The Universe Beyond Ours

Chapter 20 (Part 1)

     Denis and Lyvie walk down the misty forest near the riverbank. The gushing water flows down the river, and the crickets hiding under the bushes chirp. Like a cemetery in an abandoned village, the surroundings bring a haunting sensation to Denis and Lyvie's backs as they stride forward with careful, light steps. Lyvie tries to tiptoe away, but, without turning his head around, Denis senses her attempt to escape.

"Don't you ever try," Denis warned as he strutted forward.

Lyvie's eyes widened in disbelief. How did Denis know she was trying to tiptoe away? That was one hell of a power. "Uh!? What!?" she squealed. Deep inside, she was kind of impressed.

"...We have a higher chance of survival if we're together," Denis reasoned, glancing at Lyvie as they walked into the woods.

"Ugh!" Lyvie groaned, crossing her arms as she strode with Denis.

Denis halted, and so did Lyvie. "The road towards the mountain is right around the corner. But we have to go through the woods first," Denis informed.

     With a slight flicker of hesitation etched across their faces, Denis and Lyvie push themselves forward and venture deeper into the woods. The fog surrounds them, like the smoke inside a burning building. It is blinding and almost suffocating. It is as if they are lost in a perpetual canvas of white.

     Despite the fears that hold them back, Denis and Lyvie continue their trek down the path, though they are guided by no trails. Nevertheless, they are determined to return to their parties and go on. So, they walk and walk, almost tiring themselves after the long journey. Suddenly, there is a rustling noise behind them, almost startling them both as they gasp. Swiftly, they turn around, only to see nothing.

     Setting their doubts aside, Denis and Lyvie continue their painful walk. What was that noise anyway? Could it be just a racoon? Or was it one of the mythical creatures in this world? If so, hopefully, it is harmless.

     Suddenly, as Denis and Lyvie go deeper into the forest, they encounter a golem. Its body appears like rocks, spreading out like a chunky but burly man. Its face seems to lack emotion, as it has no visible eyes, nose, or mouth. The golem stands tall, prompting Denis and Lyvie to crane their necks.

     The golem tries to punch Denis, but Denis fights back using his wand. In the meantime, Lyvie hastens away and hides behind a boulder, shuddering in fear. With its brawny arms, the golem manages to hurl Denis away, and his wand is left on the ground. As Denis falls and lies on the ground, the golem approaches him. As Denis locks his gaze with the golem, his eyes widen, reflecting all his dread.

     The golem raises its foot, ready to crush Denis. Denis closes his eyes and lowers his head, accepting his fate. Suddenly, elements fly behind the golem, hitting it. The golem lowers its foot, narrowly crushing Denis as he rolls to the side. It is Lyvie, using the wand to cast a spell.

     Mustering her strength, Lyvie summons another spell towards the golem, and the golem disintegrates into sand, falling into nothingness. Lyvie's eyes widen as she releases the deep breath she didn't realize she was holding. She then takes a moment to close her eyes, seeking a momentary respite from the world.