Chapter 19: A hidden paradise

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Kiyotaka point of view:

The rough ground below me jolted me awake, pressing harshly against my body, a constant reminder of the fall that had brought me here. A sudden coldness on my forehead stirred me further, the sensation of water trickling down my hair causing my eyes to flutter open. I had been out for quite some time. A dull throb in my head added to my confusion.

Gradually, my vision adjusted to the dim lighting, and the soft purple glow above me began to take on a more distinct form. It illuminated the rugged walls and debris scattered around me, lending an otherworldly aura to the space. Despite the strangeness, there was a certain serenity to the place. The glow came from a cluster of amethyst crystals hanging from the ceiling, casting a gentle and calming light across the rocky landscape. Dripping water echoed through the cave, creating a soothing melody.

The Moonclaw defeated, the last thing I remembered was crashing into the door. So, I must have been teleported, but where to? I sat up and looked around, discovering myself in a dimly lit cavern. The narrow passageway was unremarkable, except for the delicate and ethereal plants that grew from the walls. Their crystalline leaves glistened in the purple glow, casting an otherworldly aura over everything.

I had never seen anything remotely like it.

Approaching the foreign plant cautiously, I was keenly aware of the potential dangers in this unknown land. Being teleported here was a miscalculation I couldn't predict. My pace was deliberate, senses attuned to the surreal atmosphere. Despite the lure of the plant's beauty, I remained wary, maintaining a safe distance. Every fiber of my being was on high alert. Caution was my greatest ally in this unknown land.

The twisting vines merged seamlessly with the rock, moving with fluid grace like a living organism. I watched, noting its characteristics to study later. If Ruri is still alive, she'd love to know I discovered a new plant.

A soft, soothing humming caught my attention, echoing through the cavernous walls. Despite its calming nature, I remained wary of any lurking danger. I preferred to head toward where the plants converged, hoping to find water and food. After finding shelter, I could explore and look for a way out.

As I traveled, the air filled with the soft glow of the plants adorning the walls. The intricate designs and vibrant colors made each one a work of art. The more I traveled, the brighter the glow, illuminating the air with an ethereal radiance. It was like entering a magical realm where beauty and wonder were the norm. The rustling of leaves and the gentle hum of the plants were the only sounds, creating a calming yet ominous atmosphere.

As I turned a corner in the cave, the buzzing sound persisted. It wasn't dissipating as I had hoped. It was then that I noticed the butterflies, whose wings shimmered with an otherworldly radiance. The purple and crystalline hues of their wings seemed to pulsate with energy, and they flew in unison, creating a celestial harmony. Their grace was unparalleled, guided by a force beyond our understanding. They appeared to be blocking an entrance, and as I approached, ready to defend myself, they scattered in panic towards a wide opening.

I followed them and discovered a flourishing ecosystem nestled deep within the cave. The trees towered overhead, adorned with leaves of the most brilliant crystalline purple, casting a soft glow upon the verdant landscape below. My eyes were drawn to the unfamiliar flora, including a towering plant resembling a colossal cauliflower and unknown plants that resembled giant cocoons. Small snakes slithered through the air with a crystalline and purple sheen.

As I marveled at the mystical garden, I saw a massive tree in the center, towering above all others. Its trunk was wide enough for several people to encircle it, and a misty fog surrounded it. The tree seemed to breathe and pulse with life force beyond my understanding, and its leaves shimmered in the gentle glow of the cave.

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