Whims of a Quiet Dreamer

Chapter 17: The Hidden Path

Sithu sat with Finn in the corner of the classroom, her eyes filled with warmth as she leaned in closer. "Finn, have you ever had someone special in your life? A best friend, maybe someone who stands out to you?"

Finn, who had been doodling on a piece of paper, shrugged without looking up. "Not really, Miss Sithu. My family's alright, but I don't have anyone... special."

Sithu felt a twinge of sympathy for him. "You know, I used to feel the same way. Then I met Jaren. He's my best friend, but more than that, he makes me feel like I belong. You never know when someone like that might come into your life. Have you ever thought about joining something, like art, sports, or theater? It's a good way to meet people."

Finn hesitated for a moment before nodding slowly. "I guess I could try."

For the next two months, Sithu encouraged Finn to explore different activities. She helped him sign up for art classes, theater workshops, and even a local soccer team. But no matter where he went, Finn couldn't shake the feeling that he didn't belong. Each time he tried, the sense of being an outsider weighed heavier on him.

One day, as Finn walked back to class, he caught up with Sithu and sighed. "I'm not good at any of this, Miss Sithu. I always feel like I'm the odd one out."

Sithu's heart ached for him. She tried so hard, but it seemed like her efforts were leading to dead ends. That night, back in Nymbrelis, Sithu wandered the vibrant world with a heavy heart. Her mind spun with disappointment, not only for Finn's struggles but for her own failed attempts at helping him.

She was sitting under a glowing tree in the enchanted forest when Aurelia and Seraphina, the queen's daughters, appeared, their soft footsteps barely rustling the leaves.

"You look troubled, Sithu," Aurelia said, her voice filled with concern.

Seraphina nodded. "Is something wrong?"

Sithu sighed and explained everything—how she had been trying to help Finn find his soulmate but nothing was working. "I feel like I've let him down. He's trying, but it's not enough. He still feels like he doesn't fit in."

Aurelia and Seraphina exchanged knowing glances. Then Seraphina spoke gently, "There may be a way to help Finn, but it's not through the usual means."

"What do you mean?" Sithu asked, her curiosity piqued.

Aurelia smiled softly. "In Nymbrelis, there are ancient puzzles designed to reveal the deepest connections between souls. By solving one, you may be able to find Finn's soulmate."

Sithu's eyes widened. "A puzzle? I didn't know there was something like that here."

Seraphina nodded. "The puzzle is more than just a test. It requires understanding the nature of connection, empathy, and trust. It won't be easy, but if you can solve it, you will be shown the person Finn is meant to find."

"But remember," Aurelia added, "even though this quest seems small, it is not without its challenges. And it's certainly not without value."

Sithu felt a flicker of hope return to her chest. "Where do I find this puzzle?"

Aurelia gestured toward the towering mountains in the distance, their peaks shrouded in mist. "It's hidden in the heart of the Enchanted Caverns. The journey is long, and the puzzle will test your wits."

Seraphina placed a reassuring hand on Sithu's shoulder. "But you are ready. You've already proven yourself in ways you don't even realize."

Sithu nodded, determination rising within her once again. She couldn't wait to begin the quest, knowing that the solution could be the key to Finn's future.