The Secret Pact: Veil of Elandria
The First Encounter
Finn wanders through the misty, moonlit forest, his steps tentative but fueled by curiosity. Suddenly, he senses eyes watching him, and a shiver runs down his spine. From behind the trees, a faint glow emerges—a graceful unicorn with a gleaming white coat steps into view. Her eyes are wise and warm, filled with both caution and curiosity.
Finn (whispering, awestruck): “A… a unicorn… It can’t be… you’re real?”
Lyra tilts her head, studying him with a mix of wonder and caution. Her voice, when she speaks, is soft yet echoing, like a whisper through the trees.
Lyra: “Few humans find their way to Elandria. And fewer still with such wonder in their hearts… Who are you, young one?”
Finn (stammering): “I—I’m Finn. I didn’t mean to intrude… I just… I always felt there was something more out there, something calling me.”
Just as Lyra seems to relax slightly, a deep, rumbling growl cuts through the silence. A large, golden-scaled dragon emerges from the shadows, his eyes narrowed as he studies Finn with suspicion.
Tharos (voice like thunder): “Another human, Lyra? Have you forgotten what happened the last time you trusted one of his kind?”
Finn (taking a cautious step back): “I—I don’t mean any harm. I swear. I didn’t even know you existed until a moment ago!”
Lyra glances between Tharos and Finn, clearly torn. She steps protectively in front of Finn, though her own eyes are uncertain.
Lyra: “Tharos, he bears no weapon. Look at him—he’s no warrior or hunter. Just a curious heart, drawn here by something he may not understand.”
Tharos (snorting smoke): “Curiosity is a human’s excuse for destruction. How many times have we allowed them near, only to lose more of our kind?”
Finn (voice trembling, but sincere): “I… I don’t know what happened before. But I’m not like that. I came here to find answers… maybe even a place I belong. I feel connected to this forest somehow, like it’s part of me.”
Lyra studies Finn closely, her eyes softening as she senses something familiar in him. But Tharos remains resolute, his tail lashing with agitation.
Tharos: “Words, just words. Humans are masters of deceit.”
Lyra (turning to Tharos, gently but firmly): “Then let me decide. I sense something old within him, a thread that binds him to this land. Give him a chance, Tharos. Just one.”
Tharos grumbles, but after a tense pause, he gives a reluctant nod.
Tharos: “Very well. But remember, human, if you betray us, there will be no mercy.”
Finn (nodding earnestly): “Thank you. I won’t let you down. I… I feel like I’ve been searching for this place my whole life.”
Lyra offers Finn a reassuring nod, stepping closer.
Lyra: “Come, Finn. If you truly wish to know Elandria, we shall be your guides. But tread carefully, for magic is woven into every breath here, and not all who wander are welcomed.”
Finn takes a deep breath, his heart pounding with a mix of fear and excitement as he follows Lyra and Tharos deeper into Elandria. The adventure has begun.
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| Title: Unicorn and Dragon. Place/Date: Jakarta, 2005, Media: Oil on Canvas. White Unicorn and Sea Dragon head. The two famous mythical creatures that inspire people since long ago. |
