Orion

Three years later… Orion begins his forth year at the University.

A crisp, cool breeze flowed through the open windows of Orion's cottage in Noctis Serenitis. The distinct sound of footfalls approached, growing louder until they halted at the door. It creaked open to reveal Pollux, bearing a broad smile.

"Pollux! It's been too long," Lyra greeted, rushing over and wrapping her arms around her brother.

"It really has, sis," he replied, ruffling her hair playfully. "And Orion, you're looking... scholarly as ever," he added with a smirk.

Orion nodded, offering a measured smile. "Pollux. Good to see you."

Just then, the aroma of a rich stew wafted through the air, pulling everyone's attention to the kitchen. Gee and San stood there, ladling out generous portions onto plates.

"You've arrived just in time," Gee remarked in his typical reserved tone, nodding towards Pollux.

San beamed, "We've made your favorite, Pollux."

"Ah, I knew there was a reason I missed this place," Pollux joked, taking a seat at the table.

As they began to eat, Pollux launched into stories of his travels. "You wouldn't believe the treasures I've found. Deep within the Caverns of Celestia, shimmering stones that radiate light. And the markets... Oh, the merchants practically throw their gold at you if they know you've got something unique."

"That sounds incredible," Lyra mused, her eyes wide with fascination.

Pollux leaned back, a glint of pride in his eyes. "And there's more. Claudia is expecting. You're going to be an aunt, Lyra."

A joyful gasp escaped Lyra's lips. "Pollux, that's wonderful news!"

Orion raised his glass. "Congratulations. That's a new adventure in itself."

Pollux's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Speaking of adventures, Orion, ever thought of joining the ranks? With your knowledge and my instincts, we'd be unstoppable. And it’s quite lucrative, as you can see." He gestured vaguely to his opulent attire.

Orion’s gaze remained steady. "I have my own adventures here, in books and scrolls. But I appreciate the offer."

A soft chuckle came from Pollux, though the tension in the room was palpable. "Of course, I forgot. Not everyone has the heart for real adventure."

Lyra intervened, her voice gentle yet firm. "Both paths have their merits. Let's not turn this meal into a debate."

Gee, always more talkative around San, whispered just loud enough for her to hear, "Some things never change."

San nudged him playfully, her focus on the simmering undercurrent between the two men. "Let's just enjoy the meal."

And so, amidst tales of far-off lands and the rich tapestry of Pollux's adventures, the evening progressed. But the underlying tension, that silent standoff between two contrasting worlds, remained ever-present.

Within the grand halls of the University at the Citadel of the Sacred Illuminary, Orion's name echoed often. Students whispered about his unparalleled understanding of Ancient Scriptures, and his obsession with the Sun Maiden was common knowledge.

"Did you hear? Orion was called to the Sacred Hall again," one student remarked to another, disdain evident in his tone.

"He's not even from here and he thinks he can just waltz in and take over?" another student scoffed, rolling her eyes.

But Orion, engrossed in his studies, let the chatter wash over him like background noise. His thirst for knowledge remained unquenchable.

As the clock tower struck noon, Dr. Cornelius Cox approached Orion. "Orion, I've reserved a table for us at The Celestial Plate. Consider it a small celebration for my recent award."

Orion looked up, grateful. "Congratulations, Professor. It's an honor."

The ambiance of The Celestial Plate was luxurious. As they settled into plush seats, Orion couldn't help but marvel at the intricacies of the place. The two soon found themselves engrossed in deep academic discourse.

"I must admit, Orion, your insights into the Sun Maiden are fascinating. You're pushing the boundaries of what we know," Dr. Cox remarked, a hint of admiration in his eyes.

"Thank you, Professor. It's just... there's something about the Sun Maiden and the legends of the Eternal Phoenix that feels interconnected. I can't help but try to decipher it."

Dr. Cox's demeanor shifted, becoming more serious. "You tread a fine line, Orion. The stories of the Eternal Phoenix are treacherous. Not everything in our past is meant for prying eyes."

Orion, feeling the weight of the professor's words, responded with sincerity, "I understand the risks, but my quest for knowledge is driven by more than mere curiosity. There's a personal connection, something I feel deep within."

Dr. Cox leaned in closer, his voice taking on a stern, fatherly tone. "You may be brilliant, Orion, but brilliance can also be blinding. Beware the depths into which you plunge. Some knowledge might be better left untouched."

Orion nodded, absorbing the gravity of the warning. He knew the path he was on was fraught with peril, but he couldn't shake the feeling that destiny was guiding him towards answers.

Within the dimly lit, private study room of the University, ancient tomes were spread out across a polished mahogany table. Orion delicately traced lines of the scriptures, feeling the age-old parchment under his fingertips. With every word, the gravitas of what was before him sunk deeper – knowledge few were privy to.

He paused, drawing his attention to a faint sketch accompanied by aging script. There, amongst cryptic symbols, was a description of a temple hidden deep within a dormant volcano, guarded by fire. On the most remote outskirts of the continent of Luna Lux. The Fire Temple.

His heart raced, "Could this really be the key?" he whispered, sensing the profound connection between the Sun Maiden and the Sage of the Eternal Phoenix.

A gentle rustling sound stirred him from his thoughts. As he lifted his gaze, he found himself captivated by a girl. Her golden, shimmering hair flowed onto her large chest as if it was sunlight itself, and a gentle warmth radiated from her glowing skin. Despite the ambiance of the study, her gold and crimson gown stood out, making her seem both ethereal and out of place.

Regaining his composure, Orion asked, "I'm sorry, do we know each other?"

She tilted her head slightly, a soft smile forming on her lips. "In some ways, yes. In others, not yet." Her gaze, deep and knowing, met his. "Your quest for understanding is admirable. The road to wisdom is long, and you're on the right path. But tread carefully."

Before Orion could muster a response, she leaned in, planting a gentle kiss on his cheek. The warmth from her lips left a tingling sensation that took him by surprise. "Keep seeking the dawn, Orion," she whispered.

And as gracefully as she appeared, she turned and departed, leaving a bewildered Orion with more questions than answers and a burning determination to uncover the mysteries that lay ahead.

The University's garden was a haven for those seeking solace amidst the bustle of academic life. Stone pathways intertwined with verdant foliage, leading to secluded benches. In a quiet corner, Orion awaited Professor Cox, the weight of his discoveries pressing heavily on his mind.

The professor, with his usual stoic demeanor, walked towards him. "Orion," he began, nodding in acknowledgment.

"Professor," Orion's voice was urgent, "I've been reading about the Fire Temple on Luna Lux. I need to know its location."

Cox sighed deeply, eyes narrowing. "Some paths are better left untraveled. You tread on dangerous ground."

Orion's frustration was palpable. "I can handle it. I'm not just another student. I've been granted access to sacred texts for a reason."

"You've indeed proven yourself a prodigious scholar," Cox conceded, "But what you seek goes beyond mere knowledge. It is a journey fraught with peril."

"I need to know," Orion pressed. "It's vital for my research on the Sage of the Eternal Phoenix."

Cox took a moment, seemingly battling an internal conflict. Then, sharply, he said, "To even approach the secrets of the Fire Temple, being a prodigy won't suffice. Your thirst for knowledge might lead you down a path of no return."

Orion caught the implicit acknowledgment. "So, it does exist?"

The professor met his gaze squarely, the weight of years and wisdom evident. "Be careful what you wish for, Orion," he warned. Without another word, he turned and left.

Standing amidst the tranquility of the garden, Orion felt anything but calm. He was on the precipice of a journey, one that would require more than just academic prowess. And as days turned to nights and seasons changed, the mysterious girl from the library, with her golden hair and ethereal presence, became a recurring figure in his thoughts, hinting at an intertwined destiny yet to unfold.