Chapter 39

chapter Thirty-Eight

The leader of the Council, a figure revered for their knowledge and insight, inclined their head in acknowledgment. "Champions, have you acquired the answers you sought?" they inquired, their voice resonating with a mix of curiosity and sagacity.

With unwavering resolve, Tessa stepped forward, her voice clear and resolute. "Yes, esteemed leader," she replied, offering the note to the leader. "We have discovered the whereabouts of Lucas. The mirror revealed his location to us, and we seek your guidance on how best to proceed."

The leader's gaze shifted to the parchment in their hands, their expression growing pensive as they studied the inscribed words. Passing the note to the other elders, a ripple of concern spread among them, their eyes filled with a mixture of worry and empathy.

One of the elders spoke, their voice laced with caution. "Champions, the place where Lucas is held captive is shrouded in darkness and peril. It is a treacherous domain teeming with nefarious forces. We cannot, in good conscience, allow you to embark on this journey alone. The dangers you may encounter are far too great."

Tessa and Tristan exchanged glances, their determination unyielding. Tessa's voice quivered with unwavering loyalty as she spoke, her words carrying the weight of unbreakable bonds. "Lucas is our friend," she stated, her voice resolute. "We cannot turn our backs on him in his time of need. We are willing to face anyone

As the elders continued to voice their concerns, the chamber was filled with a fervent debate. Opinions clashed, each elder presenting their perspective on the dangers that lay ahead for the champions. Tessa and Tristan stood at the center of the room, their eyes darting from one elder to another, trying to comprehend the weight of their words.

The noise in the chamber reached a crescendo, mirroring the chaos and uncertainty that had taken hold of their discussion. Sensing the need for order, the leader rose from their seat, their presence commanding attention. With a forceful slam of their hand onto the table, they demanded silence.

"Order! Enough!" The leader's voice boomed through the chamber, resonating with authority. Slowly, the noise dissipated, and the room fell into a hushed anticipation. The leader's gaze scanned the faces of the champions, their eyes carrying a mixture of solemnity and determination.

"We are well aware of the perils that await in that treacherous land," the leader spoke with a measured tone, each word emphasizing the gravity of the situation. "It is a place where traitors and rebels seek refuge, a realm where survival hangs by a fragile thread. Many who ventured there did not return, and those who did met a grim fate soon after."

Tessa felt her heart sink at the weight of the leader's words, a heavy realization settling upon her. But amidst the shadows of doubt, a glimmer of hope flickered within her. The leader's gaze locked onto Tessa, their voice carrying a subtle reassurance.

"But I solemnly believe in the strength and resilience of your team, Tessa," the leader continued. "This will be your first mission, a trial by fire, and I trust that you are capable of overcoming it. The hidden scrolls, sought by our realm for generations, will be revealed to you once you emerge victorious from this ordeal."

A surge of determination coursed through Tessa's veins as the weight of responsibility settled upon her shoulders. She understood the magnitude of the task that lay ahead, not just to save Lucas but to prove themselves worthy of the ancient knowledge that awaited them. The fate of their realm hinged on their success.

Just as Tessa's thoughts began to consume her, the heavy chamber doors creaked open, drawing the attention of everyone present. Eight young, strong men entered the room, their posture exuding confidence and capability. Their eyes reflected a shared purpose, and Tessa couldn't help but feel a flicker of recognition.

"These are our most skilled guards," the leader announced, gesturing toward the group. "They will accompany you on this perilous journey, providing their expertise and protection. Together, you will form an unbreakable bond, forging a path through the darkness that seeks to engulf our realm."

Tessa's heart swelled with gratitude for the support and reinforcement they had been granted. The weight of the task ahead seemed more bearable with the combined strength of the champions and the experienced guards. They were not alone in this endeavor.

As Tessa's eyes scanned the group of guards, her gaze locked onto a particular face, a face that stirred a flicker of recognition within her. It was a person she knows quiet well now. The sight of his familiar face brought a sense of comfort amidst the uncertainty that lay ahead.

Tessa stood frozen in disbelief, her eyes fixed on Jack's unexpected presence among the group. She couldn't help but feel a surge of joy mixed with confusion. "Jack, is that really you? What are you doing here with these guys?" she exclaimed, a smile spreading across her face.

Jack grinned mischievously, a glint of excitement in his eyes. "I couldn't pass up the opportunity to help a friend in need once more," he replied, his voice filled with playful confidence. "And don't worry, Tessa, I have powers of my own. I'm a shape-shifter, remember?" he boasted, unable to contain his pride.

Tessa's eyes widened in astonishment. "You're a shape-shifter? Why didn't you ever tell me?" she asked, a mix of curiosity and admiration in her voice.

Jack shrugged, a hint of regret in his expression. "We never really had the chance to catch up and talk, did we? I remember trying to make plans, inviting you to dinner, but you turned me down," he recalled, a tinge of sadness in his voice.