Aethra - Jasira's Story

Chapter Fourteen: Planning for the Trip

The hall was quiet, save for the low hum of the ocean's distant waves, a constant reminder of the power that surrounded the Rocklands. Liora stood before the towering figures of the Stoneborn elders, her mind racing as she prepared to deliver Aethra's message. This was no small task—the fate of three children and the harmony between two societies rested on the next moments. The wind howled outside the fortress walls, as if warning her that everything could change with a single misstep.

Before her sat four formidable elders of the Rochean council: Thalron Stonemark, a figure of stoic endurance and unwavering strength; Kaelis Tidebreaker, revered as a master strategist who held wisdom like the deep currents; Vorna Seastrike, a fierce warrior with eyes that gleamed with the fury of battle; and Rorak Ironcliff, a man whose defense of the strongholds was legendary, his name synonymous with resilience.

Liora approached them, her steps steady, but her heart pounded with anticipation. She knew how significant this decision was, not only for the children but for the future of their society and their relationship with the Mosquitaens.

"Honored elders," Liora began, her voice calm yet resonating with the gravity of her message. "I bring word from the goddess Aethra herself, along with her sacred decree regarding our future."

The elders leaned in closer, their expressions shifting to one of heightened focus. Liora drew in a breath, preparing to convey the magnitude of the decisions that lay ahead.

"The children—Jasira, Kaid, and Thorne—are to be sent to the Temple of Mists for secluded training until they reach adulthood. This journey is essential for their growth as warriors and leaders, allowing them to master their unique abilities in a controlled environment."

She paused, gauging the elders' reactions. Vorna Seastrike's brow furrowed in concern, while Thalron Stonemark remained impassive, a pillar of strength in the room.

"However," Liora continued, "only I and one Stoneborn elder will accompany them on the island during their training. This will ensure their safety and provide them with the guidance they need without interference from outside influences."

The elders exchanged glances, clearly weighing the implications of such a decision. Kaelis Tidebreaker spoke first, his voice measured. "And how will they reach the Temple of Mists? The children will need to be secure."

Liora nodded, feeling the weight of their concern. "The Tidebreaker will be the only vessel allowed to approach the Temple of Mists while the children undergo their training. Under the command of Aquila Stonewell, we can trust that the journey will be safe and that no outside force will breach the sanctity of their training."

Rorak Ironcliff crossed his arms, his eyes piercing as he considered the plan. "What of the societies? They will need assurances."

Liora unrolled the three scrolls she had brought, each one imbued with Aethra's power. "Aethra has provided these scrolls to solidify our agreement. Each scroll must be signed by both the Rochean and Mosquitaen elders. One will remain with each society, while the third will be archived at the Temple of Mists."

She paused, ensuring her words carried the gravity they deserved. "If any society breaches the conditions outlined in these scrolls, they will face the backlash of the goddess herself. Aethra's wrath is not to be taken lightly; it is a divine consequence for those who fail to honor their commitments."

Silence enveloped the room as the weight of Liora's words settled in. The elders processed the enormity of what lay ahead, the implications rippling through the air like a tide rising against the shore.

"We must prepare," Thalron finally said, his voice steady. "The children deserve this opportunity, and we will support them, but we must also ensure that our societies remain united through this challenging period."