Part 1
William and Wilde entered the room where Pallas was, a rustic but well-lit space filled with tables covered in maps and documents. Pallas stood near a large table, examining a detailed map of the Isle of Fen. Next to him, Don was closely studying the same map.
Pallas looked up when he heard their entrance. "Good, William. Wilde. Thank you for coming so quickly."
William, still slightly damp from the rain, nodded. "What's the urgency, Pallas?"
Pallas gestured for them to come closer to the table. "As you know, the situation is becoming increasingly critical. We have a new theory about the monster."
Wilde frowned, his expression full of curiosity. "What's this theory?"
Pallas pointed to the map, which showed an island divided in half by a winding line. "Here is the Isle of Fen. The wall you see on the map divides the island into two sides. We believe the monster came from the other side of the wall."
Don interjected with a grave voice. "The wall is over fifty meters high and was built to prevent any passage between the two sides. It's an imposing structure, theoretically impassable."
William looked at the map, his expression thoughtful. "So you think the monster found a way to cross this wall?"
Pallas nodded. "Exactly. The wall was designed to prevent any crossing, but the fact that the monster managed to get through suggests there might be a breach or an unknown method of passage."
"And what's the plan?" Wilde asked, his tone showing a mix of anxiety and interest.
Pallas turned to them, his expression serious. "Don and I are planning an expedition across the wall. We need to understand how the monster managed to pass through and, if possible, find a way to seal it again."
Don pointed to the map, indicating an area beyond the wall. "We'll be setting out soon. The expedition is crucial for determining the exact point where the wall may have been compromised and to ensure there are no further risks to both sides."
William frowned, grasping the magnitude of the situation. "And what do you need from us?"
Pallas crossed his arms, his gaze fixed and determined. "We need you for the hunt that will follow. Once the expedition gives us more information, we'll need to act quickly to capture or eliminate the monster."
Wilde looked at William, and then back at Pallas. "Understood. If the expedition is vital for everyone's safety, we're ready to help. What's the next step?"
Pallas smiled slightly, relieved by their willingness. "Thank you both for your cooperation. Don and I will make the necessary preparations for the expedition. We need you to be ready for the hunt as soon as we return with the information."
William gave a slight nod. "We're at your disposal. Just let us know when the time is right."
Part 2
Helena was lying in bed in her dorm room, the curtains of the small space partially open to let the soft moonlight in. The constant sound of rain hitting the window was almost soothing, a reminder of the inclement weather enveloping the port city. With a sigh of relief, she was enjoying a moment of calm, but the peace was interrupted by a light knock on the door.
She got up, stretching her arms before heading to the door. Upon opening it, she found Liam, his gaze slightly damp from the persistent rain outside but with a friendly smile on his face.
"Hi, Liam." Helena said, curious. "What brings you here?"
Liam ran a hand through his wet hair, trying to make it look more presentable. "Hi, Helena. I didn't want to disturb you, but I thought I'd take the chance to chat a bit." He gave a friendly smile, his eyes shining with a hint of enthusiasm.
"Sure, come in." Helena made way for him to enter and closed the door behind him.
"What's going on?"
Liam looked around, noting the simple and cozy ambiance of the room. "Actually, I was thinking of seeing if you were interested in some company." He headed to the small table in the corner of the room where Helena kept her books.
"And if you don't mind, tell me what you've been up to. It seems like the rain never lets up, doesn't it?"
Helena chuckled lightly, crossing her arms over her chest. "Yes, the rain doesn't seem to want to leave anytime soon." She sat on the edge of the bed, watching Liam settle in.
"I haven't been doing anything special, just trying to find something productive to do while the hunt doesn't start. And you? How have you been?"
Liam sat in the chair next to the table, adjusting himself to be more comfortable. "Oh, just trying to keep busy. The rain has been a bit boring, but at least it gives me time to think about some strategies for when I'm called on a mission. And, of course, to get to know people better."
"And have you had success getting to know people around here?" Helena asked, interested.
"I know it's easy to feel a bit out of place when you're a newcomer."
"Yes, it's been interesting," Liam replied with a smile.
"I've met some nice people. But, to be honest, I thought it'd be good to have a conversation with you, away from the hustle of training and preparation for the hunt."
Helena smiled, appreciating Liam's sincerity. "It's always nice to have a break. And I'm glad you've been coming to talk to me. Sometimes, these moments of calm are the best."
Liam nodded with a smile. "I completely agree. It's great to enjoy these moments. And I'm glad you're open to conversations. It really makes a difference."
He paused before continuing, his tone relaxed. "By the way, I was thinking... You and Ed seem to be quite close. He seems like a dedicated person."
Helena looked at Liam, thoughtful. "Yes, Ed is like that. We haven't known each other for long, but he always seems to have this determined spirit, which makes him stand out."
Liam smiled, a bit intrigued. "That makes sense. He seems like someone who cares deeply about those around him. I also wanted to thank you. I remember you helped me when I was completely lost and didn't know what to do. There was no one around, and suddenly you appeared to guide me."
Helena blushed slightly, feeling flattered. "Oh, it was nothing. I just did what anyone would do. I was just trying to help someone who seemed to be in trouble. But I'm glad it was so important to you."
Liam shook his head with a sincere smile. "It was. Sometimes, even small actions can have a huge impact. And I really appreciate your help and how you've become a friend. It's not easy to find people you can trust so quickly."
Liam hesitated for a moment, looking at Helena with a thoughtful expression. Finally, he gathered the courage and said, his voice a bit softer:
"Helena, what I wanted to say is, over the past little while, I've had the chance to get to know you better and... well, I really enjoy your company. I... feel attracted to you and would like to know if you... feel the same."
Helena was surprised, her eyes widening slightly. "Liam, I wasn't expecting this. This is... very unexpected. I need to think about it a bit."
Liam nodded, trying to mask his slight shock. "Of course, I understand. I didn't mean to put pressure on you. I just wanted to be honest about how I feel, you taught me that, remember?"
Helena looked at him with a gentle smile. "I appreciate your honesty, Liam. It means a lot to me. But I really need some time to think and reflect on what you said."
He smiled faintly. "No problem. The important thing is that you know. If you need time, I completely respect that. Completely."