The sun was just beginning to peek through the forest leaves when Lyra opened her eyes, still feeling the vibration of the attack in her body and the sharp heat of the seal on her chest. Beside her, Selene remained silent, like a vigilant guardian, while Kael kept his gaze fixed on the horizon, tense and alert.
Lyra broke the silence with a question burning on her lips:
"Who attacked us? And why?"
Selene averted her gaze to an invisible point in the distance, her expression grave and somber.
"The Forbidden Order," she finally said. "An ancient group that fears any magic capable of upsetting the balance. The power of the seal awakens in you both, and they will do everything to stop it."
Kael frowned, clenching his fists.
"Then we can't let them stop us. Not when this is just beginning."
Selene nodded, and with determined steps, began to guide them down a hidden path through the underbrush toward a secret sanctuary known only to a few: the Fountain of Pleasure.
The path opened onto a natural pool, its waters crystal clear and shimmering under the soft morning light. Exotic flowers surrounded the fountain, emitting a sweet, intoxicating scent that seemed to touch the very soul.
"This place is ancient," Selene explained as she slowly shed her garments, revealing damp, glowing skin. "Here, the senses awaken, but it's not just for pleasure. It's a space where body and spirit are laid bare to reveal hidden truths."
Lyra felt her heart race and the burning in her chest, as if the fountain itself were calling her. Without hesitation, she submerged herself in the warm water, followed by Kael and Selene.
The water's touch caressed her skin, awakening deep sensations: vague memories, repressed longings, and a burning desire that went beyond the physical. Kael held her firmly by the waist, his fingers tracing her back with a touch both protective and full of promises.
"You're not alone," Kael murmured, bringing his face close to hers. "Whatever comes, we'll face it together."
Lyra returned his gaze with intensity, feeling a bond weaving between them beyond magic.
As Selene chanted an ancient song, the surface of the water began to ripple, glowing with a silver light that took shape: a magical, ethereal map filled with symbols and routes pointing to an arcane school sealed by time.
"That place holds secrets that could change everything," Selene said, her eyes fixed on the vision. "And the key to open its doors is marked on both your skins."
Lyra looked down at her chest and saw a new glowing rune, tattooed by the fountain's magic. A mix of awe and fear washed over her.
"Are we ready?" Kael asked, his voice low but steady.
Selene watched them, a shadow of warning in her smile.
"Ready or not, fate does not wait. And in the distance, a shadow watches, waiting for the moment to strike."
From among the trees, a hooded figure spied on them, eyes shining with a smile that promised destruction.
Lyra shivered, aware that the true danger was only just beginning.