Part III – The Man on the Trail
The forest ahead opened into a small clearing. A stream flowed slowly through it, and in the middle of the path… a figure.
It was a man, seated on a flat rock, with a small fire crackling at his feet.
He wore a gray cloak, frayed at the edges, and a simple but well-kept travel tunic. His black hair fell gently over his shoulders, and his eyes… they were the strangest thing. Dark, deep, but with a golden shimmer, as if they held a light that refused to shine.
He turned slowly toward them, his expression calm. Kind. Almost friendly.
"A strange path to walk at this hour," he said, without rising. "And two such fascinating travelers, in a place where even spirits lose their way."
Kayla tightened her lips. Yuri stopped. Yuu, on her shoulder, tensed slightly.
"Who are you?" Kayla asked, voice low.
The man gave a small bow, without getting up.
"Just a traveler. My name is Lucen. I come from the West. I've walked many paths… and this one is among the most curious."
Yuri looked at Kayla, who remained silent.
"Are you… human?" she asked, unsure.
Lucen smiled. "I was. Perhaps I still am. Who can say, in a world where even dreams walk?"
Yuu whispered in Yuri's ear, softly: "Be careful. I don't like his scent. Smells like… a mask."
Yet Yuri didn't sense danger. Only… attention. As if this man was listening to every movement, every silence.
"May I ask where you're headed?" Lucen continued, gently blowing on the fire.
Kayla gave no answer. Yuri stepped forward. "East. Toward a forest where they say… one can get lost."
"A place of illusions," Lucen said, lowering his gaze. "Perfect. Then perhaps I may walk with you for a while. Illusions… are kinder to those who do not walk alone."
Kayla spoke for the first time. "And why would you do that?"
Lucen looked at her. "Because I saw a flame being born. A light in a world that believed only in shadow. And because…"
He stood. Tall. Graceful. But not threatening.
"…perhaps I'm not the only one searching for answers."
A moment of silence. Yuri bit her lip. Kayla crossed her arms, suspicious.
Yuu whispered again: "He's dangerous."
And yet Yuri said, "Then walk with us. But if you're lying… she'll turn you to ash."
Kayla raised an eyebrow. "Only if I'm in the mood."
Lucen laughed softly. Then he began walking beside them, at a slow pace.
Three shadows stretched along the path—one of which… was not what it seemed.