Chapter 31: Reunion and Guidance

The trio emerged from the shifting shadows, returning to Luna Silverbrook's abode. The room felt familiar yet laden with the weight of their recent journey. Luna, initially absent, burst into the room with a mix of concern and relief etched across her features. Her eyes widened as she took in the trio, seemingly unchanged but marked by the passage of time.

"Where have you been?" Luna's voice held a note of worry, her gaze moving from one face to another. "You were gone for three months! I felt a powerful surge, and then ran here to see if it was you guys."

Kael, Emily, and Leo exchanged glances, silently acknowledging the disjunction between the realms. "It felt like only a day for us," Emily explained, attempting to convey the temporal disparity.

Luna's curiosity sparked, and she urged them to share their experiences. The trio took turns recounting their encounters in the shadow realm – the mysterious Moros, the celestial and infernal realms, and the challenges that unfolded in the shadowy depths.

"We can go back to the shadow realm anytime now, and we can access any of the six realms," Kael revealed.

Luna's eyes widened in awe, absorbing the profound nature of their newfound abilities. "That's incredible," she murmured, a mix of wonder and concern in her gaze.

Kael, sensing her unspoken thoughts, reassured her, "We've learned to navigate the realms. Now, what's our next step?"

Luna, regaining her composure, offered guidance. "For your next quest, you should head to the city of Astoria. Seek out Clarion; she is a wise soul who can guide you to the next realm – the soul realm."

The trio absorbed Luna's words, contemplating the path ahead. Kael, ever inquisitive, sought more details. "Who is Clarion?"

Luna's expression softened, a hint of nostalgia in her eyes. "Clarion is my dear younger sister. Born in the celestial realm, she lived a life with me before her moved to Astoria. She can help you find the soul you seek in the soul realm – the soul of Aelius."

As Luna spoke, the room seemed to take on an ethereal quality, the shadows playing with the light, creating an atmosphere of mystery and purpose.

The trio, determined and enlightened, prepared for their journey to the city of Astoria, where Clarion awaited, ready to guide them through the next realm on their quest.