The golden hues of the setting sun painted the sky as they settled into a quiet clearing, the land stretching endlessly around them. A gentle breeze rustled the tall grass, and the rhythmic chirping of crickets filled the air, blending with the distant sound of flowing water. Atlas and Drogo lay curled beside them, their wings twitching occasionally as they rested from the day's journey. They spent the past few hours exploring–crossing rivers, climbing hills, and marveling at the breathtaking landscapes that felt so different from the world they had left behind. For the first time in a long while, they simply allowed themselves to exist, free from urgency.
Just as Starfania let her body relax against the cool land, a sudden shift in the air sent a chill down her spine. The wind stilled. Silence: Silence fell upon the cricket's melody. The surrounding shadows seemed to stretch unnaturally, bending a single point before them. And then–she appeared. Cantina. Cloaked in dark flowing robes materialized before them, her presence commanding and otherworldly. The firelight flickered widely in response to her arrival, casting eerie shapes across her face. Her piercing gaze met Starfania, and though they had met a few times, this was the first time her friend was seeing her.
" Starfania and friends, " Cantina said. Her voice resonated like an echo through the wind, laced with an authority that sent a shiver through their bones. " It seems that you have made it. "
Aeron and Violet rubbed their eyes just to make sure they weren't seeing things while Starfania simply smiled at her. As she said, " Well, it's good to see you too, Cantina. "
Cantina's arms were folded as she walked around the surrounding area, taking in the scenic views. Violet and Aeron both leaned slightly toward Starfania to whisper. " Is that Cantina the one you've been speaking to? "
Starfania nodded, her smile growing wider.
"Yes, that's her," she replied softly, her eyes twinkling with warmth. Cantina paused to admire a cluster of vibrant flowers, their colors vivid against the backdrop of the gentle hills. She took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet fragrance that filled the air.
"She seems different," Violet whispered, glancing at Cantina with a mix of curiosity and admiration. Aeron raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"Different how?" he asked, leaning in closer. Starfania shrugged lightly, her expression thoughtful.
"Stronger, maybe. Like she sees things and comes out the other side." They watched as Cantina continued her exploration, her presence radiating confidence and a sense of belonging.
"I can't wait to hear her stories," Violet said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"It feels like she has so much to share." Aeron nodded in agreement. "It's rare to find someone who carries that kind of energy."
The anticipation in the air was palpable as they waited for Cantina to turn back and join them. Cantina let out a dramatic sigh as she folded her arms, her gaze flickering between Aeron, Violet, and Drogo.
" Alright, fine. I suppose a proper introduction is in order, " she said, rolling her eyes as she found the entire process tedious. She took a step forward, tilting her head slightly.
" The name's Cantina. I'm sure you heard of me through Starfania, but today I'm just a messenger from my boss. " A mischievous smirk played on her lips as she said, " And before you ask, no, I'm not telling you who my boss is. But, lucky for you, I'm here to help. "
She raised a hand, and in a seamless motion, a book materialized out of thin air, glowing faintly in the dim light.
As she handed it to Starfania, and the moment her fingers brushed its surface, a strange warmth pulse through her palm. The cover was adorned with intricate symbols, shifting slightly, as if alive.
" Everything you need to know is inside, " Cantina said, her voice tinged with something between amusement and warning. " Use it wisely. "
Starfania nodded, gripping the book tightly. " Thank you. "
Cantina took a step back, preparing to leave, but then paused, then paused, clicking her tongue as if she'd nearly forgotten something. " Oh, right? Whenever you're looking for an answer, just think and it will appear. "
Aeron crossed his arms, clearly skeptical. " And we're supposed to just trust you? "
Cantina fixed Aeron with a knowing look. "Trust is earned, but sometimes it's necessary to take a leap. But hey, I just handed over an enchanted book that's going to help you. That's gotta count for something. "