-The Land of ETERNALS-

-Part 16-

Alora's POV

Panic gripped my heart as I called out for Eric and Fiorella once again. I felt lost and overwhelmed, unsure of where to go or what to do. 

Then, a captivating melody reached my ears, enchanting and beckoning me forward. It was both mesmerizing and unsettling. What should I do?

Just as I was contemplating my next move, a gentle voice spoke behind me, jolting me out of my thoughts. I turned around and gasped at the sight of a radiant figure standing before me—an angel with shimmering wings and a serene expression.

"You're lost, aren't you?" the angel asked, their voice filled with concern.

I nodded, relief flooding through me. "Yes, I got separated from my friends. I don't know where to go."

The angel smiled kindly, reassuring me. "I can guide you to them. Follow me."

I trailed behind the angel as they led me through the mystical land. The journey was silent, and I allowed myself to be carried by a mix of hope and uncertainty.

Then, in the distance, I caught sight of familiar figure standing near a towering, beautiful building—the dorms Eric had mentioned. My heart leaped with joy and relief. It was him!

"Eric!" I cried out, my voice trembling with a mixture of emotions—relief, fear, and overwhelming gratitude. I rushed towards him, unable to contain my emotions any longer. I wrapped my arms tightly around him. "I was so scared. I thought I'd never find you."

Eric spoke softly, his voice filled with genuine concern. "We were worried sick about you, Alora. When we realized you were missing, we searched everywhere. I'm just glad you're safe. I won't let anything happen to you now." For the first time since our separation, I felt truly safe.

"Let's go to our dorm, Fiorella is waiting for us." I nodded and he took me there. The dorms were huge, like huge as hell. 

As me and Ella saw each other, we both hugged. "I was so worried. I'm so glad you're okay."

Just when I was about to say how much I loved the dorms, Eric revealed something. "Alora, there's something you should know. The Festival of Zenith is about to take place here in the Land. We're in the same group, but... Alaric is in another.

The mention of Alaric's name sent a pang of sadness through me. I recounted the encounter with Alaric, my voice trembling with vulnerability and hurt. They listened intently, their expressions shifting from concern to anger as they heard the harshness and coldness in Alaric's words.

"I can't believe he treated you like that, Alora," Fiorella exclaimed, her voice filled with righteous indignation. "He's always been a bit mean, but this...this is different."

Tears welled up in my eyes as I confessed my confusion and pain. "I... I thought there was something special between us. But now... I don't know what to think."

Eric took a deep breath, his voice filled with empathy and understanding. "Alaric has had a strained relationship with his father. They've had many disagreements and conflicts, and it's affected him deeply. I think his cold demeanor and harsh words might be a defense mechanism, a way for him to protect himself. Remember he said he had to be somewhere? Maybe he had a fight with his father again."

Fiorella added, her tone gentle. "It doesn't excuse his behavior, but understanding where it comes from might help us approach him with more compassion."

"I never knew," I said softly. "I can't imagine what he's been through. Maybe... maybe I can try to talk to him, see if there's a way to bridge the gap between us."

Eric and Fiorella exchanged encouraging glances, their support palpable. "That's a wonderful idea, Alora," Eric said, his voice filled with pride. "Approaching him with understanding and kindness might just be what he needs."

Fiorella nodded, a warm smile gracing her face. "Remember, Alora, you have the power to make a difference. It takes courage to reach out to someone who has hurt you."

As Eric continued to share details about the Festival of Zenith, my heart felt lighter. But I still wondered...about the fights Alaric had with his father...I wonder...what caused them to fight...

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-We live in a fantasy world, a world of illusion-

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