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CHAPTER 3 The first light of dawn filtered through the narrow window, casting a warm glow on Sophia’s bedroom walls. She stirred beneath her blankets, as she lingered on the edge of consciousness. The scent of cinnamon and sizzling butter wafted into her room, causing her to inhale deeply and smile. Her father may have been gone, but the comforting symphony of her mother’s morning routine remained steadfast, a soothing balm for her aching heart. As she pulled back the covers and slid her feet onto the floor, an unpleasant sensation rippled from her toes up her spine, making her shiver involuntarily. “Ugh,” she muttered under her breath, rubbing at the back of her neck. “Not the best way to start the day.” From its place on the nightstand, FERN let out a chime. The slender, metallic creature, reminiscent of a dragonfly, copied Sophia’s motions as it spread its delicate wings. “Thanks, FERN,” Sophia said softly, a small smile on her lips as she met the device’s gleaming gaze. “You always know what to say.” “Chirp-chirp,” FERN responded, its melodic voice full of warmth. Footsteps echoed in the hallway outside her room, and Lilith’s gentle knock sounded on the door. “Breakfast will be ready soon, dear,” Lilith said, the clatter of dishes punctuating her words. “Morning, Mom,” Sophia replied, pulling herself to her feet despite the lingering unease in her body. “I’ll be there in a minute. Just let me get dressed.” “Alright, take your time,” Lilith answered, her voice filled with tenderness. Sophia woke up, stretching her muscles as she readied herself for the day. Today, the air felt noticeably different, buzzing with a thrilling sense of potential. As she stood, she caught sight of herself in the mirror; her medium-length brown hair tied back in a functional ponytail, her practical and comfortable clothing adorned with shimmering crystals that seemed to dance in the dim light. She looked every bit the adventurous young woman her father had always believed her to be. As Sophia reached for her soft yellow vest and long-sleeved shirt, she paused for a moment, reminiscing on her loss. “Today’s the day we find answers,” she whispered to herself, her hazel eyes reflecting the fiery determination within. “For Dad, for Mom, and for all of us.” FERNs chirps echoed, its sensors whirring as it leapt gracefully from the nightstand and fluttered about the room in a show of solidarity with Sophia. “Okay, FERN,” Sophia said resolutely, adjusting the pockets on her vest and taking one last look in the mirror. “Today is a new day,” Sophia whispered With each step in the hallway, The tempting aroma of breakfast guided her, reminding her that she and FERN would confront any difficulties with determination and hope. “Is everything alright, Sophia?” Lilith asked, her green eyes filled with concern as she watched her daughter. “Um, yeah. Just not feeling too well,” Sophia admitted, absently tracing patterns on the tablecloth with her finger. She bit her lip, struggling to find the right words to express the turmoil within her. “I just miss him, you know?” “Of course, dear.” Lilith’s voice softened as she laid a reassuring hand on Sophia’s shoulder. “It’s natural to feel that way. But remember, he lives on in your strength, your curiosity, and your love for this Community.” “Beep?” Sophia looked at FERN, then back at her mother. “FERN has been great, always there when I need someone to talk to or when I’m feeling... lost.” “Lost?” Lilith raised an eyebrow, concern etching itself in the lines around her eyes. “Figuratively speaking,” Sophia clarified, offering a wan smile. “It’s just... sometimes, I can’t help but wonder what life would be like if we still had Dad with us.” “Chirrup-beep,” FERN added softly, as if to offer its own reassurances. Lilith extended her arm over the table, grasping Sophia’s hand. “It’s natural to wonder about that, dear. Always remember, your father’s presence lives on through your strength, curiosity, and love for this Community. Amidst the ambient noise, Lilith quietly expressed, “I sometimes feel that your father is still looking out for us, guiding us in ways we cannot fully grasp.” “Maybe we can talk about something else,” Sophia suggested, attempting to steer the conversation away from her father. Her mind raced through various topics, but each one seemed to bear the weight of his absence. “Of course, sweetheart.” Lilith squeezed her shoulder gently. “Did you have any interesting dreams last night?” Sophia hesitated, her fingers fiddling with the fork on her plate. “Yeah, actually,” she said, her eye rising above her soft response. “I dreamt of this beautiful orchard, filled with trees covered in the most vibrant blossoms. It felt like I was surrounded by life and warmth.” “Sounds lovely,” Lilith murmured. “What else?” “Father was there,” Sophia continued, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. “He stood beside this one tree, though...it was twisted and colorless, so different from the others.” “Sounds like quite the dream,” Lilith mused thoughtfully. Sophia gazed at her half-eaten breakfast, captivated by the soft patterns created by the warm glow of the glowing flora streaming through the window. Sipping her tea, Lilith sat opposite her, lost in deep thought. Lost in their memories of Theo, they were engulfed in a heavy silence filled with unspoken words. “Mom,” Sophia finally broke the silence, her voice wavering slightly. “Do you ever dream about Dad?” Lilith looked up from her cup, her eyes softening as she considered the question. “Sometimes,” she admitted, a wistful smile touching her lips. “Usually, they’re happy dreams, filled with laughter and warmth. But other times…” She trailed off, her gaze drifting towards the window. “Other times?” Sophia questioned, curiously. “Other times, I see him standing near a twisted, colorless tree–a stark contrast to the vibrant world around us. It’s as if he’s trying to tell me something important, but I can’t quite grasp the message,” Lilith said, her brow furrowing in thought. Sophia nodded, finding solace in the shared experience of their dreams. She hesitated for a moment before adding, “I had a similar dream last night. He was there, among a blooming flower, and it felt so real… like he was really with us.” “Really?” Sophia asked, hope flickering in her hazel eyes. “Who knows?” Lilith replied, giving her daughter’s hand a reassuring squeeze. “But dreams have a power all their own, my love. And sometimes, they can offer us guidance when we need it most.” “Chirrup-chirp,” FERN interjected from its spot on the windowsill, its sensors pulsing a warm yellow hue. “See?” Lilith smiled at the small robot. “Even FERN agrees.” “Maybe you’re right,” Sophia said quietly, feeling a bit better. She looked around the room, remembering all the happy times with her father. Each memory gave her more strength to face the day and whatever adventures it might bring. “Let’s finish our breakfast,” Lilith said gently, squeezing Sophia’s hand before letting go. “Then we’ll start our day together.” “Okay,” Sophia replied, managing a small smile as she returned to her pancakes. After breakfast, Sophia felt content. She helped Lilith clear the table, their movements familiar and caring. With the last dish put away, Sophia smiled at her mother, who gave her an encouraging nod in return. She excused herself from the kitchen and went back to her room to finish getting ready. The soft glow of bioluminescent plants lit up Sophia’s reflection in the mirror, casting a warm light on her face. She took a deep breath and spoke softly. “I will be strong and capable like my parents,” she whispered. “I will continue their passion for knowledge and exploration, discovering new opportunities.” Sophia thought about how much she had grown since her father’s disappearance and allowed herself to feel proud. She had faced each challenge head-on, growing stronger and more resilient with every step. Her heart swelled with gratitude for the support her mother had given her throughout it all. FERN inquired with a chirp, poking its metallic head out of Sophia’s pocket as if to ask whether it was time to go. “Almost, FERN,” Sophia answered, giving the pocket a reassuring pat. “We’re going on an adventure today, and we’ll need your help.” FERN replied excitedly, retreating back into its cozy pocket-home. “Are you ready, dear?” Lilith called from the other room, her voice warm and full of encouragement. “Ready,” Sophia replied, taking one last look at her reflection, feeling her confidence surge. She turned away from the mirror, her ponytail swinging lightly behind her. Lilith stood by the door, a small backpack slung over her shoulder. “I packed us a few essentials for our trip to the Hall of Learning,” she explained, handing Sophia a matching pack. “I thought we might need them.” Letting out a sigh, she didn’t know she was holding back. “Now, let’s get moving. We have a day full of discoveries ahead of us,” Lilith said, opening the door to their home. 11-12 With a final nod, Sophia and Lilith stepped into the hallway. Sophia felt a mix of excitement and anticipation. Today was a new chapter in their lives—a chance for growth, understanding, and unity. In the warm glow of Level Four’s lights, Sophia felt the familiar weight of FERN in her pocket. The tiny robot beeped softly, its wings fluttering. “Keep your eyes open, Sophia,” Lilith said as they walked. “There are lessons to learn, even in the most ordinary places.” Before them sprawled the extensive passages of Level Four, bathed in Muted sunlight filtered through the bioluminescent foliage, casting dappled patterns across the worn cobblestones, Sophia and Lilith made their way through the once-bustling market. “Things have certainly changed since the explosion,” Lilith observed, her eyes scanning the downsized market with a hint of sadness. “Many of the vendors we knew have moved on, and now we only find goods from our own level.” Sophia surveyed the stalls, marveling at the vibrant textiles, artisanal trinkets, and diverse selection of mechanical instruments. “Look, Mom! You can buy mini Discontinuity generators from that stall.” Then a worried look washed over Sophia. “Wouldn’t it be risky if everyone began manipulating time?” Lilith smiled gently. “Time manipulation can be risky, that’s true, but those devices are carefully regulated by the Visionaries. They’re meant to provide small conveniences, not disrupt our daily life.” “Ah, I see…” Sophia muttered, her thoughts swirling in the mysteries of the past urging her toward new discoveries. As they walked through the market and passed a courtyard full of students, Sophia felt drawn to the Hall of Learning. The eager young minds were being taught about unity, tradition, and innovation by their teachers. “Here we are,” Lilith said, leading Sophia into the grand entrance of the Hall of Learning. The huge doors swung open to reveal a vast room filled with rows of books, artifacts, and scientific equipment. “Wow,” Sophia whispered, her voice barely audible in the awe-inspiring instituation. Sharing in Sophia’s amazement, FERN beeped eagerly and its wings quivered in her pocket. Placing her hand on Sophia’s shoulder, Lilith gazed at the wide expanse of knowledge. “This is where your father and I spent countless hours learning about the world and its mysteries,” Lilith said, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia as she traced her finger along the worn spines of books. “He was passionate about understanding the past and how it shapes our future.” “This is where your father and I spent countless hours learning about the world and its mysteries,” Lilith said, her eyes twinkling with nostalgia as she traced a finger along the worn spines of the books. “He was so passionate about understanding the past and how it could shape our future.” Sophia felt a sudden surge of emotion, as if her heart was tethered to her parents’ memories. She imagined them, young and in love, exploring the same corridors she now wandered. The thought sent a shiver down her spine, making FERN vibrate in her pocket. She knew that within these walls lay the answers she sought, and she couldn’t help but feel a sense of destiny guiding her steps. “Mom, can you tell me more about how you and dad met?” Sophia asked, her voice filled with curiosity and longing. Lilith smiled and gestured towards a nearby alcove, where two intricately carved wooden benches faced one another beneath an exquisite stained-glass window. “This is where it happened,” she began, her voice softening. “I was studying the effects of Discontinuity on plant life, while your father was researching the history of the Visionaries. We both reached for a book at the exact same moment.” A tender smile played upon Lilith’s lips as she continued. “Our hands touched, and it felt like time itself stood still. From that day on, we were inseparable, united by our shared thirst for knowledge and our love for each other.” As Sophia listened, she could almost see the scene unfolding: two kindred spirits discovering each other amidst a sea of knowledge. “Oh my, look at the time.” Lilith said with a slight laugh. "As much as I’d love to stay here and explore with you, my responsibilities call. There is a ceremony for the incoming group of Retired Messengers.” She paused, giving Sophia a warm smile. “But I’m excited to hear about your discoveries when we meet later for lunch.” As they prepared to part ways, Lilith gently brushed a stray lock of hair from Sophia’s face. “Remember, my love, the answers you seek may not always be in the pages of a book. Sometimes, a single whisper from the heart reveals the truth.” Sophia smiled, understanding her mother’s wisdom. “I’ll remember that, Mom. Thank you.” With a final hug, they separated, each going their own way. With FERN nestled in her pocket, Sophia ventured deeper into the Hall of Learning, each step bringing her closer to the truth about her father and his legacy. As Sophia wandered deeper into the winding corridors, she felt a strong pull toward a specific section of the Hall. Her footsteps echoed softly on the old stone floor, her heart beating faster with each step. It seemed like she could hear the whispers of those who had been there before, guiding her through the dimly lit passages. “Trust your instincts, Sophia,” she reminded herself. Sophia wandered through the twisting hallwaystowards the Silent Elders hidden library. The scent of parchment and aged leather filled the room, and artifacts lined the walls. Though few people ventured to these upper levels, her curiosity couldn’t be satisfied. She felt drawn to explore. The cool air caressed her skin, and the musty scent of ancient books filled the air. As she stepped in, she called out, “Hello? Her voice was swallowed by the dense shelves of books. As she ventured further into the room, her fingers brushed against dusty tomes and delicate scrolls. It felt as though the very walls were whispering to her, urging her to explore deeper and uncover their secrets. She carefully opened a book, feeling the weight of centuries in her hands as her fingers traced the faded script. She felt connected to the past, to the stories and lives preserved within these pages. “Is this how Dad felt when he was on the verge of a discovery?” she wondered, her mind conjuring images of her father’s adventures. “Like he was touching the essence of the past?” Deep in her thoughts, she nearly missed the weathered journal tucked under a stack of scrolls. Overflowing with curiosity, she delicately lifted it, feeling the heaviness of what it held in her shaky hands. “Could this be...?” she murmured, flipping through the pages filled with handwritten notes and sketches. The words seemed to dance off the paper, telling tales of intrepid explorers and brilliant inventors who had once walked the very halls she now stood in. “Wow...” Sophia breathed, unable to contain her excitement. She approached the table, feeling drawn to the items as if they were calling out to her. Eagerly, she turned her attention to the journal, opening its cover to reveal pages filled with elegant handwriting and detailed sketches. As she read, she felt the words bridging time and space. Turing a page revelaed a loose map folded closly to the binding. Sophia carefully examined the intricate sketches and handwritten notes on the ancient map. Her gaze shifted from the artifact to the old timepiece on the wall. Its delicate gears whirred softly, a testament to the craftspeople who created it long ago. She gasped, realizing lunchtime was fast approaching. “Time flies when you’re lost in history,” she murmured". Folding the map carefully and tucking it into the journal, Sophia marked her place with a thin strip of ribbon before closing the cover. As she rose from her seat, she couldn’t help but feel a surge of gratitude for the explorers and inventors whose stories filled these pages. “Mom will want to hear about this,” Sophia thought, She held the journal protectively under her arm, aware of its importance. As she scampered back to their meeting place for lunch. Her footsteps echoed softly as she walked through the Hall of Learning, each step bringing her closer to the familiar comfort of her mother’s presence. “Mom!” Sophia called as she entered the open courtyard where they had agreed to meet for lunch. Sunlight filtered through the glass ceiling above, casting dappled patterns on the floor and creating an inviting atmosphere. Lilith stood near a stone bench under a tree, her green eyes filled with pride and love as she saw her daughter approaching. “Ah, there you are, my dear,” Lilith said warmly, her voice a soothing balm to Sophia’s racing thoughts. “You look like you’ve discovered something incredible.” “Mom, you won’t believe what I found!” Sophia exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement. She pulled the journal from her bag, its worn leather cover bearing witness to the passage of time. “I stumbled upon the Silent Elder’s chamber, and it was filled with so many amazing things!” Intrigued, Lilith leaned in with curiosity. “I want to know everything, my dear.” Sophia opened the journal to the marked page and began recounting her exploration. “In his chamber, there were shelves lined with artifacts, some of which I’ve never seen before. And then I found this journal tucked away amongst them.” She traced her fingers along the intricate designs etched onto the cover, feeling a connection to the unknown author. “Look at this map,” she continued, pointing to a detailed illustration that spread across two pages. “It shows hidden pathways, underground tunnels, and secret chambers throughout our Community. I think it might be connected to Dad’s work somehow.” Lilith examined the map carefully, her eyes moving between the routes and notes. “Sophia, this resource holds significant value.” Your father was always interested in the history and secrets of our world.” Sophia paused, remembering the dream she had talked about with her mother earlier. Could these findings relate to the blooming orchard and twisted tree? She pushed aside the notion and directed her attention to the evidence before her. “Mom, do you think we have the ability to explore some of these places?”” Sophia asked, her voice trembling with anticipation. “Maybe we can find something to help us understand what happened to Dad.” Lilith smiled warmly. “I believe that’s a great idea.” “Let’s see what secrets these pages hold,” Lilith said, opening the journal to reveal the map and sketches inside. Sophia turned the pages of the journal, her hazel eyes widening as she found a passage about a hidden refuge. The refuge was said to be full of books and relics from the Surface, the world their ancestors left long ago. She looked up at Lilith, excitement in her eyes. “Mom, listen to this,” Sophia said, her voice full of wonder. “The journal’s author found a secret refuge with precious knowledge from the Surface.” Lilith leaned forward, her green eyes reflecting the candlelight. “That sounds amazing, Sophia. Where is this refuge located?” Sophia traced her finger along the coordinates in the margins. “The author used a code to mark the location. We need to decipher it first.” Lilith’s face brightened with determination. “Then let’s do it together. Your father had faith in the strength of knowledge. He would want us to follow this lead.” By trusting their intuition and refusing to give up, they cracked the code. It revealed coordinates pointing to unexplored areas of Level Four. The idea of exploring the unknown, following in her father’s footsteps, made Sophia’s heart race. “Mom, are you sure we should go there?” Sophia asked, torn between her desire for answers and her fear of the unknown. Lilith gently squeezed Sophia’s hand. “We’ll be cautious, my dear. Yet, this journey has the possibility of taking us to something extraordinary. Your father always said knowledge is key to unlocking our potential. We owe it to ourselves to check it out.” “Alright, Mom. Let’s do this. Let’s explore the hidden refuge and unlock its mysteries,” Sophia said with determination. Together, they gathered their belongings and set off, guided by the cryptic coordinates and their belief in the power of knowledge. Walking side by side, a new sense of unity and purpose pushed them forward into the unknown. The candlelight flickered against the old stone walls, casting intricate shadows. Lilith stood at the entrance to the Silent Elder’s chamber, her heart steady as she prepared for the meeting. She had never spoken with him before, but his wisdom was legendary in the Community. “Come in, Lilith,” called a gentle, firm voice from within the dimly lit chamber. Lilith hesitated for a moment, scanning the room as she took in the countless shelves filled with old books, scrolls, and artifacts. It was as if she had stepped into a hidden sanctuary of knowledge, untouched by the sands of time. As she moved further into the room, her eyes fell upon the Silent Elder, who sat cross-legged on a cushioned mat, surrounded by a sea of parchment. “My daughter, Sophia, found something that I believe may be of great interest to you.”Lilith began, her voice soft with reverence. “Ah yes, the journal,” the Silent Elder replied, nodding slowly. His eyes held a depth of understanding that seemed to stretch back through the ages, their dark pools shimmering with memories and secrets long forgotten. “I have been expecting you.” “You have?” Lilith asked, taken aback by his statement. The Silent Elder chuckled quietly, reading the surprise written across her face. “Indeed, I have,” he confirmed, placing a hand on the worn leather cover of the journal that lay open before him. “This journal belonged to me many years ago, and it contains a wealth of information that few have ever seen.” “Then it’s true,” Lilith whispered, her eyes widening with wonder. “The hidden refuge, the relics from the Surface... all of it?” “True, and so much more,” the Silent Elder replied, a mysterious smile touching his lips. “I have lived for 457 years, Lilith, and during that time, I have witnessed the world change in ways you cannot imagine.” Lilith barely suppressed a gasp at the revelation of his age, her mind racing with questions and possibilities. Was this the key to understanding the mysteries that had plagued their Community for generations? Could the Silent Elder’s knowledge guide them toward a brighter future? “Then I must ask,” she said, her voice quivering with excitement, “will you help us explore the hidden refuge?” The Silent Elder regarded Lilith carefully, his eyes searching hers as he weighed her request. Finally, he nodded, a glimmer of hope shining in the ancient depths of his gaze. “In a way,” his inigmatic voice filled with centrainty. “Together, we shall unlock the secrets of the past and forge a new path for our people.” The Silent Elder explained that the first TimeWeavers discovered a unique energy source with the ability to manipulate time. By harnessing this essence, those who comprehended its nature could shape our world’s destiny with intricate patterns. The Silent Elder nodded, his expression a blend of pride and sadness as he prepared to transfer the essence to Lilith. “Embrace the power within you, and let it guide you on your journey,” he intoned, his eyes flickering with a hidden energy as they locked onto hers. The Silent Elder said, his stoic look fading into a, knowing smile. “And now, it is time for me to let go.” Before Lilith could respond, the Silent Elder stepped back, letting the essence merge completely with her. A brilliant burst of light erupted from his body, illuminating the chamber. And just like that, he was gone, leaving only a faint echo of his presence behind. As the light faded, Lilith stood alone in the Silent Elder’s chamber, the TimeWeaver essence now coursing through her veins. She could feel its power, wisdom, and legacy intertwined with her own heartbeat. The Silent Elder’s wisdom lingered in the air as Lilith took a moment to absorb her surroundings. The chamber, once filled with ancient relics and artifacts, now held a new sense of reverence—a testament to the legacy she had inherited. “Time waits for no one,” Lilith whispered, the words resonating through the chamber like the soft chime of a distant clock. She knew that embracing her role as the TimeWeaver meant facing many challenges and sacrifices. And yet, she couldn’t help but experience a newfound warmth enveloping her heart. She sensed a connection to the past, present, and future generations who had walked these halls, their footsteps echoing in the very air. “Time may be unforgiving,” Lilith mused, her mind wandering to the countless lives touched by the Temporal Guardians’ decisions, “but empathy has a way of transcending its boundaries.” She could sense the power of the Discontinuity, the ebb and flow of temporal energy coursing through the underground city, connecting each level in a delicate dance of The Un-Known. “Time has a way of healing wounds,” she thought, her heart swelling with hope and conviction, “and perhaps, with this power, I can help mend the fractures that divide us.” Lilith took a deep breath and emerged from the Silent Elder’s chamber. Stepping into the dim corridor, she was filled with a strong sense of determination. The energy of the Discontinuity pulsed around her. Guided by the essence, she experienced the tapestry of time unfold, revealing unity and innovation in each thread. The flash of colors temporarily left Sophia unable to see. FERN’s gentle beep snapped Sophia back to reality. Sophia suffered a concussion, and Lilith administered medical care. With a smile, Lilith gently caressed FERN’s metallic exterior, appreciating its comforting presence. The path ahead was full of adventure and mystery. Lilith felt a sense of purpose that anchored her amidst the unknown. As the TimeWeaver, she would carry on the Silent Elder’s work, maintaining the balance of time, and forging a brighter future for the Community.