Chapter 298: A way through (1/2)

The gradually increasing thickness, the cold saturation of the air, the lack of dampness despite the cavern walls covered in moss… There were many anomalies in this tunnel as Aiden ventured deeper and deeper to the core.

There was familiar energy in the air, with qualities similar if not actually the very same as his own [Soul Power]. What did this mean?

'Is this place related to… me or the Primals?' He asked inwardly. Either way, this realization would be shocking, and just as puzzling.

If the place would be related to him, Aiden, the boy then someone in the past knew about him and made plans for him. Someone… maybe a related person? A family member perhaps? Could it be that shadowy figure was someone he should know about?

'No… How could that be true…' He shook his head, refusing to believe that conjecture.

On the other hand, if this place had some sort of relationship with the Primals, the ancient and long-forgotten race then that would be just as equally shocking. Just think about it, a race forgotten and most likely forcefully erased from the history books. A race that should have no imprint, any relic left to the current millennia, still managed to save something for the next generation.

'Still… That would be just as unbelievable. How could anything survive the tens if not hundreds of thousands of years that passed since then? How or why did the orcs settle down around this Grotto then? Why did they worship this place? And, most importantly, what relation does that strange figure has with the Primals?' The more he thought about it, the more questions arose in Aiden's mind, with no answers in sight.

Either theory lead back ultimately to that thin figure, that shadow, that dark silhouette. Just who was he? Or maybe the figure was a she?

'No, his voice, although hard to discern, it was still masculine. His figure was also more on the male side than the other. However, who knows, he may not be a humanoid at all…' He lamented, letting out a long sigh.

As he did so, the mature bell-like voice of Enya resounded in his mind.

'[Whilst I am prohibited to give a direct answer, I can tell you that what you seek is down there, and none of your thoughts are wrong. By basis, if you think about it, both theories are one and the same. There are no Primals anymore, you are the last surviving member. This is a fact, and that will not change.]'

'That…' Aiden wanted to argue, but in the end, he decided against it. He took a moment to calm himself, before resuming his lonesome journey.

'Fine, I can accept that. But, why couldn't the others come? What dangers would await them here? I can't sense anything…' He asked again. So far, he had trekked for ten minutes without any change in the scenery. What was so dangerous in this place that he had to make sure, that none of his party members follow after him?

'[This place is unlike the outside. You will understand when you arrive. Trust me, Aiden.]'

Just like before, Enya's response was vague, shrouded in mystery, Aiden could only sigh, and let go of any further ideas to pry something useful out from her obstinate guide. Still, despite his failed attempts, he was glad, happy that he could finally hear her voice, feel her presence…

After all, she was there with him ever since he could remember. She was the closest person to his heart, the only one that knew everything about him. There were no secrets in front of her all-seeing eyes.

---

'What is he doing, I don't understand why we couldn't follow him. What dangers? How could it be safer for him alone than with a group of 6?' sitting on the ground and leaning against the wall, Drake was grumbling.

He had his majestic, ornate sword unsheathed and resting in between his legs. He was gazing at the blue, hollow gemstone etched into the pommel, just below the grip. What looked like a simple, expensive jewel to others, was his best friend, his companion, Mort.