Chapter 17: The Lake of Echoes
Priestess Valtira's expression shifted, her eyes gleaming with a mix of urgency and caution. "The 7 demonic stages are crucial, Alawis, but our discussion will have to wait. Priestess Veron has summoned me." Alawis rose, slightly taken aback by the sudden interruption.
she took Alawis hand and they can't vanish appearing in a dark cave
Valtira's piercing gaze made Alawis uneasy, as if searching for something within her. The air thickened with anticipation as Valtira bowed. "Priestess Veron."
Veron's smile and nod acknowledged Valtira's respect. Alawis's wariness lingered, sensing an undercurrent of tension between the two Ladies.
"Priestess is a unique demon," Valtira said, her voice measured.
Veron chuckled, the sound low and mysterious. "Unique? That's one word for it."
As they walked, Veron regaled them with tales of Hell's hidden realms, weaving stories of ancient powers and forgotten lore. Alawis listened, entranced by the secrets whispered beneath the surface.
Their journey led them to a shimmering lake, its surface reflecting hues of sapphire and amethyst.
"Welcome to the Lake of Echoes," Valtira said, her voice barely above a whisper.
Alawis gasped, her breath caught in the beauty of the lake. "It's breathtaking."
Veron nodded, her eyes glinting with a hint of warning. "And treacherous. Be cautious."
As they strolled along the lake's edge, whispers echoed across the water, an ethereal chorus that sent shivers down Alawis's spine.
"What are these whispers?" Alawis asked, her curiosity piqued.
Valtira's expression turned somber. "The Lake of Echoes holds the secrets of Hell's past."
Veron added, her voice dripping with intrigue, "And its future."
Alawis felt an inexplicable pull, as if the lake's secrets beckoned her.
"What secrets does the lake hold?" Alawis pressed, her voice barely above a whisper.
Valtira's gaze swept across the lake, her eyes reflecting the water's depths. "Ancient knowledge, forgotten lore, and whispers of prophecies."
Veron's eyes sparkled. "And the echoes of those who dwelled in Hell."
Alawis stepped closer to the lake's edge, her toes almost touching the water. The whispers grew louder, swirling around her like a vortex.
She closed her eyes, focusing on the echoes. Visions flooded her mind: ancient battles, forgotten rituals, and cryptic messages.
Alawis's mind reeled, struggling to comprehend the sheer volume of secrets.
Suddenly, a voice whispered her name.
"Alawis."
She opened her eyes to find Veron beside her, concern etched on her face.
"What did you hear?" Veron asked, her voice low.
Alawis hesitated. "A voice called my name."
Valtira's gaze narrowed. "Whose voice?"
Alawis shook her head. "I don't know."
Veron's eyes gleamed. "Interesting."
Valtira's expression turned serious. "We should leave."
As they departed, Alawis felt the lake's secrets lingering within her, like embers waiting to ignite.
Their journey continued, navigating Hell's twisted landscapes. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a crimson glow.
Alawis broke the silence. "Where are we headed?"
Valtira smiled. "To meet the one who governs Hell's gates."
Valtira chuckled. "And witness your first demon trial."
Alawis's heart skipped a beat. "What trial?" she asked.
Valtira's gaze locked onto hers. "You'll see."
The shadows deepened, casting an air of anticipation as they vanish into Darkness.