Eiran did his best to stabilize Krull. His hands fluttered in a silent whisper as a spell of gentle restraint was woven around the unconscious body, forming a cocoon of golden energy. The mage sighed then turned to the group.
—I'm going to put him in a temporary isolation spell, he explained. He won't be able to harm anyone in that state.
The cocoon shrunk slightly, becoming translucent. Eiran made him levitate and with a gesture, froze him in a field of stasis.
—Let's go, he said next. The monastery is not far away.
The group crosses a path paved with musky stones. In the distance there was an ancient monastery surrounded by thousand-year-old cedars. A peaceful aura enveloped the place. Monks in beige robes moved silently between the stone pillars.
Upon their arrival, a young man greeted them. He had light brown hair tied behind his head and wore the same dress as the others, but adorned with silver embroidery.
—Welcome to the Monastery of the Four Veils, he bowed. My name is Kael. Eiran, your presence here is an honourable surprise.
—I must speak to Master Mael, replied Eiran.
—I'll take you to him, Kael said. In the meantime, I can tell you about our house.
The group set out. Kael explained the origin of the monastery, founded centuries ago to preserve the harmony between the different schools of magic.
While they were listening, Aletha discreetly scratched her hand. The exact spot where the black liquid had touched her. The itching intensified. She remained slightly behind, confused.
—Aletha? called Caden, noticing his delay.
She jumped, but smiled.
—It's all right, I... I got lost in my thoughts.
—You should stay close to the group, he advised softly.
She nodded, forcing a smile, and took her place.
They entered a vast circular room. Sitting on a stone seat adorned with ancient symbols, an old man in indigo robe, embroidered with golden threads and glittering stars, awaited them. His cloak had a high collar, broad epaulettes and a belt adorned with blue stones. It was the Master.
Eiran bowed deeply.
—Master Mael.
—Eiran, he said in a grave but benevolent voice. Who are these young men?
Eiran stepped aside.
—This is Caden, Aletha, Zetch and Bella. They were looking for you.
—Mmm... why?
Caden stepped forward. He hesitated, looked at his companions, then pulled up his sleeve to reveal the mark of the Zodiac.
At this sight, Mael stood up abruptly.
—By the stars... It's been so long...
He laid his hand on the mark.
—Do you know what they mean? asked Zetch.
Mael smiled sadly.
— Yes. There are different sources of power. Some mages draw their strength from the elements, others from ancient covenants or artifacts. But some... draw their power directly from the stars. The purer the source, the more powerful the power. The magi of the Zodiacs were among them. They were chosen. Their marks represented the oldest and most influential constellations.
Bella frowned.
—You said "were part of"?
Mael nodded his head.
— There was a tragedy. The temple of the magi of the constellations was attacked. Burned. I thought none of them survived. To this day.
—A tragedy? said Aletha. What happened?
—I don't know the details. They say it was a massacre. And since all power attracts war...
—What do you mean? asked Caden.
— It is said that if you gather the marks of the Zodiacs, you gain access to a power large enough to reshape the world. Some people would do anything for that. Like the one who is tracking you right now.
—You wouldn't know where this temple is?
Mael shook his head.
— They were very secret. But... I know someone. He resides in the Temple of the Silent Dawn, on the cliffs of Thaelyss. They say he sees the future.
—Thank you, Master Maël," said Caden gratefully.
—Be careful. This power is a blessing... and a curse.
—We will be, said Zetch.
—Eiran.
—Yes, master?
— Take them to their rooms. Ask Lethan to prepare provisions for their journey.
—All right, counselor.
—Thank you very much, said Aletha softly.
—It's my pleasure.