A Promise That Won't Wait

                                                                                    Chapter 5

Outside Ludus Gladiatorius

Tallia, Jean, and Klaus stood before the towering statue of Sophia, an Aasir who watched over humanity.

Carved in flowing robes, her serene smile and outstretched hand offered comfort, while the other rested over her heart in quiet devotion. Her pale gold-ivory skin and folded wings shimmered with an ethereal glow, flowers at her feet symbolizing the bond between the celestial and the mortal.

Tallia gazed at the statue in admiration, thinking, "Sophia, the Aasir of compassion and solace, the patron of Edinlodge. Her love embraces all, especially in times of hardship. I want to embody her virtues... to be just as remarkable."

Jean broke the silence. "Tallia, ready for a practice bout?"

Tallia blinked, caught off guard. "Huh? Why?"

"We've got the League next week. Gotta stay sharp," Jean replied matter-of-factly.

Tallia hesitated, lost in thought for a moment, then gave a firm nod. "I understand. Let's do it."

Klaus stretched his arms lazily. "I'll sit this one out. Just watching today."

The two stepped back, golden light shimmering as their armour and weapons manifested.

Tallia's bronze-plated dress, adorned with leaf patterns, balanced elegance and protection. Eagle-embossed armour, reinforced leggings, and sleek armoured shoes enhanced her commanding presence.

Jean's armour, etched like frozen soundwaves, pulsed with latent energy. Indigo accents matched her hair, while a midnight-blue cloak draped over her shoulders, adding a noble touch.

The bout began without hesitation. Tallia lunged forward, her Glaive of Fierbois sweeping in a wide arc.

The bronze-finished polearm, engraved with intricate designs, bore a curved blade shaped like outstretched wings, glowing with yellow accents.

Jean met the strike with her Guitarra Blade, its sleek, guitar-inspired form humming with energy. The weapon's razor-sharp edges and fret-like engravings embodied both artistry and lethality.

As their weapons clashed, Jean absorbed the impact, converting it into a wave of resonant power that surged toward Tallia.

Tallia leaped back, narrowly avoiding the vibrating pulse that Jean sent toward her. "Fighting Jean up close is risky," she thought.

Concentrating her energy, she extended her hand toward the ground. "Plant Celestia: Amazon Vines!" she called.

Thick vines erupted from the earth, wrapping around Jean's legs and pulling her down. Jean slashed at the vines with her blade, but they only seemed to tighten around her.

Tallia smirked, feeling a rush of confidence. "Got you."

But Jean wasn't finished. With a strum of the Energic Stick across her Guitarra Blade, she unleashed a resonant blast that shattered the vines and surged toward Tallia.

Acting quickly, Tallia conjured a bamboo barrier, the thick stalks absorbing the vibrational energy.

As the blast subsided, Jean sprang into the air, leaping onto the bamboo stalks that Tallia had summoned. In midair, she launched a rapid flurry of strikes with both the Guitarra Blade and Energic Stick.

Tallia raised her glaive just in time, blocking the strikes in quick succession.

Suddenly, Amazon Vines shot out from the bamboo barrier behind Jean, wrapping tightly around her arms and legs, pulling her down once more.

"What?" Jean gasped. "Vines hidden inside the bamboo? When did she learn that?"

Tallia took advantage of the moment, disarming Jean and binding her with the vines. Jean struggled, but her movements were restricted.

"It worked!" Tallia felt a surge of triumph, but the moment was short-lived.

Mid-battle, doubt crept in as she recalled her promise to Weston. "Why am I fighting her? Am I really going to leave this country and join the League, breaking my promise to live a life with Westie?"

Jean's voice rang out, full of determination. "Metal Celestia: Steel Edge!"

With a sharp metallic gleam, the vines were sliced clean, and Jean freed herself in an instant.

Before Tallia could react, Jean rushed forward, landing a swift kick that knocked her off balance.

"Tallia!" Jean shouted, concerned. "Why are you losing focus? That's not like you!"

Tallia gritted her teeth, steadying herself.

***

Cliffdecorps Town Hall

In the village's central meeting hall, elders, leaders, representatives, and a crowd of observers gathered for the final meeting regarding the King's decree of relocation.

Asher spoke, continuing his address to the assembly. "...our decisions ripple through time, influencing the lives of those yet to come. Our unity must guide us through this deliberation..."

At the front of the hall, the main table commanded attention, serving as the focal point for the assembly.

Asher, the village chief, sat at the centre, flanked by Eliezer, the deputy chief, and Dinah, the village representative, all positioned on one side. Next to them were Einar, the village defender, and two elders, Oben and Nahor.

The table was adorned with symbols of their shared history, featuring a vibrant banner representing the village and various cultural artifacts.

As Asher spoke, Bethuel leaned closer to Weston. "It's rare to see Elder Nahor actively involved in our village's affairs. His influence is immense, being the last living connection to our founder and integral to establishing this village."

Nahor, a sturdy elderly man, sat with quiet authority. His flowing white beard and golden eyes held centuries of wisdom, while his calm, knowing smile reflected his enduring patience. Draped in red and gold robes, he carried both the weight of his noble past and the tranquil presence of a true elder.

Asher nodded, continuing, "And so, we have arrived at this pivotal moment to finalize our decision."

Dinah, the village representative, stood up. "I stand by what I stated in our last meeting. Our fertile land and exotic flora foster thriving agriculture. Relocating would strip us of what makes us special."

Eliezer countered, "I get your point. But think about the benefits of moving to Ioan. Sure, we'd have to start over, but the rich soil and trade routes could help us thrive in new markets and bring greater prosperity in the long run."

Oben, the village elder, shook his head. "Are you sure the grass is greener? In my lifetime, I've seen the manipulations of propaganda by those in power. The benefits you speak of could be mere lies."

Einar, the village defender, added, "Our elder's observation is wise. Trusting the King's words could be a gamble. Remember the promises made when he ascended the throne? Can we really trust him now?"

A murmur of agreement rippled through the assembly, heads nodding.

Asher considered their words thoughtfully. "Einar makes a compelling point. But rejecting the King's decree could provoke war. We must weigh the consequences of opposing a militarily superior force."

Dinah replied, "That would be the gravest outcome. But it's hard to believe King Charles would wage war against us. Edinlodge is known for its tranquillity. Such a decision would contradict its core values."

Nahor, the village elder, interjected firmly, "Before we continue, there's an essential point I must make."

He pressed on, his tone steady and commanding, "Our founder, Moses Avalanche, did not merely arrive here—he was driven by a vision that gave birth to this haven. He carved out a sanctuary where we could thrive, free from the chaos of the outside world. His task to us was clear: preserve this land, blessed by the stars of Virgo, and remain steadfast until a Seer of Truth guides us to the promised land."

His voice resonated throughout the hall. A solemn silence followed as the villagers absorbed his words.

"For a hundred years, we have followed Moses Avalanche's sacred vision, building this village according to the ideals he left us. It is our responsibility to uphold that legacy and pass it on, untarnished, to future generations until the day of covenant is fulfilled!"

A pause lingered, a profound silence punctuating his statement, as the villagers absorbed his words.

Nahor's voice rose powerfully, resonating through the hall like the call of a commanding leader.

"As we face this crucial moment, I urge you to reflect on our founder's vision! Moses Avalanche crafted this sanctuary, woven into our identity and the spirit of Edinlodge. Relocation isn't just a change of scenery; it severs our ties to our heritage! We cannot uproot our village for convenience! The wisdom of our ancestors and their ideals are our sacred duties! We are the torchbearers of Moses's legacy!"

The weight of his conviction filled the room, mingling with the gentle rustling of leaves outside. The assembly stood poised on the brink of a momentous decision, stirred by Nahor's impassioned plea.

Weston whispered to Bethuel, "That seals the deal."

Asher, taking charge, declared, "You've all heard Elder Nahor's powerful speech. I believe further discourse is unnecessary. We will now make our decision. Those who choose to remain in Edin Hills, please raise your hands!"

A profound silence enveloped the hall as hands began to rise one by one, creating a powerful wave of unity.

By the end, every hand was raised, filling the space with an overwhelming sense of solidarity. Smiles blossomed among the elders, observers, and leaders as they witnessed this heartwarming display.

Asher, standing tall with a raised fist, shouted with unwavering conviction, "IT HAS BEEN DECIDED!!! WE STAY!!!!!!!!!!!"

The assembly erupted in a powerful chorus, their voices intertwining in resolute defiance, "WE STAY! WE STAY! FOR CLIFFDECORPS!"

***

Outside Ludus Gladiatorius

Tallia and Jean concluded their practice bout, the air around them thick with the energy of their exertion. Their breaths came in measured pants, a testament to the intensity of their sparring session.

Klaus, grinning, leaned in with a teasing tone. "8 to 6 strikes. Looks like Jean takes the win this time."

Jean, wiping sweat from her brow, turned to Tallia, sensing something was off. "Hey, Tallia, is something on your mind?"

Tallia paused, catching her breath. Her expression was one of deep contemplation, with her brow slightly furrowed and her lips pressed into a thin line, revealing the internal struggle she was facing.

Jean's perceptive eyes narrowed. "It's about Weston and Cliffdecorps, isn't it?"

The weight of Tallia's internal struggle hung in the air.

Sensing her friend's turmoil, Jean unsummoned her armour with a sigh, her gaze softening. "Look, sort things out before we leave next week. It's best for you and the team."

With that, Jean walked away, leaving Tallia standing alone, wrestling with her emotions.

Klaus stepped closer, speaking softly yet firmly. "Jean might be tough, but remember, we're behind you no matter what you face."

He smiled, confidence shining through. "And you're the strongest among us. We're counting on you."

With an encouraging nod, Klaus joined Jean on her way, leaving Tallia with her thoughts. As her friends dispersed, a smile curled on Tallia's lips. "Klaus, always so kind," she whispered, gratitude swelling within her.

The grass beneath her feet seemed to resonate with her internal struggle, a reflection of the decisions she grappled with. Autumn leaves, golden and russet, swirled gently around her, a poignant reminder of time passing and the looming choices ahead.

A gust of wind danced through the viridescent trees, rustling leaves like whispers of encouragement. Tallia's hair and clothing swayed with the breeze, mirroring the conflict in her heart. Gazing at the horizon, she felt the sun's warm embrace casting a golden hue over everything.

A sense of determination filled her.

"I can't delay any longer," she resolved.

With resolute steps, Tallia left the field to confront Weston about the promise they made years ago. The wind carried away her hesitation—there was no turning back now.