Chapter 26:

Den continued knocking on the door. “Open up. I know you’re in there.”

My mind raced with scenarios for why he was here and so insistent all of a sudden.

He said he saw me, so staying quiet wasn’t an option. “I can’t. Seb locked me inside. Did something happen?”

“You tell me.” He replied, his tone sharp.

My heart pounded, fearing he had somehow learned about the calcite. They said he used to be the Head Guard in Willox. Perhaps he was still loyal to Alaric Belton and was now going to arrest us.

“What do you mean?” I feigned ignorance.

“Yesterday, you claimed to be friends with the Dragon, yet you look nothing like the kind of person that Bane would associate with.” He said, his voice carrying some edge. I was suddenly thankful for the locked door between us. “And if a plain-looking fellow like you knows about Leia and Seb, and their connection to Bane, that means you’re not as plain-looking as you make yourself out to be.”

I’d been right last night - he was sharp. His mannerism and the way he spoke, as if conducting an interrogation, screamed Willox, reminding me too much of my street days.

I stuck with the lie I’d told Olen last night. “I don’t know what you want from me. I helped him once, and we became friends after that. That’s all there is too it.”

“Helped him?” Den repeated, sounding genuinely surprised. “And what help could one like you offer to a Champion of the Kingdom?”

He was right. Even I knew that lie sounded too grandiose. Olen was just too young and inexperienced to notice, but Den wasn’t.

I scrambled to think of a response that wouldn’t draw any more attention to us.

Den sensed my hesitation and spoke again. “No answer, huh? Figures. I know you’re not telling the whole truth, kid. And as the protector of this village, I need to know everything to do my job. So, while I can’t break down this door and arrest you without upsetting Leia, just know this: I’m watching you, and this is far from over.”

***

After Den left, I slumped against the door, sitting on the floor.

My hands were shaking, and my first instinct was to pick Ren from Seb’s workshop and run. If Den knows Alaric Belton, he’ll quickly find out about our failed heist and the calcite. It was only a matter of time.

But then I reminded myself - Seb had already started treating Ren. Leaving now would end the treatment prematurely and just send me on another wild goose chase for another high-healer.

The problem was that Seb said it would take two weeks before we saw any improvement in Ren’s condition! We didn’t have that much time!

The first idea that popped into my mind was to steal Seb’s turquoise ring. Healing magic was considered different from other types of magic, but how much harder could it be to use? I was sure I could figure it out on my own.

I entered Seb’s workshop and went straight to the drawer where I saw him leave the ring yesterday. It wasn’t there, which made sense – he’d gone to the clinic today. The high-healer would need his most important tool, the turquoise, while he worked. But I knew he put the ring in this drawer at night. He left it here with me just last night. If he did the same today, I’d steal it and run away with Ren.

Yes. That would be my plan. I’d also take advantage of the fact that Annabel wasn’t around to stop me. I just hoped she would stay wherever she was right now and won’t suddenly reappear.

Feeling slightly relieved now that I had a plan, I glanced around at the various glass beakers and vials on the table. It was clear Seb was experimenting with different concoctions. He’d warned me not to touch anything on the table, and I decided to respect his wishes. The last thing I wanted was for him to kick us out of the village before I could steal his ring.

My gaze drifted to the many books lining the shelves. One thick tome caught my attention: The Herbal Compendium: A Tome of Botanical Wisdom.

I pulled it from the shelf and quickly realized it was much heavier than I’d expected. It was also covered in dust, which made some sense. Seb was supposed to be a healer so skilled that he once traveled alongside a future hero of the kingdom. He probably didn’t need to read many books about his craft anymore – he was likely at a level where he could write such books himself.

The table was cluttered with Seb’s things, so I set the book on the floor. I sat down in front of it and opened to the first page.

It had an introduction from the author. It read as follows:

Greetings, fellow seekers of botanical enlightenment!

Within the hallowed pages of this esteemed tome, you will find the culmination of a lifetime’s worth of passion, curiosity, and perhaps a touch of eccentricity.

I, your faithful, have traversed the verdant valleys, scaled the towering peaks, and delved into the darkest corners of the apothecary’s cabinet in pursuit of herbal knowledge.

During my lifetime I was given many titles. Some called me a herbologist, others an herbalist, several lunatics even called me a healer. And still more simply, many referred to me as the eccentric with an affinity for peculiar plants. Whatever the title, one thing remained true: I am a devotee of the green arts, a connoisseur of the curative, and a fervent believer in the magical properties of nature’s bounty.

But fear not, dear reader, for while my passion may border on the obsessive, my intentions are nothing if not noble. Within these pages, you will find not only the fruits of my tireless research but also practical wisdom, whimsical anecdotes, and the occasional cautionary tale. Whether you seek the perfect potion, the elusive elixir, or simply a bit of herbal amusement, consider this book your trusty guide on the winding path of botanical exploration.

So, I bid you welcome to this verdant sanctuary of knowledge. Let us embark together on a journey through the mysterious world of herbs, potions, and all manner of botanical wonders. May your curiosity be boundless, your experiments fruitful, and your adventures delightfully eccentric.

With botanical regards,

Thistlewort Elbloom

Thistlewort Elbloom...Isn’t thistle a plant? Was he really named after one?

Despite the almost comical name, the book seemed intriguing enough.

Since leaving Willox, I kept realizing, each step of the way, how unprepared I was for traveling this world. Other than some survival skills, I felt like a complete fool. My lack of knowledge in Geography had already led us into Vedem, and my ignorance in herbology and the healing arts could still be used against me while Ren was being treated - whether by Seb or me.

If I had a book like this in my hands, shouldn’t I at least try to educate myself?

I’d only come here because I followed Axel’s wishes. I was too weak and unknowledgeable to refuse. That had to change – and quickly. I had my own goal: bringing Ren and myself to Kase. Listening to Axel wouldn’t get me there.

Until I could get my hands on Seb’s turquoise ring, I should use the time to improve myself. Reading books. Perhaps discussing them with Seb himself. And Leia…both Seb and Annabel had called her a magical genius. I should try to learn more about magic from her.

It would be tough, given the attitude she’d shown so far, but I knew I had to try. No – not just try. I had to win her over.

Vorlexia was right. I didn’t have to befriend them. I just needed to understand what made them tick and use it to my advantage.

I should also start training again. Maybe a morning jog around the neigborhood so I could stay close to Ren if something happened, along with some light strength exercises. Yes, that should be enough to build my stamina and strength gradually – at least until I stole the ring and we made our escape.

“Why are you touching Seb’s things?” Annabel’s voice made me jump.

I turned to see her ghostly form behind me. I frowned. I’d hoped her disappearance this morning would be permanent. Seeing her back meant my plan to steal Seb’s ring just got a lot more complicated.

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I decided to ignore her question and called her out instead. “Where have you been?”

“I couldn’t get a hold of Axel and was getting worried.” She replied, a concerned expression on her face.

“Did he eventually answer?” I asked, running my hand over the book’s introduction page. It was delicate and brittle - clearly an old book.

“He didn’t.” She said, sounding disappointed. “I’m afraid something might’ve happened.”

“Like what?” I asked, and immediately, thoughts of Alaric Belton came to mind. He was definitely the type who would kill his own comrade for answers. If Axel was being tortured by him, would he not reveal our location?

Panic washed over me, and I was ready to grab Ren and run as far as I could, but then Annabel said something unexpected. “I wanted to leave you and go look for him, but he wouldn’t want that.” She said softly. “He asked me to keep an eye on you, and so I will. I’m sure he’ll contact us as soon as he can.”

Her trust in him was absolute. It was clear in her firm tone and unwavering gaze.

“What if something did happen.” I said bluntly, hoping to shake her confidence and maybe make her leave for good. “Wouldn’t that put me and Ren in danger right now?”

She looked hurt by my question. “Of course not, Luca! Axel would never betray you. He’s a hero of the kingdom!”

I shook my head. “That doesn’t mean much to me.”

She seemed to understand what I was implying and looked like she wanted to apologize, but instead, she said something different. “Axel is not like them. In fact, that’s the only reason he’s still a Champion.”

My questioning look prompted her to continue. “It’s because Alaric and Leon are as despicable as they are that Axel is still a Champion. He’s always feared that if he left, there would be no one among the Champions to represent the people’s best interests.”

Her words painted him in a more humane light, but I was far from believing anything she had to say about him.

Before I could respond, a knock on the door interrupted us. Den again?

“Hey, are you there?” a familiar voice called out. “Luca, right?”

It was Olen, the archer guard from last night. Did Den send him?

I stood up and slowly approached the door. “Yeah.” I answered.

“It’s me. Olen.” He said in a friendly tone. “You remember me from yesterday, right?”

“I do.” I replied, staying on high alert and wary of the reason behind his visit. “Did Den send you?”

“What?” he sounded genuinely confused. “Why? Was he here earlier?”

“He was.” I said simply.

“Can you open up?” he asked. “I just wanted to check if you and your friend were okay.”

I cleared my throat. “I can’t. Seb locked us inside.”

“Oh.” There was a note of surprise in his voice. After a brief pause, he spoke again. “Why?”

I sighed before answering with a lie. “It’s because of my friend. He didn’t want to move her to the clinic.”

“Oh, I see.” he said. “How is she?”

I couldn’t tell if his concern was genuine or just an act. “She’s still being treated.”

“I see, I see.” He murmured, falling silent.

“Well, I actually wanted to invite you to hang out with us tonight.” He said after a moment.

I frowned, unsure what he meant. Hang out? Where? And who’s ‘us’?

“Uh...I’m not sure it’s a good idea.” I replied cautiously, trying to keep my tone neutral. He had helped us get into Lind yesterday, but I still didn’t know if he was acting alone or if Den had put him up to this. “We’re still recovering.”

“That’s right. My bad.” He said, sounding genuinely apologetical. “Then how about tomorrow? Or any day after that? You’re welcome to join us while you’re still staying in Lind.”

“Perhaps you should join them, Luca.” Annabel suggested from behind me. “To unwind a little.”

“What good would it do?” I asked, dismissing any potential benefit from such a hang-out.

“What was that?” Olen asked, probably thinking I was talking to him.

“Maybe when I feel better.” I lied. I had no intention of socializing with any of them.

“Sure thing!” Olen replied cheerfully. “We usually just drink at the tavern. Nothing too crazy.”

“Who’s ‘we’?” I dared to ask, believing Den was included.

“Oh, just me and some other guys from the village.” He answered casually.

Another silence fell between us, and this time I spoke first, hoping to send him on his way. “Thanks for the invite.”

“Sure thing.” He said with a joyful tone. “See you around.”

I listened as his footsteps grew fainter, moving further away from the house.

“You should consider joining them.” Annabel repeated. “Seb took care of you yesterday. You’re mostly healed.”

“What good would it do?” I repeated, reminding myself that I wasn’t here to make friends. I was going to try and steal Seb’s turquoise ring tonight.

She shrugged. “A bit of human connection wouldn’t hurt.”

For a moment, she sounded like Elandor. He used to tell me the same damn thing – that I should try to connect with other more.

Damn it, Elandor…Why did you have to die?

My thoughts drifted back to my conversation with Annabel before Olen knocked on the door. Was Axel really as different as she made him out to be? I couldn’t believe her - not after everything that had happened to us so far. Not after Vedem. I could only trust myself.

I sat back down in front of the open book I’d left on the floor and turned to the next page.

‘Foundations of Herbology: Core Principles and Practices’ – the title was printed in bold letters across the top of the page.

“What are you reading?” Annabel asked in a more cheerful tone.

“A herbology book.” I replied simply.

“Would you mind reading it out loud for me?” she asked with a soft smile. “It might be better for you, too. I remember reading somewhere that speaking things out loud helps you remember them more effectively.”

I’d heard that too, but in my case, it was completely unnecessary - I had an eidetic memory and could remember everything I saw or heard perfectly.

Still, I saw no harm in her request, so I decided to humor her.

I cleared my throat, took a deep breath, and began reading aloud about the core principals of herbology.

***

Sometime in the afternoon, a series of loud bangs on the door startled me, interrupting my reading session.

At first, I was afraid it was Den again, but it turned out to be Leia.

“I can’t believe I lost the key again!” she exclaimed, sounding uncharacteristically angry. “Seb, are you there by any chance?”

“He’s at the clinic.” I called out to her.

She fell silent at the sound of my voice.

“She’s probably freaked out that you’re here alone.” Annabel murmured worriedly.

I realized she was right, so I tried to ease any concerns Leia might have. “Seb didn’t want to bring my friend into the clinic, and I refused to leave her here alone.” I lied again, hoping Seb would back me up if necessary - as long as I kept Axel’s future visit and its purpose a secret from his wife like he’d asked.

“There’s a spare key.” Leia blurted out hesitantly, then continued in a more composed manner. “In the second right drawer in the kitchen. Can you get it...please?”

“Sure.” I replied and made my way to the kitchen.

“Was she always like this?” I asked Annabel as I searched. “So incredibly anxious?”

Annabel nodded. “It was even worse in the beginning when we first started adventuring together. I’d even say she’s made incredible progress since then.”

After a bit of rummaging, I found the spare key she mentioned and unlocked the door.

She was holding three small glass boxes in her arms. Inside each box, the bottom surface looked like a mirror, and on top of it rested a small, pinky-sized red orb that appeared to be on fire.

Annabel watched her with the same nostalgic look she’d had yesterday when Seb opened the door for us.

“Can I?” Leia asked softly, gazing at the floor and pointing inside the house. I realized I was blocking the entrance, lost in thought as I tried to figure out what those orbs were.

I stepped aside quickly and spoke up. “What are those?”

She made eye contact with me for the first time and seemed excited, as if glad that I’d asked, but then quickly averted her gaze. “These are fragments of the sun.” she said confidently, her voice different from the hesitant tone I’d heard from her this morning.

Fragments of the sun? I didn’t know what that meant, but it sounded bizarre.

“What do you mean by that?” I asked, confused.

She seemed genuinely surprised by my question. “What do you mean, what do I mean? I was sun-catching with my suntraps.”

I shrugged and admitted. “I really don’t know what that means.”

She stared at me, bewildered. “But Axel knows this. Didn’t he teach you?”

I wasn’t sure what kind of relationship she thought I had with Axel Bane, but we were clearly not close enough for him to teach me anything. Nor did I want to be close enough for that.

I just shook my head.

“Well, do you want the short version or the long one?” she asked, and I noticed she was making more eye contact with me now.

“The long one sounds like it’ll be more thorough.” I decided.

“Oh, you’re in for it now.” Annabel chuckled.

“It is.” Leia agreed, placing the glass boxes on the kitchen table. She then picked up one of them and handed it to me.

“Hold it, but don’t open it.” She warned me. “Or it may explode.”

I nodded, feeling a twinge of worry.

“The bottom surface of the box is covered with gypsum.” She explained. “Gypsum’s innate magical ability is magic absorption. It’s mostly used by the military, because with enough of it, you can nullify enemy magical strikes. But it has other uses, too. For example, by absorbing sunlight during the day, you can create natural lamps that last through the entire night. We don’t have many in Lind yet, but most of the major cities in the world light their streets at night using gypsum lamps.”

I’d heard of gypsum before - most of the lamp posts in the capital contained it. At night, thieves often tried breaking them to steal the gypsum inside. Most failed. I still couldn’t figure out how it worked exactly. Obviously, it absorbed sunlight, but what did the sun have to do with magic?

“How does it absorb the sun’s energy?” I asked. “I understand that gypsum absorbs magic, but the sun isn’t magical.”

“But it is.” She replied, a hint of confusion in her voice. I realized my ignorance had probably made a fool of me again.

“Explain, please.” I pleaded, trying not to sound even more clueless.

She nodded, and I could see no judgement in her eyes. It seemed she genuinely enjoyed talking about the topic.

“Those of us who can wield magic do so thanks to the two celestial bodies: the sun and the moon,” she began. “Celestian religion, in all its religious denominations, would tell you it’s because of Borel and Lilias, and that might be true, but we’re not discussing religion here - I’m all about magical science.”

Borel, the god of the sun, and his wife, Lilias, the goddess of the moon, were the parents of Vitara and all the other minor gods. They were also the two primary deities who created the Earth after overcoming the god of chaos who resided here before them, Tumulus.

“Magical science?” I asked, intrigued. I’d never heard of the term before.

She nodded. “The science behind how magic really works. Sure, you can believe that the gods provide us with mana just because, but magical science tries to uncover the actual mechanisms behind it.”

Leia continued. “The mages among us have their own unique pool of mana that we use to wield our magic. The sun charges you with mana during the day, and the moon does the same during the night. Without them, using magic would likely be impossible. That’s why occurrences like eclipses are problematic for any mage.”

I had no idea it worked this way and felt a sense of relief learning something new.

“Why do you need fragments of the sun, though?” I asked.

“There are many reasons, really.” She said, a wide smile spreading across her face. “I give most of them to the village so they can use them to create lamp posts or as power sources for their businesses. Just one fragment has enough heat and energy to replace a hearth for several months.”

“And the ones you keep for yourself?”

“I’m working on something.” She said, and I noticed her gaze starting to drift again.

Curious, but realizing I probably shouldn’t push her too much, I decided not to pry further for now.

My eyes wandered over the sunstone-covered granite block in their kitchen. An idea popping in my mind.

“Hey, can you tell me more about the sunstone powder?” I asked.

She nodded, her expression lighting up as she began to explain passionately.