Thorns of the Moonlit Throne
Volume 4 — Chapter 5: Labyrinth of Caiku
Writer: Sabbir Ahmed
The Celestial Verse had transformed into a labyrinth of glowing words and shifting stars. Every line of Caelum Virex's poetry formed corridors, dead ends, and illusions. Even the air hummed with rhythm, a subtle pulse that threatened to unbalance mind and body alike.
Lyriana led the way, crown glowing softly, merging light and shadow into a protective aura. "The labyrinth is alive," she whispered. "Every step we take, every choice we make, changes the maze."
Aryn's grip tightened on his sword. "Then we must trust each other completely. One wrong step… and he could erase us."
Eryon's shadows spread across the corridors, testing for illusions. "The caiku are not just traps—they are lessons. Each line forces us to confront doubt, fear, or pride."
As they moved, glowing words swirled around them:
"Paths that promise safety lie,
Hearts that falter may yet die,
Only one with unity will fly."
Lyriana glanced at Aryn and Eryon. "Unity is the key. Trust isn't optional here—it's survival."
They entered a chamber where stars rotated in impossible patterns. Illusions of Arvandor burning rose, Aryn lost to shadow, Lyriana's crown shattered. Doubt clawed at their minds, threatening to sever their unity.
Lyriana closed her eyes, reaching for their hands. "These are lies. We are together. Our hearts beat as one. Nothing can divide us."
The crown pulsed violently, shadows and starlight intertwining to stabilize the chamber. The illusions dissolved into harmless starlight, leaving the maze still but navigable.
A melodious voice echoed through the labyrinth. "Few can survive the first stanza, Moonlit Queen. Your bond is strong… but the poem has many lines, and the final verse may demand sacrifice."
Lyriana exhaled, gaze firm. "Then we will write our own lines. Together. No verse can dictate our hearts."
Above the maze, stars shifted again, forming multiple paths forward. Each one promised greater trials, but also the possibility of confronting Caelum Virex himself.
Lyriana lifted her head, crown pulsing in harmony. "Then let's continue. Every step we take, we define our own fate."