chapter 17

Chapter 17: The Trials of the Crystal Caverns

As Angelbert, Elara, and King Cedric ventured deeper into the Crystal Caverns, the air grew colder and the path more treacherous. The crystals that lined the walls emitted a soft, pulsating glow, casting an otherworldly light on their surroundings.

Elara shivered, wrapping her cloak tighter around her. "These caverns hold such power and mystery. I can't help but wonder what awaits us."

Angelbert nodded, his eyes scanning the cavern walls for any signs of hidden passages. "The Crystal Guardians warned us that the path ahead would be filled with challenges. We must stay focused and trust in our abilities."

King Cedric, his sword at the ready, glanced back at his companions. "Remember, we are not alone in this journey. Together, we can overcome anything that comes our way."

As they continued their descent, the sound of rushing water reached their ears. They followed the sound and soon came upon a vast underground river, its waters crystal clear and shimmering with enchantment.

Elara gasped in awe. "Look at the beauty of this river! It's like liquid magic."

Angelbert approached the water's edge, studying its currents. "We must find a way to cross. The path to the heart of the Crystal Caverns lies on the other side."

Just as they were contemplating their next move, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was a young woman with flowing silver hair and eyes that sparkled like the crystals themselves.

"I am Seraphina, the Guardian of the River," she announced, her voice melodic. "To prove your worth, you must answer my riddles. Only then will I grant you passage."

Elara stepped forward, her eyes determined. "We accept your challenge, Seraphina. Ask us your riddles, and we shall do our best to solve them."

Seraphina smiled, her gaze shifting between the three companions. "Very well. Here is your first riddle: I am taken from a mine, and shut up in a wooden case, from which I am never released, and yet I am used by almost every person. What am I?"

Angelbert furrowed his brow, deep in thought. "Hmm... It must be something valuable, yet confined. Could it be... knowledge?"

Seraphina's smile widened. "Correct, Angelbert. Knowledge is indeed the answer. You have passed the first trial."

Elara and King Cedric exchanged a triumphant glance, their confidence growing. They were ready for the next challenge.

Seraphina's voice echoed through the cavern. "Here is your second riddle: I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with wind. What am I?"

Elara's eyes lit up with realization. "It's an echo! An echo speaks without a mouth and hears without ears."

Seraphina nodded, her approval evident. "Well done, Elara. You have proven your wit and wisdom. One more riddle remains."

King Cedric stepped forward, his voice steady. "We are ready, Seraphina. Give us your final riddle."

Seraphina's voice took on a mysterious tone. "Here is your final riddle: I am always hungry, I must always be fed. The finger I touch will soon turn red. What am I?"

The companions exchanged puzzled glances, their brows furrowed in concentration. After a moment of silence, Angelbert's eyes widened with realization.

"It's fire! Fire is always hungry, needing fuel to sustain itself. And when it touches something, it can turn it red."

Seraphina's smile was radiant. "Correct, Angelbert. You have proven yourselves worthy. The river shall guide you safely to the heart of the Crystal Caverns."

As the companions stepped onto a shimmering bridge that materialized over the river, they felt a surge of confidence and excitement. They had overcome the trials of Seraphina and were one step closer to unlocking the secrets of the Crystal Caverns.

With each step forward, their bond grew stronger, and their determination to uncover the ancient powers within the caverns burned brighter than ever. Little did they know that even greater challenges and revelations awaited them in the depths of the Crystal Caverns.