As the scorching afternoon sun beat down, the carriage rattled along the dusty road. Lady Pherna's bodyguard rode alongside, his watchful eyes scanning the horizon. Inside, Arnin sat beside Immortal Elyon, while Prince Khane sat opposite, beside Lady Phera.
Within the carriage, Arnin's words dripped with enigmatic promise. "This journey will sear itself into your memories, an indelible mark. I, Arnin, without a last name, will be its architect."
Immortal Elyon's eyes narrowed, his voice laced with subtle skepticism. "You expect blind faith, Arnin? Your words weave a mystery but I've glimpsed the threads of your intention. You won't find what you seek."
Arnin's smile blossomed—a rare, unguarded moment. "Do you possess the art of mind-reading, Mr. Immortal? Reveal my desire."
"Immortality," Immortal Elyon replied, his tone measured.
Arnin's chuckle was low. "Not what I pursue. Mr. Immortal, I don't know if you have heard of the name Lyrien Alsan.
Lyrien Alsan—a name etched in history, two centuries past. A martial arts virtuoso, his legend forged a place bearing his name. He transcended mortality and vanished into the ether."
The group's attention converged on Immortal Elyon. For an instant, his eyes surrendered to the past, memories swirling like autumn leaves as he stared into blank space. His expression sobbed.
"I know that person," he whispered, the words barely audible.
"Ah, then you understand this journey's significance," Arnin exclaimed, his enthusiasm infectious as he sidled a glance at Immortal Elyon.
"We're going to Lyrien's ancient residence. It might look different due to the passage of time. However, it holds secrets and techniques beyond imagination. I've never been more eager."
Immortal Elyon's gaze drifted into the void, memories resurfacing. "I've been to Alsan, seeking nostalgia. Yet, upon arrival, I felt an unsettling disconnect—as if I'd forgotten the place yet remembered it vividly. It was gone."
Lady Phera intervened, her voice serene. "If lyrien Alsan's place disappeared, this journey's futile. Join me in the north; I'm aligning with the Snow Stride sect. You're welcome to follow."
A sly smile crept onto Arnin's lips. "Grateful for your offer. Lady Pherna is kind, but our paths diverge soon. As agreed, we parted ways. This journey's far from futile; its value will reveal itself. Destiny will reunite us, if meant to be."
Prince Khane's eyes locked onto Lady Pherna's. "I'm sure we will meet again. I trust Arnin, despite our brief acquaintance. A big part of me believes in him."
"I'm your ancestor, Prince Khane," Arnin said with a smile.
Immortal Elyon's calm tone concealed a hint of surprise. "You'd rather trust a stranger's words over mine? Do you doubt my integrity?"
Prince Khane clarified, "I don't doubt you, immortal Elyon. Curiosity and adventure drive me. What state lies nearest to our current position?"
In unison, Arnin, Lady Phera, and Immortal Elyon replied, "Essed!"
"Essed?" Prince Khane repeated, lost in thought.
Arnin's enthusiasm was infectious. "Famous for cultivators, Essed's alive with energy. Young talents flock here for competitions and battles. We'll stay awhile. Time for you to learn, and I crave a fight."
Prince Khane's gaze drifted, memories stirring. Suddenly, he spoke:
"Levitating on life's winding road,
A young heart beats strong, with spirit bestowed.
Martial arts journey, a path I've chosen,
Discipline and focus as my soul grows.
With each step forward, I find my way.
Balance and harmony in every day.
Kicks and punches, a rhythmic dance,
Self-discovery, in this youthful trance."
Arnin applauded. "Well done!"
Immortal Elyon smiled inwardly, a hint of hope in his eyes. "It seems there is still hope. You may recover your memories, Prince Khane."
The others turned to him, intrigued.
"How do you know?" Prince Khane asked, curiosity piqued.
Immortal Elyon's expression turned serious. "When you were 16, we traveled to Essed. You crafted that poem during our journey. Before your first fight in Essed, you recited it.
Many witnessed it, and some may still remember. Be prepared; you may have lingering enemies. Let's see if the 'lookalike' lie protects you."
Arnin heaved a sigh, frustration etched on his face, his brow furrowed. "To think of it, you're more suited to help Khailian restore his essence; you're an immortal, but you won't help.
What is the reason? You already helped Prince Khane reach phase 8."
Immortal Elyon's eyes flashed with irritation, but he checked himself, taking a deep breath. Without meeting Arnin's gaze, he spoke, his voice measured, calm.
"I only helped physically, and it was only a few times, and I never helped with my essence. Prince Khane reached that phase solely. You will not understand the ways of immortals."
Frustration deepened on Arnin's face, his jaw clenched, his eyes narrowing in disappointment. He studied Immortal Elyon, seeking answers.
Prince Khane and Lady Phera exchanged concerned glances, wondering if they should intervene. Prince Khane's eyes sparkled with curiosity, his brow furrowed in thought.
It had once crossed Prince Khane's mind, since Immortal Elyon's appearance in Tamil, that he could help him. However, he dared not ask, assuming their connection wasn't strong enough. Now, it seemed there was more to it.
"Arnin," Prince Khane called softly, breaking the tension.
Arnin turned, his expression severe, anger simmering beneath. His gaze locked onto Prince Khane.
"It's fine," Prince Khane said, his voice soothing.
Arnin's expression darkened, his jaw clenched. "No, it's not. If he won't do anything but follow you everywhere, he should just disappear." His words dripped with disdain.
Immortal Elyon's eyes flashed with anger, his gaze piercing Arnin. Tension radiated from his stance.
Undeterred, Arnin turned to Immortal Elyon, his voice laced with challenge. "Were you not once a mortal? If you're superior, help the inferior and stop following the stupid rules of the immortals like you're a pet."
Immortal Elyon's eyes narrowed, his face inches from Arnin's. Then, a flicker of recognition crossed his face, and his expression shifted. Memories resurfaced, and he recalled hearing those exact words 200 years ago.
"What did you say?" Immortal Elyon asked, his voice low, measured, and laced with a hint of curiosity.
Arnin's eyes locked onto Immortal Elyon's, his expression unwavering.