The Tunnel and the Teacher
The tunnel was damp, lit only by flickering lanterns strung along the stone walls.
Steve, the bearded man, led the way.
"I'll take you out through a section just outside Eden."
Thomas frowned. "Why not exit into Perfect City?"
Steve didn't stop walking.
"After this time with me, you still question?"
Thomas lowered his head. "Sorry, Teacher."
Steve's voice sharpened.
"Don't be sorry. Trust. You'll need it. Both of you."
Luke and Thomas exchanged a glance and nodded. The words settled deep.
At the tunnel's end, Steve turned.
"You have everything?"
Thomas checked his gear: a Kitana blade, a backpack of food, water, and survival tools.
Luke was ready too Katana and slung over his shoulder, bow and arrows strapped tight.
Steve raised his hand.
"Safe travels. I bid you strength on your journey to destiny."
Thomas and Luke bowed low.
"Thank you, Teacher."
Then Steve's aura shifted silver and white light radiated from him, swirling the air like a storm in reverse. Leaves rustled. Dust lifted. The tunnel breathed.
"You kids better not go dying on me, you hear?" he grinned. "I'm looking forward to our next meeting. Good luck!!"
He raised his hand like a pistol and fired.
Bang!
Air pressure cracked like thunder.
Thomas laughed, turned back.
"Next time, you won't win so easily!"
Steve winked, aiming his finger-gun.
"Whenever you want, kid. I'll be here."
Under his breath, he muttered:
"That kid is something else…"
Thomas and Luke sprinted into the woods of Eden.
The trees were tall, ancient, glowing faintly with bioluminescent moss. The air was thick with mystery.
"I haven't heard much about Eden," Thomas said. "Another grand city in the Lights Society."
They weren't far now.
"Let's go see it for ourselves."
Luke nodded.
They dashed forward committed, determined, and ready to face .whatever came next