Ending the Cycle || A Timebomb Fanfic

IX

Little bit of a short chapter (Please forgive me🥲)

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The sun hung high in the sky the following afternoon, casting golden light over the dense woods of Demacia as Lux led the way along a winding dirt path. The forest was alive with the sounds of birdsong and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures in the underbrush. Jinx, trudging behind with Ekko, stole glances at the pristine surroundings, so unlike the industrial grime of Zaun or the charred ruins of Piltover. Everything here felt surreal, almost unnervingly untouched.

The dirt trail eventually opened into a clearing, revealing the bustling town of Jandelle. Built on the banks of a slow-moving river, the town was a mosaic of cobblestone streets, timber-framed homes with flower boxes hanging from their windows, and a marketplace alive with the chatter of merchants and townsfolk. In the heart of it all stood a grand theater, its façade adorned with intricate carvings depicting Demacian heroes and legends. The building was crowned with a domed roof that shimmered faintly in the sunlight, a testament to the town's pride in its cultural heritage.

Lux glanced over her shoulder at her companions. "This is Jandelle," she said quietly. "A hub for traders and travelers. But more importantly, it's one of the few places left where people don't ask too many questions. I've passed through here often enough that they don't suspect me of... anything unusual."

Jinx eyed the streets warily, her fingers twitching at her sides. She didn't trust places this pristine—it felt like stepping into a painting, too perfect to be real. "So, what's the plan, Sparkles? Are we here to sightsee, or are we actually getting somewhere?"

Lux ignored the jab, her gaze fixed on a stable at the edge of the marketplace. "I have a horse here. I brought her when I started looking for mages in the area. She'll get us to Terbisia faster."

As they wove through the bustling crowd, the air filled with the rich aromas of fresh bread, roasted nuts, and blooming flowers. Near the grand theater at the town's center, a bard strummed a lute, his melody weaving a tale of Demacia's storied heroes. Laughter rang out as children darted between the market stalls, clutching wooden toys shaped like gryphons and knights.

Jinx's gaze softened as she watched the children play, their carefree joy tugging at something deep within her. For a fleeting moment, she saw Isha in their place—the little girl's infectious laughter, the way she would've run wide-eyed through this vibrant town. The thought hit Jinx harder than she expected, a pang of longing settling in her chest. Isha would have loved it here. This place felt safe in a way that Zaun and Piltover never could. Jinx swallowed hard and forced her thoughts away, her grin tightening into something more guarded.

Every so often, pairs of guards in gleaming steel armor strode by, their movements disciplined and deliberate. Their capes bore the crest of Demacia, a silent reminder that this peace came with its own price. Ekko, walking close behind Jinx, kept his head low, his hood shadowing his face. His sharp eyes darted from one soldier to the next, mapping the quickest escape routes should trouble find them. Though the town exuded warmth, neither of them could fully shake the tension that lingered in the air, like a distant storm waiting to break.

When they reached the stable, the scent of hay and leather filled the air. The workers greeted Lux warmly, nodding in recognition. "Good to see you again, Miss Crownguard," one of them said, tipping his hat. "Starfire's been waiting for you. She's as lively as ever."

Lux smiled at them, a fleeting moment of genuine ease breaking through her guarded demeanor. "Thank you," she replied softly before stepping toward the largest stall. Inside stood a magnificent white horse, her coat gleaming as if polished. She was massive yet elegant, her mane braided with simple blue ribbons that matched Lux's eyes.