FLORIOGRAPHS
Chapters 9. Own Path

Inwardly, Lucas and Gillbert felt a combination of confusion and fear as they felt a powerful tremor from the sound of a horse-drawn carriage cruising through rocky streets and steep valleys. They watched the stunning scenery through the cracks of the train as if they were in a thrilling adventure story.

"Who would have thought if hiding among these luggage would take us this far?" lucas muttered in annoyance to Gillbert who was lined up by his side.

Gillbert bit his lips in seriousness, glancing around to make sure that the enraged Cait kingdom warriors and looking for them were no longer visible around. Seeing that it was safe, he looked back at Lucas with a bright face and a sparkling smile in his eyes. "What did you say, Lucas? Silly or not, we managed to escape!" he said with a little pride.

Lucas snorted softly, shrugging his shoulders in a sign of agreement. "Alright, you might be right. You know, this is a very silly and risky idea, and you should also see how tired and dangerous this trip is"

The raindrops slowly began to drench the entire path with the sound of the wind rustling nonstop. The cold night wind started to greet them. Just like the train they were riding, a feeling of tension and fear began to accompany the feeling of tension and fear of the journey they were facing

The horse-drawn carriage drove through the dark forest, where the dim moonlights shone on the tall trees. The sound of leaves falling and night animals like wolves and forest cats groaning from a distance. Lucas and Gillbert looked at each other, sharing the same fear, but also a strong belief that they would cross this hurdle together.

Not long after, the horse carriage entered a dark, winding tunnel. The dwarf light at the end of the passageway faded even more, leaving them in total darkness.

After a short while finally, the horse carriage exited the tunnel and entered the open plain, with the destination city clearly visible in the distance. Highlights of the rising sun illuminated the pink sky and the green foliage surrounding them. Relief enveloped Lucas and Gillbert's faces while the horse-drawn carriage drove faster toward the destination.

When their journey ends, Lucas and Gillbert are brought back to life. They jumped down from inside the horse-drawn carriage that had become their protector and savior. They laughed a little when they had just gone through a difficult terrain.

Despite Gillbert's ridiculous and risky idea, hiding amongst one's luggage was no problem to avoid the royal warriors eyeing them.

"Tell me how they got you?" Lucas said

"When I was in the living room while you were busy in the lab. Suddenly, they came and began to wonder about your whereabouts. I sensed something was wrong and without a second thought, I decided to lie to them. However, they did not believe my words and instead held me hostage."

"What do they mean they want to arrest me?"

Lucas asked in a trembling voice.

"Tch.. Almost, they even went so far" Lucas murmured in silence

"I think we should stay away from Thera kingdom, as well as that damn kingdom. Lucas, come with me to the Blue Lagoon harbor. King Hades can be a great threat to us if we get too close to his kingdom" Gillbert added, emphasizing the last words.."

They both felt the pressure getting stronger upon learning how close they were to danger. There was no other way but to keep a distance from the kingdom.

"I don't want to risk your life, Gillbert and I still have one thing I need to find out. So we'll split up from now on"

"alright. If that's your decision"

Gillbert replied in a low tone.

Lucas's gaze focused on the map he opened before him. He scrutinized every detail carefully, trying to find the safest and most hidden way to cross the two kingdoms without arousing suspicion.

Gillbert once again looked towards Lucas, intrigued by the worry that clearly emanated from his eyes.

"Lucas," he said slowly

"If you need help meeting me at the Blue Lagoon, I'll always be there to help you"

Lucas nodded, a cool breeze began to gently blow. A scar of smile appeared on his face, His gaze looking far towards the horizon.

Gillbert smiled. They strengthened each other with looks of trust. Both understand that this journey is not only about finding answers, but also about testing their brotherly bonds. They understand that the risks they take are great, but they also know that if they can get through everything together, nothing is impossible.