Chapter Seventeen.

"Appointment ceremony of New Silver Wolves!? Let me see that!" Sira growled as she seized the letter from Twila's grasp, her red eyes narrowed with intensity as they skimmed each line. 

Her frustration spilled out in a rapid rant, "Can they really do this? Just replace two of their men after they died? What about all the other people they've taken from us?" Her voice wavered, the weight of her emotions hanging in the air, causing an uneasy silence to envelope the Alvarez siblings. 

Koa, adjusted his glasses, and attempted to soothe her, "Sira? take a breath, you're getting worked up. We don't have to attend if you against it."

Zev took the letter from Sira as she paced, joining in with reassurance. "Yeah. Besides, they're the enemies we don't have to be with them." 

Sira halted abruptly, tapping her cheek I. contemplation, "You're right. They are our enemies....." She gasped, a spark of determination in her eyes, "We must attend the ceremony!"

Zev reached out to touch her forehead, "You okay? Just a moment ago, you were practically a whirlwind of energy."

Sira shrugged off his hand, grinning slyly at Koa, "My bad. What I meant was, by attending, we can identify who our enemies are, right?" 

Koa chuckled, adjusting his glasses, "Very wise,"

"Alright," Zev cut in, then turned to Twila. "What do you think, Twi?"

Twila giggled, staring at Sira. "All I see are precious jewels and beautiful gowns."

Sira whined, "Please, no!

Zev , still holding the letter, added, "Let's not forget the ceremony is in White Shore, Flagus Island." Sira's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Flagus Island?" She hurried towards Zev and took the letter from him. "Hey! I was reading that," Zev scolded. However, she ignored him and continued, "I've always wanted to go to Flagus Island. I read about it in one of Neith's books."

Zev teased her, "You sound like you'd rather sightsee than complete the mission." 

Annoyed, Sira crumpled the letter and threw at him.

 Koa frowned. "What do you think you're doing?" he growled. Sira laughed nervously and handed the crumpled letter, back to Zev.

Twila giggled, "Relax, everyone. There's no harm in having fun while we're there."

"We're not confronting them. We're just going to see who our enemies are and eat, drink and have fun." Twila finished.

She continued her task of grinding weedroot, casually adding, "It's a ceremony after all." 

Sira nodded, understandingly.

Zev scoffed, his fingers deftly opening up the blunts. "Besides, they wouldn't want to stir up trouble at their own event." he quipped.

 Sira contemplated it for a moment "Hmm, that does make sense."

Twila carefully sprinkled ground seeds into the blunts, while Zev expertly wrapped them up, distributing one to Sira and Koa. Koa, with flourish, lit the blunt, inhaling deeply and exhaling in mesmerizing spirals. He then handed the lighter to Sira, who lit her own and joined in. 

 She took a drag from it, bringing the blunt to her lips and inhaling gently, then released the smoke into the air. As she did so, she felt a delightful tingling sensation on her skin. Twila had informed her that it was the leaves' healing properties working within her body. As the sweet smoke swirled around then, Sira shared her excitement. 

"I've heard so much about Flagus Island,, you know? Beaches, unique species, and the weather! I can't wait to experience the sunny days and occasional snowfalls." 

The Alvarez siblings chuckled at Sira's enthusiasm. "Don't forget the main attraction--Paradise Dome," Twila chimed in, lighting her blunt. 

Zev added, sinking into the couch, "Oh yeah, it's like a total paradise. You're gonna love it." 

Koa, seated next to Zev, shared more details. "Yeah, Paradise Dome is where Elamenta's four regions unite for events and ceremonies. It's a melting pot of species- humans, elves, gnomes, trolls, orcs, you name it. "He exhaled a cloud of smoke, leaving Sira wide-eyed and thrilled about the prospect of seeing all of Elamenta in one place. 

Twila gently guided her to the couch, and the topic shifted. "The ceremony is in two weeks, according to the invitation," she said, turning to Koa. "Don't you think we should move to Peaceful Pines soon?" 

Koa, contemplating, nodded, "You're right," he replied thoughtfully. 

"This sudden revelation left Zev and Sira in shock.

"We're moving?," Sira questioned, her eyes darting between Koa and Twila. "Zev, still holding his joint, chimed in, "Why didn't anyone tell me we were moving to the vacation house?" 

Sira turned to Zev, "Huh?" 

With a sigh, Zev explained, "Peaceful Pines in Levaerûn, a forest region. Uncle Juan built a vacation house there because it's the most undisturbed part of the city." He took a long drag of his joint as Sira absorbed the news. 

Sira looked puzzled. "But is a vacation house really necessary right now?" 

Twila chuckled, and adjusted her glasses. "We're not moving for leisure. It's part of our revenge mission," 

Koa added, "We're going against the Founding Elements, and that puts our lives are risk. Staying in Elm City would endanger everyone. Plus, it's a good environment for proper training." he grinned. 

Sira's lips formed a slight pout in response before she broke into a warm smile. "Sounds reasonable to me." she replied.

Koa took another leisurely drag of his blunt, exhaling a cloud of smoke. "We'll leave in a week, giving us time to prepare for the ceremony beforehand." 

********

One week later, 

In her study, Twila carefully selected journals from her shelves. As she read through one, she nodded in approval, muttering to herself. "Yes, this will do, " she whispered, closing the journal with a wide grin. Placing it on the stack of books she'd organized on her table, she stretched and hummed a happy tune while carrying the books in her arms. 

She headed to Koa's treasure trove, where the rest observed her actions as she came in. Twila began to place the books into an empty box, catching Koa's curiosity. He inquired, "What are those for?" 

Twila, still smiling, explained. "These are some of mum's and my journals. They contain everything you need to know about plants, potions, elixirs, and more."

Koa, slightly puzzled, asked, "Why are you putting them in the box?" 

Twila replied with a note of seriousness, "Well, since I won't be coming with you, I figured these should. What we're about to do is very dangerous, Koa. You'll need everything that can be of help to you." Koa picked up a book from the box, flipping through the pages with a smile. "Thanks Twila," he responded before hugging her. "I'll keep them safe, I promise."

Twila returned the embrace and said, "I know you will, Koa." Zev and Sira joined them. Zev took a step forward and looked into the box, recognizing the books. "Auntie Selma's books?" he asked, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. Twila smiled and nodded.

Sira, still puzzled, asked, "Why aren't you coming with us, Twila?" Twila sighed, her gaze shifting between Sira and Koa. 

"Sorry guys, but I'm needed here."

Sira suggested, "Is it the Apothecary? Couldn't one of your students take over in your absence ?" 

Twila shook her head, explaining, "I can't let someone else take over my mum's work. It's what I've dedicated my life to." 

Zev chimed in, "Twi is the most respected Alvarez. Her absence would raise suspicions, jeopardizing our mission." 

Twila added, "Koa will get you a transmitter and teach you how to summon spirit foxes. You can reach me whenever you want."

Sira agreed, "That sounds okay."

Twila turned to Zev, but he cut her off with a reassuring gesture. "Don't worry, Twi, I got this."

Twila smiled gratefully, "Be careful too."

Koa, box in hand, asked, "Has everyone packed up yet? We're leaving now." 

Sira confirmed, "Yeah, we're ready."

The group exited Koa's study and headed outside the chateau, where everyone awaited them. They were followed closely by Grover and a few guards who carried their luggages. Zev and Sira discussed the details of the upcoming ceremony, and Twila was all ears.

Ena approached Sira, bowing respectfully. Sira was taken aback, glancing at Zev who just shrugged. "Ena?" Sira inquired as she patted her back. "Is there something wrong?"

Ena smiled and shook her head, her fingers fidgeting. "No ma'am. Madame Twila informed us that you and the young masters are leaving for a research trip." 

Sira realized Twila didn't tell them the truth. "Oh, right. I don't know long we'll be gone."

Ena nodded and admitted. "You've only been with us for a short time, but we'll miss you, and Blu." 

 "We'll miss you too," Sira grinned. Ena giggled and looked at the rest, who were boarding the carriages. Sira called for about, urging the feline to hurry. Blu yawned sleepily before nestling in Sira's open arms. Sira scratched behind the cat's ears, coaxing her into the carriage. 

Sira sat beside Zev, and Twila waved as she held the door. "I'll see you all at the ceremony, okay? Stay safe." she called out. Zev and Sira nodded enthusiastically. Once Twila shut the door and the carriage began moving, Sira leaned back, closing her eyes briefly and listening to Blu's content purring. "And so it begins," she thought. 

*********

 The journey to Levaerûn was surprisingly short, jus a couple of hours, and they found themselves at the entry point of Peace Pines. Zev, Koa and Grover were quick to unload their bags from the vehicle, and Sira followed closely by her feline friend Blu, stepped out. Their first glimpse of the towering pine trees left Sira awestruck. 

She had never been to this side of Levaerûn before. Grover drove off and Sira turned to them. "Are all the pines this tall?" she asked while taking her bag from Zev. They both nodded, "It looks even bigger from the inside. But there's a huge clearing by the lake with normal pines" Koa said. As they strolled deeper into the forest, their conversation revolved around the various pine sizes, engrossing them in nature's wonders.

Peaceful Pines loved up to its name, a serene and stunning forest where Blu chased butterflies, and Sira kept a watchful eye on her. Eventually, they reached the moss covered path illuminated by delicate lamps hosting numerous insects. Zev announced, "We're here," and Sira couldn't help but admire the charming cottage before then. 

 The cedarwood cottage, adorned with intricate carvings and a thatched green straw roof draped in moss and ivy stared back at her. Stone lanterns, sculpted as mermaids, flanked the entrance, casting a soft, everburning glow m. "It does look peaceful." Sira remarked. 

Upon entering they discovered the cottage's dimly lit interior. They dropped their bags, and Koa turned on the light before turning to Zev. "Let's go turn on the rest," he said, and the boys went into the rooms. Suddenly, Blu began to growl as her horn glowed.

"What's wrong, furball?" Sira asked the feline. Blu continued growling, and Sira's eyes widened as she noticed a massive shadow appear behind her. Sira saw Blu's fang start to elongate and quickly covered her muzzle. "Stop," she said, shaking her head. Blu acquiesced but kept growling. 

Suddenly , a massive clay hand emerged from the walk, gripping Sira's face tightly, leaving her gasping for breath. Struggling against the clay hand's grasp, Sira noticed a one-eyed creature emerging, like a cyclops. 

"Who are you?" it rasped. 

Sira responded with a flash of her crimson eyes, conjuring a blood dagger. She slashed the arm holding her, and the creature roared. Yet, the severed hand clung to her face. Sira was yanked forward by its green-hazed limbs. 

The hand on Sira's face reattached itself to the creature, and it grabbed her again. Sira's muffled groans grew louder as the creature lifted her off the ground. Zev and Koa ran out of the doorway. "Momo, stop!" Zev shouted to the creature. The creature looked at Zev for a brief second before dropping Sira to the floor. "Zev," it rasped.

 Sira fell onto the floor, coughing violently as she clutched her face, which was still sore and throbbing with every movement. She coughed until she finally could breathe properly, moaning, "Damn...that hurts." Sira sat up and looked at the creature as it emerged from the wall.

It was a humanoid golem with an orb for an eye on its face. Sira's eyes widened as she gazed higher. The golem was approximately 7.5 feet tall, with long arms and legs, and a giant rune symbol on its chest that pulsed like a heart.

Sira stood up and dusted off her pants. "His name is Momo? Are you kidding?" she asked the creature, who simply hummed in response. Zev walked in front of Sira, looking up at Momo. "I'm sorry, I forgot to tell you about him. This is Momo, the first golem I ever created," he said, grinning. "Uncle Juan took Momo to a sorcerer who brought him to life using my essence," Zev explained, tapping Momo's chest.

Momo hummed again and raised his hands before slowly lowering them. "Again, I ask, his name is Momo?" Sira crossed her arms. Zev ruffled his hair and said, " 'Momo' was his first word, okay? Shut up." Koa lifted Blu from the ground, chuckling. "Momo helps us train and also guards the house. His unique ability is melding with the earth, allowing him to move seamlessly through the ground or walls," Koa explained while gently scratching behind the feline's ears.

"He's really nice," Zev smirked as Momo hummed and opened his hand slightly.

"Really nice? Your Momo almost killed me," she shot Zev an annoyed look.

"Yeah, sorry about that. He thought you were an intruder. Don't worry, you'll warm up to each other soon enough," Zev said, grinning. "Anyway, let's show you around."

"Of course," Sira said.

Zev enveloped his hand with his aura and placed it on Momo's rune symbol. "Momo gets stronger when I give him my essence, and he gets weaker when I take it back."

A green haze emitted from Zev's hand as he absorbed the aura pulsating from Momo's chest. Momo shrank to about 3 feet tall. "Less menacing now, isn't he?" he said, turning to Sira. She smiled at Momo, nodding. "Yes," she replied. 

Zev smirked. "Come on, let's show you your room."

*******

The trio sat in the kitchen, eating dinner Zev had prepared. Momo sat at a corner watching Blu eat. "How are we going to get to Flagus Island?" Sira asked Koa between bites. "Gateways," he responded. She tilted her head. "Gateways? What are those?" Zev answered instead, "You poor thing, you know nothing." he grinned, as he picked up some soup with a wooden spoon from a bowl and stuffed it in his mouth.

When he took another spoonful of soup,Sira raised her hand and Zev's eyes widened as his hand rose up. He narrowed his eyes at Sira, "You wouldn't dare," he said.

"Try me." Sira smirked.

"No, don't..." Zev started but his hand rose up to his chest and poured the soup on his shirt. He let out a gasp and glared at Sira, who just smiled smugly. Then Koa chuckled. Zev glared at him. "Aren't you supposed to be freaking out? She dirtied me." he grumbled.

Koa chuckled, "Yeah, she dirtied you. Not me," Koa said, laughing even more. Zev rolled his eyes and gritted his teeth. After a moment, Sira spoke up. "So, gateways?" she asked.

Zev stood up to go change his shirt while Koa responded, "Gateways are Elamenta's most efficient transportation system. They are used to move between the four regions." Sira nodded as she stuffed her mouth.

After changing his shirt, Zev plopped back down on his seat and said, "They are like the oldest transportation system, but they are still the most efficient." Sira chewed thoughtfully and replied, "Ohh, that makes sense."

"After the ceremony, we will plan our next move," Koa said, slurping some soup out of the small spoon he held.

Sira and Zev nodded in agreement..