Chrono Hunt

Chapter 7: Threads of Connection

Jon's consciousness hovered between realms, teetering on the edge of wakefulness and surrendering to the embrace of slumber. In this mysterious state, his mind became a canvas for vivid and ethereal visions, blurring the boundaries between reality and the surreal.

Within the nebulous mist, the contours of a face emerged, delicate and radiant. It was the girl Jon had encountered at the bustling market, her eyes sparkling with curiosity and warmth. In this realm, their paths converged once again.

Hand in hand, they traversed a sunlit meadow, vibrant wildflowers swaying to an invisible rhythm. Laughter cascaded through the air as they joyfully pursued whimsical butterflies, their spirits unburdened and free.

Jon felt an inexplicable connection, a profound familiarity and comfort in the girl's presence. It was as if they had known each other for an eternity, their souls entwined in a tapestry of shared experiences.

But gradually, a shadow slithered across the idyllic scene, casting a pall over their radiant world. The sky darkened, and the meadow dissolved into an abyss of obscurity. The girl's laughter metamorphosed into cries of distress, wrenching at Jon's heart with a surge of helplessness.

Within the dream's grasp, Jon stretched out his hand, his voice echoing through the void. Yet, his touch proved futile, his pleas lost within the chasms of the abyss. The girl slipped further away, a flickering light diminishing in the encroaching darkness.

In an abrupt awakening, Jon's consciousness surged back to reality. The dream, so vivid and real, dissipated like smoke, leaving behind an unsettling residue. He blinked, disoriented, the echoes of the girl's cries still resonating in his ears.

Beside him, his mother's face came into focus, etched with concern, her hand holding his own in a gentle grasp.

"You're awake, Jon,"

His mother's voice trembled with emotion.

"Thank goodness."

Jon's throat felt dry as he tried to speak.

"What... what happened?"

He managed to croak, his words barely audible.

His mother's eyes filled with sadness.

"You and Elysia were found hurt and unconscious in the woods. The villagers brought you here to the apothecary house for help."

Memories of the troll battle flooded Jon's mind, accompanied by a throbbing ache in his head. He winced at the pain but forced himself to focus on the present.

"And Elysia... How is she?"

Jon asked, his voice filled with concern.

His mother's expression turned somber.

"Elysia got injured, but the healers say she'll recover fully. She's a strong and skilled hunter, Jon. We must have faith in her resilience."

Guilt pricked at Jon's heart. He couldn't shake the feeling that he had failed to protect Elysia, and now she suffered because of his shortcomings.

"And the troll?"

Jon pressed, his voice unwavering.

"Is it gone?"

His mother sighed, her gaze distant for a moment.

"A troll appearing here is unusual."

She said, her voice tinged with unease.

"Your father and Elysia are investigating its sudden appearance. They went to track the creature when they felt you were safe."

A whirlwind of questions and uncertainties swirled through Jon's mind, like restless spirits seeking answers. Why had the troll spared him and Elysia? Why were they left alive, injured but breathing? The weight of these thoughts tugged at Jon's conscience, demanding attention amidst his struggle to sit up. With his mother's gentle support, he managed to prop himself against the pillows, his gaze fixed on the doorway, as if searching for elusive answers in the shadows beyond.