Once again, they had to walk through a maze of tunnels. The Chiron didn't want to take chances of securing their location, but this time, it didn't take them days to make it out of the maze.
Within an hour, they walked through the last tunnel. The other side of the mountain was entirely different from what they had seen up to now. It was like they were back in the forest.
But this time, it was a well-organized forest. Everywhere they could see, they saw well-built stone roads. The cliff on the side of the road reminded them they were still in the mountains.
"Wow..." Yeji mumbled in awe.
She captured everyone's reaction in one go. Meanwhile, Anna was busy studying the city's strategic layout. It was surrounded by steep, unconquerable mountains in every direction, providing the city with a natural layer of protection.
The only way in and out of the city seemed to be through the passage they had exited. But knowing Chiron, they definitely had more than one exit hidden in the city, just in case.
Besides that, the entrance was quite narrow. Anna understood it was intentional so they could funnel any enemies into a narrow area, thus making defense easy for the Chiron.
Still, it was a strange sight to see a lively place such as that in the middle of barren mountains. Billionaires back on earth would pay millions of dollars to vacation there.
Who am I kidding? They'd buy it instead.
***
You gotta be kidding me!
That was the first thought in YuWon's head as they stepped into the heart of Thessaraea. Lush Gardens welcomed them along with a massive fountain in the center. The entire place was artificially created, but it only made it more unbelievable.
As they walked, curious centaurs gathered around, observing the group with keen eyes. It wasn't strange because they had seen humans for the first time.
But YuWon was more interested in knowing about the city.
"I'm amazed," he mumbled. "I can't even imagine all the work it would have taken to get all this water."
"Water is scarce here, as you've noticed. For us, everything is a blessing from nature, so nothing goes to waste in this city," the Chiron replied.
They were the only ones inside the temple dedicated to Athena. YuWon thought it was strange; it almost felt like the massive statue was staring at him and it wasn't a pleasant look either.
The angel knew the location of Chiron all this time. She had even gone out of her way to inform the Chiron about him and the reward he should get.
That's why the Chiron was waiting for him at the cave. They knew he was coming and wanted to help him with the angel's orders.
Next time I see her, I'd ask her to help me directly. Not in this long, winding way.
In the center was a large tank filled with a strange silvery liquid. At first glance, he thought the tank itself was his reward, but Alecton told him it was the shimmering liquid inside that held the true power.
"So... the reward is the liquid?" YuWon asked, looking back at Alecton.
"Yes," Alecton confirmed. "It is the water from the River Styx. A gift to Chiron and the secret of our strength."
"I see... so do I need to drink—?"
"Do not drink even a single drop. The water has powerful, transformative properties when used correctly, but if you ingest it... it will be the end of you. Bathe in it as many times as your body can handle it."
"I've got two disaster hearts," YuWon shrugged. "I think my body can take it."
"That's where you're wrong," Alecton shook his head. "Your body is robust, but it's nearing its limits. Absorbing two Disaster Hearts is a miracle, especially for a human. But to keep gaining strength, your body must evolve. I'm here to help you with that."
"What do I need to do?"
"Enter the tank," Alecton instructed. "The water will strengthen your body from the outside and make it capable of bearing even greater power. But remember, even touching this water will be a painful experience."
He continued, "The River Styx was never meant for mortals to use. But since the angel was confident in your abilities, I shall allow you to experience hell. Are you certain you're ready?"
YuWon nodded, taking off his shirt.
"Very well," Alecton sighed. "Remember, you must stay submerged for as long as you can bear it. Only then will the Styx change you. But don't overdo it."