Book 3: Epilogue
The mechanical finger completed its rotation, pointing straight up once more. At the same time, a metallic ringing could be heard from the tower below the time-measuring device. Twelve times did the bell toll, reminding everyone that half the day had already passed.
After the last beat, Venus averted her eyes from the bell tower. She would have to take a detour to arrive on time. Today, she could not afford to run into her students. No matter how much she adored them, there was just not enough time, as she was solely focused on making her report.
With hasty footsteps, the slight woman hurried along an obscure path that led past the sprawling gardens of the temple city. Chronus, the capital of Seraven was beautiful this time of year, with its blossoming gardens and flowers. To be fair, the flora was in full bloom all year round. Such was the benefit of living in the city of time.
Be that as it may, the Eye replied. We have to remain conscious of how this will appear. It is a blow to our credibility and reputation to be ignored. Our standing in the eyes of the other nations will take a hit.
"Whatever," the girl said dismissively. "Thats just some politicians wagging their tongues, its all they are good for anyway. The future itself will attest to our warning, and thats the only validation we will ever need."
You can mock all you want, girl, but its our standing and reputation that has kept our enemies at bay, the Eye countered.
Nonsense, Nova replied. We are not reliant on the mercy of others to keep us safe. Not for as long as the ancestor
Enough, the bald man interrupted, suddenly remembering that Venus was still present. This is not the time nor the place for this discussion.
Nova seemed like she had more to say on the matter, but she obliged. Then she turned to Venus, her face brightening. You did a good job, Venus. Thank you for your service.
It was my honor, Lady Nova, Venus responded awkwardly.
The girl nodded happily. Come here, I want to give you something.
Hesitantly, Venus approached. The closer she got, the more nervous she became. With every further step, she could feel the domain of an Exarch swallowing her whole. It was an unsettling sensation.
It felt like the Mana around her no longer responded to her call. For the first time in centuries, Venus felt like she was completely cut off from all Mana. Here, inside Novas domain, she felt completely powerless. Still, she didnt dare refuse the order, and after a few more steps, she was in front of the girl.
There seemed to be a crafty glint in the girls usually murky eyes as Venus bent down in front of her. Well done, Nova praised as she went to comb a strand of her pale white hair.
Was the girl talking about the mission, or was she referring to the way she had handled her presence? Venus couldnt tell, but she was glad for the praise either way. Before she could reply, Nova plucked a strand of hair from her head and handed it to Venus.
This is for you, she said. Have a craftsman make a band out of it and wear it.
Venus was confused, but still took the strand of hair as instructed. The girl must have seen the look in her eyes as she explained further. It will keep you safe when you need it most.
Upon hearing those words, Venus clutched the present to her chest. She would follow those instructions precisely. Her very life might depend on it in the future.
Thank you, Lady Nova. I will not forget this kindness, Venus said, bowing her head deeply.
As she did, her eyes fell upon the piece of paper in front of the girl. On it, the words of the prophecy were written in neat handwriting. Idly, Venus wondered how a blind person could have such immaculate penmanship as she marveled at the perfect strokes. However, her blood froze a moment later.
This was not the same prophecy she had delivered. Instead of two paragraphs, there were three. With wide-open eyes, she read the lines one by one.
From centuries of slumber, the elements four,
Shall rise from the depths, and claim their lore,
Their power unrivaled, their fury unbound,
Consuming the radiance, without a sound.
The legions of plenty shall fall to their might,
Their screams of anguish drowned out in the fight,
They all shall perish, their blood on the ground,
A sacrifice in vain, as chaos, abounds.
The rivers run scarlet, the forests aflame,
All living things shiver, fear spells out his name,
A disaster of blood, a tale of despair,
his crimson legacy forever to bear.
Venus forced herself to calm down. However, her mind was racing with the implications of this discovery. Why had she not been told of this? It was highly likely that the empire would not have brushed them off had she presented them with the full prophecy.
Something the matter? Nova asked.
N-no, my lady, Venus stammered. I was merely overcome with gratitude.
That is good then, the girl said happily. Please remember my words.
Yes, Lady Nova. I will go visit a craftsman right now, Venus said as she backed up.
After saying her proper goodbyes, Venus left the temple as if fleeing. She had most definitely learned something she shouldnt have.
The only question was, how deep did this go, and who was involved?
End of Book three