(Other Realm)
Alethia strode confidently towards the shooting range, her quiver securely fastened to her back. It was her day off, and she intended to spend it honing her already impeccable skills. Despite Cordelia's mocking, Alethia knew she didn't need the practice. She never missed her mark, regardless of the circumstances. But there was something about the act of drawing back the bowstring and releasing an arrow that brought her a sense of inner peace and stability.
Arriving at the range, Alethia glanced down at the glove adorning her hand. It was a cherished gift from her mother, along with her bow. With a flick of her wrist, her bow materialized in her gloved hand, eliciting a smile of familiarity. Taking her stance, she pulled out an arrow and notched it, her eyes fixed on the target before her. With a deep breath, she released the string, the familiar twang resonating in her ear as the arrow soared through the air and found its mark in the center of the target.
A smile graced Alethia's lips as she repeated the process, arrow after arrow finding its intended destination.
"Wow, the rumors didn't do justice to your skill. Seeing you in action is truly something," a voice exclaimed.
Alethia chuckled softly, turning to face a smiling Ryos. "What brings you here? Our date isn't for a few hours."
Ryos shrugged, closing the distance between them. "I was at the tavern and heard you had the day off. I thought I might find you here to witness your prowess firsthand. And I must say, I'm quite impressed," he said, raising an eyebrow.
A blush tinted Alethia's cheeks as she bit her lip. "Just remember my skill if you ever step out of line."
He laughed, his hand gently resting on her lower back as he pulled her closer. "I would never dare to cross any lines with you, princess," he whispered, before softly kissing her lips.
Alethia flicked her wrist, causing her bow to disappear, and wrapped her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss. Looking up at him with a playful smile, she murmured, "A wise choice."
Ryos gently caressed her cheek as he gazed into her eyes. "There's something I want to discuss with you," he said.
A flicker of concern flashed in Alethia's eyes as she met his gaze. "Sure, what's on your mind?"
Ryos continued to stroke her cheek, his touch soothing. "Don't worry, my love. I've been contemplating this for a while, and I believe it's time for you to meet someone. She's an oracle, and I want her to investigate something... for you."
Confusion clouded Alethia's expression as she stepped back. "Investigate what? Why would I need an oracle?"
Ryos sighed, his expression serious. "I suspect someone has tampered with your memories, and I want Maya to determine the truth. If I'm mistaken, then great. But if I'm right, you deserve to know who did this and why."
Shaking her head, Alethia questioned, "But why would someone manipulate my memories?"
Ryos shrugged. "There could be numerous reasons, a couple come to mind?"
Biting her lip, Alethia nodded. "Yes, I suppose so. I think you're mistaken, but I'll accompany you."
A visible sense of relief washed over Ryos as he smiled. "Thank the gods. I was afraid you would resist. Let's go, then," he said, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze.
Alethia shook her head. "No, I would never resist such a request from you. If you believe it's worth investigating, then so do I."
Ryos brushed his fingers along her cheek, his admiration evident. "Have I ever told you how extraordinary you are?"
Blushing slightly, Alethia smiled. "You've mentioned it a few times now, but that doesn't mean I don't appreciate hearing it," she laughed softly.
Ryos chuckled, kissing her once more. "Are you ready?"
Alethia nodded, holding her breath as he held her tighter. Although she could teleport on her own without any ill effects, whenever Ryos was the one teleporting them, she felt a heaviness in her head and butterflies in her stomach. A loud pop echoed in her ears as everything went dark, then suddenly, light flooded back in. Ryos held her a little tighter, allowing her to adjust to the sudden transition.
When Alethia finally opened her eyes, she realized they were standing outside a charming cottage. Slowly pulling away from Ryos, she ran her fingers through her hair. "Is this where your friend resides?"
Ryos nodded. "Her name is Maya, and she's expecting us."
Just then, the cottage door swung open. "And I won't wait all day!" a melodic voice called out.
Alethia glanced at Ryos, then back at the cottage, before making her way inside.
"Please, come in, take a seat, and let me have a look at you," Maya's voice echoed through the air. Alethia couldn't discern where Maya was amidst the towering stacks of books that filled the cottage. Uncertain of where to sit, Ryos gently took her hand, leading her through the labyrinth of literature until they reached a table. They both settled into their seats, and a cup of tea materialized before them.
"Drink, savor," Maya said, her hands resting on Alethia's shoulders as she appeared seemingly out of thin air.
"Hmm, yes, I see what you mean, Ryos. Her mind is shrouded in a fog."
Alethia strained to catch a glimpse of the elusive Maya, her head turning in vain as Maya skillfully evaded her gaze.
"Go on, drink the tea, dear. I assure you, I won't sink my fangs into you. Unless, of course, that's what you desire," Maya's voice carried a mischievous tone, causing Ryos to tense ever so slightly.
Trying to suppress her unease, Alethia forced herself to remain still, despite her disdain for having someone lurking behind her. She peered into the cup of tea placed before her.
"Don't fret, dear. It's not laced with poison." Maya taunted with a hint of amusement.
Ryos kept a watchful eye over Alethia's shoulder, observing Maya's every move.
After an uncomfortable silence that lingered for what felt like an eternity, Maya spoke again. "This fog surpasses my own abilities. The memories haven't been erased, but they've been forcefully buried behind impenetrable walls."
Alethia nervously bit her lip, her fingers tapping an anxious rhythm on the table. "So, what does this mean? How can I retrieve my lost memories?"
"Engage with the root of the problem, my suggestion would be to start with your father," Maya advised, her voice laced with a sense of urgency.
