Guardian Of Ancient Wood

Chapter 25

As the Guardians gathered around Furie after their dinner break, each took turns reading the enigmatic note. Ash, with his vast knowledge of the Fire land, shared insights about the Forbidden land. Luminocity, once a thriving city, now lay in ruins after being engulfed in flames a decade ago. The destruction was attributed to a deranged Fire Guardian, leaving behind a scarred landscape. Barely any buildings were left behind, and most inhabitants had left Luminocity after the fire.

Zephyr, contributed her own tidbit of information, revealing that Anna Cyclone, the purported author of the Book of Prophecies, was known for claiming the ability to foresee the future. She was an Air Guardian who was living somewhere in Skyland. However, her assertions had been met with skepticism from many Air Guardians, who dismissed her as eccentric. Intrigued by the discussion, Leaf posed a question to Zephyr about her belief in Miss Cyclone's prophecies. "Do you believe what you have read and what Cyclone has written?" Zephyr, after a moment of reflection, admitted that while she once harbored a desire to believe in Anna Cyclone's predictions, uncertainty had crept in over time. The revelation hung in the air, weaving a sense of doubt and mystery.

Furie, sensing a certain intuition within her, suggested a different approach than what the note proposed. She recommended continuing their quest to find and talk to Anna Cyclone, expressing her distrust of the mysterious figure known as B. Her instincts guided her to lean toward investigating with Cyclone rather than blindly following the instructions in the note. Leaf, understanding Furie's concerns, subtly nodded in agreement with her decision. Zephyr, ever the voice of reason, chimed in and supported Furie's proposal. She articulated that consulting Cyclone directly would likely yield more information about the Duel Prophecy they were searching for, offering a solid plan for their next steps. The camaraderie between Furie and Zephyr was evident as they collaboratively crafted a strategy to confront the challenges that lay ahead.

However, Ash interjected with a practical reminder. "Umm... It is dark outside. We should probably all go rest and finish this tomorrow." He cautioned against visiting a stranger during the late hours of the night, deeming it both weird and rude. The interruption served as a pragmatic consideration, and everyone agreed with Ash.

As Rain stepped forward, a tinge of regret colored his expression. He apologized to Furie, explaining that he had duties to attend to the next day. Zephyr, realizing what Rain was referring to, joined him in expressing her apologies. "I am so sorry, Furie. I completely forgot!" Furie, understanding the commitments of her newfound friends, reassured them that it was perfectly fine. She acknowledged the immense help they had already provided and bid them farewell. "Guys, you have already helped me so much. I am grateful for this long day and your time. I would have never done all of this research without you." In a display of warmth, Zephyr and Rain each gave Furie and Leaf a hug before taking their leave. The parting was filled with genuine kindness, and Furie felt grateful for the support they had received.

With Zephyr and Rain gone, Ash remained with Furie and Leaf. He offered his assistance for the next day, expressing genuine interest in the mystery surrounding Furie and her prophecy. However, Leaf, being considerate of Ash's own commitments, assured him that it was unnecessary. "You probably have some duties waiting for you, Ash. You don't have to pause your life for us." Ash, with a mischievous smile, declared his curiosity and readiness to lend his muscles if they ever changed their minds. He flexed his substantial arm as a playful gesture, leaving Furie with a smile of gratitude. Leaf agreed to contact Ash if the need arose, and with a friendly goodbye, Ash departed. Furie thanked him sincerely, and Ash responded with a casual "You're welcome" before disappearing into the distance. The exchange was filled with a mix of camaraderie and the understanding that everyone had their roles and responsibilities.

After everyone left, Furie turned to Leaf and asked about the food he promised her earlier. He right away grabbed the promise that he had in his pocket for her. Leaf's surprise for Furie was a beautifully wrapped treat, a small delicacy that he had thoughtfully brought along. The wrapping exuded an air of mystery, promising something delightful within. Furie eagerly took the treat from Leaf's hands, admiring its presentation before unveiling the hidden treasure. As she unwrapped the package, she revealed an intricately crafted pastry, adorned with colorful edible flowers and drizzled with a hint of honey. The treat looked like a piece of art, a symphony of flavors waiting to be savored. Furie found it absolutely beautiful, and her eyes sparkled with delight.

Without further ado, Furie devoured the delicacy, much to Leaf's surprise. He chuckled, amused by her enthusiastic reaction, and inquired if she was still hungry. Furie, with a satisfied grin, expressed her readiness for more. Leaf, pleased that Furie had found her appetite back, draped his arm over her shoulder and guided her outside the library. "I will cook for you tonight," Leaf promised her, "It is my turn to feed you." As they walked back to Leaf's cabin in the Earth world, the atmosphere was filled with a sense of contentment and happiness. Furie and Leaf enjoyed the camaraderie of their companionship, appreciating the bond that was growing stronger with each passing moment.

Upon reaching the cabin, Leaf invited Furie to get comfortable as he prepared something for her. Furie settled into the cozy ambiance of Leaf's home, watching him cook with a sense of comfort and curiosity. Leaf shared stories about himself and his past, weaving a narrative that captured Furie's attention. Mesmerized by his tales, Furie snacked on a piece of bread from Leaf's kitchen, relishing both the food and the company. The cabin echoed with the warmth of shared stories and the aroma of a meal in the making.