"Where?" Rio asked in surprise as he didn't expect her to really have knowledge about the first piece of the forbidden land's map.
The girl had a bright smile on her face as she saw how his expression changed knowing he would be able to finally solve the mystery of his difficult expedition at the Fiery Southern Desert.
"That saying is true, 'The darkest place is always under the candle's flame.' You're currently at the place where you can find the first piece of the map," Eve said with a playful smile as the boy was not aware that his half quest had already ended when arrived at the oasis.
"But there is no sign of Exalted Clover Ring." the Boy scrunched his eyebrows as he couldn't find it even using his [Heaven's Eyes].
"Because you refuse my kiss so mother nature doesn't want to let you find it." The girl teased him, her voice sounded serious.
As he gave her a cold glare, she continued, "Aishh... Don't make that cute face or I will have to take a bite of your luscious lips and savor you to quench the thirst of my maiden heart.
As your beautiful loyal partner, I'll tell you the secret. When it gets midnight in this oasis the place where the first piece of the map is hidden will show up. If it still doesn't come then just call me, and I will lead you there."
Eve talked in her former self and revealed the way to get to the exalted clover ring.
Rio nodded and said, "Thanks, I will wait for midnight's arrival."
Helia and Nyla slept peacefully without being aware of all the events that happened outside as Rio was careful not to disturb their resting
He gazed at the night sky as the moon among the hazy clouds seemed so close, and the stars twinkled brightly, the air was cool and crisp, and a light breeze blew across his face, carrying the sweet scent of the desert flowers.
The moonlight was the only source of light to chase away the darkness in the desert but Rio had the advantage of [Heaven's Eyes] innate skill that helped him to see even in the dark night.
As the night deepened, the climate became chilly and a cold breeze brushed passed everyone's naked skin.
Rio noticed a light illuminating the middle of the water spring and a platform rose from the depths of the pool as a door appeared above the water level.
He stared in amazement as a glowing staircase emerged from the ground that led up to the mysterious door.
Suddenly, a strange, ethereal light filled the air, and a feminine voice echoed across the oasis.
"You three have passed the first trial, showing your diligence and proven your bravery in reaching this place."
The voice was kind and filled were serenity, as it woke up the two of the sleeping beauties from their slumber.
They rubbed their eyes and looked around, confused, finally discovering a mysterious door, floating above the spring water, with symbols etched into its surface.
Nyla and Helia looked at each other in disbelief, wondering what was happening then they saw a lone crimson-haired figure was standing a meter away from them, gazing at the gate calmly.
"To become the heir of the Exalted Clover Ring you must pass the final trial. The door before you leads to the last test, where you will prove your worth once and for all." The voice declared and invited them to the end phase of the trial.
The gate ahead of them started to shine brighter and created a glowing portal that lead to the next phase of the trial.
Helia and Nyla gazed at each other in wonder, their eyes flickering with a sense of excitement as they finally came across the first piece of the map.
Rio turned towards them and asked, "Let's finish this trial so we can return home."
The trio prepared themselves as they ascended the staircase to enter the portal, they were eager to find what was on the other side as they were all brave and had each other by their side.
Rio, Nyla, and Helia stepped through the illuminating door and discovered the dark, musty place.
The air was heavy with the scent of dust, and their heels clicked on the ground as their walking sound echoed through the ancient chamber.
The Place seemed to be a tomb which was a large, imposing place, filled with moldy scent. The walls were made of ancient stone, with intricate carvings covering every inch of the surface.
The ceiling was high, with a single shaft of light illuminating the center of the room. The light was an eerie red color, and it cast creepy shadows across the walls as if dyed in blood.
In the center of the room was a raised platform, upon which rested a red coffin.
A beautiful lady was sitting at the top of the box as if it was her throne, surrounded by offerings of food and flowers that didn't get spoiled with the flow of time. Her body was shrouded in a delicate white cloth, and a crown of flowers was kept upon her head.
At the foot of the slab was an altar, upon which lay a shiny ring made with a blue gemstone that glimmered and overshadowed the eerie red light.
The room was silent, except for the occasional shuffling of the trio's footsteps. The air changed with the scent of incense as Rio and the girls approached the raised platform as they could see the woman gazing at them was waiting for the trio.
Rio and company could feel a sense of reverence and awe as if they were in the presence of something truly holy and sacred.
"You three remind me of my old days. This feels as if it was yesterday when I was your age." A tranquil voice started talking, seeing the trio standing in front of her.
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Edited By: TheWhiteSnow
