A New Route

The gravity of Erohan's story settled over Amukelo and Eliss like a cloak, wrapping them in contemplation and newfound determination. The tale of Eldrian Shadowbane and the ancient war illuminated the critical nature of their quest, casting their mission in a stark, urgent light. For a while, they flew in a reflective silence, each lost in thoughts of the past and its echoes in their present journey.

Eventually, Amukelo broke the quiet, her voice carrying a mix of awe and resolve. "Now, I truly understand the importance of stopping Valarian," he said, the weight of history pressing upon her words. Her eyes met Erohan's, seeking affirmation.

Erohan nodded solemnly, his gaze piercing the horizon. "Yes, the stakes are higher than ever, especially because we don't have any demigod." he concurred, reinforcing the significance of their shared mission.

The silence that followed was not uncomfortable but charged with a shared sense of purpose. Each member of the trio was keenly aware of the journey's importance, not just for themselves but for the world they sought to protect.

As they continued their flight, the monotony of the ocean below was suddenly broken by the sight of an island emerging from the mist. This island was a vibrant oasis amid the vastness of the sea, teeming with life and color. The landscape was a tapestry of lush greens and vivid earth tones, reminiscent of a jungle but marked by distinct regions of towering bamboo and open clearings.

Erohan guided them to a gentle landing on the edge of this tropical paradise, immediately cautioning them of the dangers hidden within its beauty. "Be careful; even the smallest insects here can cause your death," he warned his voice a reminder that not all threats were as visible as devils and mages.

Amukelo, his curiosity piqued by the island's dangers, questioned their reason for landing in such a perilous place. "Why have we landed here, especially if it's so dangerous?" he inquired, his gaze sweeping across the exotic landscape.

Erohan responded with an air of mystery. "This place holds a crossing to other lands. What exactly it is—a map, a portal, or something else—I cannot say for sure. We must discover it together," he explained, setting the stage for their next adventure.

So, they began their exploration of the tropical island, staying close due to the unknown dangers and relying on Erohan's knowledge to guide them. The island was a marvel of natural beauty and diversity. Tall bamboo formed dense corridors that opened into wide clearings where sunlight streamed through in golden beams. The air was thick with the sounds of life—birds calling, insects buzzing, and the rustle of leaves stirred by gentle breezes.

As they ventured deeper, Amukelo and Eliss were captivated by the island's wild allure. Every step revealed new wonders, from vibrant flowers with petals as soft as silk to hidden pools of crystal-clear water. The island, despite its dangers, was a testament to the world's enduring beauty and mystery.

Their conversation, when it occurred, revolved around speculations about what the crossing might be and reflections on Erohan's tale. The story of ancient heroes battling against darkness resonated with them, drawing parallels to their own journey and the challenges they faced.

As they delved deeper into the heart of the tropical island, the air thick with the chorus of unseen wildlife, Eliss found herself the target of a peculiarly menacing bug. Its appearance was as strange as it was terrifying, with spindly legs and a sheen that seemed unnatural. Amukelo sprang into action, swiftly dispatching the creature and ensuring Eliss's safety. "Th~Thank you." Eliss said with an embarrassed tone. The incident served as a stark reminder of Erohan's warning – the island's beauty masked dangers both seen and unseen.

Undeterred, they continued their exploration, their senses heightened by the encounter. The lush vegetation occasionally gave way to clearings that seemed to hold the breath of ages past. It was in one such clearing that they stumbled upon a series of ancient pillars, their surfaces etched with symbols that whispered of forgotten times.

Adjacent to the pillars, partially concealed by the overgrowth, lay a door embedded in the ground. Erohan, recognizing the significance of their find, surmised that this was likely what they had been searching for. With a collective sense of anticipation, they carefully opened the doors and descended into the space below.

They found themselves in a hall, the air cool and still, a stark contrast to the vibrant life above. The hall was lined with statues, their features odd and unlike any depiction of life known to Amukelo and Eliss. No sooner had they stepped inside than these statues stirred to life, their movements fluid and menacing, a defense mechanism against intruders.

The moment teetered on the brink of violence, but Erohan, revealing the necklace given to them earlier, quelled the impending attack. The statues, recognizing the symbol of alliance, ceased their advance and returned to their places. This act further cemented the importance of the necklace and its role in their journey.

Progressing deeper into the hall, they encountered a sight that left them speechless. Before them lay an underwater port, a marvel of ancient engineering and magic. The water was crystal clear, revealing a few ships that exuded an aura of luxury and power, their designs speaking of a craftsmanship that transcended time. The existence of such a place, hidden and preserved, was a revelation that expanded the boundaries of their understanding of the world.

But it was Erohan that captured their complete and utter astonishment. Before their eyes Erohan transformed into a human like creature. Standing upright, with a human face yet marked by the subtle presence of scales beneath his eyes, Erohan embodied a bridge between the worlds of human and dragon. This metamorphosis was a testament to the depth of Erohan's connection to the artifacts and the ancient magics that governed this hidden realm.

Erohan's voice, now carrying a different timbre, broke the silence. "We will most likely have to use these ships," he stated, a declaration that hinted at the continuation of their journey in a manner they had not anticipated.

Amukelo and Eliss stood in awe, not only of the underwater port and the ships that promised new adventures but also of Erohan's ability to transcend his dragon form.