The carriage creaked gently as it rolled along the uneven path, surrounded by the rustling trees and the occasional chirp of unseen birds. Flashes of vibrant plumage zipped across the sky—emerald greens, fiery reds, and golden yellows. The birds flitted between the trees and distant cliffs, their chirps and cries harmonizing with the soft hum of the forest. Emma’s gaze followed their movements, but her thoughts wandered elsewhere.
She found herself pondering the tales her mother had shared earlier, about the gods and their war against the otherworldly invaders. Her mind churned with questions. Were humans even around during that era? If they were, did they participate in such a divine conflict? Could they have been strong enough to fight alongside gods?
The questions gnawed at her, unanswered and relentless. She turned to Vivian, her mother, who had been watching her daughter’s reflective silence with a knowing smile. “Another question, I take it?” Vivian said, amusement flickering in her eyes.
Emma chuckled softly, brushing a strand of silver hair behind her ear. “Did humans exist during the war between the gods and the otherworldly beings?” she asked, her voice laced with curiosity.
Vivian tilted her head, considering the question. “From what I’ve read, the books don’t mention humans playing any role in that war,” she replied. “If they had existed during that time, I imagine they would have been recorded in the histories, don’t you think?”
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Emma nodded but wasn’t fully satisfied. “I suppose so,” she said thoughtfully. “But if humans did exist back then, wouldn’t they have joined the fight? Or at least tried? Though,” she added with a wry smile, “I doubt they’d survive long. Humans don’t exactly have the strength to rival gods.”
Vivian chuckled, reaching out to ruffle Emma’s hair. “Your father always said you’d grow up to be a scholar or a scientist,” she teased.
Emma grinned. “Maybe,” she said. If becoming a scientist will help me uncover the truths of this world, then why not? she thought to herself, though she kept the sentiment private.
The conversation faded, and Emma returned to gazing out the window. Her unique white eyes scanned the passing landscape, searching for anything of interest. The forest had thinned, giving way to a rocky expanse. The jagged cliffs stretched skyward, their surfaces marred by deep cracks and patches of moss. A few hardy plants clung to life here, their roots snaking into the crevices of the stones.
Suddenly, the carriage driver’s voice broke through the stillness, firm and serious. “Best if you keep your head inside, young lady,” he warned. “The road ahead is dangerous, especially if you’re sticking your head out like that.”
Emma blinked and glanced at her mother. Vivian nodded in agreement, her expression serious. “He’s right,” she said. “I was just about to tell you the same thing.”
Emma frowned, curiosity piqued. “Why? Where are we passing through?”
Vivian’s gaze flickered toward the path ahead, her tone lowering as she muttered,
“The Dome of the Wyvern.”