Sanctum Lumina

Sanctum Lumina: 5

EA

I woke up when I heard people talking.

And...

The sound of water, a river? This feeling feels familiar.

"Claugh, you're amazing! How did you discover this place?! I honestly thought no one could get in here, right? Isn't this place off-limits?" I could tell from the tone of his voice, full of amusement, that it was Bryle.

"I didn't discover this place, it was McD!" Claugh responded, laughing.

Wait, McD? I suddenly sat up, wincing as pain shot through my back. Right, I was injured there. I lay back down.

"Hey!! EA's awake!!" Bryle shouted.

He quickly approached me with a wide smile.

"How was your sleep, EA? By the way, we're inside the waterfall! The Aria Four." Bryle said, still amused. "Can you believe that?"

I scanned the room. It looked the same as the one I had stayed in for five years. The door suddenly opened, and in walked two people I respected most in my life.

"How are you feeling, EA? You bounced back so quickly. *Thumbs up* Mission accomplished, you got them," McD said, standing next to Master Marlé. If you looked at them, you'd think they were twins, despite the five-year age gap. I wasn't sure if McD just had a baby face or if Master Marlé just looked older than he was, but they did look alike.

"I'm okay. Why are we here?"

"You were unconscious for a week due to the severity of your injuries." Master said. "Get some rest first. I'll announce something when you're recovered."

That was the last thing Master said before he turned and left with McD.

Bryle came back with a big grin.

"Rest up, EA. We have a surprise for you. Go ahead, take a nap."

"A surprise?" I asked, frowning.

"Uh, it's a surprise, so I can't say. Just rest, okay?" Bryle said, and before he turned away, he kissed me on the forehead, making me close my eyes—hopefully.

"Wait! Are you seriously not going to feed me? I've been unconscious for a week. It's no surprise I'm starving, right?"

"Oh, right! I almost forgot! I'll get your food. Wait a sec." He scratched his head and left. As he reached for the door, it opened by itself. "Oh, EA, someone already brought your food. I'll be leaving now, okay?" he waved as he spoke. "You take care of her," he said to the person bringing my meal.

"EA, how are you?" I turned toward the door when I heard that voice.

"Le-Lev?"

Lev Chauser — (17) an Invention mage and my girl-best friend at the hideout.

She placed a tray of food on the table.

"EA, I missed you," Lev said, tearing up, and hugged me. "I'm so sorry, I couldn't help us for 10 years. I was so weak. I hope you can forgive me."