Chapter XXI: Rise of the Darkness

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"Let's stay here, for a minute or two." nagpupumilit na wika ni Penelope.

"But we're 10 minutes late. What if we don't catch up?" sabi ni Alistair.

"I don't mind, I can stay here forever." hagikhik niya.

"Well, I mind."

"Are you drunk? You act like one." sabi ni Morgan sa kaniya. Tinawanan lamang siya ni Penelope.

Tahimik akong nagpapapalit-palit ng tingin habang nag-uusap sila. Nagawi ang aking mga mata sa kanina pang walang imik na si Ehann. I decided to talk to him.

"Hey, is everything okay?" tanong ko dahilan para maagaw ang kaniyang atensyon.

"U-um, yeah, e-everything is fine."

I tilted my head, confused. Why is he stuttering?

"Excuse me.." paalam niya at umalis.

Hinabol namin ng tingin ang kaniyang pigurang palayo. Kibit-balikat lamang ako ng tanungin ako ng aking mga kasama kung ano ang nangyari.

"Wait up!"

Bago pa tuluyang mawala sa aking paningin ay hinabol ko si Ehann. Ang akala ko ay pintuan papalabas ang kaniyang tatahakin subalit umakyat siya tungo sa itaas na palapag. Nag-aalangan pa akong sundan siya paitaas sapagkat mayroong karatula roon na bawal iyong akyatin.

Lumingon ako sa aking magkabila para siguraduhin na walang nakatingin bago ako kumaripas ng akyat paitaas. Hinihingal ako na makarating sa mistulang isang lumang silid.

The ancient design of the second floor and balcony could embrace the mystique of forgotten eras. The railing of the balcony, wrought from weathered iron, bears intricate patterns depicting mythical creatures and celestial symbols, each etching telling a story of ancient lore. The floor, made of aged wood polished by centuries, holds the whispers of countless conversations and footsteps, now worn to a gentle, welcoming patina.

Tapestries drape the walls, depicting scenes of legendary battles and long-lost kingdoms, their vibrant colors faded by time yet retaining an undeniable allure. Ornate chandeliers, fashioned from brass and adorned with mystical gemstones, cast a soft, ethereal glow that dances across the room, adding an air of enchantment to the space.

In a corner, an antique bookshelf stands, holding tomes of forgotten wisdom and arcane knowledge. A grand, imposing fireplace dominates one wall, its ancient stone hearth adorned with intricate carvings that depict ancient rituals and long-forgotten spells.

The furniture, aged yet regal, consists of plush, upholstered chairs and sofas covered in rich fabrics, their once-bold hues now softened by time. Tables crafted from dark, sturdy wood bear the marks of countless feasts and discussions, adding to the room's nostalgic charm.

Overall, the space exudes an aura of mystery and reverence for the past, inviting patrons to immerse themselves in the whispers of history and magic that linger within its ancient walls.

Naroroon si Ehann sa may balkonahe at tinatanaw ang nasa ibaba. Marahan akong lumapit sa kaniyang kinaroroonan.

"You should have just waited downstairs." matigas na ani niya nang makalapit ako sa tabi niya.

Wala akong mahanap na salita upang sagutin siya. Sa halip ay idinaan ko sa pagsasabi ng isang litanyang palagiang inaawit sa aking ng aking ina sa tuwing nais niyang iparating na hindi ako marapat magtago.

"Neglecting what is felt, a folly, I must say,

Concealing tears that hint at rage in their display,

Hurnorth: School of Witchcraft and WizardryTahanan ng mga kuwento. Tumuklas ngayon