Fates Entwined

Chapter 32: A Step Into The Unknown

The lair buzzed with quiet urgency as preparations were made for Miri's journey to the Land of Roots. The enchanted fire burned low, casting long shadows across the room. Miri stood in the center, clutching the radiant flower Lord Hermano had given her. Around her, the others handed her tokens of their support, their faces a mixture of hope and concern.

Mitzy stepped forward, her usual sly grin replaced with rare seriousness. She already had handed Miri a small silver locket. "This has been in my family for generations," she said, her voice unusually soft. "It'll give you a burst of clarity when you need it most. Use it wisely, kid, and summon me when you really need me. I can only come thrice."

"Thank you, Mitzy," Miri said, slipping the locket over her neck.

Ursula approached next, placing a small, intricately engraved gold coin in Miri's hand. "This is for emergencies. When the path ahead feels blocked, call on it. It'll guide you through."

Miri nodded, her fingers curling tightly around the coin.

Finally, Lord Hermano stepped forward with a bundle of soft, shimmering fabric. "Your mother sent this for you," he said gently, unfolding a cloak that seemed to catch the light, its fabric glimmering like the night sky.

Miri's breath hitched. "She sent this?"

"Yes," Hermano replied. "When you wear it, those who see it will know who you truly are and offer the respect you deserve. But be cautious—it's a symbol of your heritage. Use it only when you must."

Miri traced the fabric with trembling fingers, her heart swelling with emotions too complex to name.

Before she could respond, a familiar voice broke through the tense atmosphere.

"Miri!"

She turned to see Aaron rushing toward her. Without a word, he wrapped her in a tight embrace, holding her as though he might lose her forever.

"I can't believe you're here," Miri whispered, burying her face in his shoulder.

Aaron pulled back just enough to look into her eyes. "Of course I'm here. I wouldn't let you leave without seeing you."

Miri's voice wavered. "I'm a demi-immortal, Aaron. My father was a mortal I never knew. I haven't seen my mom in years, and now I'm caught in a battle between realms. Are you sure... are you sure you want to be with this version of me?"

Aaron cupped her face, his expression steady and full of love. "None of this changes anything, Miri. You are still the same Miri I fell in love with. You always will be."

A tear slipped down her cheek as Aaron leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to it. " I really wish I could go with you but I am not allowed. You've got this, Miri" he whispered, stepping back to let her go.

Ursula approached, her staff glowing faintly as she began to chant. A swirling vortex of light and energy appeared in the air, growing larger and more stable with every word. The portal shimmered, its edges crackling with power.

Miri turned to face them all one last time. Her gaze lingered on Risha's unconscious form, her sister's stillness a painful reminder of why she was doing this.

"I promise, Rish," she said, her voice steady despite the tears threatening to spill. "I'll come back. Just hang in there, sis."

Without another word, Miri stepped into the portal. The swirling energy enveloped her, and the world around her dissolved into light. The journey to the Land of Roots had begun.