Vaelaris Lake

Hours into their journey, Ryder had gained a wealth of knowledge about Aetherealm thanks to Eon, who seemed to have an endless supply of facts and stories to share. Eon’s enthusiasm was infectious, but the sheer volume of information left Ryder struggling to retain it all. As night fell, Ryder summoned his flame once more—the small, glowing gold orb of color-shifting fire—to light their path through the darkened forest.

From what Ryder had managed to remember, they were making their way through Evermyst Grove, a sprawling and enchanted forest teeming with fantastical creatures. He learned quickly that sticking to the paths was more than just common sense—it was a necessity. The paths seemed to serve as invisible boundaries, almost sacred in nature. Few creatures ventured onto them except to cross, as though an unspoken agreement existed between the Aethereans and the Wilds.

Ryder had just been wondering what sorts of creatures might lurk in the depths of the forest when Eon’s voice snapped him back to reality.

“Hey, are you even listening!?” Eon exclaimed, waving a hand in Ryder’s face.

“Oh, sorry, I, uh…” Ryder muttered, his thoughts still scattered.

Eon scoffed, shaking his head. “Well, it seems like I’ll have to work harder to keep your attention, then.” A mischievous grin spread across his face. “Oh! I didn’t tell you what I think those men wanted or why they brought that Dovaa to my doorstep, did I?”

Ryder’s curiosity ignited instantly, his focus sharpening. “No, you haven’t,” he said, his voice eager.

Eon nodded, slowing his pace slightly as he prepared to explain. “Right, well, let me start from the beginning,” he said, taking a deep breath.

 “I’m the local alchemist in these parts,” Eon began, his tone a mix of pride and humility. “I help a small village called Moonvael with potions and salves of all kinds. I’m not much for magical healing—I’ve never had any formal teachers in that regard—but I am a wizard with weeds! I also know a thing or two about basic defensive magic, so I use my skills to help protect the village from foreign invaders. Those men, I believe, are umbramancers.”

Ryder’s eyes widened at the term. “Umbramancers?”

Eon nodded solemnly. “Yes, umbramancers. They’re a dangerous group that has learned to manipulate aether in a very twisted way—by stealing it. Did you notice when one of those men killed the flora around him as he attacked? That’s how I knew he was utilizing umbramancy.”

Seeing Ryder’s curiosity deepen, Eon continued. “Typically, to use magic, you have to let the aether flow through you, becoming one with it. You must already know this, being the capable mage you are. Every Aetherean has the potential to control magic, but it requires patience, study, and practice. Most don’t bother, which is why you can tell when someone is a trained mage.”

He paused, his expression darkening. “Those men weren’t using magic properly. Their attacks came at us like uncontrolled blasts—sloppy and chaotic. Any proper mage could defend against it, and I barely had to focus to sense their aether. They weren’t taking it inward to harmonize with it. They were stealing it outright. That’s one of the greatest crimes in Aetherealm. We are one with aether—we respect it, not abuse it. How they’ve managed to do this is still a mystery to me.”

Ryder nodded, absorbing the information. “So, why did they attack you?”

“Ah, well, that’s where things get interesting.” Eon rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “I believe they were after me because I’ve been helping Moonvael. These umbramancers have been trying to infiltrate and influence the village for weeks now. To what end? I don’t know. But they clearly see me as an obstacle. Moonvael is a small scholarly village, but it has a library—a vast one, with knowledge that dates back centuries. Mages from across Aetherealm come to study there. My guess is that the umbramancers want to seize the village to gain access to its knowledge.”

He leaned in slightly, his voice lowering as if sharing a secret. “I think they planned to burn down my house because they knew if they could get rid of me, they’d have a much easier time taking Moonvael.”

Ryder frowned, the gears turning in his mind. “Aren’t you concerned about them returning while we’re gone? What’s stopping them from coming back with an army?”

Eon grinned, looking quite pleased with himself. “Concerned? Not at all. My estate is protected by a powerful ward. Whenever I leave the area, it activates automatically. It prevents anyone but me from entering the property. It’s one of my proudest achievements as a mage.”

He crossed his arms, his grin widening. “I even had the other scholars at Moonvael test it. We all took turns blasting our strongest spells at it, and it absorbed everything. Oh, and if someone does try to touch it? They get a nasty shock for their trouble—teaches them to back off.” He laughed, rubbing the back of his head. “I’ve been working on an upgrade that will reflect any magic cast at it back to the attacker, but, uh… still ironing out the kinks on that one.”

Ryder nodded slowly, impressed but still concerned. “And Moonvael? What’s stopping the umbramancers from attacking the village while you’re here with me?”

Eon waved a hand dismissively. “The librarians and scholars there are skilled enough to handle a few umbramancers on their own. It’s not like I’m there all the time anyway—they’re used to my comings and goings.” He smiled reassuringly. “Besides, the most urgent thing right now is getting you to the Grand Luminary as quickly as possible. You need answers, after all.”

Ryder nodded, studying Eon thoughtfully. For someone who looked so young, he carried himself with the wisdom and confidence of someone far older. It was curious. “How old are you, anyway?” Ryder asked, his tone casual but genuinely intrigued. He was trying to piece together how someone so seemingly youthful could be the protector of a village and the owner of an entire estate.

Eon raised an eyebrow, his expression half amused, half exasperated. “Well, isn’t that a rude question? Haven’t you ever heard it’s impolite to ask someone their age?” He shook his head with a mock sigh. “You’re always saying the silliest things.” He chuckled, but then, with a small smirk, added, “If you must know, I’m nearing my seventh decade.”

Ryder’s eyes widened. “Seventh decade? Like seventy years!?” He stared in disbelief at the boy who looked no older than fourteen.

Eon laughed, clearly enjoying Ryder’s reaction. “ I said nearing! Why are you acting so surprised? Never judge a book by its cover, Ryder. You should know better than that.” He gave Ryder an exaggerated once-over. “How old are you, then? You look like you could be at least ten decades yourself.”

Ryder burst out laughing, startling Eon. “Ten decades? Hahaha, no! Actually, I’m only three. Technically.”

Eon’s jaw dropped. “Only three decades, and yet your power is that of a very seasoned mage? I don’t believe it!”

Ryder grinned. “No, not three decades—three years. Magical beings like me age differently. But, honestly, it seems like age means nothing here either.”

Eon shook his head, his disbelief slowly melting into amusement. “Three years! I can’t believe it. You’re just full of surprises, aren’t you, Ryder?”

“I could say the same about you,” Ryder replied with a laugh.

The two shared a brief moment of laughter before Eon suddenly stopped and gestured ahead. “Oh! The lake should be just through the forest here. Come on!”

Ryder hesitated for a moment, frowning slightly. Hadn’t Eon just warned him to stay on the paths? And now he was leading them into the forest. Before he could voice his concerns, Eon was already making his way through the brush. Ryder sighed and hurried to catch up.

Within minutes, the dense foliage gave way to yet another breathtaking scene. The lake before them was a stunning vision. Its banks were lined with a mixture of aeiablooms and their golden counterparts, the blue blossoms releasing trails of aether into the air, just like in the field. The lake’s surface was dark, its waters almost black, but as Ryder stepped closer, he noticed an ethereal glow rising from its depths. Aether cascaded upward, spreading a faint, light-blue radiance through the upper layers of the water.

“What is it with lakes here?” Ryder muttered, more to himself than to Eon. “It’s like they’re otherworldly. Always teeming with magic.”

“Gorgeous, isn’t it?” Eon said with a knowing smile, stepping to the water’s edge. “This is Vaelaris Lake. Legend says that if you wade in its waters, your magical power will be enhanced exponentially. And if you drink from it…” He paused dramatically. “You’ll experience an instant surge in your magical output—but only for a short time.”

Ryder’s gaze drifted back to the glowing water. “And the aether here,” he said, “it’s stronger than anywhere else, isn’t it?”

Eon nodded, surprised at Ryder’s conclusion. “Exactly. I could sense it from the path, even before we got here. It’s said that Arcaenion used the magical energy of this very lake to weave the Vaelstone itself.”

Ryder crouched near the water, staring at the faint glow emanating from below. The legends surrounding this place, the tangible magic in the air, the connection to Arcaenion—it was almost overwhelming. “This place feels… ancient,” Ryder murmured, brushing his fingers through the cool water feeling a slight tingling sensation on his skin.

“It is,” Eon said softly. “Vaelaris Lake is one of the oldest and most sacred places in Aetherealm. To stand here, to feel its magic—it’s a privilege many take for granted.”

Ryder nodded silently, the weight of Eon’s words sinking in. There was something deeply humbling about being in a place that had witnessed the very threads of creation itself.

“I can see why,” Ryder said softly, his gaze locked on the glowing depths of the lake. The swirling blue light below seemed almost alive, drawing him in with its hypnotic beauty.

“You can see…” Eon leaned closer, following Ryder’s line of sight to naught but the dark lake’s water, his excitement suddenly becoming palpable. “Oh, what do you see!?”

Ryder glanced at him, a small smile tugging at his lips. “The aether. It’s everywhere. It looks like it’s pooling at the bottom of the lake, glowing and serene, but tendrils of it are constantly flowing upward, weaving into the water itself. It’s… breathtaking. Like watching pure magic in motion.”

Eon’s eyes widened as he followed Ryder’s gaze, staring intently into the water as though willing himself to see what Ryder could. “Wow,” he murmured, shaking his head. “That’s incredible. What I would give to see what you see, Ryder. I can sense its presence, yes—but that’s all. And yet…” He paused, a thoughtful look crossing his face. “Most Aethereans don’t even realize what they’re missing. They live their lives completely oblivious to the intricacies of the world around them. The aether is everywhere, connecting everything, and yet so few stop to think about it.”

Ryder remained quiet, letting Eon’s words sink in as he continued to watch the magical display beneath the water.

Eon’s voice took on a more introspective tone. “That’s why I’ve devoted my life to magic. Understanding these intricacies—studying them, unraveling their mysteries—it’s what fascinates me. It’s what drives me forward. To discover every secret this world has to offer… that’s my purpose.” He straightened slightly, his gaze shifting from the lake to the star-strewn sky above. “And maybe, one day, I’ll even become the next Grand Luminary.”

Ryder turned to look at him, surprised by the quiet determination in Eon’s voice. For a moment, he saw the boy’s youthful demeanor give way to something far deeper—a dreamer with an unshakable resolve.

“That’s a noble goal,” Ryder said sincerely. “You seem more than capable of achieving it.”

Eon glanced at Ryder and smiled, a spark of hope lighting in his eyes. “You really think so?”

“I do,” Ryder replied, nodding. “Your knowledge, your passion—it’s clear how much this means to you. If anyone could unlock the secrets of this world and rise to the challenge, I’d wager it’s you.”

Eon’s grin widened, his excitement briefly returning. “Thank you, Ryder. That means more than you know.”

The two stood there for a moment, their gazes shifting between the glowing lake below and the glittering sky above. The quiet hum of magic in the air felt almost tangible, binding them to the world in a way Ryder hadn’t yet experienced.

The serene beauty of Vaelaris Lake was shattered when, from the depths of the water a few yards out, a figure began to rise. Ryder’s flame illuminated the scene, casting flickering light across the rippling surface, while for him alone, the glow from the lake’s aether highlighted the figure from below. Her eyes glowed with an ominous golden aura, and water rose around her as if manipulated by her will, ready to strike.

Eon let out a startled yelp, his hand instinctively reaching for Ryder’s arm. Ryder’s eyes widened in alarm, his breath catching in his throat.

“What are you doing here!?” the figure demanded, her voice sharp yet breathless, tinged with an air of familiarity. As quickly as the water had risen, it crashed back into the lake as he seemed to relax, her glowing eyes dimming. The menacing aura dissipated, and the figure began to wade ashore, pulling back her long black hair as she came closer.

Under the light of Ryder’s flame, she stepped fully into view. She was tall and strikingly beautiful, with dark chocolate-colored skin and long, pointed elf-like ears. Her mage’s robe flowed gracefully despite being dry—odd, considering she had just emerged from the lake. A large golden pendant rested against her chest, glinting faintly in the flickering light.

“Oh,” she said, her tone softening as her gaze locked on Ryder. “I apologize. I thought you were someone else entirely.”

“Saeya!?” Eon exclaimed, his voice a mix of surprise and exasperation. “What in Arcaenion’s name are you doing out here at this hour!?”

The woman’s piercing gaze snapped to Eon, startled by his outburst. Her expression softened into a warm smile. “Eon, old friend. Still as animated as ever, I see.” She tilted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly. “I’m glad to see you’re safe. Is everything okay? I was almost certain he—”

“Dodging the question, I see,” Eon interrupted with a huff, his tone impatient. He gestured toward Ryder. “Yes, everything is fine, thanks to him. This is Ryder.”

Saeya turned her attention back to Ryder, offering a kind smile and a nod.

“He actually saved me from a group of umbramancers who were attacking my house,” Eon continued, adjusting his glasses with a quick push. “Showed up just in time. I’m taking him to see the Grand Luminary.”

“Oh, seeing Oberon, are you?” Saeya’s golden honey eyes swept over Ryder, her expression shifting to one of quiet approval. She gave a slight nod. “As Eon so eloquently put it, I’m Saeya, Commander of Stonehaven’s Guard. It’s a pleasure to meet you, Ryder.” Her lips quirked into a small smile. “I’m glad you’re here to protect Eon. Knowing him, he’ll need it.”

“I will not!” Eon snapped, turning away in a huff. “And have some respect—he’s the Grand Luminary now and should be referred to as such!”

Saeya chuckled, resting her head in her hand, amusement dancing in her eyes. “Ever the stubborn one, aren’t you, Eon? Always clinging to semantics.” Her tone lightened as she added, louder, “Still, a fantastic alchemist, I’ll give you that.”

Eon waved a hand dismissively. “Yeah, yeah, stop patronizing me.” He spun back to face her, his expression serious once again. “But really, Saeya, why are you here? Shouldn’t you be in Stonehaven? You know, guarding it?”

Saeya’s smile faltered slightly, and her gaze turned back to the lake. “I’m here for a reason, Eon,” she said, her tone quieter now, more solemn. “There’s been… movement. I needed to confirm something. And, well…” She hesitated, looking back at him. “Let’s just say I didn’t expect to run into you here.”

Ryder watched the exchange silently, noting the weight in Saeya’s words. It was clear she wasn’t revealing the full story, but whatever had brought her to Vaelaris Lake wasn’t trivial.

Eon’s brow furrowed. “Movement? What kind of movement?”

Saeya shook her head. “Not here. This isn’t the time or place.” She glanced at Ryder and then back to Eon. “But it’s tied to what you’re already dealing with—the umbramancers. Be careful, Eon. This is bigger than you think.”

Eon’s lips tightened into a thin line, his usual energy dimmed by the gravity of her words. “Noted,” he said simply.

Saeya turned her attention back to Ryder, her expression softening once more. “It was an honor to meet you, Ryder. If you’re heading to Oberon, stay close to Eon. He’ll get you there safely.”

Ryder nodded, his curiosity about her barely contained. “It was nice to meet you too, Saeya. Thank you for the advice.”

Saeya gave him a final smile before stepping back toward the lake. “Take care, both of you. And Eon?”

“Yes?” Eon asked, his tone sharp.

“Don’t get yourself into trouble you can’t handle,” she said, turning back towards the lake.

“Ah, wait,” Eon said abruptly, summoning a couple of filled bottles as well as several empty bottles with a wave of his hand. “Take this, it’s Auravael lake water.”

Saeya held out her hand, accepting the bottles. “Thanks, Eon.” she said.

Eon nodded before turning his attention back to Ryder. “Let’s gather some of this lake’s water for the journey ahead.” He knelt by the water’s edge and began filling the bottles one by one.

As Eon busied himself, Saeya turned to leave, but Ryder couldn’t hold back any longer. “Saeya,” he called out, his curiosity bursting forth. “That magic you used—manipulating the water—how did you do it?”

She paused and turned her attention back to Ryder, her head tilting slightly as she regarded him with interest. “Ah, interested in hydromancy, are you?” she asked, closing her eyes for a moment, her brows furrowing as if sensing something.

“Hydromancy… Yes, I am,” Ryder said instantly, the term clicking into place as though it had always been waiting for him to understand.

When Saeya opened her eyes, confusion danced across her features. “How do you not already know?” she asked, scrutinizing him. “I can sense your aura—you’re a powerful mage. One with your strength should already be adept at weaving all the elements.”

“No, I’ve never tried to uhh… weave elements before. I’m—” Ryder began, but Eon cut him off mid-sentence.

“He’s not from Aetherealm,” Eon explained with a slight grunt, his arm still submerged in the lake as he filled another bottle. “He doesn’t know much about how magic works here.”

“Not… from Aetherealm?” Saeya murmured, her sharp eyes narrowing as she looked Ryder over yet again, her curiosity clear. Confusion mounting. She gave Ryder a thorough once-over, her gaze sweeping over him as if committing every detail to memory.

Ryder cringed inwardly, feeling like some sort of specimen under examination. Is this how it’s going to be everywhere I go? he wondered.

“It’s not important,” Eon added quickly, standing and brushing dirt from his pants. “But, that’s why we’re going to see the Grand Luminary.” He handed several bottles of glowing lake water to Ryder and Saeya. “Here, take these,” he said.

Ryder accepted the bottles, nodding his thanks before dispelling them into his vault. Saeya followed suit, her movements fluid as she stored the bottles away.

“Thank you, Eon,” Saeya said with a respectful nod. She turned her attention back to Ryder, her expression softening. “In that case, let me give you a brief magic lesson.”

She stepped closer, her tone shifting into one of calm instruction. “In Aetherealm, mages tend to specialize in specific schools of magic. Those who study the art of weaving the elements are called Elemental Mancers. Each element is tied to particular emotions. The Cardinal Four—water, wind, fire, and terra—are ones that come natural to us Aethereans; but other elemental magic exists beyond our capabilities as well. In order to control an element, you must first summon the corresponding emotion, let the aether flow through you, and then bend the aether within the element to your will.”

With a graceful motion, Saeya swirled her hand in the air. Instantly, a shimmering orb of water materialized above her palm. “Take hydromancy, for example. Masters of this art draw on empathy, love, or sorrow to connect with water. We can pull it from almost any source—even the air itself.”

The water began to coat her hand like a glove, glowing faintly with golden light. “Water is unique because it is inherently healing. When we use it for healing, it draws out illness and mends wounds. Many magical healers use hydromancy as their foundation for this reason. A remarkable discovery, wouldn’t you agree?”

Ryder nodded, captivated by the display. “I do,” he said, smiling. “That’s… fascinating.” The idea of manipulating the elements thrilled him. So far, his manipulation magic had been limited to mushrooms and some flora; the idea of controlling primal forces like the elements opened a world of possibilities.

“Of course it is,” Saeya replied with a proud smile.

“Yes, yes, it’s fascinating, but we need to get moving!” Eon interrupted, his voice tinged with impatience.

Saeya scoffed, crossing her arms. “No rest for the wicked, eh? How about this: let’s head back to Stonehaven. I’ll escort you to the inn, and you can rest there for the night. You’ll need the energy for the trek to Aetherspire, and you’ll be safe in Stonehaven.”

Eon’s eyes lit up. “Splendid idea, Saeya! Your grandest idea all evening. Shall we?”

Ryder chuckled softly at Eon’s sudden enthusiasm as the group began their walk back toward the path. The journey to Stonehaven—and eventually Aetherspire—was shaping up to be far more intriguing than Ryder had ever anticipated.

As they began their journey back to the path, Ryder’s eyes caught on a symbol etched into the bark of a nearby tree. “Hey, guys?” he called, his voice tinged with curiosity as he stepped closer for a better look. Both Saeya and Eon stopped, turning to see what had caught his attention. 

“Look at this,” Ryder said, pointing at the carving.

Saeya squinted at the symbol, running her fingers over the intricate lines in the bark. “Strange. What is it?” she asked, her tone curious, yet cautious.

Before anyone could respond, the forest around them stirred. From behind the trees, six figures emerged, clad in the same utilitarian garb Ryder recognized from the umbramancers at Eon’s estate. Their glowing blue rings pulsed in the darkness, illuminating their sinister presence. The only other light came from Ryder’s flame spell, casting flickering shadows across their faces.

“Umbramancers!” Eon shouted. Before anyone could react, magic surged toward them from every direction. Eon raised his hands, a defensive shield materializing around the trio just in time to absorb the onslaught.

Ryder acted on instinct, summoning the staff from his vault. It materialized in his grip with a swirl of aether, and he spun it in a fluid motion, as though it had always been an extension of himself.

Saeya stepped into action, drawing a sleek wand encrusted with crystalline shards that gleamed like frost against its black wood. With a sharp, commanding motion, she pulled water from the nearby lake and sent it crashing into two of the attackers, knocking them off their feet with a forceful wave.

Eon stood firm, his eyes closed as he maintained the shield around them. The glow of his magic flickered with his concentration, protecting them from the relentless assault as he sensed the aether coming at them.

The three umbramancers directly in front of Ryder advanced, their attacks drawing aether from the surrounding flora and leaving a trail of death in their wake. Ryder held his ground within Eon’s shield, the staff glowing faintly in his grasp. He imagined a sweeping arc of aether blasting from the staff, and as he swung it in front of him, a shimmering line of blue light followed the motion. The arc surged forward, slamming into the three men and sending them flying backward.

Saeya, meanwhile, dragged two more umbramancers into the lake with her hydromancy, their shouts muffled by the crashing waves. She spun on her heel, hurling another blast of water at the final attacker, slamming him into a tree with a sickening thud.

Ryder turned back just in time to see two of the men he’d knocked down recovering quickly. They sent wild blasts of aether his way, which were absorbed by Eon’s shield. He retaliated with quick, calculated strikes, sending bolts of aether directly at them. The bolts collided with their targets, throwing the two into each other and knocking them unconscious on top of their fallen comrade.

“More incoming!” Ryder shouted, spotting reinforcements rushing from the shadows. He glanced toward the glowing lake, an idea forming. Dispelling the staff into his vault, he sprinted to the water’s edge and dove in, ignoring Eon’s panicked cry.

“Ryder!” Eon shouted, fear evident in his voice as Ryder disappeared beneath the surface.

The cool water enveloped Ryder, its aether-rich currents brushing against his skin like a thousand tiny sparks. It felt alive, vibrating with energy, a sensation unlike anything he’d ever known.

Rising to his feet in the waist-deep water, he raised his arms above the its surface, recalling Saeya’s earlier lesson: “You must first summon the corresponding emotion, let the aether flow through you, and then bend the aether within the element to your will.”

Sorrow. The weight of loss and longing washed over him—his guardians, his friends, his muses. His eyes welled with tears, merging with the water that clung to his skin. He let the sorrow flow through him, channeling it into the aether surrounding him. The energy responded, replacing his grief with a calm, focused determination. His green eyes glowed faintly, ignited by newfound strength.

Ryder thrust his arms upward, water rising in twin spouts on either side of him, mirroring the motion. He swung his arms forward, guiding the water with precision. The spouts surged past Saeya and Eon, crashing together in front of the advancing umbramancers with a deafening roar. It pushed forward with a force so powerful it took out all three of the men in an instant, each one shredding into pixels as the pressure of the water tore them apart.

The battle seemed won, but as Ryder emerged from the lake, he staggered. A tightness seized his chest, and a blinding pain shot through his head. His legs gave out, and he fell to his knees, clutching at his head and chest. The world around him blurred, the pain so intense it drowned out everything else. He then fell to the ground, writhing in the unimaginable pain.

“Ryder!” Eon screamed, his voice cracking under the weight of panic. He ran to Ryder’s side in an instant and, with trembling hands, flipped him onto his back.

Saeya dispelled her wand with a fluid motion, her expression as sharp as her movements, and hurried to join Eon. She knelt beside Ryder, her gaze darting between his ashen face and Eon’s frantic hands as he fumbled with the buttons on Ryder’s shirt.

“Aether poisoning!” Eon exclaimed, his words laden with urgency. His hands shook as he finally managed to pull open Ryder’s shirt, exposing his hairy, rainbow-freckled chest.

Without hesitation, Saeya summoned water from the air, the liquid swirling into her palms as if responding to her will. Coating her hands in the shimmering water, she placed one firmly on Ryder’s chest and the other gently on his temple. Her eyes closed briefly, and when they reopened, they glowed with a brilliant golden light. The water on her hands mirrored the glow, pulsating with raw energy.

Ryder felt it immediately—a cool, calming sensation that spread from her hands and coursed through his body. The unbearable pressure in his chest lifted, and the throbbing pain in his head began to fade. His heavy eyelids fluttered open, and through his blurred vision, he saw Saeya’s golden eyes locked onto his, unwavering in their intensity. It felt as though she were staring straight through him.

The water on her hands darkened, shifting to an inky black that almost seemed to radiate a sinister glow. Ryder watched in awe as the liquid absorbed the aether poisoning from his body. Saeya’s focus never faltered, even as the dark water writhed unnaturally in her palms. After a few long minutes, she pulled her hands away, leaving Ryder with nothing more than a faint headache.

Saeya brought her hands together, forming the blackened water into a swirling orb between her palms. With a flick of her wrists, she hurled the orb into the lake. It hit the surface with a quiet splash, dissolving into the water and disappearing entirely.

“Incredible,” Ryder whispered, his voice hoarse but full of wonder as he tried to steady his breathing.

 A fleeting thought crossed Ryder’s mind as he fully regained his composure: She touched my bare skin without any effect. Is it no longer poisonous? The realization stirred a mixture of relief and curiosity within him, though he dared not voice it aloud.

“Incredible indeed,” Saeya replied, leaning back down to his level. She extended her hand, her expression softening into one of reassurance. “Are you feeling alright? That was an impressive display of weaving, especially for a first attempt.”

Ryder hesitated for a moment before taking her hand. Her grip was firm but gentle as she pulled him to his feet. “I’m… yes, I’m feeling much better now, thanks to you.” He offered a small smile, though his legs still felt unsteady beneath him.

“Incredible!? Are you both mad!?” Eon’s voice cut through the moment, a mix of exasperation and relief. He paced in small, frantic circles before running a hand down his face. “Ryder, you could have died! Do you have any idea how reckless that was?”

Ryder flinched at Eon’s outburst, guilt twisting in his chest. “I-I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to worry you. I thought… I thought I could use what Saeya just taught me to help. I didn’t realize it would be so dangerous. What… what exactly happened to me?”

Saeya stepped in before Eon could spiral further, her voice calm but firm. “Let’s get you dried off and back to the inn. I’ll explain on the way.”

She raised her hand toward Ryder, her honey eyes glowing briefly as she concentrated. The water in his clothes began to pull away, forming droplets that hovered in the air before coalescing into a Ryder-shaped blob. In a single smooth motion, the blob floated toward the lake and dissipated into its depths. Ryder’s clothes were left completely dry, as though he had never touched the water.

Ryder blinked, stunned by her effortless display of magic. He ran his fingers over his now-dry shirt, realizing with embarrassment that it was still unbuttoned. Quickly, he buttoned it back up, his face flushing slightly. “Thank you,” he said quietly, genuinely impressed by her skill.

Saeya gave him a knowing smile before turning to Eon, who was already impatiently gesturing toward the path. “Now, let’s move,” Eon urged, his tone still laced with worry as he started toward the trail.

Ryder glanced back at the lake one last time, the events of the battle and its aftermath swirling in his mind. He took a deep breath, then followed Eon and Saeya into the night, the glow of his flame spell lighting their way.

Once back on the path, Ryder paused to take in the breathtaking night sky. The full moon cast its silvery glow across the landscape, and the stars above shimmered with an ethereal brilliance that seemed far more magical than the skies back home. Everything about Aetherealm felt hauntingly familiar, as though it were somewhere he’d always known yet couldn’t quite place. Despite the danger he had faced—unsavory umbramancers, the searing agony of aether poisoning, and the relentless uncertainty—he felt an undeniable pull to this realm. It was as if Aetherealm held a promise: a place he could belong, a world where he could truly make a difference.

For a while, they walked in silence, the rhythmic crunch of their footsteps the only sound as Ryder allowed himself to get lost in the beauty of the night. Then, Saeya broke the quiet.

“What you experienced back there is called aether poisoning,” she began, her voice steady but laced with concern. “It happens when too much aether courses through your body in a short time, overwhelming your system. As Eon mentioned, you very well could have died. Luckily, with hydromancy, we can compress and contain the excess aether. That inky substance you saw—it’s the condensed aether being drawn out of your system. This is the only way we’ve ever truly seen aether, through hydromancy’s magical healing.”

Eon, walking a few paces ahead, let out a chuckle. Without turning around, he added, “He doesn’t just see it then, Saeya. He can see it all the time.”

Saeya stopped in her tracks, her eyes wide with astonishment. “Y-you can see aether!?” she exclaimed, grabbing Ryder’s shirt and pulling him around to face her.

Caught off guard, Ryder stumbled slightly but regained his footing quickly. He found himself looking into Saeya’s soft honey-colored eyes, their beauty even more striking under the moonlight. He couldn’t help but chuckle at her urgency. “Yeah, I can see it. It looks like a fine, bright blue dust, glowing as it floats in the air,” he explained calmly.

Saeya gawked at him, disbelief etched across her face. “That’s… incredible. Where are you from?”

Before Ryder could answer, Eon, now a good distance ahead, stopped and turned with an impatient wave. “Come on, you two! He can explain it while we walk. Let’s keep moving!”

Ryder smiled and jogged to catch up with Eon.

“Wait for me!” Saeya called, hurrying after them.

Over the next hour, Ryder recounted his story to Saeya, sparing no detail about his life back home or his mysterious arrival in Aetherealm. Saeya’s reactions were nothing short of entertaining—her jaw practically dragging along the dirt path as she alternated between amazement and disbelief. She peppered him with questions, her curiosity relentless, barely giving Ryder a chance to respond before asking the next one. By the time the fortified city of Stonehaven came into view, Saeya still seemed to be processing everything he had told her.

“There it is… Stonehaven,” Saeya said, pride evident in her voice as she gestured toward the towering rampart walls and the large moat that surrounded it. The city looked formidable under the moonlight, its tall walls casting long shadows, while torches along the upper ramparts flickered against the night. Warm light spilled from within, illuminating the gate and hinting at the bustling life inside. For Ryder, the sight stirred something deep within—a glimmer of hope amidst all the chaos and uncertainty. Here, at least, was a place of light and safety in a world that had been equal parts enchanting and perilous.

Saeya led them closer but stopped abruptly a few yards from the gate. “Stay here a moment,” she instructed, motioning for Ryder and Eon to wait as she approached the guards stationed at the entrance.

The guards were immediately on alert, their eyes narrowing as the group neared, but the moment they recognized her, their postures shifted. They snapped to attention. “Commander Saeya!”

“Good evening, gentlemen,” Saeya said, her tone calm yet commanding. She stepped closer to one of the guards, her voice dropping low as she whispered something Ryder and Eon couldn’t hear.

From their vantage point, Ryder watched curiously as the guard nodded and called to his companions above. The large gate creaked and groaned as it began to open, revealing the lit path beyond. Saeya motioned for them to follow as the guard she had spoken to ran ahead into the city, leaving his counterpart to remain outside, vigilant as ever.

As they passed through the gate, it began to close behind them with a resounding thud. “We’ve had to be especially protective of Stonehaven,” Saeya explained as she led them through the torchlit streets. “With the recent surge in umbramancer activity, we’ve taken no chances.”

The city was alive even at this late hour, its cobblestone streets lined with homes and shops glowing softly with warm light. A few townsfolk still wandered about, their curious gazes drawn immediately to Ryder. Whispers followed them as they walked, and Ryder caught more than a few blatant stares. It was enough to make him feel thoroughly out of place, and he kept his eyes forward, trying to ignore the attention.

Before long, they reached a large wooden building marked by an ornate sign that read Wayfarer’s Rest in elegant, whimsical script. Saeya stepped forward, opening the heavy door and holding it ajar as she turned to face Ryder and Eon.

“It was a pleasure meeting you, Ryder,” she said warmly. “And as always, it’s nice to see you, old friend.” She nodded at Eon with a smile.

“The pleasure is all mine,” Ryder said sincerely, his exhaustion evident as he gave a small, grateful bow. “And thank you, Saeya—for quite literally saving my life.”

Eon simply adjusted his glasses and gave her a curt nod.

“Of course, and thank you for saving ours,” Saeya replied, her smile widening. “I hope you both enjoy your stay in Stonehaven. Good luck on your journey to meet Oberon. I look forward to the day our paths cross again.” With that, she gave a final nod and pulled the door closed behind them.

“It’s Grand Luminary!” Eon huffed, his voice tinged with irritation. Through the nearby window, the sound of Saeya’s laughter drifted back toward them as she walked away, leaving Eon rolling his eyes in exasperation.

Inside Wayfarer’s Rest, the lobby buzzed with life. A lively crowd gathered around the large hearth at the center, their conversations blending into a low hum of warmth and camaraderie. The space was both grand and cozy, with wooden beams arching overhead and tapestries lining the walls, depicting scenes of what Ryder could only guess were significant moments in Aetherealm’s history.

Directly in front of them stood a polished desk, behind which a woman in neatly pressed, albeit slightly antiquated attire, greeted them with a welcoming smile. Her role as the inn’s receptionist was unmistakable.

“Welcome to Wayfarer’s Rest, travelers. Would you like a room, or perhaps a bite to eat?” she asked, her tone professional yet warm.

Eon stepped forward confidently. “A room, please—two beds,” he said, summoning a small leather pouch of coins with a flick of his wrist. He pulled out three coins and placed them on the desk. “Keep the change,” he added with a courteous smile.

The woman nodded her thanks and turned to the wall behind her, which was lined with an impressive array of keys, each glowing faintly under what Ryder noticed to be a shimmering magical barrier. As she reached through the barrier and plucked a key, the air rippled like disturbed water. Returning to the desk, she handed the key to Eon.

“Thank you, sir. Here’s your key—room 404. Would you like assistance with the elevation platform?” she asked politely, tucking two of the coins into a satchel beneath the desk and pocketing one for herself.

Eon shook his head. “No need, but thank you,” he replied, pocketing the key. He turned to Ryder and motioned for him to follow as they approached a room with several glass shafts lined along the wall, next to a grand staircase spiraling upward.

“Alright, up we go,” Eon said with a wave of his hand, opening one of the glass doors and stepping onto a small metallic platform. He glanced back at Ryder, who hesitated at the sight of the open glass walls. “Come on, it’s perfectly safe,” Eon assured him with a knowing smile.

Reluctantly, Ryder stepped onto the platform beside Eon. The glass door slid shut behind them with another wave of Eon’s hand. He then outstretched his hand toward the floor and closed his eyes. The platform began to hum softly. A faint blue glow radiated from beneath their feet, and the platform suddenly ascended, smoothly yet faster than Ryder had expected. He instinctively grabbed the edge for balance, his heart racing.

“You get used to it,” Eon said with a chuckle, clearly amused by Ryder’s reaction.

As they rose, Ryder’s unease was replaced by awe. Through the glass walls of the shaft, he could see the sprawling expanse of Stonehaven, its torchlit streets winding like golden veins through the city. In the distance, a magnificent castle loomed, its silhouette framed by the ethereal glow of the moon and stars. Ryder’s jaw dropped as he took in the view.

Before he could fully process it, the platform came to a gentle stop. “Fourth floor,” Eon announced, waving his hand to open the glass door. They stepped out into a space identical to the ground level’s platform room except now it opened into a quiet hallway. A sign hung on the wall:

→ 400-410

← 411-420

Eon immediately turned right, walking with the ease of someone familiar with the layout.

“Come here often?” Ryder quipped, noting Eon’s apparent confidence.

“It’s been a few years,” Eon replied as they approached a door marked 404. He slid the key into the lock and turned it, the door opening with a satisfying click. “But some things don’t change.”

The door swung open to reveal their accommodations for the night. The room was stunning—more akin to a small apartment than what one would assume a typical inn’s accommodation looked like. It offered all the comforts one could want: a kitchenette with a cozy dining area, a fully furnished living space with plush chairs and a large writing desk, and a wall of glass offering an astounding view of Stonehaven and its twinkling torches below. A short hallway branched off to a bathroom and bedroom, adding to the sense of spaciousness and luxury.

Eon snapped his fingers, and the candles suspended from the ceiling flickered to life, casting a warm, inviting glow over the space. With a flick of his wrist, the floor to ceiling decorative curtains slid shut over the glass wall, enveloping the room in a private, tranquil atmosphere.

“I’ll make us some tea. Go ahead and check out the rest of the place if you’d like,” Eon offered, making his way toward the kitchenette. He snapped his fingers, igniting the stove-like device similar to the one Ryder had seen at his estate. From a hook above, he retrieved a pot, filled it with water, and set it to boil.

Ryder nodded, heading down the short hallway. At the end, he found a cabinet for storage, while the bathroom and bedroom branched off to either side. The bathroom was modest but well-equipped, and the bedroom housed two neatly made beds with soft linens. Everything was perfectly arranged, lending the room an almost luxurious feel. After a moment of taking it all in, Ryder returned to the living area.

“This place is amazing,” Ryder said with a smile, sitting down in a chair in the living area. “It’s much nicer than I expected.”

“Well, that’s a bit rude,” Eon teased, his tone light as he poured boiling water into two teacups prepped with leaves and petals. “Never have expectations, and you’ll always be pleasantly surprised.”

Eon walked over to the living area and handed Ryder one of the cups before settling into a chair.

Ryder swirled the tea, breathing in its sweet and enticing aroma. “Aeiabloom tea,” he noted with a smile. “Is this your favorite?”

“Absolutely,” Eon said proudly, reclining slightly. “The finest in all of Aetherealm, in my very humble opinion.”

Ryder chuckled, taking a sip of the shimmering blue liquid. Its flavor was as delightful as its aroma, a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Eon, on the other hand, let out a satisfied sigh after slurping his first sip, clearly savoring the drink.

“So,” Eon said, clasping the cup in his hands, “let’s discuss the plan.”

“Right.” Ryder shifted in his chair, realizing he hadn’t thought about much beyond trusting Eon to lead the way to Oberon.

Eon leaned forward. “First thing tomorrow, I’ll head to the docks and get us ferry tickets. The ships run on a schedule, so I’ll confirm the next departure to Tidefall. While I’m gone, you should stay here and rest—or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the city a bit. Just don’t leave the city walls, okay? Like Saeya said, you’ll be safe here, but try not to draw too much attention to yourself.”

Ryder nodded. “Got it. I think I can manage that.”

“Good.” Eon drained the rest of his tea, letting out a contented sigh before standing up, stretching his arms. “Let’s get some rest. It’s been a long day.”

Ryder nodded in agreement as Eon stood. The two placed their finished teacups in the kitchenette sink before Eon flicked his wrist, putting out all of the candles at once. The space grew dim until only the faintest glow of moonlight seeped in through the cracks of the heavy curtains.

The two made their way to the bedroom, the day’s exhaustion weighing heavily on them. Eon fell asleep almost as instantly as his head hit the pillow, his breathing evening out into soft, rhythmic snores that filled the otherwise silent room.

Ryder, however, lay wide awake, staring at the shadowed ceiling above him. The day’s events replayed in his mind like a whirlwind: the umbramancers, the aether poisoning, and the sheer wonder of this strange world he had stumbled into. It all felt so surreal, like he was caught in a dream.

He shifted, pulling the blanket closer, wishing with all his heart that when he opened his eyes, he’d be back in his own room, surrounded by the familiar comforts of home. He let out a quiet sigh, his gaze softening as he closed his eyes. Ryder focused intently on his bedroom, visualizing every detail—the way the light filtered through the curtains in the morning, the feel of his desk under his fingers, the scent of old books lining his shelves, the hum of his computer whirring to life.

Maybe if he focused hard enough, this would all fade away, and he’d wake up in his own bed. As the thought lingered, his body finally began to relax, and he drifted into sleep, his mind still clinging to the image of home.