Chapter 8: The next clue

"I trust us. Tomorrow, when the sun rises, we move. Back! To the building!" Dr. Isaac declared, his voice steady despite the uncertainty. Thomas gulped, the memory of the Echoe Man sending a chill down his spine.

"I know why you're afraid. Don't worry, I've been there," Fredrick said, placing a reassuring hand on Thomas's shoulder. "Just embrace it."

"We have the map now. We can follow all the directions. This place is our next clue, and we have to be there at first light tomorrow," Ellie said confidently.

"What she just said," James interrupted.

"You know, I really have some things to settle with you, Captain James—" Ellie began, her frustration bubbling to the surface.

"Well then, why not settle it with me now?" James snapped back, his eyes blazing.

---

The next day, as the first light of dawn broke, they made their way back to the building. To their astonishment, the once dilapidated structure now stood complete and fully furnished, a grand sight amidst the desolate landscape. Laughter and music emanated from within, suggesting a lively feast.

"Can they see us?" Thomas asked, his voice a hushed whisper.

"No. The dead can't see the living here," Fredrick replied calmly.

"Well, Echoe Man should hear that one," Thomas nervously chuckled.

"His death is... unquestionable for some reason," Fredrick said, his tone grave.

"So we just sit and watch them have a feast?" Dr. Isaac asked, his brows furrowing.

"We keep an eye on the princess. She might be our next clue," Fredrick replied, his gaze fixed on the opulent scene inside.

They peered through the windows, their eyes scanning the room until they found her: the princess. She was seated at the head of the table, her presence commanding and regal.

"How do we get to her?" Ellie whispered.

Fredrick turned to them, his expression serious. "One of us needs to go in. One of us needs to play the part of her lover."

"Who?" James asked, looking around.

"Thomas," Fredrick said decisively. "He's the only one they can all see."

"Me?" Thomas's eyes widened with fear. "I can't do that!"

"You have to," Fredrick insisted. "We'll guide you from outside. Just follow our lead."

With a deep breath, Thomas nodded, steeling himself for the task ahead. The crew positioned themselves around the windows, ready to signal him if necessary.

---

As Thomas stepped into the building, the world around him shifted. He was no longer a part of the crew but a guest at the feast. The princess's eyes locked onto his, and she smiled, her interest piqued.

"Who are you?" she asked, her voice melodic and enchanting.

"I'm... Thomas," he stammered, his mind racing. "I've come to see you, my love."

The princess blushed, her eyes sparkling. "My love? I... I feel like I've known you forever."

Outside, the crew watched anxiously, gesturing to Thomas with urgent hand signals. Fredrick mouthed the words, "Tell her she's the most beautiful woman you've ever seen."

Thomas took a deep breath and spoke, his voice trembling. "You are the most beautiful woman I've ever seen."

The princess giggled, clearly smitten. "Tell me more," she said, leaning closer.

"Ask her about the clue," Fredrick whispered, his eyes wide with anticipation.

Thomas gathered his courage. "Do you know of a way to find the treasure?" he asked, trying to keep his composure.

The princess's eyes narrowed slightly. "The treasure? Ah, yes. But it's not easy to find. Many have tried and failed."

"Please, my love. We need to know," Thomas pleaded, his heart pounding.

She sighed, her expression softening. "There is a secret passage, hidden beneath the old chapel. It will lead you to the next part of your journey. But beware, the path is dangerous."

Thomas nodded, taking her hands in his. "Thank you, my princess. You don't know how much this means to us."

The princess smiled, her eyes filled with emotion. "For you, anything."

As the feast continued, Thomas managed to excuse himself and rejoined the crew outside, his heart still racing.

"Did you get it?" James asked, his eyes wide with anticipation.

"Yes," Thomas replied, breathless. "There's a secret passage beneath the old chapel. That's our next clue."

"Well done, Thomas," Fredrick said, clapping him on the back. "You did great."

Ellie grinned, her excitement palpable. "Let's move before they realize anything."

With renewed determination, the crew set off towards the old chapel, ready to face whatever dangers awaited them in their quest for the treasure.