Ithika: Into The Forest

Chapter 20

Laza's thoughts raced as she was pulled out of the door and down the hallway. Desperation filled her mind as she pleaded for Anne's help. She found herself in a strange castle, sensing that something was terribly wrong. Sending waves of distress to Anne, they continued navigating through the dimly lit corridors, turning corners until they reached a room. Laza braced herself for what she might encounter as they stepped into the room.

In the distance, a silhouette emerged from the shadows, catching Laza's eye. It was Esthony, her lost friend. Esthony appeared more stunning than ever, with curly hair elegantly styled and a shimmering green dress that revealed her radiance. A bright red tiara adorned with rubies adorned her head. Miss Agitha, Joel, and Luthius stood beside her, and Laza could sense a powerful aura emanating from Esthony.

However, something about Esthony seemed off. Laza whispered her name, her gaze fixed on Esthony's eyes. They were no longer the deep brown she remembered but a bright green.

"Take her to the room; we will deal with her later," Esthony commanded.

Luthius forcefully grabbed Laza's arm and led her to a dark, locked room at the end of another hallway. Laza desperately reached out to Anne in her mind, informing her of her situation. She expressed her concern about Esthony, who seemed alive but different. Laza pleaded for help, unsure of her exact location within the castle.

Suspicion filled Luthius's eyes as he warned Laza against using any pixie magic. Laza glared at him, assuring him that if she could escape, she would. Luthius's unexpected laughter caught her off guard, and he remarked on her ability to provide him with entertainment.

Approaching the door, Luthius produced a set of keys, teasing Laza with them. As the door creaked open, it revealed a small, dark room adorned with cobwebs. Laza couldn't help but express her dissatisfaction with the accommodations, remarking sarcastically on how Luthius knew how to treat a lady.

Luthius laughed wildly, amusing himself, and closed the door behind him, leaving Laza alone in the darkened room. Frustration and anger consumed her as she called out to Anne for help.

"Laza!" Anne gasped, her concern evident. Juniper, by her side, shared in her distress. They both realized that Laza was in trouble and needed to be saved. Anne's tears flowed as she expressed her relief at the news of Esthony's survival. June comforted her, holding her tightly, cherishing the moment of being there for her, just as she had always been there for him.

Contemplating their next move, Anne looked up at Juniper, seeking guidance. His heart melted at her touch, overwhelmed by her presence. Juniper whispered that he should go, informing the council and securing Landon's support in their battle against the vampires. Anne felt a rush of relief, grateful for Juniper's determination to take action.

"Juniper, I..." Anne began, but he softly silenced her, assuring her that he would handle everything. He leaned in closer, his gaze filled with adoration. Anne's breath caught as she took in his beauty, captivated by his handsome face, long hair, and strong physique. Tear-filled eyes locked onto each other as Juniper gently stroked her hair. She nestled her head against his chest, finding solace in his embrace. Juniper sighed deeply, his lips pressing a tender kiss on the crown of her head, assuring her that everything would be alright.

Spenser raced through the dense woods, his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and hope. The possibility of Esthony's death loomed over him, but he couldn't ignore the nagging feeling that she might still be alive. Every step he took quickened his breath, his eyes scanning the lush landscape for any sign of her. Suddenly, something caught his attention in the distance. It was a figure, barely breathing, lying on the ground in a mangled form.

"Landon!" Spenser's voice echoed through the woods, his concern evident. Landon let out a low, pained groan, confirming that he was still alive, albeit badly injured. Determined to help his friend, Spenser leaned forward and lifted Landon off the ground. "Can you teleport us back to camp? Are you strong enough?" Spenser asked, hoping for a positive response. Landon mumbled a few incomprehensible words and nodded weakly.