Echoes of Destiny (3)

14 Chapter 14

"Rin would you like to join me for tea?"

Rin, her curiosity piqued, accepted Aldena's offer to share a quiet moment over tea. They left the Sanctum of Echoes behind, stepping into the gentle glow of the realm's flora as they made their way to a tranquil spot.

Aldena, a serene presence, led Rin to a quaint alcove adorned with luminous blossoms. The air carried the essence of ancient wisdom, and as they settled down, a subtle calm enveloped them.

"So, you're close to Ash. What's your story in all of this? Are you part of his grand plan too?"

"In a way, our paths are entwined. I've been a companion to Ash for ages, witness to the ebb and flow of countless narratives. My role is to guide, but even I am not immune to the enigma that is Ash."

"But enough of Ash, hearing about him all the time is a real pain in the ass. So please let's move on."

"Have you ever heard of the Arthurian legend?"

"Vaguely.. yes."

"In the vast tapestry of existence, countless dimensions unfold like pages in a cosmic tome. Each realm bears its own tales, and among them, the legend of King Arthur stands as a beacon of valor and destiny. Arthur, a noble king wielding the legendary sword Excalibur, sought to bring unity to a fractured land."

As Aldena spoke, Rin found herself immersed in the narrative, the echoes of Arthur's journey reverberating in the quiet alcove. The struggles, the camaraderie, and the quest for a mythical realm—Avalon—all painted a vivid picture of a hero's odyssey.

"The tale of King Arthur mirrors the threads that weave through many realms, a reflection of both strife and nobility. Excalibur, the legendary sword you glimpsed earlier, is a symbol that transcends time and space, resonating in various forms across countless dimensions."

"In this expansive tapestry of dimensions, I carry the mantle of King Arthur. My purpose is intertwined with the threads of destiny that weave through countless realms. The legendary sword Excalibur, the sacred quest, and the timeless echoes have chosen me to bear this role."

Rin's eyes widened in astonishment as the weight of Aldena's revelation settled upon her. The realization that she stood in the presence of King Arthur, a figure etched in the annals of myth, sent shivers down her spine. The ancient echoes of legends and the threads of destiny seemed to converge in this moment, casting a captivating aura over the enigmatic journey that lay ahead.

"You're King Arthur, and you let Aruno basically man-handle you? Did he truly have the power, or was it more of a choice on your part?"

"The power Aruno displayed was potent, indeed, but it wasn't something he did to me. It was an eruption of emotions, a surge of his inner turmoil. He possesses a unique connection to this realm, which allowed his aura to interact with the echoes."

"So, you're King Arthur in this dimension. What does that mean for us?"

"It means that the threads of destiny are intricately woven, and each of you holds a significant role in this tale. Aruno's connection to the echoes is just one facet of the mysteries that unfold in your presence."

"And what about Ash? What's his role in all of this?"

"I said I didn't want to talk about Ash, but fine."

"Ash is an enigma, a force that transcends dimensions. His motives are complex, and his actions may not always align with our understanding. However, he plays a crucial part in the balance that maintains the harmony of realms."

Lyndon, with a mischievous grin, materializes beside Aldena. 

"Well, well, look who's sipping tea with the 'enemy.' Should I be worried about secrets being spilled over a cuppa?"

"Lyndon, there are depths to this situation that go beyond our usual banter. The threads of destiny are at play, and the echoes resonate with truths yet to unfold."

Lyndon, feigning surprise, dramatically clutches his chest. 

"Oh, destinies and echoes? How grand! I hope you're not revealing my embarrassing moments to our dear friend here."

"I'm more interested in understanding what's happening than embarrassing stories, but if you have any, feel free to share."

"Ah, the wise seeker! You know, Aldena and I go way back. She used to be my partner in causing chaos across dimensions. Good times, good times."

"Your version of 'good times' involves far too many pranks and upheavals."

"Good times, are good times that's how I see it."

Lyndon, turning looking Rin straight in the eye.

"Oh, and you have no idea. Aldena, despite her regal composure, has a knack for stirring up calamities in the name of keeping the cosmic balance in check. She's a force to be reckoned with."

"Lyndon, you make it sound like I'm the harbinger of chaos in every dimension we traverse."

"Well, it wouldn't be entirely inaccurate. But hey, it keeps things interesting, doesn't it? Keeps the gods on their toes."

"Ah, Jack the Ripper, always a thorn in my side, regardless of the form. Though, I'd argue that being a 'giant pain in the ass' is part of my charm."

Lyndon smirks, lifting a teacup in a mock toast. 

"Charm or not, you do keep things interesting. And, you know, it's nice to see you still have a sense of humor after all these eons."

Rin, excusing herself, to go check on her friends.

"Thank you for the talk, Aldena. It was quite enlightening."

Rin returned to the room, finding a calmer atmosphere. Yoru and Ko seemed to have worked their magic in soothing Aruno. As she stepped in, she could sense a different energy in the air.

"Hey, Aruno, everything okay now?"

"Yeah, thanks to Yoru and Ko. What's up, Rin?"

"I was just with Aldena, having tea and some interesting conversations."

"Really? What did she say?"

"Well, she had some stories to share, and she dropped a bombshell. Don't freak out but, apparently, she's the King Arthur of this dimension."

Aruno and the others exchanged surprised glances. The revelation hung in the air, adding another layer of complexity to the already mysterious situation.

"I also, met this guy named Lyndon. According to Aldena, he's Jack the Ripper."

"Jack the Ripper? Seriously? What's he doing here?"

"Apparently, he's in cahoots with Aldena, cracking jokes and being his usual elusive self."

"So, our friendly neighborhood Ripper is part of the gang too, huh?"

"This just keeps getting weirder."

"Great, just what we needed, more complications. But, let's focus on what we know for now. Any other surprises in store?"

"Not for now, but I'll keep you posted. We need to be on our toes in this dimension."