Guardian's Amulet: Zineria Viose

Chapter 1 - Welcome Back

Without hesitation, I stepped forward, feeling the familiar surge of energy wrap around me once more. The portal embraced me, pulling me into its embrace, and in an instant, I found myself standing once again on the sandy shores of the island.

The sun bathed the landscape in its golden embrace as if rejoicing in my return. The island seemed to come alive as if it had been waiting patiently for my presence. The rustle of palm leaves whispered my name and the gentle lapping of the waves reached out, beckoning me to explore its hidden depths.

With a smile on my lips and a heart filled with gratitude, I embarked on a new chapter of my journey, ready to embrace the wonders and adventures that awaited me once more. The island had become my sanctuary, a place where time stood still and where the extraordinary became ordinary.

As I ventured into the island's embrace, I knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, the island's magic would forever reside within me, guiding me and reminding me that there are infinite worlds to discover and countless stories yet to be written.

When I set foot on the beach at Mythos Island again, I wasn't alone this time. My companions were with me. My friends stood before me, all dressed in the traditional garb of Mythoican. They smiled welcoming me, but only one being in the world had captured my attention. Ryoko holding flowers with a big and bright smile plastered on his face. A wave of euphoria washed over me, and as soon as he noticed me approaching, he held the bouquet up towards me with a grin etched across his features.

"Welcome back, Ayla!" he called, tossing his arms out wide to welcome me into his arms. As we hugged, I could smell a slight fragrance coming from him, similar to the scent he carried with him when we traveled on the island together. And yet different at the same time. I couldn't help but notice how strong his grip was. His body was so warm and comforting. I leaned in close and inhaled his unique smell which reminded me of fresh grass and sea salt. He smelled like home. He kissed me softly and it felt so sweet.

He pulled away and squeezed my shoulders "I can't believe you've been gone for almost three months." I felt embarrassed about forgetting such important people in my life. It hadn't even registered to me that they might worry.

I looked back at the others who were giggling and whispering. I blushed profusely.

"Come on I am sure, the others are waiting for us. I have so much to show you!" He smiled, his brown eyes sparkling mischievously. He pulled me by my hand, practically dragging me down to the beach. As we got down to the village, I realized how much it had changed since my last visit here. While the area was busy, it was now bustling with noise and activity.

People walked around carrying baskets and boxes filled with various goods from all across the island. There was excitement and new energy in the air. Now, the townspeople came out in their traditional gear, looking healthy and happy. Children ran excitedly along the shoreline and waved at me as I passed by them. It reminded me of my childhood, back when I lived here as a child with parents who loved me dearly.

Ryoko stopped abruptly in his tracks. Everyone greeted Ryoko enthusiastically. He took a moment to introduce me to everyone who worked in town.

I watched as a few girls gathered around him and started peppering him with questions. Sure he was handsome, pretty smart, and liked by everyone. I diverted my attention elsewhere, seeing Tatsuya and some guy getting along quite well.

I walked over to the stall that they were standing by. I tapped Tatsuya on the shoulder as she spun around and she saw me and hugged me tightly.

"Glad you're back! It's been forever," she smiled.

"Glad to be back," I giggled. I looked over to a guy who was a little taller than Tatsuya and had dark brown eyes and a tall lean build. Brown, short hair almost fully covers a gloomy face. His skin was an ochre color, much like the mellow-brown light that bathed the forest.