Lost in thought, Dune decided to visit his friends. Walking through the familiar streets of Fein, if anyone could help him now it would be his friend Atlas .
As Dune navigated the less crowded streets on the outskirts of the city, a sense of unease prickled at the back of his neck. Here, amidst dilapidated buildings and dark alleys, the air was heavy with desperation and decay. Crime was rampant, and danger lurked around every corner.
But Dune was undeterred. Though he lacked supernatural abilities, he had a strength and resilience that set him apart, thanks to his mother's genetics. His keen intellect, honed through years of study and his older brothers' teachings, was his greatest weapon. Despite knowing he was no match for those with powers, he refused to let fear control him.
Approaching a hidden basement entrance, Dune reached into his pocket and withdrew a small metallic shard, shaped like a circle and etched with intricate patterns. He placed the shard against the door, aligning it with a hidden indentation. A soft click sounded, and the door swung open.
Dune stepped into the dimly lit basement, greeted warmly by familiar faces. His friends smiled, and standing among them was his brother Ned, who commanded respect and admiration.
Ned's grey hair and black eyes mirrored Dune's features, but his strength and confidence set him apart. He exuded warmth and kindness, drawing others to him.
Dune felt a surge of pride. Despite the challenges of being a Zeten, Ned remained steadfast and determined.
Dune settled into a chair, greeting the twin brothers with a warm smile. Ezra and Liam, with their fiery hair and mischievous grins, were a constant source of energy and laughter.
"Hey, guys," Dune said affectionately. "Sorry I'm late. Had to take care of something."
Liam chuckled. "Took you long enough, Dune! We've been waiting for ages!"
Ezra interjected, playful but firm. "Ignore him, Dune. We've got important matters to discuss, and we need your input."
With a playful smack to Liam's head, Ezra silenced him, their mock scuffle drawing laughter from the group. Despite their bickering, their bond was strong, a testament to their enduring friendship.
Dune then approached the fourth person in the room with a sense of reverence. This individual, stronger than Ned, commanded respect and admiration.
"Hey, Atlas," Dune greeted with familiarity.
Atlas, the leader of their small crew, nodded in acknowledgment, his expression stoic yet welcoming. Alone in the world, Atlas had forged his own path, finding family within their tight-knit group.
Tall and imposing at sixteen, Atlas also possessed purple Zeten. His dark hair and piercing purple eyes spoke of strength and resolve. Clad in purple and black, he exuded authority and power.
As Dune and the others settled around the table, anticipation hung in the air. They awaited Atlas's guidance, knowing it was of utmost importance.
Atlas's words cut through the air like a thunderclap, jolting them all to attention.
"We need to get out of this city as soon as possible," he declared, his voice grave and urgent. "Or we will all DIE."
Ezra's voice broke the tense silence in the room. "What do you mean, Atlas? Are they onto us? Are we in danger?"
The crew exchanged worried glances, the idea of their secret being exposed sending chills down their spines. They all knew the consequences if their true identities as Zetens were discovered.
Atlas, their leader, looked at Ezra with a determined expression. "It's not about being caught," he said firmly. "There's something much worse happening. It's a threat to not just us, but everyone in this city."
The room went silent as everyone absorbed Atlas's words. They realized their lives were at stake, and the situation was more serious than ever.
Ned broke the silence, his voice filled with concern. "Atlas, we can't just leave the city. We have families here. Why not go to the authorities? Maybe they can help."
Atlas stopped him with a raised hand. "No, Ned. We can't take that risk. This information comes from Aurore herself."
At the mention of Aurore, the crew exchanged knowing looks. They trusted and respected their mysterious ally.
"She sensed something beyond the city walls," Atlas continued. "She had visions of a terrible threat. She believes we must leave the city as quickly as possible."
The gravity of Atlas's words sank in. They couldn't expose themselves by going to the authorities, not with such an unknown danger looming.
Dune spoke up, his voice urgent. "What if I tell Daniel? People trust him. He's the city's hero."
Atlas nodded. "That's a good idea. If Daniel can warn the city, we might have a chance. But we still need to leave. If Aurore says we're in danger, we can't take any chances."
Liam asked, his voice worried, "How much time do we have until Fein is destroyed?"
Atlas's silence was heavy. Finally, he said, "Ten hours, at most."
The crew was stunned. Realizing the urgency, Dune quickly left the basement, thoughts racing about the impending danger.
Ned watched him go, knowing there was no time to waste. They had to act fast or risk losing everything.
When Dune entered the house, he was shocked to see his older brother Daniel, looking urgent and determined. "Daniel? What are you doing here?" Dune asked, confused.
"We need to get ready, Dune," Daniel replied. "We're leaving now. Where's Mom? And Ned?"
Dune stood speechless. How did Daniel know about their plans? Was he joining them?
Ned arrived, adding to the tension. Daniel didn't waste time, telling him to get ready to leave.
Daniel stepped closer to Dune, his eyes glowing with cosmic orange Neba. "I found Mom," he said. "She'll be home soon. Listen, Dune. I need to reach the Capital quickly. My eyes are telling me that Something really bad is about to happen here, and i have no idea why lord Cadogan is not doing anything.. why's city so calm in this situation.
We need help from Rendely. When Mom gets back, take the horses, your little sisters, and brother, and leave the city. I'll be back soon. I have to warn the higher-ups."
Dune felt the weight of responsibility. Their survival depended on swift action. With no room for hesitation, he prepared for the challenges ahead, knowing his family's safety was in his hands. They had to act, and they had to act now.