Mystic Tales: Crimson Mage (Ongoing)

15: Silver Mist

(Harera Town)
Friday - January 8, 550
10:35 AM

The Grand Senpaku Ship finally docked at Harera Town, a quaint settlement nestled on the shores of Sand Island. The salty tang of the ocean hung heavily in the air, a constant reminder of the vast blue expanse that stretched beyond the town's limits. Weathered wooden houses, painted in vibrant hues, lined the streets, their cheerful colors standing out against the endless stretches of golden sand. Narrow pathways meandered through the town, dappled with the shade of palm trees swaying gently in the warm ocean breeze. The rhythmic crash of waves against the shore provided a soothing soundtrack, ever-present and calming.

Children with sandy toes and bright smiles darted between bustling ice cream shops and colorful souvenir stands. Laughter filled the air, mingling with the clinking of seashells as they tumbled in the light breeze and the cheerful squawks of seagulls calling overhead. Beach umbrellas dotted the shoreline like vibrant mushrooms, while sunbathers lounged contentedly on the warm sand, soaking up the last rays of the sun. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in fiery hues of orange and pink, the town sprang to life. The sounds of music from open-air cafes mixed with the clinking of glasses from beachfront bars, creating a festive atmosphere. The scent of freshly grilled seafood wafted through the air, mingling with the salty breeze—a delicious invitation to savor the flavors of the ocean as the day came to a close.

As Aria disembarked from the Grand Senpaku Ship, she found herself drawn into the vibrant heart of Harera Town. Some passengers had left to continue their journey, while others, like Aria, stepped ashore as curious tourists eager to explore. With wide eyes, she took in the lively surroundings, feeling a sense of wonder at the rich geography and culture of Sand Island.

As she wandered around the harbor, Aria couldn't help but admire the vibrant environment. The sunny weather created the perfect atmosphere for a sandy beach town. Eager to experience all that Sand Island had to offer, Aria ventured beyond the harbor, exploring the unique flora and fauna that thrived in the island's warm embrace. She marveled at the exotic plants swaying in the gentle breeze and listened closely for the sounds of wildlife, curious to discover the secrets of this enchanting place.

(Harera Forest)
Friday - January 7, 550
8:40 PM

Aria wandered deeper into the dense forest, her heart pounding as towering trees and thick undergrowth closed in around her. She tried casting a simple navigation spell, hoping to light her way back, but the swirling fog that clung to the forest floor resisted her efforts. Tendrils of mist curled like fingers, wrapping tightly around her magic, smothering it before it could take shape. A strange chill swept over her, and she realized with unease that the fog was not natural—it was infused with a magical force specifically designed to suppress powers.

Frustrated but determined, Aria pressed forward, her footsteps crunching softly against the damp forest floor. Shadows danced between the trees, making her feel as though unseen eyes were watching her every move. Suddenly, figures emerged from the fog—men draped in thick, dark cloaks that concealed their faces. She immediately recognized their style. These were the same people who tried to ensnare the Tidalium the night before—the Sand Sea Hunters.

The forest grew eerily quiet as the hunters began moving in unison. One of them stepped forward, raising a hand to signal his comrades.

"Release more of the Silver Mist." the man commanded in a low, gruff voice.

At the mention of Silver Mist, a jolt of realization struck Aria. That's why my magic won't work... The mist is enchanted to suppress my magical abilities!

She clenched her fists and summoned all her strength, attempting to cast a defensive spell. But before the magic could surge, her lungs filled with more of the thick mist. Her vision blurred, and a dizzying wave of weakness washed over her. Her legs faltered, and she collapsed to her knees, gasping for air. Within moments, the world around her faded into black as she lost consciousness.