The Arcane Chronicles: Unveiling the Lost Secrets (On-Going)

Chapter 21: The Test of Trust

The rain falls slowly, creating a continuous, merciless veil that dampens everything in sight. Aiden, Athena, and Louisito stand by Kael and Valeria under the dim, wet light of a street lantern. The faint hum of magic from their previous encounter lingers in the air, mixed with the smell of moist mud.

''You’re certain about this, Aiden? Splitting up is... a risk. If any of the others catch wind, things could get dangerous. For all of us.'' Kael glanced at the village entrance, then back to Aiden.

''I understand the risk. But if you’re seen with us, it’s just going to raise suspicion. You need to go back before anyone notices you’re gone.'' Aiden nodded and his expression was resolute.

''Not only that. If anyone suspects we've teamed up, we'll have more than just the Path Slayers to deal with. The Seven Keepers... They do not forgive traitors.'' Valeria: agreed while adjusting the hood of her cloak to shield herself from the rain.

"Don’t worry about us. We’ll handle things here and meet you at the Garden of Untold. Trust me.'' Aiden offered a reassuring smile.

Kael looks at Aiden closely, his gaze piercing and penetrating. The rain pours down his face, yet he doesn't seem to notice.

''Fine. But if you need help... if anything happens...” Kael finally agreed while nodding.

''We’ll be fine. We’re tougher than we look.'' Aiden places a firm, confident hand on Kael's shoulder, his grip steady and assuring.

''Besides, it’s not like this is our first dance in the rain. We know how to take care of ourselves'' Athena interjected with a playful smirk dancing on her lips.

''As long as you don’t regret leaving us alone here. We’ll hold our own.'' Louisito gave a half-smile, his expression a mix of seriousness and amusement.

Valeria observes them, her gaze shifting between the three of them with a mixture of uncertainty and hesitant trust. She then turns towards Kael.

''We should go, Kael. The longer we linger, the harder it’ll be to explain.'' Valeria said quietly.

''Alright. But remember, the Garden of Untold. If we’re not there...'' Kael hesitated, his gaze lingering on Aiden for a moment longer, a mixture of unspoken words and resignation in his eyes before he finally looked away.

''We’ll be there. Just keep your end of the promise.'' Aiden said with a reassuring nod.

Kael and Valeria share a final, somber look at the trio before turning away. As they fade into the mist, their silhouettes drowned by the rain, Aiden lets out a soft sigh he had not realized he was holding.

''Are you sure this was a good idea? They don’t seem like the ‘trustworthy’ type'' Louisito asked Aiden.

''It’s either trust them or get cornered by the entire Path Slayers’ squad. I’ll take my chances with Kael and Valeria.'' Aiden answered while shrugging.

''So... We only need to get through this storm, sneak past any patrols, and hide until we reach the Garden of Untold. Sounds easy, right?'' Athena grinned, casting a quick, eager glance around as they made their way into Durinel Village.

''Easy? Maybe. Simple? Never. Let's keep our guard up.'' Aiden smiled, but his tone remained serious.

As the rain falls harder, they enter the village with caution. The streets of Durinel are desolate, with shadows extending and swirling in the flickering light of lanterns. Aiden signals for the others to follow him as they keep to the side streets.

''No one’s here. Feels like a ghost town.'' Louisito whispered while scanning the surroundings.

''Good. Let’s keep it that way.'' Athena muttered under her breath.