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94

56 vouchers

“And the thorn that defends.” Olivia met his gaze, her voice steady as shepleted the ancient vow–a mantra known only to the disciples of Mystic Phytoria.

A soft smile touched Victor’s lips. “Merak, I still have a bone to pick with you about those rare herbs you ‘borrowed‘ on your way out all those years ago.”

Years ago, he and the Master found her lying grievously wounded at the entrance to the valley. They saved her. Day after day, they used medicinal baths, specially prepared meals and rare herbs from across the valley to pull her back from the brink.

She waster epted as a disciple, though she notoriously despised book learning. Yet her innate talent was undeniable, and she quickly excelled in the art of potion–making.

She had once run off in a fit of pique after the Master scolded her for sneaking sweets. Tragically, not long after her departure, Mystic Phytoria was destroyed.

Olivia’s hands clenched into fists at her sides. Her eyes glistened, growing warm with unshed tears. “Dubhe… I…” Her voice was faint and tremulous, like a dry leaf quivering in a breeze.

Mystic Phytoria had been her sanctuary, a ce where she had been doted on endlessly. Despite all her years away, she missed her time in the valley more than anything–a home that was now lost forever.

“No need to exin. I understand,” Victor said, giving her shoulder a reassuring squeeze. Just seeing her today told him more than enough about the hardships she had endured on her own all these years. He swore to make those responsible pay.

Olivia took a steadying breath. “And the others?” she asked softly, her voice barely a whisper. “The Master? The rest of them? How are they?” She knew Mystic Phytoria had fallen, but the fate of its people remained a mystery.

Victor’s silence was heavy, his expression grim. He pressed his lips into a tight line, lost in painful memory.

“And Aurora?” Olivia asked, a nostalgic smile breaking through her usual reserve as she propped her chin on her hand. “Is she well? I still owe her a Luminpearl. It’s been so long. She probably wouldn’t even recognize me.”

However self–reliant and detached she used to be, around Victor, that facade now melted away.

Victor let out a long, weary sigh, his eyes shadowed with grief. “I don’t know,” he admitted, his voice thick with emotion. “In the attack, some disciples fell protecting the valley’s treasures. Others scattered, fleeing with whatever they could carry.

But you’re the first I’ve managed to find since that day.” He hung his head, guilt washing over him. “I failed them. I wasn’t strong enough to protect them.”

Olivia’s throat tightened. After a long moment, she reached out and ced a firm hand on his shoulder.

“As long as it lives in our memory,” she said, her voice steady with conviction, “Mystic Phytoria is not truly gone. One day, we will rebuild it–not just restore it to its former glory, but make it greater than ever before.”

“Alright,” Victor said, a genuine smile breaking through his sorrow. “I’ll follow your lead.”

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b94 /b

265 vouchers

Leaning on Nina for support, Grace had been waiting for what felt like an eternity. She hurried forward the moment she saw Olivia.

“You nearly scared me to death!” she scolded, patting Olivia’s hand, though her eyes were full of warmth and concern. “Are you hungry? Let me get you something to eat.”

“It’s alright, Grace, I already ate,” Olivia reassured her. “Nothing’s going to happen to me. Don’t forget–I’m the apprentice of the previous Phantom Healer, and now I am the Phantom Healer. Who would be foolish enough to mess with me?”

“Oh, you and your sharp tongue!” Grace finallyughed, the worry easing from her face. “I’ve just made ia /ifresh pot of chicken and ravioli. I’ll go warm some up for you. I’m sure Sean is starving too.”

Out in the yard, Seanpletely engrossed in constructing an borate mud fortress–nodded his head so vigorously it seemed liable to tumble right off his shoulders.

After Olivia and Grace went inside, Nina remained in the courtyard, rooted to the spot. Alone with her thoughts, her mind raced.

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