In the last Chapter, in a tense conversation, Ignis questions Mister Ryu's motives for seeking rare relic materials, prompting a revelation of Ignis's past ventures in the Sky Islands. As Mister Ryu deduces Ignis's location, their secrecy deepens, leaving the observer frustrated. Emerging from a cave with Mister Ryu's bag filled, Ignis justifies the secrecy, promising eventual disclosure. Moving forward in a volcanic labyrinth, Ignis reveals a guarded temple on the other side of the volcano, emphasizing caution with the Salamance tribe. The group's task is to render the guardians unconscious within 30 minutes, with Ignis hinting at a mysterious reason involving their king, Salance.
“Salance. Who’s That” I asked.
"He currently leads the Salamance, having ventured into the skies, and he's a thorn in my side. If he discovers your intrusion into the temple under his protection, your current power levels won't be sufficient to prevail against him," Ignis cautioned.
"We'll ensure meticulous precautions and navigate carefully to avoid causing you any inconvenience, Mister Ignis," Mister Ryu assured.
"I appreciate your understanding. If you aim to reach the temple without encountering the guardians, I recommend traversing the magma river, which directly connects to the bay behind the temple," Ignis suggested.
"Accept this spirit; it will ensure your safe passage through the magma river and provide guidance as you exit the temple. Remember to show respect to the 'One' in your journey," Ignis advised.
With Ignis's warnings echoing in their minds, the group set forth, following Ignis's guidance through the intricate volcanic labyrinth. The magma river proved to be both treacherous and awe-inspiring as they navigated its fiery currents. Mister Ryu's bag, laden with mysterious relics, seemed to resonate with the energy of the surroundings.
At the outskirts of the volcanic ruins, where Mister Ryu and Miss Ember had left Ignis, stands Ignis with an imposing reptilian figure at his side.
"I'll comply with your request this time, Ignis, but let it be clear that this is a one-time favor regarding the Temple. Don't mistake my allegiance to the temple as friendship, and you had better provide a compelling reason for permitting these mere humans into the sacred space," stated the reptilian figure in a gruff voice.
"I understand, my friend. Salance, would you care to join me for a drink? I've obtained an excellent wine from a newfound acquaintance," Ignis suggested.
"Agreed, but if the wine doesn't meet expectations, I expect to partake in the drink you've been saving for your journey's end," replied Salance.
As the group approached the bay behind the temple, the air thickened with tension. Ignis, with a subtle nod, gestured towards the entrance guarded by the Salamance tribe. The group, now acutely aware of the delicate task ahead, focused on reaching the temple unnoticed.
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The magma river journey had concealed their presence well, and they reached the bay undetected. As they cautiously entered the temple grounds, the enormity of the task weighed heavily on their shoulders. The Salamance guardians, formidable and watchful, added an extra layer of complexity to their mission.
Inside the temple, the air was charged with ancient energy. The group moved with precision, guided by the relics and Ignis's cryptic instructions. The artifacts within the temple held untold power, and the group sensed the gravity of their actions.
Time ticked away, and with each passing moment, the group became more aware of the consequences of overstaying. The intricacies of the temple unveiled themselves, revealing both challenges and revelations about the ancient civilization that once thrived there.
Upon arriving at the central chamber of the temple, the map underwent a significant transformation. This time, the alterations were substantial—the map shifted to black, with the scriptures now in white. The heightened contrast added difficulty to its interpretation. After decoding the ancient map, the revised version revealed the inscription 'For the Fire Throne.' Reading the text triggered a familiar sensation accompanied by a sudden headache, intensifying my curiosity about the elusive fragments of my lost memories.
Gathering my composure, I began the search for the token, the primary motive behind our journey. We meticulously examined the temple relics, walls, pillars, and even the floors, but nothing resonated as it had in the Iron Maiden Temple. Our thorough searches led us to the conclusion that the token wasn't within the temple, perhaps taken by someone else. Navigating through the temple, we recalled Ignis's words: 'Respect the One.' Considering it a worthy endeavor, we decided to pay our respects to the ‘One’ mentioned by Ignis, as trying this approach cost us nothing.
As we demonstrated our respects, the temple began to tremble, and the main chamber underwent a structural transformation reminiscent of the Iron Maiden Temple. From the ground, a massive table ascended, bearing an inscription that read, 'Temple of Summer.' The tablet radiated a brilliance akin to a summer day, and beneath the table, an altar surfaced, revealing the sought-after token we had been searching for.
The discovery of the token beneath the altar brought a sense of relief and achievement. As we carefully approached the sacred object, a warm light enveloped the chamber, infusing it with a serene energy. The inscription 'Temple of Summer' seemed to resonate with the newfound warmth, creating a connection between the temple's name and the season it represented.
With the token in hand, our group felt a renewed sense of purpose. As we exited the temple, the magma river guided us back through the labyrinth, offering a smoother journey this time. Ignis, waiting at the bay, greeted us with a knowing smile, acknowledging the successful completion of our quest.
“Was some here with you, seem to be a good friend.” Said Mister Ryu.
"As perceptive as always, Mister Ryu. Nothing escapes your notice. Yes, I shared the wine you provided with a dear friend of mine. It proved to be quite potent, I must admit," said Ignis.
"We express our gratitude for your guidance; it has proven invaluable to us throughout our journey," I conveyed with sincere appreciation.
"Merely thanking me won't suffice; you must come to my residence and revel in further merriment. I may even contribute additional relics to enhance your collection, Mister Ryu," Ignis proposed with a hospitable tone.
"Time is of the essence; Miss Ember, we would do well to honor Mister Ignis's gracious invitation and partake in the festivities at his delightful abode," Mister Ryu suggested, a glint of anticipation evident in his eyes, as if the prospect held promises of newfound treasures.
……. To be Continued