Whispers of the Dream Realm

The Dream Realm's origins on Senthera World are shrouded in mystery and subject to much debate among scholars and mystics.

Some believe it first manifested when humans began to form their earliest civilizations, emerging as a reflection of their collective consciousness and shared dreams.

Others argue that it has existed since the dawn of Senthera itself, an eternal and intrinsic part of the world's fabric, intertwined with the very essence of life.

A third perspective suggests that the Dream Realm came into being with the birth of the first human, as if it were a gift or a curse bestowed upon humanity, a parallel dimension born from their innate ability to dream and imagine.

Regardless of its true origin, the Dream Realm has become an integral part of Senthera's lore, a place where reality bends and the boundaries of the mind are limitless.

The Dream Realm is a world unto itself, a mysterious and enigmatic dimension that exists parallel to Senthera World. It operates under its own laws and rules, defying the logic of the physical realm. Each continent on Senthera—such as the Southern Continent—has its own corresponding Dream Realm, a mirrored reflection that is both familiar and alien.

Time flows differently there; ages and events progress at a slower, almost dreamlike pace compared to the real world. The passage of years feels like mere months, making it a place where moments stretch into eternities and lifetimes pass like fleeting dreams.

What truly exists within the Dream Realm is a subject of endless fascination and speculation.

During the Celestial Era, the first legendary human recorded in history ventured into the Dream Realm and emerged alive after a year. He described : "To grasp the terrain of the Dream Realm was like trying to hold water in clenched fists—ever-changing, ever-elusive."His words hinted at a landscape that defied comprehension, shifting and reshaping itself at will.

In the Domination Era, another human, separated from their group, became lost in the Dream Realm and returned after three years. His account was equally cryptic: "The land was a paradox, where mountains flowed like rivers and skies stretched into endless abysses." This description painted a picture of a world where the natural order was inverted, and the very fabric of reality seemed to unravel.

In the present Common Era, the Dream Realm has become a topic of public fascination, with a phrase often repeated in hushed tones: "In the Dream Realm, reality is a suggestion, not a rule."This saying captures the essence of a place where the impossible becomes possible, where the boundaries of imagination are limitless, and where the very concept of reality is fluid and malleable.

The Dream Realm remains a source of wonder, fear, and endless exploration for those brave or foolish enough to step into its ever-shifting embrace.

The scene unfolded in a sprawling encampment on the western edge of the forest. Treachers had established their camps, their tents dotting the landscape like patches of color against the earthy tones of the wilderness. Horses were tethered nearby, some grazing lazily on the lush grasses while others rested, their heads bowed in quiet repose.

Amid the sea of tents, one stood out, a luxurious, eye-catching pavilion that exuded wealth and power.

Inside, a young man sat with an air of quiet authority. He was dressed in finely tailored clothes, his blonde hair catching the light as it framed his sharp features. A pair of glasses rested on the bridge of his nose, giving him an intellectual, almost calculating appearance.

From the shadows behind him, a servant emerged, his movements silent and deliberate. He bowed slightly before speaking in a low, respectful tone. "We've located Levi's whereabouts, young master. After his interaction with you, he headed to the nearby lake with his servant."

The young boy adjusted his glasses, his smile widening just a fraction.

"Did you want us to continue following him?" the servant inquired, his voice steady but deferential.

The young boy rose to his feet, his movements smooth and deliberate. "No need," he replied, his voice calm and measured. "Just lead me there." The smile on his face deepened, carrying a hint of intrigue and anticipation as he prepared to step out of the luxurious tent.

Levi sat on a boulder by the lakeshore, gazing at the serene waters that stretched out before him.

The peaceful nature of the lake was a balm to his soul, but the tranquility was short-lived. Gradually, the quiet was replaced by the chatter and laughter of hundreds of students who had begun to gather around.

This lakeside spot was the only picturesque location in the area, and its beauty made it an easy meeting point for everyone.

As the crowd grew, a lively argument broke out between two boys of the same age, their voices carrying over the murmurs of the gathering.

"What a lovely sight," one boy said, his eyes fixed on the lake. "When I will become an Echo, I'll earn lots of money, hunt treasures, and buy this lake for myself."

The other boy scoffed, crossing his arms. "What a shame. Echoes are supposed to protect people, not work for money. You've got it all wrong."

The first boy rolled his eyes. "Huh, how can a village bumpkin like you understand? Everything in the world revolves around money—even the so-called 'honorable' Echoes."

"Who are you calling a village bumpkin?" the second boy shot back, his voice rising. "And don't you dare disrespect the esteemed Echoes!"

"Obviously, I'm talking to you," the first boy retorted, smirking. "Is there anyone else here arguing with me?"

Their heated exchange quickly drew the attention of the surrounding students. Some laughed, others whispered, and a few even cheered them on, adding to the lively atmosphere. The tension between the two boys was palpable, but their argument seemed to lighten the mood for many of the younger students.

For those who had been nervous about the upcoming trials to become Echoes and the dangers they would face in the Dream Realm the playful bickering was a welcome distraction.

The worries that had weighed heavily on their minds seemed to fade, if only for a moment, as they watched the two boys go back and forth.

Levi, noticing the shift in the students' expressions, mused to himself, "Most humans fear the dream realm just as they fear snakes or any dangerous beast. It's instinctive their minds scream at them to either flee or fight. When faced with such fear, their brains shut down, and their potential crumbles to nothing."

A faint smile crept across his face as he continued, "But not me. The dream realm isn't a place of terror for me—it's home." His grin widened, a glint of confidence shining in his eyes.

Levi sat quietly on the boulder, his gaze fixed again on the shimmering lake, when a familiar voice interrupted his thoughts.

"What did Brother Levi think an honorable Echo should do?" the voice asked, coming from one side.

Levi turned and saw a young man dressed in luxurious clothes, Dorian, the noble he had interacted with earlier after leaving his carriage. "Oh, Brother Dorian," Levi greeted with a warm smile.

"I feel I must apologize for speaking out without an invitation," Dorian said, placing one hand on his chest and giving a slight bow, a gesture of respect commonly used among the noble unions.

Levi chuckled softly and stood up from the boulder. "If we needed invitations to talk to one another, on what basis could we call ourselves friends?" he replied, his tone light and friendly.

Dorian laughed heartily, his glasses slipping slightly from the force of his outburst. "Hahaha, well said, Brother Levi!" he said, adjusting his spectacles.

Levi's expression grew thoughtful as he turned to answer Dorian's earlier question. "An honorable Echo," he began, "is one who remains true to his nature."

Dorian tilted his head, repeating the latter half of Levi's words. "true to his nature..." He paused, then gestured toward the two boys who were still arguing in the distance. "Then, does that mean both of them are right in their own ways?"

Levi shook his head. "No, they are both right and wrong at the same time," he replied cryptically. Seeing the curiosity in Dorian's eyes, Levi added, "You will understand in the future, when you become an Echo yourself."

Dorian raised an eyebrow, intrigued by Levi's words but not pressing further. Instead, he turned his attention back to the lively scene around them.

The two arguing boys had now drawn a small crowd, their banter providing entertainment for the onlookers.

The younger students, who had been tense about the upcoming trials, seemed to have forgotten their worries, laughing and cheering as the argument grew more animated.

Levi watched the scene with a faint smile. The lake, the laughter, and the camaraderie among the students created a sense of unity that was rare and precious.

For now, the weight of their future responsibilities as Echoes could wait. This moment was about connection, joy, and the simple beauty of being alive.

Dorian, standing beside Levi, seemed to share the sentiment. "It's moments like these that remind us why we strive to protect this world," he said softly, his gaze fixed on the lake.

Levi nodded, his eyes reflecting the calm waters. "Indeed, Brother Dorian. Indeed."