The Witch's Tale

Chapter19: Lilium Aeterna

***

After hours of following the compass, Sera finally spotted a faint, shimmering light in the distance. Relief washed over her as she realized she had fought through her deepest fears and survived the labyrinth's many illusions. Her heart, however, remained heavy with worry for Luca and Rori. Had they also managed to conquer their own fears and temptations?

She hesitated for a moment, her thoughts drifting to Luca, imagining him battling through whatever trials the labyrinth had conjured for him. She thought of Rori, the wise but quirky Radish Elfin, wondering if his years of experience had been enough to see him through.

When Sera finally reached the end of the labyrinth, she was greeted by an unexpected sight—Rori, the Radish Elfin, standing at the exit with his usual smug expression. His clothes were neat, not a scratch on him, as if the terrifying trials of the labyrinth had barely phased him.

"Took you long enough," Rori said with a grin, crossing his arms. "Thought I'd have to come back and save you myself."

Sera blinked, her relief turning into mild disbelief. "How are you... unscratched? I was fighting witches, illusions, and my own fears!"

Rori chuckled. "Oh, I had my own battles. But you know me, I'm resourceful." He winked. "Besides, I've been through worse."

Sera shook her head, a small smile creeping onto her face. "Of course you have."

"Now, we just need Luca," Rori said, his tone becoming a bit more serious as he looked toward the remaining paths of the labyrinth.

Sera nodded, her thoughts drifting back to Luca. "I hope he's alright."

Rori's smirk softened. "If anyone can get through this, it's him. He's stronger than he realizes."

They both waited in silence, trusting that Luca, too, would find his way through the labyrinth's final challenges.

As Sera took in the beauty around her, she couldn't help but feel a sense of enchantment in the air. The vibrant flowers bloomed in colors she had never seen before—deep blues, glowing purples, and shimmering golds that seemed to twinkle under the sunlight. Birds with feathers like gemstones sang melodies that made her heart feel light, and the trees gently swayed, as if dancing to the rhythm of the wind. The breeze was cool and refreshing, playful as it swirled around her.

For a moment, all the stress and fear she had felt inside the labyrinth seemed to melt away. This place was a paradise, far removed from the dark trials they had just endured. Sera breathed deeply, her thoughts drifting to how perfect this scene would be for a picnic.

"I could really use some tea and sandwiches," she thought with a smile, imagining herself and Luca lounging under a large, magical tree with Rori probably snacking on some odd radish delicacy. The idea made her giggle softly, shaking her head at how out of place it felt after all they'd been through.

But still, as enchanting as it all was, there was a lingering unease at the back of her mind. This paradise, beautiful and serene, might have its own secrets. There was always something beneath the surface in places like this.