New day

As Elladan's consciousness gradually returned, he found himself in a small, unfamiliar room. The dim light filtering through the windows cast an eerie glow, adding to the air of mystery. As he tried to sit up, his muscles weakened, and he fell back onto the bed, his body still recovering from the mental breakdown. Panic gripped him as he realized his limbs felt heavy and unresponsive, causing him to scream in frustration and fear.

Suddenly, the door swung open, revealing an old woman with kind eyes and a gentle demeanor. She hurried over to Elladan's side, placing a comforting hand on his arm.

"Shh, young one, it's all right," she said in a soothing voice. "You were on the edge of the greatest danger, but you're safe now. Take deep breaths and try to calm yourself."

Elladan's heart raced, but he allowed the old woman's words to seep into his consciousness. Gradually, his breathing steadied, and he began to regain control of his emotions.

"Where... where am I?" he managed to ask, his voice still trembling.

"You are in the sanctuary of Artemis. Members of the Zeus Familia have brought you here." the old woman replied. "They found you unconscious near the ruins of the town named Eldora. You're safe now, my dear."

Elladan's eyes widened in disbelief and sorrow as memories of the dragon's attack flooded back into his mind.

"And my parents? What happened to them?" he asked, his voice filled with a mix of hope and dread.

Before the old woman could respond, a mighty figure stepped into the room, commanding attention with his presence alone. It was Zard, the Predator of the Zeus Familia. Elladan has seen him when the adventurers of Orario visited Eldora for the first time. The eyes of the great warrior filled with a hint of sadness. He approached Elladan's bedside, his footsteps echoing in the room.

"Elladan," the man spoke with a deep, resonant voice, "My name is Zard. And... I must apologize… apologize for the failure of us to protect your town and your loved ones from the One-Eyed Black Dragon."

Elladan's eyes met Zard's, a mixture of sorrow and anger flickering in his gaze.

"What happened? Where is the dragon now?" he demanded.

Zard's voice grew heavy with regret as he recounted the events. "During the battle, the Familias of Zeus and Hera fought valiantly against the One-Eyed Black Dragon, but we were overwhelmed. The dragon, slightly wounded but undefeated, managed to flee the scene, leaving us in defeat."

Elladan's heart sank at the news, the weight of the tragedy settling upon his shoulders. "And you just let him go to Eldora? Let him kill everyone?!" Elladan's voice was full of anger. His eyes, however, were ready to drop the tears. After a little while, he added "Is there anyone else whom you could save?"

Zard's expression softened as he placed a hand on Elladan's shoulder.

"I'm afraid you are the sole survivor of the dragon's attack on Eldora. We found you near the town's ruins, unconscious but alive."

Tears welled up in Elladan's eyes as he absorbed the enormity of the loss. The room fell into a heavy silence as grief washed over him, threatening to engulf his fragile spirit.

Zard, recognizing the pain within Elladan, spoke with a voice filled with remorse. "I am truly sorry for the failure of our Familias, for failing to kill the beast, for not being able to protect your home and your loved ones. We will do everything in our power to seek justice and vengeance against the One-Eyed Black Dragon. Your suffering will not be in vain."

Elladan's anger began to mingle with a flicker of determination. He wiped away his tears, his gaze meeting Zard's once more. "I want just one thing. I want to make sure no one else has to suffer like this. Zeus and Hera Familia failed one time. But never let this happen again. You hear me, never let this happen again!!!"

Zard nodded, understanding the depth of Elladan's pain. "I hear you, Elladan son of Quint, and I promise you: We will never allow such tragedy to repeat itself anymore! The Zeus Familia and Hera Familia will learn from our mistakes and become stronger. We will seek out the One-Eyed Black Dragon, and we will bring justice for the people who died in Eldora!"

With those words, Zard turned to the old woman, who had been silently observing the exchange.

"Take care of him, Agatha. Ensure he receives the support and care he needs."

"Of course, sir. I have pledged the oath to Lady Artemis herself! I will personally see to it that little boy is taken care of." the kind-hearted woman, nodded in agreement.

Zard turned back to Elladan, his gaze filled with determination.

"Elladan, you are not alone in this fight. Remember that. We will do everything in our power to support you. But for now, we must return to Orario and regroup. The battle against the dragon is not over."

Elladan understood the necessity of Zard's words. He knew he needed time to heal and recover, to find solace within the sanctuary of Artemis. With a heavy heart, he nodded in acceptance.

"Go," Elladan said softly. "Do what needs to be done. I will remain here."

Zard gave him a solemn nod, acknowledging the weight of Elladan's words.

"Rest well, my young friend. When the time comes, your destiny will call upon your strength and bravery."

And with that, Zard and the members of the Zeus and Hera Familias departed, leaving Elladan in the care of Agatha and the sanctuary of Artemis.

The sanctuary was a place of solace and healing, where Elladan could mend his physical and emotional wounds. Hours turned into the cohorts of days that marched within the legions of weeks as Elladan remained within the sanctuary. Under Agatha's guidance, he focused on his recovery, both physically and mentally.

In the quiet moments, Elladan would sit amidst the serene surroundings, reflecting on his purpose. He would remember the faces of his parents, Mark, Elize, Miriel, and others. Their love and sacrifice are etched deep within his heart. And he would make a vow to himself, to honor their memory by becoming a beacon of hope and strength.

As time passed, Elladan's body regained its strength, and his spirit grew resilient. The sanctuary of Artemis became his refuge, a place where he could find solace, guidance, and support. Agatha became his mentor and confidante, imparting wisdom and helping him navigate the complexities of his emotions.

During his time in the sanctuary, Elladan also forged new connections with other individuals seeking solace or purpose. He met other survivors of tragedies, each carrying their own scars and stories. Together, they formed a bond, a united front against the darkness that sought to engulf them.

And as the weeks turned into a month, a new disaster has come to Elladan…