Artemis Unveiled:The Descent

Untitled Part 47: Felix's Quest

Neven released his grip, his heavy gaze piercing through Alexander. A hint of despair flickered across his pale face. It was only then that Aria realized Lyra was missing. She had been so focused on finding Neven that she completely overlooked Lyra's absence.

"She...is gone." Neven's voice was hoarse, each word pronounced with deliberate pain.

Alexander sighed, placing a comforting hand on Neven's shoulder. "She sacrificed herself for us. We will remember her bravery."

"But that won't bring her back," Neven whispered, his eyes flashing with pain and anger. "She ignited the barrel of oil, sacrificing herself. There's not even a body left..."

That night, Neven's words echoed in Aria's mind, a heavy ache settling in her chest, as if something was lodged in her throat. The entire camp was engulfed in mourning for Lyra. Aria turned towards the newly erected gravestone, which was adorned with Lyra's hexagram badge.

As night fell, the members of Starguard stood silently before the gravestone. Archers launched a volley of flaming arrows into the dark sky, illuminating the night. Sable sobbed quietly, Alexander remained silent, and Neven's gaze was filled with hatred for Voidmarsh.

"She was a hero," Sable choked out. "We will never forget her."

"Yes, never," Alexander replied solemnly.

After that night, Aria withdrew into her tent, avoiding everyone. Lyra's death made her acutely aware of how close death was to each of them. Lyra had been more than a comrade; she was a dear friend. They had fought side by side, surviving countless trials. But this time, Lyra didn't return.

Aria's world became dark and desolate, her mood clouded by heavy, oppressive thoughts. Each day, she mechanically completed basic tasks before retreating to her tent, curling up in a corner, trying to escape reality. She couldn't face the outside world, her comrades' sorrowful eyes, or her own inner torment.

One day, Neven dragged her out of her tent. His grip unyielding as he pulled Aria outside. Initially, she resisted, but eventually, she gave in to Neven's persistence. She realized she had hidden away for too long, the outside world seemed foreign and distant.

As they stepped out, Aria felt the warmth of the sun on her face, squinting as she adjusted to the light. The camp was bustling with activity, preparations for the next battle underway. Suddenly, she noticed a crowd gathered around a figure, whispering among themselves.

Curious, Aria looked over to see a young man in black leather armor. His pale skin and strong build starkly contrasted with the Lunar Essence Clan members around him. Filled with curiosity, Aria asked, "Who is that?"

Neven pulled her aside, speaking in a low voice, "He's the injured man I brought back from our last mission.He's an Aether."

Aria then remembered dragging an injured man back on their way home, but her mind had been consumed with Lyra's death, and she hadn't noticed much else. Now, she realized the rarity of an Aether in their camp.

Everyone stared at the Aether as if he were a rare creature. Aethers were shrouded in mystery, and their appearance always caused a stir. Aria stood on tiptoe, peering over the crowd at the young man whose face held a stern, indifferent expression, seemingly unaffected by the attention.

"What happened that day? How did you end up bringing back an Aether?" Aria asked, her eyes full of curiosity.

Neven explained, "We found him on our way back. He was bitten by a Night Ghoul. But it looks like Aether healing abilities are impressive. Sage Solon said he'll be sent away once he recovers."

"Why are Aethers always so secretive?" she asked.

"Aethers are forbidden from sharing any information with us," Neven replied, a hint of frustration in his voice. "They always keep their distance from us."