Eyla didn't want to keep her grandfather waiting too long and suggested they leave as soon as possible. If he couldn't find her, he might do something dreadful.
"Just leave like this?" They wished they could take all the treasures from the cave, especially the Life's Spring, as each drop was exceedingly precious.
"Take what we can now, and we can always come back later." Alavin fashioned some stone jars from materials in the cave, filled them with Life's Spring, and packed his satchel with Elixir Fruit.
"Can we really come back?" Eyla, holding a small fox, saw the creature's longing eyes fixed on the Life's Spring. It was reluctant to leave, as if it wished to soak in it forever.
"Perhaps," Alavin said, bowing respectfully to the eighteen statues surrounding them. He promised in his heart. “I take your legacy with me, and I won't let it be buried in obscurity.”
"What legacy have you received exactly?" Eyla asked, her curiosity piqued for the third time.
"I haven't fully studied it yet. But it might be the secret of immortality," Alavin admitted, trusting them enough to give a hint.
"Immortality?" The three gasped in unison.
Cedrick gazed at Alavin intently. Immortality! Cedrick had to admit that his heart surged with desire. Who wouldn't yearn for eternal life, for an endless existence?
Immortality? Mariela stood firm, her resolve like ice. This was the hidden secret of the ancient kings! No wonder it had attracted the mighty warriors from the Warrior Tribe of the East.
Eyla clicked her tongue teasingly. "Immortality, eh? How many wives are you planning to take?"
Alavin choked on his response. "Immortality is theoretical. If you shatter me, I will still die."
"Aren't you afraid we'll spill your secret?" Cedrick challenged. Such a secret would drive everyone mad.
"If I were, I wouldn't have spoken of it."
Eyla linked her arm with Alavin's. "Quick! Marry me, or I'll tell everyone."
"Eyla, lady, conduct yourself with dignity."
"I am bold in love as I am in hate," Eyla retorted, glancing purposely at Mariela.
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