Episode 9

“When we were able to go up there, the forest to the very end parallel to us is called Lumieres*, next to it is the Steark Vind*, across it is Koude* and in front of it is Bien*.” Asphalt began. Lumieres is the French term for luminescent, staerk vind is Danish for wind, koude is Dutch for cold while bien is the Albanian term for fall. If I am right, their names describe them. “Lumieres is the most vibrant forest. The trees themselves become brilliant beings within their lush embrace, their majestic forms adorned with an inner glow that defies the bounds of day and night. Even in the glaring rays of the day, the forest is bathed in delicate, lovely light. The tree leaves glisten with a beautiful radiance, providing a lovely glow on the forest floor. Each leaf seems to contain the very essence of sunlight, producing an exotic ambiance that transports visitors to a realm of pure magic. The intensity of the luminosity increases as one travels deeper into the center of Lumieres. The trunks of the trees, solid and magnificent, appear to emit a delicate, pulsing light. The interplay of light and shadow creates a captivating ballet that casts beautiful patterns on the moss-covered ground. The air itself has a slight lighting to it as if small flecks of stardust are floating lazily through the woodland. The soft hum of unseen creatures fills the room, their presence sensed rather than seen, adding to the mysterious ambiance that surrounds Lumieres. Hashmins once lived there but their population was controlled and the excess were either killed or thrown here. When they reach the age where they are about to get large, they are thrown to Discedite.”

“Such shameless creatures. They only take care of them when it's convenient but throw them out when they grow out of convenience. After taking the poor creatures from their habitats.” Death commented then shook her head.

“Staerk vind is known for winds of such fearsome strength that not even the most skilled Weathans* can tame them can be found in a place famed for its turbulent nature. A wide diversity of species call this untamed realm home, each suited to flourish despite the merciless winds that sweep across the land. The majestic presence of the large white bears commands attention. Their thick, snow-white fur protects them from wind-borne debris, while their muscular muscles pulse beneath the surface, demonstrating their endurance and stamina. Sharp claws help them to cross rough terrain with ease, with every movement a display of grace and force. The sky above becomes a stage for the hawks, their wings spanning an astounding width as they glide through the turbulent currents of air. These beautiful birds have an instinctive ability to negotiate the gusts and eddies, their flight an engrossing dance with the wind itself, and their colors a dramatic contrast against the backdrop of the stormy skies.

“The cold woods, Koude, emanates an ice aura that pervades every inch of its being. Even the stoic trees are transformed into crystalline masterpieces within this frozen environment, their branches covered with beautiful frost that glistens like diamonds in the feeble light. As you get deeper into Koude, the air becomes a physical entity that bites at your flesh with an unbending chill. Each breath you take is received with a cold embrace that leaves a misty trail in its wake. The very air appears to hum with an intangible coolness as if the forest itself is alive with wintry magic. The trees, standing tall and proud, appear to have been kissed by winter's chilly breath. Their once-green branches are now covered in a thin layer of ice, reflecting the beautiful illumination of the moonlight. The scene is both captivating and haunting, a monument to nature's raw force. The chills flowing from Koude are noticeable even from a distance. The crunch of snow underfoot and the odd gust of wind remind you of the harshness of this chilly bliss.

“Bien, nestled near the sturdy rock, is a haven where the juxtaposition of elements creates a harmonious balance. Despite its proximity to rough terrain, this region has an abundance of pure water that nourishes both the body and the soul. A sensation of calm floods over you as you approach the serene ponds that dot the land. The water, crystal pure and glistening in the mild sunlight, invites you to quench your thirst. The safety of these ponds demonstrates the pure state of Bien's environment. The lack of toxins or pollutants guarantees that the water remains pure. The cool liquid glides down your throat with each drink, renewing your senses and nourishing your body. The water, however, is not the only thing that thrives in this exquisite zone. A flourishing aquatic community exists beneath the surface. The plump and vivid fishes float gracefully through the depths, their scales glistening in a rainbow of colors. Their presence relates to the wealth of nutrients provided by the ponds, as they grow fat and luscious. That’s how I remember it, that’s how it was two years ago. It was before the city was built. That city was creating dark smoke at first until it just stopped. We don’t know what they did and it is none of our business.” Asphalt continued.

Upon observance, the place is pretty much ruled by nature. Science exists in this place, they even managed to create a city that produces smoke. They’ve taken advantage of the heat now. Back on Earth, if magic exists, it would be a branch of science. If I cannot perform magic naturally here like how they do, then I’d have to improvise. I can mix such elements here that I am familiar with and study those that I am not. This may be a different place but I know that when two things are mixed, it creates a reaction. Henna* has been discovered here as a tattoo and contact lenses are already made. The clothes are as modern as those on Earth and the accessories aren’t outdated either. They are either nearing the technological era or they are already there. By the looks of it, the upper holds more modernity than the lower since they do not know how the smoke was made or what caused it. These all are just theories but one thing is for sure, I can use science here.

“Can I go to the forest? The Gwyn forest, I mean.” I asked.

“On your own?” Death asked. “I don’t know, kid. It hasn’t been long since you were able to get out of my house and the first thing that happened was a riot.”

“I couldn’t have caused a riot in the Gwyn forest, could I? There aren’t many witches there aside from maybe a few witches getting their resources.” I reasoned.

“What if you offend a creature? You could die there.” Asphalt said.

“What could I have done?”

“I don’t know. You did absolutely nothing in the black market but still managed to put the Cokoa in a hot temper. You were just eating.” Asphalt said.

“Sorcerers and creatures are different, their reasoning is different. Besides, something else triggered that Cokoa before I arrived. I am not the cause of it… at least not all of it.”

“You picked a fight with a Kikimbura, kid. Those scamming potion makers are cool-headed but you managed to trigger him.” Death said.

“I’m a walking cause of ruckus, all right, I get it. But I’ll try not to stir anything while I’m there. I swear.”

“What are you going to do there anyways?” Death sighed. “Fine. We’re just worried about you, okay? You’re new here and you seem to learn quickly but… I guess this is no harm.” She walked up to me and punched my shoulder. “I’m a walking cause of ruckus too, kid! When you say that next time, lift your chin up and say it proudly. No one can do it as well as you do, and no one can do it as well as I do too, no, not even you. I will not let you.” She chuckled. “Prepare whatever you need to prepare and be back before it gets dark. We’ll come looking for you when you’re not here by sundown so stay where you are and don’t move if ever, okay?” I looked at her. I just met them and I have been nothing but rude to them yet they are treating me so nicely. Is this because of guilt? “Hey, kid. Answer me.”

“Yes, okay,” I said.

“Now, go and prepare. What are you still doing here? Are you planning to set off in the dark?” Death said.

What she said almost sent tears to my eyes but then they must have been acting like this because of guilt. They are just forced to do this because they feel like they are responsible for my well-being and because they feel like they need to do so.

I almost thought it was genuine.

I let out an exasperated sigh.