Chapter 2: An Intriguing Guide
With curiosity gnawing, Derik took a seat near the stranger. Up close, a bronze glow shone faintly through flowing robes, and kind eyes regarded him. "I am Malik. And you must be Derik, the forest's new friend."
Malik spoke gently. "This place gives solace to all who seek her shade. Did you enjoy your wanderings?" Derik nodded, entranced by Malik's aura. "I'm glad. Fantasia opens doors to worlds beyond our small lives. Have you considered staying?"
Derik wavered, thinking of waiting for chores. But Malik smiled knowingly. "Doubt not your worth, good Derik. Great deeds await those willing to grasp them."
Intrigued, Derik asked, "What deeds?" Malik's eyes glimmered. "Fantasia's king sees talent in you. Complete his quests, and renown will be your reward—gifts, land, and subjects to cherish you as prince."
Derik flushed, unused to praise. Yet Malik's offer stirred longing for meaning. "The king is just," insisted Malik. "Serve him faithfully as I do, and all will come to pass."
Night deepened around their talk, stars winking through newborn leaves. Derik had nearly decided when, with a jolt, he recalled Sunday's lessons—of cunning serpents charming Eve in Eden's glades.
Unease stirred as Derik studied Malik's gleam. "I must think on this. My father awaits my help come morning."Malik bowed. "A wise choice. Do not tarry long, young Derik."
With that, Malik glided into darkness. Derik stared after him, his mind whirling. Home now called him, yet Fantasia had awakened hungers in his soul. He fled the glade, troubled, emerging exhausted onto fresh-dyed grass.
Only then did Derik register the hour—nearly dawn. Panicked, he burst through the portal and froze. His room remained untouched, yet outside he trilled birdsong. Had he been gone mere moments, or far longer within that magic wood?
Derik collapsed, his thoughts as wild as waking dreams. What mysteries had he glimpsed beyond the forest's shrouding boughs? And who was the guiding light, Malik, who walked those moonstruck paths? Were his offered dreams a blessing or a threat to Derik's simple faith?
Exhausted, Derik pushed such musings aside for sleep. But behind closed eyes danced fragments of the coming night and a horizon stretching into gleaming distance, calling him ever onward into lands unknown.