The Zodiark Chronologicals II

1st Chapter — Lee — The Zodiark Log 003 — Year 200

Location: Snake Temple

In that decisive moment, paralyzed by a mix of awe and trepidation, I summoned the courage to step in front of the grand throne, determined to distract the snake-like beings who had been deeply engrossed in their mysterious ritual. The room was filled with an eerie silence, disrupted only by the distant echoes of our earlier battle.
As I hastily moved, my heart pounding in my chest, it was clear that the snake-people had indeed taken notice. Their eyes, like coiled serpents, locked onto me, and for an instant, I felt a paralysing force grip my very being. My world stood still, I was petrified.
My valiant companions fought the snake people, and restored my ability to move. For a moment I could join the battle, but then I was struck and downed, wounded. I could only have faith in my company's strength. The Snake people were vanquished as our ever-reliable comrade, Soot, appeared like a shining beacon of assistance. Their presence brought a renewed sense of unity and purpose to our group.
 
As we caught our breath and tended to our injuries, the room's secrets began to reveal themselves to Shurr, our ever-curious seeker of knowledge, made a remarkable discovery. This chamber, and especially the gem adorning the throne, were irrevocably connected to the Elemental Law of Shadow, an enigma that held the key to our predicament.
With newfound insights and Shurr's guidance, Yunseul ventured into the range of the power-stone, and with a touch both resolute and courageous, they channelled their energy into the jewel. In an instant, the gem's radiance dimmed, and its malevolent power waned. The once-paralysing force had been vanquished, leaving the room bathed in a tranquil, otherworldly light.
Our journey into the Snake Temple had revealed yet another layer of its enigma, and the strength of our crew's unity had shone through once more. With the gem's power neutralised, our exploration could continue, and our hearts remained steadfast in the face of the temple's mysteries, challenges, and the revelations yet to be uncovered in the astonishing realm of Aetheria.
 
We pressed on into the depths of the Snake Temple, that led us to a profound discovery - the resting place of Seraphis the Avenger. The sarcophagus, a masterpiece of intricate earth runes, emitted a soft, ethereal green glow that bathed the chamber in a mystic light. The runes, aged and weathered, appeared to serve as a protective enchantment, their purpose clear according to Shurr: safeguarding the eternal repose of Seraphis.
Upon closer inspection, these runes told the tale of Seraphis's legendary battles and their deep connection to the earth and nature. It was a testament to the Avenger's legacy and the reverence with which they were remembered.
At the base of the sarcophagus, an ancient primordial inscription, as elegant as it was enigmatic, offered a eulogy to Seraphis, honoring their valor and unwavering commitment. The words, while lost in translation, carried a palpable sense of mourning and reverence.
But it was the celestial map etched into the inner lid of the sarcophagus that revealed a greater mystery. Seraphis had left behind a celestial guide, featuring constellations significant in their life's journey. We marvelled at the precision and profound symbolism etched into the stars above.
 
Our exploration took an unexpected turn as Talia and Yunseul, our intrepid comrades, managed to communicate with the spirit of Seraphis. The Avenger, less than pleased with our presence, set upon us a formidable task: to face and destroy the snake invaders plaguing the temple.
 
(Author's Personal notes) — Well, we fought a giant snake, we almost dies, I ... I can't talk about it yet, it still hunts me!