As the decision was made to take the route through Ploit Harmonic Valley, the group dispersed to make final preparations for the upcoming journey. Jacob and Enzo went to check the supplies and equipment, ensuring everything necessary for the expedition was in order. Epouchiom and Oreveu coordinated with a team of mages to devise protective spells and enhancements that could aid the group on their trek.
Meanwhile, Marcus took charge of scouting the immediate surroundings of the mansion, ensuring no potential threats lurked nearby. Lila delved into the vast library within the mansion, seeking any relevant information or historical insights that might assist the rebels in their quest.
Link and Alexander focused on strategizing the march through Ploit Harmonic Valley, mapping out potential resting points, scouting routes, and discussing contingency plans for various scenarios they might encounter along the way.
As dusk settled and the night grew darker, the rebels reconvened in the central hall of the mansion, gathering around a table scattered with maps, parchments, and glowing crystals. Each member brought forth their findings and plans, contributing to the comprehensive strategy for the journey. "Alright, everyone, let's finalize our plans," Link began, addressing the group. "We've gathered enough intel and fortified our preparations. We leave at dawn tomorrow. Marcus, keep a vigilant watch tonight. Lila, any discoveries from the archives?" Lila adjusted her spectacles, a sense of excitement in her voice. "I stumbled upon ancient tales about hidden passageways and concealed routes within Ploit Harmonic Valley. They might offer shortcuts or hidden shelters along our path. It's worth exploring.", "Excellent," Link nodded, acknowledging her contribution. "That might prove useful. Marcus, any sign of potential threats?" Marcus shook his head. "All clear for now. I'll continue the watch. We should be cautious, though. You never know what's lurking in the shadows." Epouchiom and Oreveu joined in, presenting the protective spells they had crafted. "We've enhanced our defensive magic. It should shield us from most elemental dangers we might encounter," Oreveu explained, her tone confident. Link smiled in approval. "Great work, both of you. That will be invaluable during our journey. Jacob, Enzo, how are the supplies looking?" Jacob nodded. "All set. We've checked and rechecked everything. We've got enough rations and equipment for the journey." Enzo chimed in, his voice brimming with enthusiasm. "We're geared up and ready to go! Bring on the adventure!" Alexander intervened, bringing attention to the strategic plan. "I've marked potential ley line intersections along our route. We should use them to conserve energy and replenish our magic whenever possible." "Alright, then," Link summarized, surveying the table filled with plans and information. "We have our path, protective spells, supplies, and strategy. Get some rest, everyone. We depart at dawn for Ploit Harmonic Valley." As the group dispersed to their quarters for the night, a sense of anticipation lingered in the air. The promise of exploration, challenges, and the unknown lay ahead, driving the rebels with a shared purpose and determination. The night passed quietly, with Marcus and his troops keeping watch and the others resting, preparing for the journey that awaited them at daybreak. As the first rays of dawn pierced the sky, the mansion stirred with activity. The rebels gathered at the entrance, ready to embark on their trek through Ploit Harmonic Valley. "This shall be the first expedition of our rebellion, me and 5 troops will venture out to Seraphim Trading Post to acquire intel and recipes for our camp, we shall be back in 10 days.", Ethan announced as he rides the carriage made of bronze and metal. "Squadron, move!" Ethan bellowed, ordering the start of the expedition as the crystal gates opened, revealing a portal that Jacob and Alexander, along with the other mages conjured, leading to their old camp, Flefaria. "We could just open a portal to STP or somewhere close to that, why the hell would we even need to march anyways?" asked Enzo, "Well, if you were listening to what I taught you last time on Netherlight, you would know that portals can't be conjured that far... Unless you're a Guardian or a Nexus, or an evolved Pendragon... I don't think anyone are those in our rebellion." responded Link, clearly annoyed by Enzo's ignorance. "Oh, sorry." Enzo responded, frowning. As they advanced deeper into the valley, they encountered peculiar rock formations and colorful flora. Marcus, leading the vanguard, remained watchful for any signs of danger. Meanwhile, Lila, fueled by her findings from the archives, kept a keen eye on potential hidden passages or shelters that might aid their journey. Hours passed, and the sun climbed higher in the sky, casting shadows over the valley's winding trails. The rebels pressed forward, following Alexander's ley line intersections whenever possible to conserve their energy and magic. As the day progressed, the valley's terrain transitioned, and the atmosphere turned more foreboding. The group noticed strange fluctuations in the air, causing sporadic bursts of magical energy. Jacob and Enzo, checking the supplies, ensured their provisions remained intact despite the unexpected environment. With the day drawing to a close, the rebels decided to make camp for the night. Link ordered the perimeter secured, while Epouchiom and Oreveu fortified the campsite with their enhanced protective spells. "We'll need to be extra cautious here," Link warned, sensing the escalating tension in the valley. "Keep your guard up and be prepared for anything." As the night fell and the stars adorned the sky, the rebels settled in for a night's rest, surrounded by the mysterious, otherworldly sounds of Ploit Harmonic Valley. The journey through this uncharted territory had only just begun, and the uncertainties of what lay ahead loomed over them.
By the time Jacob had opened his eyes, Layla was staring at him: "Wake up now... We're here." as she helps Jacob up. "Damn, already?" Jacob blurted out, he sat up groggily and rubbed his temples. "Yeah, put your coat on." she commanded, jumping out of the cart. Jacob hastily put on his green coat, jumped out of the cart, not wanting to be left behind. The air was crisp, carrying a hint of dew as the morning sun illuminated the landscape. Jacob stepped onto the ground, his boots crunching against the gravelly terrain. He glanced around, taking in the surroundings. The valley lay before him, a mix of vibrant hues and peculiar rock formations, the dawn's light casting an ethereal glow upon the flora. At the distance, there was a town bustling with activity, Jacob quickly slid down the rocky hill, landing at the town's entrance. "Halt! What is your business here?" exclaimed two guards, blocking the gate. "I- um, I'm a merchant." Jacob stammered, the guards' eyebrows shot up, their eyes seemingly scanning him. After what felt like eternity, they asked, "Got a toll pass?". Jacob, dumbfounded, said in response "No... I don't", one of the guards sighed, "All right, we'll let you in... Toll costs 30 quids.", Jacob's brow furrowed as he knew damn well he didn't have any money. "I don't have money on me, but I have some things I can give to you instead of quids." Jacob said, the guards thought for a moment, "What do you have?" they asked. Jacob opened his bag, revealing a purplish crystal that he had taken in the caves during the Luminous Realm encounter. The guards gasped in awe but quickly composed themselves, "These won't do... but we'll take four if you have.", Jacob felt something off but shrugged it afterwards, "Sure... here." he says as he takes two more in his bag, handing it to the guards. The guards smiled mischievously as they take the crystals from Jacob's hands. "You may pass." they say, signaling the gates to be open. Jacob wandered around, finding his friends through the smoky, loud, crowded streets of STP. He gazed around as shops of various sizes clamor towards and across each other... As he was looking around, he sees a shadowy figure atop one of the houses. He stumbles, remembering the time he had encountered a shadow... He closes his eyes for a split second, but now it was gone... again. "What the..." he whisphered to himself as he turns to run, but just as he turned, he sees a hooded figure similar to the one on top of the house, he wanted to run.... but he couldn't move... The hooded figure raises its hands, revealing an odd helmet, seemingly pulsating in celestia... But his eyes... He can see celestias, he can feel them, thanks to his Demon eyes. He can feel celestia pulsating in the helmet, yet... he doesn't seem to see anything, in fact, he sees red dots coming out of it just a split second ago. Something wasn't right. Just as he was about to speak, his vocal cord was forcibly shut off. He struggled to breathe, as if choking on a non-existing object lodged in his throat. The figure moved ominously, lifting its hands, carefully placing the helmet on Jacob's head. The helmet felt cold, hard, and stiff as he feels an overwhelming energy surge through his body. His eyes, who were seeing just a moment ago, was covered in a velvet-like substance. He wanted to scream, but he couldn't... The thing was still lodged in his throat, he wanted to run but he couldn't move... and most of all, "I think I'm dying..." he concluded weakly as his eyes seep in red film. Presumably, blood.
YOU ARE READING
FATE (Volume 1)
FantasyJacob, a high school student recently discovers his power to manipulate reality. This power throws him to a venture of strange places along with some friends whom he met along the way, but with this power comes a great sacrifice as he discovers abou...
