Whispers of the forgotten

Chapter 18 – Farewells and Surprises

After Morpheus and Lunara reached the city gate, it was time to say their goodbyes. Lunara looked at Morpheus with a warm smile and said:

"I hope we'll meet again soon, Morpheus. We have a long road ahead of us."

Morpheus nodded and said calmly,

"Thank you, Lunara. I believe we will meet again. Take care of yourself."

Lunara turned and walked away through the city streets, while Morpheus took a deep breath and headed towards the steam train station. Leaving the city that had witnessed his first mission filled him with mixed emotions, but he felt a deep sense of relief as he boarded the train that would take him to his home city, Ethria.

The Steam Train Journey

Morpheus sat by the window, watching the landscapes rush by. The mountains, forests, and farmlands filled the horizon, each one telling its own story. The steam train occasionally let out a loud whistle, adding to the nostalgic and peaceful atmosphere.

Eventually, Morpheus arrived in Ethria, a city bustling with life and energy. As he walked through its crowded streets, he passed by a small bakery he knew well, where people were waiting their turn. He couldn't resist the familiar, tempting scent he had always loved, so he entered the shop.

Meeting Elena

Inside the bakery, Elena greeted him with a bright smile.

"Morpheus! I haven't seen you in a while! I thought you had forgotten about us."

Morpheus laughed and replied,

"How could I forget my favorite pastries? I've been on a long mission."

"Well, then I'll have to make it up to you today. The usual pastry, right?" she said as she prepared a piece of cake filled with cream and chocolate.

"Of course," said Morpheus, smiling.

He enjoyed the cake eagerly, feeling an inner peace as he savored it. These small moments reminded him of the importance of balancing adventure with everyday life. After finishing his pastry, he bid Elena farewell:

"Thank you, Elena. As always, the best."

"It was great seeing you, Morpheus. Don't disappear again!" she replied with a smile.

A Visit to the Investigators' Headquarters

After leaving the bakery, Morpheus headed to the investigators' headquarters in Ethria. When he entered the office, he found German waiting for him with a wide smile.

"Morpheus, welcome! Great job on your first mission. The reports showed you were up to the task."

"Thank you, German. The mission was a real challenge, but I learned a lot," Morpheus replied.

German smiled and said,

"Today is your day off. Take some time to rest because tomorrow you have an important meeting. Cardinal Ivar from the Eternal Hope Church will come to collect the artifact himself, and he also wants to personally reward you."

Morpheus raised his eyebrows in surprise and said,

"Cardinal Ivar? That means the artifact is of great importance."

"Absolutely. He's one of the key figures in the church, and he doesn't travel like this unless the reason is significant. Prepare well, but enjoy your day today," German encouraged him.

Morpheus nodded with a smile and said,

"Thank you, German. I'll make the most of today to relax."

Morpheus left the office, strolling through the lively streets of Ethria. As he enjoyed his day, his mind focused on what awaited him the next day. His meeting with the cardinal could mark the beginning of a new chapter in his adventures.