☽╭──┓Icy crystal Moon.┏─╮☾
In the realm of Anima, nestled amidst the high mountains of Stah, a youngling named Cosmo found himself living a life of solitude and monotony. The Astros, a community of hidden scientists, had taken him under their protection after the devastating destruction of his village. But for a young boy with a low intelligence, the days spent attending tedious classes in the courtyard of the main plaza proved to be a torturous existence. However, Cosmo's dull routine was shattered when he overheard a tantalizing rumor. Whispers carried on the wind spoke of a secret library concealed beneath the magnificent "Illustros temple". Filled with what seemed to be a treasure trove of crystals, trinkets, and what the Astros called "a glittering fragment of the cosmos," the library beckoned to Cosmo's adventurous spirit. He stood at the base of the narrow path leading up to the Illustros temple, his heart pounding with anticipation. The falling snowflakes seemed to dance around him, coating his shoulders and the hood of his linen cape with a delicate layer of white. He brushed a hand through his white hair, feeling the cold flakes melt against his skin. With a determined gaze, he took a step forward, ready to embark on his adventure.
The snowfall gradually intensified, the flakes growing larger and the wind picking up.
Cosmo could feel the icy touch against his face, but he remained undeterred. The allure of the secret library beneath the temple was too strong to resist.
He tightened the fabric of his cape around his body, seeking warmth within its folds, and continued his slow ascent. As he walked, his footprints left a trail in the freshly fallen snow, marking his journey up the mountain.
The path grew steeper, and his steps became more deliberate, carefully placing each foot to maintain balance on the slippery surface. The wind howled through the mountain pass, whistling in Cosmo's ears and tugging at his cape. Yet, his determination pushed him forward.
He knew that turning back now would mean abandoning the chance to uncover the mysteries that awaited him. With each step, the temple grew closer, its silhouette becoming more defined against the darkened sky.
Cosmo could feel the faint glow emanating from within, beckoning him onward. The thought of what lay hidden beneath its ancient walls fueled his excitement. As the snowfall continued to intensify, Cosmo briefly considered the option of turning back. The thought of retracing his steps and returning to the safety of the village briefly tempted him.
But his curiosity and the thrill of the unknown won out. He couldn't bear the thought of missing out on the chance to explore the secret library. Cosmo pressed forward, determined to reach his destination despite the snowfall.
With each step, he could feel the weight of the snow on his shoulders increasing, but it only served to strengthen his resolve. The path may be challenging, but he was ready to face whatever lay ahead. As Cosmo pressed forward, the silhouette of the marble and Glorious temple gracefully materialized before him, growing sharper and more distinct with each determined stride. The columns, cloaked in a regal shade of Royal blue—the very emblem of wisdom, compassion, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge the astros believe in—embraced the structure.
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Cosmo's eyes darted around, scanning the surroundings for any signs of pursuit. Would the Astros Guard lie in wait outside, poised to expel unwanted intruders like him, even though he is part of their esteemed community? The tension in the air was palpable as Cosmo cautiously proceeded, determined to uncover the secrets that lay within.
As the night enveloped the area, his heightened senses allowed him to spot a faint glimmer of movement near the entrance of the temple. It seemed like a figure clad in the distinct royal blue robes of the Astros. Cosmo's heart skipped a beat.
He knew he had to be cautious and avoid drawing attention. With the figure still at a distance, he made a quick decision. Instead of proceeding directly to the temple entrance, he would take a detour, following a hidden path he had discovered during his previous explorations.
This would allow him to approach the temple from a different angle, minimizing the risk of encountering the guard. Carefully, Cosmo adjusted his course, stepping lightly to avoid making noise in the snow. He moved swiftly but silently, utilizing his agility and familiarity with the terrain to his advantage.
The icy wind whispered around him, as if urging him to be even more cautious. After a few minutes of careful navigation, Cosmo found himself hidden behind a large boulder, overlooking a different entrance to the temple.
From this vantage point, he could see no sign of the guard he had glimpsed earlier. It seemed that his detour had paid off, granting him a momentary advantage. Cosmo took a deep breath, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew he had to seize this opportunity. With a renewed sense of determination, he prepared to make his move towards the alternate entrance, eager to delve deeper into the secrets that awaited him inside the Illustros temple.
Suddenly, as Cosmo reached out to touch the secondary door of the temple, it began to bounce like a playful bubble. The sight left him dumbfounded, his disbelief tangible. The clever Astros had ensnared the door with a spell, conjuring an illusory entrance that his low intelligence failed to recognize. This misstep left him vulnerable, and the approaching Guard, tracing his footsteps in the snow, seized the opportunity.
Cosmo locked eyes with the advancing figure, aware that time was running out. The Guard had not yet recognized him, presenting a slim chance for retreat and eluding capture. He swiftly turned on his heels, heart pounding, and sprinted into the snowy night.
His Moongazed heritage granted him an advantage in the darkness, a slight edge in evading pursuit. With nimble footwork and the cover of darkness, he skillfully eluded the Guard, blending into the shadows and confounding his pursuer amidst the falling snow.
Cosmo's breath came in ragged gasps as he sprinted through the icy terrain, the biting wind slashing at his face. His mind raced, searching for a safe haven, a place to regroup and reassess his options. Amidst the urgency, he spotted a small crevice nestled between two rocks. It offered temporary shelter, partially concealed by a layer of snow. Without hesitation, Cosmo changed course and sought refuge within its protective embrace. Hidden in the darkness, he caught his breath and contemplated his next move.
In the crevice, Cosmo strained his ears, listening intently for the telltale sound of approaching footsteps. The blanket of snow amplified each footfall, growing closer and closer. Unbeknownst to the Guard, he passed right by Cosmo's concealed spot, surveying the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and concern.
Luck was on Cosmo's side—or so he believed. The Guard, failing to spot the young intruder, wore a worried expression as the snowflakes thickened.
"Where could that person have disappeared?"
he muttered, his voice tinged with compassion.
Cosmo's heart raced with relief, knowing his respite was only temporary. The need to escape undetected loomed in the frigid air, compelling him to quickly devise a new plan.