Caspian's Legacy: The Scent of Truth (book two)

Chapter thirty-eight

"We humbly accept your gifts," the spirits said, nodding to the offerings. "They will be placed in a sacred grove where they will remain undisturbed until your return. Now, you must choose a path. There are three paths before you, each leading to a different trial. You must decide which path you will take, for each of you may only attempt one trial. The trials are designed to test your strength, your wisdom, and your courage. The first trial is a test of strength, where you must defeat a powerful beast alone. The second trial is a test of wisdom, where you must solve a riddle or puzzle. The third trial is a test of courage, where you must face your deepest fears and confront them head-on. Once you have completed your trial, you will be given a gift from us that will aid you in your quest to save your people and restore the Tear of Luna." the spirits explained.

Caspian's heart dropped to his stomach as he listened to the spirits' words. He knew that each of them would have to face a terrible trial alone, and the thought of losing any of them was unbearable. But he also knew that they could not refuse the spirits' challenge. They had come here seeking their help, and now they must prove themselves worthy of it.

"So you're telling us we have to face these trials completely alone without help?" Caspian asked, his voice cracking with emotion. The spirits nodded solemnly. "And what if we fail?" he asked, dreading the answer.

The spirits exchanged knowing glances before the lead spirit spoke. "It is not our place to guarantee success or failure. You must face these trials unaided, for it is only through your own strength, wisdom, and courage that you will find your way. However, if you succeed in your trial, you will be rewarded with a gift from us that will aid you in your quest. These gifts are not given lightly, and they are not to be taken as mere tools. They are sacred symbols of our trust in you, our faith in your ability to rise to the challenge before you, and our hope that you will use them wisely for the greater good." The spirits' words were solemn and weighty, their ancient eyes holding the wolf-shifters in their gaze.

Aurora couldn't handle her trial by herself. She knew that. But she couldn't shake the feeling that she needed to try. She couldn't bear the thought of her friends having to face the same danger alone. She looked at them, at their strong, determined faces, and felt a fierce protectiveness well up inside her. She didn't want to leave them behind. Not now, not when they needed her the most.

"I can't do this alone! What if we need all the help we can during these trials?" Aurora cried out, her voice filled with desperation and fear. She looked at her friends, their eyes wide with worry. They were all thinking the same thing.

The spirits seemed to sense the concern and fear in Aurora's voice. They exchanged glances once more, their ancient features creasing with understanding. "We hear your plea, Aurora," the lead spirit said gently. "And we understand your desire to protect your friends. But you must also trust in your own strength and in the strength of your companions. You have journeyed far together, faced many challenges, and grown closer as a pack. The bonds that unite you now are stronger than any trial you may face." The spirits' words were reassuring, but they did not make it any easier for Aurora to accept the decision she had to make.

Soren looked at Aurora with a reassuring smile. "You're right, we've faced many trials together, and we've always come out stronger. I trust in your strength, and I trust in the strength of my friends. We can do this." He put a comforting hand on her shoulder. "We will do this," he resigned, nodding at the spirits.

The spirits looked at the four wolf shifters and nodded among each other. "Very well," the lead spirit said finally. "You may choose your path now. Remember, each of you must choose a trial, and you may only attempt one. The path you choose now will determine your fate for the next part of your journey," it explained.

Soren stepped forward towards the leading spirit. "I will take the trial of strength." He said it firmly. "I am the strongest of us, and I believe I can endure anything you throw at me. But I ask that you help my friends in some way while I am gone. Perhaps guide them or watch over them." The spirits nodded, accepting his request. "Thank you." Soren said, bowing his head. can handle whatever it throws at me." His voice was calm and confident, reassuring his friends that he was making the right choice.

The leading spirit raised an eyebrow, clearly confused by the boy's request. The spirit doesn't see the boy as a strong and well-muscled figure but instead as a clever and cunning one. But still, it is the boy's choice. "Very well," the spirit finally says. "You shall face the trial of strength. We shall see if your words are true and if you are indeed the strongest of you all. May the gods be with you, Soren." The leading spirit steps aside, revealing a path leading deeper into the forest.

"You may go down this path, Soren. When you feel you have completed your trial, return to this spot and await the spirits' judgment. In the meantime, we shall attend to your friends and assist them with guidance and protection." The lead spirit steps aside, allowing Soren to take his first steps into the dark forest. The shadows dance around him, but he doesn't seem to mind. He breathes deeply, taking in the scent of the earth and the trees, and feels a sense of calm wash over him.

"Maybe this won't be so bad; this place looks nice." He thought to himself. The path winds through the forest, with the trees standing tall and proud around him. The air is cool and crisp, and the sun filters through the leaves, dappling the ground with patterns of light and shadow. Soren takes a deep breath, feeling the strength and power flow through him.