"Sister, we're heading off now," said Brisena, her calming smile directed toward Magnoli.
Magnoli, seated at the doorstep with a cup of tea in her hand, nodded slowly. "Alright, dear. Go on—and don't forget to send my regards to your mother," she replied gently, her voice soft but filled with meaning.
Brisena nodded, then added teasingly, "Sister, take good care of my friends, Ophelia and Ellie. Don't you dare try to charm them!"
Her voice echoed across the small courtyard, bringing life to the peaceful morning.
Damerius burst out laughing. "Hahaha, you're outrageous! Don't worry, I'll look after them. They're still not used to a place like Patisia. I'm planning to show them around the city—maybe it'll help them settle in."
While tightening the horse's saddle, Damerius spoke with a wide smile. "This city may be bustling, but it's beautiful. They're bound to be captivated. Don't worry, Brisena—I'll make sure they enjoy every corner of Patisia."
Brisena gave a faint smile and turned to her traveling group. Rogg and Robb, the two brothers, were already geared up in their traditional Doliex battle attire. Yara, her long red hair dancing in the morning breeze, was adjusting the position of her sword on her waist. Beside her, little Rex Aryyn hopped around excitedly, eyes locked on the large carriage they'd be riding.
"Is everyone ready?" Brisena asked firmly, her voice carrying the tone of a leader eager to return home.
Rogg gave a confident nod. "Ready, Lady Brisena."
Robb chimed in with a playful tone, "Just the morning breeze and chirping birds for company. What I need now is sleep. If anyone dares disturb me, I'll jump out right now!"
Then he slumped back into the carriage and drifted off again.
"Alright, sleepyhead," Brisena teased. "You're too soft for the waves."Her words were met with laughter from the rest of the group.
The caravan soon set off, led by Vuuxi astride his white horse, Snowfire.
Brisena waved goodbye to those she loved, her smile small but full of warmth. She knew this journey wasn't just a routine mission—it was a homecoming with people of great significance.
The path they were taking was one of the most secret and vital routes of the Doliex tribe. It connected the city of Patisia to Smokeland, winding through Larfex territory and behind the Whiteheaven palace, before finally reaching its destination. Known as the "Shadow Trail," it was a path crafted to guarantee swift and safe passage for the Doliex across the Guava Valley and the Whiteheaven Empire.
That morning, they set out with eager steps. The sun was still shy, peeking over the horizon and casting golden light that bathed the traveling group. The horses neighed softly, as if sensing the excitement of their riders. Little Rex Aryyn sat on Rogg's lap, squirming curiously as he stared at the horses pulling the carriage, his face lit with wonder.
Yara, intrigued by what lay ahead, turned to Brisena with a question.
"Brisena, what's Smokeland like?" she asked innocently, her large eyes sparkling with hope.
Brisena smiled warmly. "Smokeland is a land of mystery, sister. Its forests are dense, often cloaked in fog that makes the place look like it could vanish into thin air. But those unfamiliar with its ways must tread carefully—for beneath its beauty lie hidden dangers, and cliffs that can drag you into the abyss without warning."
Rogg swallowed nervously, but his curiosity burned brighter. "I want to see it all! I want to learn about your natural powers—strong and fearless, like you."
Robb, who had overheard the conversation, chuckled lightly. "Relax, brother Rogg. One day, you'll be the greatest of them all. But for now, your mission is to listen and learn. And me? I just want to sleep. Deal?"
Rogg nodded eagerly. "Deal, Boss!"
Laughter erupted inside the carriage, including from Argento—the Doliex soldier who now served as the carriage driver, and one of the warriors returning home with them.
Their journey through the Larfex territory went smoothly. The region was known for its expansive cities, flawlessly paved roads, and the cool breeze that seemed to forever dance in the air.
However, the atmosphere began to shift as they neared the rear palace of Whiteheaven. Jagged cliffs and dense forests surrounded them, casting a more somber, yet awe-inspiring, presence over the land.
Vuuxi raised a hand, signaling the group to halt. His eyes scanned the distant cliffs with sharp alertness."We need to be cautious here. This area is often a den for mountain lions," he warned, voice firm.
Rogg and Robb immediately moved into position, their swords already drawn. The Doliex warriors accompanying them responded swiftly, forming a protective perimeter around the carriage.
"Don't worry, brother. We've prepared for everything—this is the Shadow Route," Brisena said calmly, her gaze vigilant as she surveyed the surroundings.
Once they confirmed the path was safe, the journey continued. The route narrowed and twisted between tall stone walls, closing in like ancient jaws. But the Doliex moved undaunted. This was their domain, and they knew how to master it.
Halfway through the path, Rogg's curiosity flared again."Brisena, why is this called the Shadow Route?"
Brisena smiled, choosing her words with care."Because it's hidden, brother. Only a few know how to pass through it. These winding shadows and thick mists are symbols of secrecy and protection. This path ensures that we can move unseen by anyone with ill intent."
Rogg nodded, clearly impressed."So, it's like a secret passage only the Doliex know about?"
"That's exactly right," she replied.
Eventually, they left Whiteheaven behind and entered Smokeland. A thick fog began to descend, wrapping the world in a chilling, mysterious veil. Towering trees lined the path on both sides, as if shielding them from the outside world.
"We're almost there," said Yara, her voice tinged with caution. "But I'm not sure if your brother will be able to cross into Orbis Caelestis. Smokeland is full of surprises, and Orbis Caelestis marks the boundary. Those without Doliex blood lose consciousness the moment they pass through this mist."
"We'll stop here, Vuuxi," she added.
Vuuxi nodded. "Everyone, hold your positions. Rogg, I want you to go first—step past the mist."
Without hesitation, Rogg dismounted and walked forward. As he stepped into the fog, his figure vanished completely.
Brisena, filled with anxious anticipation, climbed down and stood at the edge, waiting.
Whooossshhhh.The sound of wind whispered through the air.
Then, Rogg reappeared—whole, unharmed.
Seeing him, Brisena rushed forward and embraced him tightly."Now I know. I understand. You are my brother—my mother's son."
Rogg gently stroked her head, saying nothing.
From that point on, they continued on horseback, leaving the carriage behind and letting the draft horses return to Patisia.
Rogg's passage through the mist was proof enough—he carried Doliex blood. Yet it left him filled with questions about the hidden truth behind the fog wall.
Robb, now fully awake and witnessing the impossible, was struck with awe."I never imagined a place like this existed."
"Yes," Brisena replied. "This is a sacred law among the Doliex. It ensures that no one—not even the Empire's army—can lay a hand on us."
Their journey pressed on. Smokeland was still a full day's ride away.
Though the road was mysterious and unfamiliar to Rogg, Robb, and Yara, Brisena's group carried with them a spirit of kinship. The Doliex warriors, too, shared stories and laughter, bonding with the newfound family of Rogg and Robb. Even on steep, treacherous terrain, they found ways to lift each other's spirits.
When night fell, they stopped at a small clearing to make camp. A fire crackled at the center, offering warmth against Smokeland's frigid air. Little Rex sat eagerly by Vuuxi's side, his eyes wide with wonder at this strange new world.
"Vuuxi, have you ever been afraid in battle?" asked Robb, seated beside him.
Vuuxi gave a soft smile. "Of course, Robb. Everyone feels fear. But courage doesn't mean the absence of fear. Courage means moving forward in spite of it. That day, though, I saw no fear in your eyes. I admired that in both of you."
Rogg nodded, his smile subdued."Vengeance. Vengeance doesn't leave room for fear, Vuuxi. That's what I felt."
Brisena overheard them, a sense of pride welling in her heart. Rogg and Robb—whether they realized it or not—shared the same blood, the blood of the Doliex. Though the deeper truth about their origins remained a mystery, she believed one day they would grow into great leaders, perhaps even greater than emperors.
"Get some rest, everyone," she told the group. "Tomorrow we continue. Who knows—perhaps we'll be riding all day before we reach Smokeland."
The wind hummed through the trees, a lullaby carried by the stars. And beneath that vast, silent sky, the caravan drifted into peaceful sleep.
_._
Meanwhile, Magnoli and Naira had grown increasingly close since their voyage together. Despite the language barrier, they kept trying to understand each other, their efforts creating a warmth that couldn't be ignored. Though initially hesitant, Lady Bilka eventually allowed Naira to follow Magnoli.
"I'll be returning to my mansion in Patisia," said Magnoli as he adjusted his cloak.
Damerius, visibly uneasy, stepped closer. "But, Brother, I still want to talk to you. There's so much I want to know—especially about your adventures in the Megido Continent."
Magnoli gave a faint smile, then turned to one of Damerius' guards who had joined him on that journey. "Thane. Bring Thane to me."
"He's still resting, Brother," Damerius replied. "His wounds haven't fully healed."
"Thane is one of the few who survived. As long as he's alive, then I still am too," said Magnoli, his voice calm but resolute.
"You want me to ask him instead? Come on, Brother. I want to hear it from you. I need to hear your story," Damerius pleaded, his voice barely holding back the desperation.
Magnoli looked at his younger brother intently. "There's too much that needs tending to, little brother. So much has changed. Even your face, once always so bright, now looks worn. Your eyes carry burdens I never imagined you'd bear."
Damerius fell silent for a moment, then softly said, "Then just answer me one thing."
"What is it?" Magnoli asked, his tone serious.
"I want to know everything you know about the People's Rain."
The question caught Magnoli off guard, though he tried not to show it. "I've tried to uncover who's behind the operation. But I've found nothing solid. I arrested a few coin-throwers—they were just common folk paid to do it. I still don't know who's pulling the strings."
Damerius shook his head. "But I've done my own digging. Many of those En coins trace back to your brothels."
Magnoli's expression tensed, though he remained composed. "What proof do you have to claim that?"
"I control nearly ninety-five percent of grassroots trade through my shop network. My notaries discovered that many of those coins bear traces of lipstick, perfume, and oils used by courtesans. And I know most of those establishments belong to you."
Magnoli chuckled softly. "You really are brilliant, Damerius. But that doesn't mean I'm behind such a massive scheme. And after being gone for nearly a year, you dare accuse me?"
"I'm not accusing. I'm searching for answers. Since you left, my businesses began to crumble. But right when I was on the verge of collapse, the People's Rain saved everything. I need to understand why."
"Then shouldn't you be grateful?" Magnoli said coldly.
Damerius took a long breath, then murmured, "That's exactly why I want to know who's behind it."
Magnoli stood, brushing dust off his cloak. "I'm heading home. My affairs have stagnated and require my full attention. If you want to hear more about our journey, speak to Thane. As for everything else—I have no answers for you."
Though curiosity still burned in him, Damerius had no choice but to let his brother go. He turned to his head guard. "Kaelthar, make sure Prince Magnoli arrives safely at his estate."
"At once, sir," Kaelthar replied.
And so, Magnoli departed for his mansion on the border between Patisia and Whitesand, some thirty kilometers from Damerius' estate. Naira rode with him, undeterred by his repeated warnings.
"I told you not to involve yourself in matters at my mansion," Magnoli said, shooting her a sharp look.
Speaking in broken Larfex, Naira replied, "I don't care. I just want to know how you live after your injury."
Magnoli let out a small laugh. "Why are you even interested in a man with one leg?"
"I don't understand what you said," Naira answered with wide-eyed innocence, still trying her best with the language.
Behind them, Lady Bilka, Ophelia, and Ellie exchanged knowing smiles. Naira was clearly falling for him. The three women had decided to remain at Damerius' estate to better acquaint themselves with Patisia's politics and culture.
That night at the mansion, Damerius sat in his study, lost in thought. He held one of the En coins discovered by his team, staring at it as though it might whisper the secrets he longed to hear. Arkael entered quietly.
"My lord, is everything alright?" Arkael asked.
"I'm fine, Arkael. But I feel like I'm caught in a mystery far bigger than I can grasp. There are just too many unanswered questions."
"Should I deepen the investigation?"
"Not yet. We need a more delicate approach. Magnoli may not have told us everything, but I'm sure the time will come," Damerius said, his eyes fixed on the window, filled with quiet resolve.
Meanwhile, on the road to Magnoli's mansion, Naira fell silent for a moment before speaking.
"Magnoli, I want to learn more about this world—about what drives you to keep going when things seem hopeless."
Magnoli looked at her, then replied gently, "Life is about endurance, Naira. Not just for yourself, but for those who depend on you. If you truly want to learn, prepare yourself for a road that won't be easy."
Naira nodded slowly, not fully grasping his words—but the determination in her eyes spoke volumes. Their journey to the mansion was only the beginning of a new chapter, one where life, culture, tradition, and family would be tested by time itself.