Eldoria

Nestled within the lush, verdant landscapes of Antique, Philippines, lies the hidden village of Eldoria. This secluded haven, shrouded in the mists of ancient forests and protected by the rugged terrain of the surrounding mountains, has remained a secret to the outside world for generations. Eldoria is a place out of time, a sanctuary where the art of healing and the deep knowledge of herbal lore are woven into the very fabric of daily life.

The village itself is a testament to its inhabitants' harmony with nature. Bamboo houses, perched on stilts and adorned with thatched roofs, are scattered across the valley, connected by cobblestone paths that meander through gardens of medicinal herbs and flowering plants. The healing springs, the village's heart, bubble up from the earth's depths, their waters believed to possess restorative properties that can heal both body and spirit.

Eldoria's residents, a community of healers, herbalists, and wise elders, have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of wellness and the nurturing of peace. Here, the turmoil and strife of the outside world seem distant, irrelevant. The village's isolation has fostered a unique culture, one where the art of crafting anting-anting, mystical amulets believed to offer protection against malevolent forces, has flourished.

These amulets, made from a variety of materials ranging from wood and stone to the more rare and powerful ingredients found only in the depths of Antique's forests, are imbued with prayers and enchantments during sacred rituals. The people of Eldoria believe that anting-anting hold the essence of protection, capable of warding off the aswang, the engkanto, and other supernatural beings that roam the Philippine archipelago. Each amulet is a symbol of the village's spiritual strength and its deep connection to the ancient traditions that have safeguarded its people through the ages.

In Eldoria, the concept of combat is alien. The villagers live by the creed of healing and support, their knowledge of the natural world their only shield against the darkness. This peaceful existence, coupled with their mystical practices, has made Eldoria a beacon for those seeking refuge from the supernatural threats that lurk beyond its hidden borders.

The village's seclusion has also made it a sanctuary for the lost, the wounded, and the weary souls of the world, much like Lucius, who, in his time of need, found solace within its bounds. In Eldoria, he would not only find healing for his wounds but also encounter a community whose way of life offered a stark contrast to the battles he had fought.

Beneath the ancient banyan tree that had witnessed countless gatherings and decisions, a council meeting was convened. The village elders, wise and venerable figures who had steered the community through times of peace and peril, sat in a circle, their expressions solemn. The matter at hand was of great importance—the fate of Lucius, the unconscious sellsword Bran had brought into their sanctuary.

Bran, standing at the center of the circle, faced the elders with a mixture of respect and determination. He had already tended to Lucius's wounds, applying his extensive knowledge of herbs and healing techniques to save the stranger's life. Now, he sought to convince the council of the need to allow Lucius to remain within Eldoria's borders until he fully recovered.

"Elders," Bran began, his voice steady, "I understand the concerns that arise from harboring a sellsword in our midst. Our village's peace and the safety of our people are paramount. However, casting Lucius out now, while he is still vulnerable, would go against everything Eldoria stands for."

He paused, allowing his words to sink in, before continuing. "Our healing springs, our knowledge of the natural world—these are gifts, not just for us but for all who are in need. Lucius fought against the darkness that threatens to encroach upon the light, much like the evils we protect ourselves against with our anting-anting."

The elders exchanged looks, their faces a tapestry of concern, contemplation, and tradition. One of them, Elder Amihan, a respected figure known for her wisdom, spoke up. "Bran, your compassion honors you and the principles of Eldoria. Yet, we must consider the balance of our sanctuary. A sellsword's presence could invite the very turmoil we've strived to keep at bay."

Bran nodded, acknowledging her point. "I understand the risk," he conceded. "But remember, it was our ancestors who taught us that healing is not just about mending wounds—it's about offering sanctuary, understanding, and a chance for redemption. Lucius has battled against the aswang, a creature that preys upon the innocent. In helping him, we affirm our commitment to the light and to the protection of all from darkness."

Another elder, wise Elder Dalisay, known for his thoughtful demeanor, stroked his beard, pondering Bran's words. "And what of after? When he recovers, what then? Do we not risk drawing unwanted attention to Eldoria?"

Bran met his gaze squarely. "Once he is healed, we can decide the best course of action. For now, let us offer him refuge. Let Eldoria be a testament to the power of healing and mercy. Let us not turn away someone who, though a warrior, has shown the courage to fight against the shadows that threaten us all."

The council fell into a thoughtful silence, weighing Bran's passionate plea against their duty to safeguard their village's tranquility. The debate that followed was intense but respectful, each elder voicing concerns and considerations, with Bran steadfast in his advocacy for Lucius's stay.

In the end, swayed by Bran's arguments and the village's founding principles of compassion and healing, the council reached a decision. Lucius would be allowed to stay until he regained his strength, under the condition that Bran would be responsible for ensuring that Eldoria's peace remained undisturbed.

As the meeting disbanded, Bran felt a cautious relief. He had secured a chance for Lucius, not just to heal, but to experience the sanctuary of Eldoria—a place where even those who had known only battle could find a moment's peace. The decision was a reaffirmation of Eldoria's commitment to healing and compassion, a beacon of hope in a world often shadowed by conflict and darkness.