer to their goal.
~The Rest~
On the next day, precisely in the morning at 08.28 PM, after Aether woke up, he did his usual routine, namely yoga, fitness, etc. Beatrice also saw Aether doing yoga and wanted to come with her "Aether, can I come with you?" Beatrice asked, "Can Trice please?" Aether answered.
Beatrice drew closer to Aether and she saw the charming Aether with her straight hair and bright blue eyes, making her enchanted. (Wow, it's true that I don't regret being friends with you, Aether) said Beatrice in her heart, (No, don't keep being like that or for a long time me with aether will end up falling in lo-), "Ahhhhhh Noooo!!! I caaaaan't!"
Suddenly Aether was shocked, "Waahhh! What are you doing, Trice? Shouting incoherently!", but Beatrice remained silent and covered her face because of her embarrassing behavior. "N...N...N...N...N...No, I didn't mean it like that."
"Hump To Much excuses" Aether answered with an annoyed face which actually made Beatrice sulk "Tch, it's up to you" They argued until they finished yoga.
Time resumed when the sun went down, at that time Aether and Beatrice were enjoying the sunset with coffee on the roof of the museum accompanied by a beautiful song on Eden Radio Vault-Boy radio, which had aether entitled The End Of The World By Skeeter Davis.
Aether looked up at the sky which was slowly changing color "Sunsets are always amazing, aren't they?"
Beatrice smiled, looking towards the horizon "Yes, it's really beautiful. The sky is orange and pink, as if painting its own story. Aether listened to the song The End of the World playing softly from the small speakers "This song is perfect for moments like This. It feels so peaceful."
Beatrice nodded "Indeed, Skeeter Davis's voice is really soothing. This song seems to symbolize eternal beauty even though the world ends." Aether took a deep breath "Sometimes I think how precious every second we spend like this is. Just enjoying the moment, carefree."
Beatrice held Aether's hand
"Every moment with the people we love is priceless. Especially simple moments like this."
Aether smiled, looking at Beatrice "You are right. Happiness is simple, sometimes you just need a beautiful sky and a good song." Beatrice laughed softly "And of course, a good friend to share moments with. Thank you for being here with me, Aether." Aether nodded, smiling gently "You're welcome, Trice. Thank you too for accompanying me. Let's enjoy this sunset until the end." Beatrice looked at the sinking sun "Every sunset reminds us that there is new hope for tomorrow."
Aether nodded in agreement "That's right. There is always tomorrow, there is always new hope. Let's live each day with meaning." Beatrice nodded, smiling "Agreed. We live with meaning and happiness. Thank you, Aether."
Aether nodded, looking at the sunset "You're welcome, Beatrice. Let's enjoy this moment to the fullest."
The two of them continued to enjoy the sunset, with the music of "The End of the World" in the background, creating unforgettable memories on the roof of the museum.
However, Aether remembers flashes of his past with his mother Carnation at home lying down while drawing while looking at the sunset. That moment was so beautiful that the aether still remembers the details of that moment.
At that time, Aether finished drawing and then gave the drawing to his mother. With a smile Carnation looked at the aether picture "Wow, it's really beautiful. Is this you the one who made the aether?" A picture with a family of 3 people who identify as the Aether family sitting on a camping carpet while enjoying their meal.
But the drawing is not just any child's scribble, but is truly beautiful with the touch of Aether's observant hand. Then Aether was proud of his hard work to make this picture while hugging his mother, Aether smiled while looking at the sunset.
This beautiful moment full of warmth made Aether smile a little sadly, but the cry was hidden by Aether so that Beatrice didn't notice.