The Calm Before Sia Kalt
It had been several days since we began crossing Set Hanryeong. Snow started to fall, but it wasn't heavy enough to hinder our journey much. Liandel's magic map continued to guide us along safe paths. Everyone marveled at how smoothly we were passing through Set Hanryeong.
"I can't believe we're getting through this easily," Elina said in a soft voice, full of admiration.
"It would have been impossible without Sir Liandel's magic," Terry added, gazing at Liandel with eyes brimming with respect.
"You're too kind. I merely utilized the information gathered by our predecessors," he replied humbly. Even so, we were all impressed by his skills. Not just his prowess as a mage, but his analytical mind and insight had made this journey far easier.
Finally, we reached the edge of Set Hanryeong. The landscape, filled with snow and ice, began to change. It was still cold, but not as brutally frigid as deep within the ridge. And then, the massive Sia Kalt Mountains unfolded before our eyes. The towering peaks rose toward the sky like the end of the world itself. Their grandeur stole my breath away.
"Do you see that?" Liandel pointed to a specific spot. "That peak is where the Sia Kalt Labyrinth lies. But we won't enter right away. We'll rest in the village below first, restock supplies, and head into the labyrinth tomorrow."
"A village? Is there one around here?" Karl asked, his eyes sparkling.
"Yes, a small settlement. It has facilities for adventurers too."
Relief washed over everyone's faces. Camping wasn't bad, but the thought of a warm bed and a proper meal lifted our spirits.
We headed toward the village. As we climbed the mountain path, diverse plants began to appear around us. Small shrubs with purple flowers caught my eye.
"These are Niphi Lavender flowers," Liandel explained. "A rare plant that grows only in the Sia Kalt region. It has a special ability to survive even the harshest cold."
It was as if the flowers were welcoming us.
As we ascended further into the Sia Kalt Mountains, the village came into view. It was small but neatly arranged, with houses and shops nestled at the snowy foothills. At the entrance, the guards greeted us.
"Welcome, adventurers! It's been a while since we had visitors."
"Hello," Liandel greeted politely. "I'm Liandel of the Golden Tower. These are the adventurers escorting me."
Respect flickered across the guard's face. "From the Golden Tower... What an honored guest! The village is a bit quiet right now. Most adventurers are out on expeditions, and the guildmaster left for urgent business in the Afuron Kingdom... But we'll do our best to accommodate you."
"Thank you. Is there a good inn where we can stay the night?"
"Of course! 'Moonlit Haven' is the finest in the village. I'll guide you there."
We followed the guard to the village center. The streets were surprisingly clean, and the residents seemed friendly. Soon, we arrived at the Moonlit Haven. It was a large wooden building with a moon-shaped sign at the entrance.
"Rest well here, and we'll depart tomorrow morning. Everyone, get plenty of sleep."
The inn's interior was warm and cozy. A fire crackled in the hearth, and wooden tables and chairs created a homely atmosphere. A stout woman welcomed us kindly.
"Welcome, adventurers! It's been ages since we had guests. We have plenty of rooms, so no worries."
We were assigned our rooms. I got a small but snug one on the second floor. Through the window stretched the majestic vista of the Sia Kalt Mountains.
As soon as I entered, I set down my gear and headed straight to the bathroom. Warm water was ready.
"Ahh... This is paradise..."
Soaking in the water melted away the fatigue from my entire body. Even though crossing Set Hanryeong had been smoother than expected, the constant camping had taken its toll. As my skin reddened in the hot water, all my tension seemed to dissolve. I lingered in the bath for a long time before drying off and changing into clean clothes.
Back in my room, I stood by the window, gazing outside. The sun was setting, dyeing the silhouette of the Sia Kalt Mountains in red twilight. Its majesty was still overwhelming, but now awe overshadowed any fear.
Tomorrow, we'll really enter the labyrinth...
Memories from books about the labyrinth surfaced. Fewer than 5% of adventurers who entered the Sia Kalt Labyrinth ever returned alive. And tales of a mysterious being called Seraphina Bloom.
Does such a thing really exist?
With that question lingering, I flopped onto the wide bed. The fluffy mattress cradled me softly. It had been so long since I'd felt this.
"Sleeping in a place this warm and soft... It's been forever..."
The long journey and hot bath left me drowsy. Lying on the plush bed, sleep came quickly. Unknowingly, my eyes closed.
In my dream, I walked through a beautiful flower field. Red flowers glowed faintly under the moonlight, and at the center towered a massive bloom far taller than me. It moved slowly as if alive, emitting a sweet fragrance. Suddenly, the surroundings turned to ice and snow. The howl of Frost Wolves echoed, growing closer. I nocked an arrow in defense, but my quiver was empty. My heart pounded wildly. Then the red flower leaned toward me, unfurling its petals protectively.
"Levy..."
A voice calling my name snapped me awake. Darkness had deepened outside the window. Another knock came from the door.
"Levy, it's time for dinner."
It was Elina's voice. I hurried up and opened the door.
"Sorry... I fell asleep."
"It's fine. Everyone's gathered in the dining hall downstairs. Sir Liandel ordered a special meal for us."
We went down to the dining hall together. The others were already seated around a large table. Liandel beckoned with a smile.
"Levy, sit here. I ordered local specialties—they're supposed to be delicious."
I took a seat among them. The dining hall was cozy, and the table was laden with various dishes. A particularly striking one was a soup with a purple hue.
"This is soup made from the Niphi Lavender we saw on the way," Liandel explained. "A special dish unique to the Sia Kalt region. It helps restore mana."
A sip filled my mouth with a fresh, deep flavor—cool yet warm, an odd sensation. The meal ended in a cheerful atmosphere.
I returned to my room to prepare for tomorrow. I meticulously checked my bow, arrows, dagger, and potions. Everything was perfect. Gazing at the Sia Kalt Mountains through the window, I took a deep breath. But sleep wouldn't come, and staying cooped up felt stifling. The village's faint lights visible from the window seemed to call to me.
Maybe a short walk...
I changed into light clothes and slipped quietly out of the inn. The cool evening air brushed my face. The village seemed deep in slumber, though lights leaked from a few houses. Wandering aimlessly, I reached the outskirts and spotted a lone building atop a small hill, bathed in moonlight like a fantasy.
Approaching, I realized it was a small temple. A temple to the goddess of light. The entrance bore her symbol, and a tiny bell tower crowned the roof. The door wasn't locked. Cautiously, I entered. The interior was surprisingly cozy. A few candles flickered quietly on the altar, behind which stood a small statue of the goddess Michael.
Before the altar lay offerings left by kneeling worshippers: a worn necklace, dried flower bouquets, tiny letters...
I naturally knelt before the altar. Truth be told, I didn't believe in any particular god. My grandfather had told stories of many deities, but they were just entertaining tales. Yet now, on the eve of entering the labyrinth, I wanted to lean on someone.
"Lady Michael..."
My voice echoed softly.
"I've never truly believed in you. Even today, I came here without any special reason. But..."
I paused, staring at the candle flames' dance.
"Tomorrow, we enter the labyrinth. Dangers await, no doubt. I'm... scared. But please, let us all return safely. My companions, Sir Liandel, and... me too..."
As my words ended, a sudden breeze made the candles flicker wildly. But they didn't go out—instead, they burned even brighter, it seemed.
Just my imagination?
I stood and looked around the altar. Did I have anything to offer? Then I felt something small in my pocket. It was a wooden trinket from home—a tiny bow-shaped ornament Lea had carved for my birthday. After hesitating, I gently placed it on the altar.
"It's small, but... please accept it."
I left the temple. Outside remained quiet, but my heart felt strangely at peace. On the way back to the inn, the stars seemed to shine brighter.
Did Lady Michael really hear my prayer...?
With that thought, I returned to the inn. I needed ample rest for tomorrow. Lying in bed, it felt more comfortable than before. Perhaps Michael's blessing was truly with me.
Tomorrow, we'll enter that place...
Fear and anticipation mingled. But my hands no longer trembled. The walk and prayer had hardened my resolve. I was ready. Whatever dangers lay ahead, I'd overcome them with my bow and will.
As I lay there, I pictured my family and the Third Prince. For them, and my dreams, I would surely return alive. Surrendering to the fluffy bed, I drifted into deep sleep. Tomorrow, a new adventure begins.