After escaping the cave, Rowen and Alice found themselves in a serene clearing under a vast canopy of stars. The night sky was clear, and a gentle breeze carried the scent of pine and earth, providing a sense of peace after their harrowing ordeal. They decided to set up camp, and soon, a bonfire crackled to life, its warm glow casting flickering shadows on the surrounding trees.
Alice sat near the fire, petting Vanora, who had comfortably coiled herself beside her. The serpent's scales shimmered in the firelight, and Alice traced the intricate patterns with her fingers, her mind a whirl of thoughts and questions.
Rowen finished preparing their meal, ladling out portions of mushroom stew into makeshift bowls. He handed one to Alice, who accepted it gratefully. The aroma of the stew was rich and inviting, and as she took her first bite, Alice was struck by a familiar taste.
"This... this tastes almost exactly like my mother's stew," she said, her voice filled with a mix of surprise and nostalgia. She turned to Rowen, her eyes wide with curiosity. "How can you recreate my mother's stew so perfectly?"
Rowen settled himself by the fire, his expression calm and thoughtful. "I've seen your memories, Alice," he replied softly.
Alice blinked in astonishment. "How?"
"While you were recovering, a bond was established between us," Rowen explained. "It allowed me to see glimpses of your past, your memories, and the things that are important to you."
Alice's mind raced, trying to process this revelation. She looked down at Vanora, who seemed to watch her with an understanding gaze. Taking a deep breath, Alice decided it was time to get the answers she sought.
"Rowen," she began, her voice steady but filled with determination, "I need to know everything. Who are you? Why are you here? And what is this connection that Vanora talks about?"
Rowen met her gaze, his eyes reflecting the firelight. He took a moment before speaking, choosing his words carefully.
Rowen met her gaze, his eyes reflecting the firelight. He took a moment before speaking, choosing his words carefully. "Alice, to tell you the truth, I don't know how to explain it to you because I don't have all the answers myself. I have no memory of my past. All I know is that I have been given a task to find the guardians scattered around the land."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in before continuing. "I have no destination in sight, no grand plan. I go wherever the guardians ask me to go. My journey is guided by their needs and the bonds we form."
"Rowen," she began tentatively, "what exactly are these guardians you speak of?"
Rowen looked up from the stew, his expression thoughtful. "The guardians are ancient creatures, Alice. They were created by an unknown being long, long ago. Each one embodies a fundamental element of our world."
Alice's eyes widened with fascination. "How many guardians have you met so far?"
Rowen stirred the stew, a soft smile playing on his lips. "Vanora here is the Guardian of Earth," he said, nodding to the serpent. "Earlier, when you saw me using my powers, I was channeling the strength of two other guardians: Nerida, the Guardian of Water, and Zephyros, the Guardian of Thunder."
Alice's curiosity only grew. "Where are they now? Can I meet them?"
Rowen's smile faded slightly, a look of gentle regret in his eyes. "Nerida and Zephyros are currently in slumber after using their powers earlier on. They need time to recover their strength."
Alice nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "So, they're resting now?"
"Yes," Rowen confirmed. "You will meet them in due time. They are incredibly powerful and wise, and I think they will be very interested in meeting you."
Alice's mind raced with possibilities. "How do you communicate with them?"
Rowen leaned back, looking into the fire. "Our bond allows us to communicate on a deeper level. It's not just about words; it's about feelings, intentions, and understanding. When I need their help, they lend me their strength. In return, I help protect them and ensure they remain hidden from those who would misuse their power."
Alice felt a sense of awe and respect for the guardians and for Rowen's mission. "It sounds like a huge responsibility."
"It is," Rowen admitted, "but it's one I gladly accept. Each guardian has a unique role to play in maintaining the balance of our world. Finding them, protecting them, and learning from them is my purpose."
"Rowen, then does this mean I'm like you now since I can use magic?" she asked, hoping for some clarity.
Rowen paused, considering how best to explain. "No, Alice. While it's true that you can use magic, the magic within you is actually mine. I bestowed it upon you to save and protect you. In a way, you are my assistant, or a disciple if you choose to be."
Alice blinked in surprise. "So, my powers came from you? Is that why we have this connection that lets you see into my memories?"
Rowen nodded, a hint of regret in his eyes. "Yes, exactly. The origin of your power is tied to me, which is why I could see your memories. I apologize for intruding on your private thoughts and moments."
Alice scratched her head in embarrassment, feeling a mix of emotions. "It's okay," she said softly. "I'm sure you had your reasons. But... are you really okay with having a brat like me as your disciple? I'm sure you saw that day I ran away. It's the day I regret the most."
Rowen's expression softened, and he moved closer to the fire, his eyes reflecting its warm glow. "Alice, everyone has moments they regret. It's part of being human. What matters is what you do with those experiences. You have the potential for great strength and wisdom, and I believe in you."
Alice looked down, a small, embarrassed smile forming on her lips. "Thank you, Rowen. I want to learn and grow stronger. I don't want to run away anymore."
Rowen looked at Alice, the flickering firelight casting a warm glow on both of their faces. He knew that if she was to follow him and learn to harness her powers, there would need to be some structure and understanding.
"Alice," he began, his voice steady and firm, "if you want to follow me and become my disciple, there are a few rules you will need to oblige."
Alice nodded eagerly, ready to commit. "What are they?"
Rowen took a deep breath and continued, "Firstly, you must always stay close to me, especially when we're in dangerous or unfamiliar territories. Safety is paramount."
"Secondly, magic requires discipline and practice. You will need to train every day, both physically and mentally, to strengthen your abilities."
He paused to let his words sink in, then added, "You must always show respect to the guardians. They are ancient and powerful beings, and their wisdom and guidance are invaluable."
Alice listened intently, absorbing each rule.
"When I give you an instruction," Rowen continued, "it is for your safety and the success of our mission. You need to follow my directions without question, especially in critical situations."
He watched her nod in understanding. "Always be observant and willing to learn," he said. "There is much knowledge to be gained from the world around us, and understanding your surroundings can make a difference."
Rowen's expression grew serious. "Do not act recklessly or out of anger. Every action has consequences, and we must always consider the impact of our choices."
"Use your powers to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Magic is a gift, and it must be used responsibly."
"Be honest with me and with yourself. If you have doubts, fears, or questions, speak up. Transparency is key to our partnership."
Finally, he said, "Have courage in the face of danger and compassion for those in need. These virtues will guide you on your path."
Alice felt a mixture of excitement and seriousness as the reality of her commitment set in. She nodded but then took a deep breath, her expression becoming more solemn.
"Rowen, while I'm on board with helping you and following your rules, there's something I need to make clear," she began. "I still want to investigate my family's death. Other than that, I will oblige in everything, but I can't make any compromises about my family."
Rowen studied her for a moment, his gaze steady and contemplative. "Do you want revenge for your family?"
Alice hesitated, uncertainty flickering in her eyes. "I don't know. Ever since I left the dungeon, my memories have been fuzzy until the time I was escaping from my captors."
Rowen nodded thoughtfully. "Would you like me to see if I can give you clarity during that time? Perhaps I can help you remember."
Alice looked at him with a mix of hope and apprehension. "Yes, please. I want to understand what happened."
Rowen moved closer to Alice and placed a hand on her shoulder, his touch gentle yet firm. He closed his eyes, focusing his power. A soft glow emanated from his hand, and Alice felt a warm sensation spreading through her.
"Close your eyes and relax," Rowen instructed. "I'm going to delve into your memories."
Alice did as he said, her breathing steadying as she allowed Rowen's power to guide her. Images and sensations began to surface, and she felt herself being drawn back to the time she had left the dungeon. The memories were hazy at first, but gradually they became clearer.
Rowen's voice was calm and steady as he guided her through the process. "Focus on the details, Alice. Let the memories come to you."
She saw herself in the dungeon, the cold stone walls, the dim light filtering through the small, barred window. She remembered the fear and desperation she felt, the moment she decided to run away. She saw the hooded figure who had freed her, and the mansion she was brought to.
As the memories became more vivid, Alice began to piece together the events that had led her to this moment. The sense of confusion and fear started to give way to understanding.