Mystic Tales: Crimson Mage (Ongoing)

5: Jing-Wei

(Isolated Isle, Water Island)
Wednesday - January 5, 550
9:00 AM

Amidst the preparations for their departure, Aria and Armon moved with a quiet determination, packing their belongings in somber silence. It was Armon who finally broke this shroud of quietude, his voice infused with concern.

Armon, voice laced with worry, asked, "Why did you feel compelled to strike that deal, Aria? You gave him your blood; he might have some sort of control over you now."

Aria, her gaze unwavering, turned to meet her brother's eyes with a reassuring smile.

Aria replied, "There's no need to fret, dear brother. My trust in my own Crimson Chaos magic is unshaken. It resonated with his intentions, and I believe he harbors no ill will. Moreover, I sought the knowledge to eradicate the effects of our blood curse entirely."

Armon, still burdened by worry, countered with a hint of skepticism.

Armon questioned, "But Aria, your Crimson Chaos doesn't seem to taint you in any way."

Aria's expression turned solemn as she elucidated her decision.

Aria explained, "It's not just about me, Armon. Our family and relatives, those who share our cursed bloodline, are also at risk. The remnants of Crimson Chaos in your veins pose a continuous threat to both your body and your mind."

Armon nodded, conceding the point. His thoughts then shifted to the practical aspects of their journey.

Armon inquired, "So, how do we reach Nature Island? The wizard mentioned the witch lives deep in the Crow Woods there."

Aria's eyes gleamed with a hint of determination as she unveiled her plan.

Aria stated, "I've used my Crimson Chaos magic to craft a holographic projection of Nature Island. The Crow Woods are situated in the far northwest, near Panda Village. We can harness our powers to teleport to Panda Village."

Armon, seeking clarification, inquired further.

Armon questioned, "Why not teleport directly to the Crow Woods?"

Aria explained the limitation of her magic, her voice tinged with caution.

Aria clarified, "I can only teleport to places I'm familiar with, Armon. Attempting to teleport to an unfamiliar locale carries grave risks; we might find ourselves in a perilous situation."

Armon, understanding the stakes, nodded in agreement.

After some time, Aria meticulously condensed the essential expedition gear and supplies into a compact configuration. Her deft command of Crimson Chaos magic enabled her to encase these items within a spherical container fashioned from the same enigmatic energy. This magical orb had been expertly shrunk, rendering it conveniently portable.

Aria and Armon, having meticulously readied themselves, braced for departure. Aria, the conjurer of this arcane journey, harnessed her formidable Crimson Chaos magic to facilitate their teleportation. In an ethereal dance of incandescent crimson, they dissolved into the very essence of the energy, vanishing like fleeting ashes carried away on a whisper of the chaotic glow.

(Panda Village, Nature Island)
Wednesday - January 5, 550
9:50 AM

With a graceful transition through the fabric of space, Armon and Aria materialized at their destination, the tranquil Panda Village nestled within the Nature Island. The environment resonated with a sense of nostalgia for Aria, each facet of the village evoking a comforting familiarity. Towering bamboo shoots surrounded them, their verdant canopies casting dappled shadows, while the village itself was an embodiment of simplicity and sustainability. The quaint abodes, crafted from sturdy bamboo woods, harmoniously blended with the lush natural surroundings, exuding an inviting, nature-friendly ambiance.