"So..." Ezreal said loudly to break the tension. "What's the plan?"
Kai'Sa walked over to the window. She peeked through the shutters briefly, and waved us over, signaling us to follow her. She led us through the streets of the city. Now that we weren't in danger of dying, I was able to truly look at the majesty of Shurima. These stone buildings stood for thousands of years, each marked by the passage of time yet still breathtaking. The carvings and statues displayed intricate craftsmanship. Despite its decay, Shurima was stunningly beautiful.
"Look at these structures," I said, awe evident in my voice. "The detail, the artistry... It's like the city is alive with history."
Ezreal nodded, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a mix of curiosity and admiration. "Shurima was once a beacon of culture and power. These buildings, the statues, tell the story of a civilization that valued knowledge, art, and strength. Each carving, each statue represents something significant."
We passed a towering statue of a warrior with the head of an animal, his stance proud and defiant. "That's likely one of the Ascended," Ezreal pointed out.
I tilted my head, puzzled. "Why does the Ascended look like an animal?"
Ezreal explained, "The Ascended took on animalistic forms, embodying the traits of those creatures. It was a way to symbolize their strength, ferocity, and connection to the divine. Renekton, for instance, took the form of a crocodile."
I looked around, processing this information. "So, the marauders riding alligators isn't random. It's a nod to Renekton?"
"Weird form of worship." Akali commented.
Ezreal nodded. "Exactly. Everything here has layers of meaning. These symbols, these forms, they all tell a story about Shurima's beliefs and history."
I traced my fingers over the weathered carvings on a nearby wall. "And these hieroglyphs?"
"Stories and records," Ezreal replied. "They depict everything from great battles to daily life. Shurimans believed in documenting their history in stone, so their legacy would endure for eternity."
Kai'Sa glanced back at us, her expression serious. "Admire the beauty, but stay alert. This place holds many secrets, and not all of them are friendly."
As we moved deeper into the city, an unsettling stillness seemed to settle over the streets. The sounds of distant battles faded, replaced by an eerie silence. I felt a growing tension in the air, as if the very city were holding its breath.
"Something's not right," Akali whispered, her eyes scanning our surroundings.
"Yes. I feel it too." Irelia added.
Suddenly, the sand at our feet began to shift. Before we could react, figures began to rise from the ground, forming a semi-circle around us. Sand Soldiers, their forms precise and imposing, emerged from the earth, their weapons at the ready.
We stopped in our tracks, staring at the soldiers in shock. Their appearance was both awe-inspiring and intimidating, a testament to the ancient power that still thrived in Shurima.
"Stand down," a commanding voice echoed through the silence.
From behind the Sand Soldiers, a regal figure stepped forward. Clad in ornate armor and a flowing cloak, his presence was unmistakable. I realized this must be Azir, the Emperor of Shurima, known for his control over these soldiers.
Ezreal's eyes widened. "It's him," he whispered to me.
Azir surveyed us with keen eyes, his gaze lingering on Sivir. "It has been quite some time, Sivir. What marks your return?" He demanded with a level tone. When his eyes met mine, there was an intensity that bore down on me.
Sivir nodded her head in respect. "Great Emperor, it's good to see you again. We need your help."
Azir regarded her with interest.
"Lift your head. One with my blood has no need to bow. However," His eyes moved to us. Ezreal moved as best he could, pulling the rest of us down to our knees. Akali complained, but did so anyway. Azir simply stared. He walked forward, his imposing size towering over us.
"Void and Renektons underlings roam rampant in my lands. An unfortunate situation. However, something tells me you would know. Speak now." He commanded. I spoke up. Wish I didn't.
"We search for the Mind of Yaavin." I explained. Azir's eyes glared.
"I have not heard that infernal name for centuries now. Why is it you search for such a cursed thing?" He asked sharply.
"To destroy it. To keep it from falling into the wrong hands." I answered quickly.
"Wrong hands?" He repeated. He drew closer to me. "It would not fall in any hands. Do you know why? I have executed all who fell under the corrupting influence of that parasite. Why would I allow another to suffer the same fate?"
"No! That's not-" I stood.
"YOU DARE INSOLENCE?!" A sand soldier pointed its spear at me. Slowly, his eyes widened. At first, I didn't understand why. But I could see what was flashing through his mind. Recognition.
"You." He growled. The wind howled, sand whipped against my skin.
"Have you returned to finish what you have started?! Answer me!" He shouted. He grabbed my throat. He lifted me off the ground, his grip like a vice.
"I don't know what you're talking about!" I choked out.
Enough! You have caused enough chaos to my home! You and those filthy Darkin! You think I wouldn't recognize the taint of Yaavin? You were the one who spread his corruption across Shurima, who fought the Ascended, the Darkin, and the Celestials. I will not allow you to bring more destruction!"
Azir's grip tightened around my throat, his eyes burning with fury. Sand swirled around us, forming sharp tendrils ready to strike.
"I don't know what you're talking about!" I choked out, struggling against his hold.
"I will end you here and now!" Azir declared, his voice echoing with ancient power. The sand coiled tighter, preparing to crush me.
"I haven't forgotten the havoc you wreaked The Ascended you slaughtered! The innocents corrupted by your touch! You brought terror to Targon, defied the Celestials, and left a trail of devastation across Shurima. The Darkin wars were fueled by your chaos. Your very presence taints these lands!"
Suddenly, a blast of arcane energy struck Azir, forcing him to release his grip. Ezreal stood with his gauntlet raised, panting heavily. "Run, Ravik!"
But before we could react, Azir regained his stance, his eyes glowing with a fierce determination. The sand around us erupted, creating a whirlwind. With a swift motion, he directed a powerful wave of sand towards us.
The ground beneath our feet crumbled, and I felt myself falling.
"Ravik!" Irelia and Akali yelled. I could hear Kai'Sa attacking with her projectiles and Irelia's blade slicing through the air.
Ezreal and I plunged into the darkness below, the sound of the collapsing earth echoing in my ears. We hit the ground hard, landing in a deep, ancient chamber. The dim light revealed walls covered in intricate carvings and inscriptions, remnants of a long-forgotten era.
Ezreal groaned beside me, clutching his leg. "Are you alright?" he asked, his voice strained.
I nodded, wincing from the pain of the fall. "Yeah, I think so. But where are we?"
Ezreal looked around, his eyes wide with a mix of awe and fear. "Somewhere deep beneath Shurima." He attempted to stand but fell over.
I rushed over to him. "Here, let me take a look," I offered. His ankle was badly bruised and swollen, preventing him from walking without assistance.
Ezreal sighed, frustrated. "I should have used my ability to teleport instead of launching an attack on Azir. Now look at me."
"It's fine, Ezreal. You're the one who saved us." I reassured him.
He grimaced. "I'm not sure about that. I think I only made him angrier. I want to hope the girls are alright... but..."
We exchanged an uneasy glance.
"They've survived this long." I assured him. Though, a part of me wondered if I was right. My head pounded with uncertainty.
"Whatever happens, we're stuck here for now."
"Only if we stay put. We have to find a way out." I muttered looking around. I walked to one end, the light above barely making it to us. To have survive that fall is close to a miracle. The chamber seemed to have some old paintings. I couldn't make out much because of the poor lighting. However, there did appear to be a mural on the floor. I could feel my pulse racing as I noticed a familiar shape: Yaavin.
On the mural, the ancient artistry came to life, depicting a scene of immense chaos and destruction. At the center stood a man with light skin, his silver hair intricately detailed to flow like a cascade. His eyes, though mere carvings, seemed to hold an intense and fierce gaze. This was Yaavin, depicted in the midst of his rampage.
The mural captured the moment with incredible detail. Yaavin towered over the battlefield, his size exaggerated to show his overwhelming presence. Around him, the landscape of Shurima lay in ruins, with buildings crumbling and the ground torn apart by the force of his wrath.
Surrounding Yaavin were some sort of monstrous creatures, their forms depicted in brutal combat against the Ascended. The sky above was filled with jagged lines and swirling patterns, representing the chaotic energy of the battle.
Yaavin's hands were raised, and the mural depicted waves of destruction emanating from him, carved lines radiating outward to show the impact of his power. Everyone were shown being struck down, their bodies etched in various states of defeat and agony. The expressions of terror and pain on their faces were meticulously rendered, highlighting the horror of the scene.
In the background, the Sun Disc was partially visible, its outline marked with detailed carvings of light rays. This juxtaposition of the Sun Disc with the surrounding devastation captured the essence of the conflict, showing the stark contrast between Shurima's ancient glory and the chaos brought by Yaavin.
Ezreal pointed to the grotesque figures battling the Ascended. "Those must be the Darkin," he said, his voice echoing slightly in the cavernous chamber.
I looked closer at the mural, taking in the horrific details of the Darkin. "The Darkin? Who are they?"
Ezreal glanced at me. "You haven't heard of the Darkin? Right. Sorry, I forget sometimes. They were once mighty warriors, transformed into monstrous beings by their own hubris and the corrupting power of blood magic. During the Darkin Wars, they sought to dominate Runeterra, but their ambitions led to their downfall."
I stared at the mural, the weight of Yaavin's legacy becoming clearer. "And Yaavin fought them, alongside the Ascended?"
Ezreal nodded. "No. The way everything is set up, he fought everyone. Yaavin's chaos fed into the conflict. He fought against both the Darkin and the Ascended, spreading destruction wherever he went. It's no wonder Azir is so intent on stopping him."
My dream came to mind again. Those gods that threw everything they had to kill Yaavin. And now an emperor. I was constantly reminded of the type of cataclysm that was Yaavin.
"Hey, hear that?" Ezreal pointed out. I honed in and was able to hear running water. Moving closer, we found ourselves in another chamber, this one lit with torches. A large stone pool was in the center, illuminated by moonlight pouring through a gap in the ceiling.
"A spring," I said, leaning over to peer into the crystal-clear water.
"Quoting Akali, if we die, at least it won't be of thirst." Ezreal replied, sitting on the edge of the pool.
I smiled. "Akali, huh? Didn't expect you two to get along so well."
He shrugged, an expression of wistfulness on his face.
"We get along just enough. You all are growing on me, even though my life has been put in constant danger since I've met you." I sighed, not having the heart to laugh.
"I'm sorry..."
"Don't worry about it." He said. There was a moment of silence. A moment to slow down. I washed my hands and face of the sand and dirt. Splashed my face again with the refreshing cool water. Even in this abandoned and ancient place, life persisted. I cupped my hands and drank greedily from the fresh water. It felt good.
"Those runes," Ezreal began, "The ones on your back. I've never seen anything like them before. When you see into memories, I remember seeing that... well, mana I guess you can call it. They look like the stars in the sky, spreading all around. I realize that they are coming from your runes." He observed. He was smart to piece together so far. He was far more interested in solving the mystery of some of the things I didn't even know about myself.
"Yeah. It's one of those things that just happen. I don't know why that is." I confessed. Ezreal cleared his throat. Seemed he notice I was getting lost in thought.
"If I may, there's something I want to state, officially of course. I'll call it, 'The Mysterious Nature of Yaavin, featuring Ravik', by Ezreal."
I laughed and rolled my eyes. "What's this statement?" I inquired. Ezreal nodded slowly. It seemed he too was deep in thought.
"Seeing that mural, and the way Azir acted solidified one thing for me. That Yaavin was a force of nature. Totally focused on destruction." He stated.
"That's your official statement?" I asked with a raised eyebrow. He shook his head.
"Hold on. Give me a chance. That's only half. This one is the official statement. I can say with one hundred percent certainty that your memory powers aren't from Yaavin." He finished, with a resounding finality. I couldn't help but be curious.
"Where are you getting that conclusion from?" I asked. He scoffed lightly.
"Is it not obvious? What use does an extra dimensional being has of looking at people's memories? It's not like he's going to stop and politely ask to look inside their brain before obliterating them. You use that power to learn, to understand, and to connect." He stated. "It may seem small to you, but I believe it shows your true nature. I don't know the extent of your powers. But I have a feeling that you can do a lot more than even you know."
"What makes you say that?"
"Instinct. Intuition. I'm a treasure hunter. I rely on these abilities to survive. I can feel it, Ravik. You're more than just a host for Yaavin. You're not a shell anymore. You said you woke up in Ionia with nothing. But then you were found and brought in. You were cared for and helped. You made connections. Even when you found out what you were, instead of embracing it, you ran, because you cared. You are your own person now. Or maybe it has nothing to do with it and it's just universes way of having fun." He concluded.
I grinned at his words. "Maybe. Thanks, Ezreal. I needed that."
"No problem. If you want, I can kiss your booboo and make it feel better." He quipped. I laughed. I pat him in the ankle.
"Ah! I'm joking!" He cried, swatting away my hand.
I stood and tried to make out anything else.
"Think you can conclude our way out of here?" I quipped. He smirked.
"Can a Brackern crystal resonate with a hexcore?" He asked me. I raised an eyebrow.
"The answer is yes. Yes, it does. And it's as impressive as it sounds." He stated with confidence.
"I suppose I don't need to know what that means. As long as it works."
"Just give me a hand. Can't navigate an underground temple with a wounded ankle. And this gauntlet isn't exactly my most dexterous tool."
"No problem." I responded. I walked over and pulled him up, putting his arm over my shoulder.
"Now, the fact that this place hasn't caved in yet is a sign of amazing construction. Man, I could set up camp here and study all of this for months." He exclaimed. I smiled.
"Then we might have to drag you away." I joked. He scoffed.
"Pfft, as if! You all would be lost without me. I can come back once this is all over. Now, onward Ravik. We have some ladies to reunite with."
"Yes, sir." I replied.
I'm not sure how long we've been traversing, but my body was feeling. With the heat, running, and now carrying Ezreal, I could pass out right now.
"We should stop for a bit." Ezreal said.
"I'm not sure if it's safe to stop. We have no idea what's down here, or what's happened up top.
"You can't run on empty, Ravik. You need to be in the best possible shape. We don't need you collapsing in the middle of a fight. And I can't fight in this condition." He reasoned. I chuckled.
"You sound like Irelia. She has said the same thing before." I recalled.
"Smart lady. I wouldn't be surprised if she and Akali are kicking ass topside. I can almost guarantee Sivir and Kai'Sa are cleaning them up too." Ezreal mused. I nodded.
"I do hope they are alright." I said, genuine concern in my voice.
"I'm sure they are. Look at it this way. You got me. I'm pretty sure I'm worth two of them. And then there's you, all you have to do is unleash your inner Yaavin then-"
"I don't know if I want to use that power again." I admitted.
"Why not?"
"It only worked last time because Irelia was there. If I go berserk now... I could hurt you." I said.
"You are underestimating yourself. I've seen you fight before. You were holding back, using only a fraction of your strength. I had a feeling. Come on, you need to have more faith in yourself." Ezreal encouraged. I stopped in my tracks.
"The only reason I've gotten this far is with you all. I... I'm starting to doubt myself again. Azir... what he said... just more things to add to the list of things I don't understand. I don't know if I have the strength to keep going.
Ezreal clapped me on the shoulder. "Ravik, listen to me. I know it's hard. This journey has already taken a toll on us. But we need you. This world needs you. The pieces of Yaavin, they can't be allowed to fall into the wrong hands. The sooner we destroy them, the better. And we can only do that if we work together. So, I need you to believe in yourself. Believe in us. We will get through this."
I dropped to my knees, Ezreal fell over.
"It's not enough to say they can't fall into the wrong hands anymore. It feels like no matter where I go, everyone is after me, or there are insurmountable odds against me. I've traveled oceans, traveled to different countries, all to find out that Yaavin's crime doesn't just stop destroying empires but the heavens too?" I shook my head. "And I'm afraid. I'm afraid of the power I have. I... I have to tell you something."
"What is it?" He asked. I sighed.
"In Zaun, when I lost control... I killed Irelia." I admitted.
Ezreal's eye narrowed.
"Wait, what do you mean? We saw her not too long ago."
I shook my head. "No. I had killed her. But this boy... he made time stop. He saw what I had done and he gave me a second chance. He turned back time, saved her."
"...You met Ekko. Well, I guess it's a good thing he was in the right place at the right time, eh?"
That didn't cheer me up in the slightest.
"Got it. Didn't land. Bad joke." I could hear the regret in his voice.
I sighed. "I just don't know what to do. I feel like I'm losing myself. I don't know who I am anymore. Every time I feel confident in what I'm doing I'm reminded that I'm not real... that I'm a monster."
"Stop. Look, I'm a treasure hunter. I've dealt with magic, artifacts, and even people of power. I know when someone is a threat and when someone isn't. You're not a monster, Yaavin is a monster. You are a human. A very strong human that can do... lots of things. I can't tell you exactly what. But I do know that you can do it. And you'll have me with you. And-"
"How can you be so calm?!" I yelled, my emotions overwhelming me.
"Because I trust you. I trust that you'll be able to handle whatever comes our way. I trust that you won't give up. I trust you, Ravik. Because I believe in you." Ezreal sat and took off his goggles.
"You know, back in Piltover, I found this ancient Shuriman artifact—my mystical gauntlet. I thought it was the answer to everything. But when I activated it, I realized I was way over my head. The power nearly consumed me. It was terrifying, but I managed to control it because I believed I could. Sometimes, it's not just about what you are but what you choose to be. You're more than just Yaavin's vessel. You're Ravik, and you have the strength to control your destiny. We'll figure this out together."
I only listened to Ezreal's words, but I felt no better. He placed a comforting hand on my shoulder.
"Look, I know it's hard. But we have to keep moving. I believe in you, Ravik. We all do." He sighed. "You want to know secret? You want to know the real reason I came with you guys?" I nodded.
"Because you saw my memories. Simple. You saw things no person on this planet would have seen. I want to figure out what it is that makes you so special. I want to find out why you can do what you do. I want to solve this mystery. But I also want to be your friend."
My breath stopped short.
"You... what?" I stammered, surprised.
"I want to be your friend. You're a good guy. You're honest, and you care about others. You don't want to hurt anyone, and you go out of your way to help people. That's the kind of person I want to be friends with. That's the kind of person I want to help. So, I'm here for you. No matter what." He declared.
I felt my chest tighten, his words resonating deep within me. And I started to cry. Why? Ezreal was nice to me and he always shared jokes to make us feel better... so why is it hitting me now? Is it the stress? The exhaustion? The confusion? I'm not sure. But I couldn't help it. I was tired and overwhelmed.
"Are you okay?" Ezreal asked. I wiped my eyes, trying to regain my composure.
"Better." I shared. He chuckled.
"It's the charm, I know. I got that a lot back in Piltover." He joked. I nodded.
"Yeah. But it's still good to hear. Thank you, Ezreal." I expressed. I stood once more. "Sorry about letting you fall."
He shook his head. "Nothing to apologize for. You needed to vent, so I let you vent. Let's get going. I don't know about you, but I'm hungry and I want something to eat." He told me. He reached up and grabbed my hand. And as he did, the familiar stardust came out of me.
"Well well, looks like you get to see my memories once more." He chuckled. I nodded and closed my eyes. My surroundings disappeared.
Colors and shapes blurred until they solidified into a new scene: the scorching, sunlit expanse of the Shuriman desert. I found myself standing in the middle of an ancient, crumbling temple, the scorching heat pressing down on me.
I followed a much younger Ezreal through the treacherous corridors of the temple. His face was a mix of caution and excitement, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. He skillfully avoided ancient traps and carefully deciphered the inscriptions on the walls, each step bringing him closer to his goal.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Ezreal entered a hidden chamber. The air here was cooler, filled with a faint, mystical hum. At the center of the room, resting on an ornate pedestal, was the Orb of Ascension. Dust particles floated in the shafts of golden sunlight piercing through cracks in the stone ceiling, giving the room an almost ethereal quality.
Ezreal's breath hitched as he approached the pedestal. The Orb of Ascension glowed softly, a pulsating light that seemed to draw him closer. I could feel his heart pounding with a mix of awe and trepidation. This was it—the discovery that could change everything.
His fingers trembled as he reached out, and the moment his hand contacted the orb, a surge of energy coursed through the room. Images flashed before my eyes: the ancient power contained within the orb, the history of the Ascendant, and the untold potential of the artifact. The air crackled with magic, and I felt an overwhelming connection to the ancient past.
"Wow," young Ezreal whispered, his voice echoing in the chamber. "This... this is incredible. I've found it. The Orb of Ascension."
As he held the orb, a wave of energy radiated from it, illuminating the chamber with a mystical glow. Ezreal's eyes widened in awe as he felt the immense power contained within the artifact.
"This is going to change everything," he said to himself, his voice filled with excitement and determination. "I can't wait to show everyone back in Piltover. They're not going to believe this."
The memory shifted slightly, and I saw Ezreal's triumphant return to Piltover. He presented the amulet to a gathering of scholars and explorers, their faces filled with admiration and respect. This was the moment that marked his transition from a curious boy to a renowned explorer.
One of the scholars, an older man with a gray beard, examined the amulet closely. "Ezreal, you've outdone yourself," he said, his voice filled with awe. "This artifact could revolutionize our understanding of ancient Shuriman magic."
Ezreal grinned, his face flushed with pride. "Thanks, Professor. It wasn't easy, but I knew it had potential. I just had to unlock it."
Another explorer clapped Ezreal on the back. "You've got a gift, kid. Piltover's lucky to have you."
The world came back around us. It happened again. The second memory.
"A great find indeed." Ezreal acknowledged. I felt a sense of accomplishment, but also a slight tinge of jealousy. Ezreal, even at a young age, was able to discover something so amazing. I felt as though I would never be able to measure up to his achievements.
"Look. That isn't something I just share with anyone. Yeah I like to brag about the things I find. But believe it or not, that was my first find. It wasn't easy and it wasn't without a few close calls. I nearly died down there. I learned a valuable lesson. You have to be willing to take risks in life. Otherwise, you'll never find anything worthwhile."
I sighed.
"I get it... Thank you. Let's hope the next time I falter, it isn't at a worse time." I said.
"And we'll be there to kick your butt into gear. Akali might kick it the hardest, though."
"She cares. But yeah. I'd rather be kicked into gear by Irelia." I commented. Ezreal raised an eyebrow.
"Oh, you like Irelia, huh?" He teased. I blushed.
"That's not what I said!" I protested, my cheeks heating up.
Ezreal laughed. "It's fine. I can't blame you. She's pretty cute. Plus, she's a badass fighter. You could do a lot worse."
I hoisted Ezreal over my shoulder once more. The exhaustion was there, but it was bearable this time around. At the first step, I tripped. We fell into a nearby wall and it gave way. Ezreal and I tumbled down a sand dune.
We landed in a large, open chamber. The walls were lined with intricate carvings and ancient Shuriman hieroglyphs, glowing faintly with a mysterious light. In the center of the chamber stood several large statues made of stone and metal. The ceiling was high above, with several cracks letting in beams of moonlight that illuminated the dust particles in the air.
Ezreal groaned as he stood up, brushing sand off his clothes. "I have a bad feeling about those statues," he muttered, his eyes darting around the room. "I've seen this kind of setup before. They might not stay statues for long."
Across the chamber, there was an ornate archway leading to a narrow passageway, our potential exit. The passage was partially obscured by fallen debris and overgrown with ancient vines, hinting at disuse but also a possible escape route.
"Looks like we need to get to that passageway," I said, pointing towards the archway.
Ezreal nodded, "Get close enough and I can teleport us through the wall. But we need to be incredibly close."
As if on cue, the statues began to stir, their eyes glowing with an eerie light. The ground trembled slightly as they activated, their heavy footsteps echoing through the chamber.
I drew my weapon, preparing for the fight. "We need to get to that passageway now!" I yelled, taking a fighting stance.
Ezreal took out his gauntlet, a look of concentration on his face. "I need to gather enough energy for the jump. Just keep those statues away from me," he replied.
I spun my sword. Just large statues, we've faced down worse. They were slow and clumsy. I could deal with them.
I charged, dodging to the side of one of the statues as it swung its massive stone fist at me. I slashed at the statue's legs, sending sparks flying as my blade scraped across the stone. The statue stumbled but quickly regained its footing.
I ducked under another swing and rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding a crushing blow from the other statue. I sprinted towards Ezreal, the statues hot on my heels.
I grit my teeth in determination and dodged around another attack from one of the statues. I sliced at its leg, severing the stone limb in one swift motion. The statue crashed to the ground in a pile of rubble, but I didn't have time to celebrate my victory as I leapt out of the way of another attack from the remaining statue.
The statue lumbered towards me, its movements slow but powerful. I dashed to the side and slashed at its back, leaving a deep gash in the stone. The statue stumbled forward and crashed to the ground, the impact shaking the chamber.
I turned to check on Ezreal, and I could see = his gauntlet was beginning to glow with an arcane light. "Almost there," he called out.
The chamber was quiet for a moment, the air filled with a tense silence. I gripped my sword tightly, ready for anything. Suddenly, the ground began to shake violently, and the ceiling crumbled above us. Huge chunks of stone fell from the ceiling, crashing to the ground and sending plumes of dust into the air.
I looked around wildly for Ezreal, but I couldn't see him through the haze of falling debris. "Ezreal!" I shouted, coughing as the dust filled my lungs.
"I'm okay!" he called back, his voice strained but determined.
The air was filled with the sound of crumbling stone and falling debris as the chamber collapsed around us. I ran towards the source of Ezreal's voice, but the path was blocked by a mountain of rubble.
"I'm coming for you!" I yelled, frantically searching for a way to reach him.
Suddenly, a bright light pierced through the clouds of dust, and I saw Ezreal appear next to me in a flash of arcane energy. The two of us stood in the middle of the collapsing chamber, surrounded by a swirling vortex of falling rocks and crumbling walls.
"Grab on!" Ezreal shouted, grabbing my arm.
I held on tightly as Ezreal teleported us out of the chamber, just as the last of the statues crumbled into dust. The two of us materialized outside of the ancient temple, standing in the cool night air.
We both fell to the ground, exhausted. I leaned against a rock and caught my breath, my heart still pounding from the adrenaline of the fight.
"That was close," Ezreal said, panting.
I looked back at the entrance, a small doorway leading into the sand. It was now slowly crumbling, and soon it would be sealed for good.
"Too close for comfort," I agreed, taking a deep breath.
Ezreal winced as he tried to stand, his ankle still hurting. I slowly stood and approached him, only to stop. We were surrounded by sand soldiers.
"Uh... Hey. You think we can call a truce? Maybe discuss it over dinner?" Ezreal asked.
They did not respond, their eyes glowing with a strange light. I could feel the tension in the air, and I knew this was not a battle we could win.
"Be at ease. We are not here for combat," a voice called out.
A tall man clad in Shuriman garb, his demeanor calm and authoritative. "Emperor Azir wishes for you to be taken to his quarters. You are under his protection."
"You aren't just saying that then kill us when we aren't looking?" Ezreal asked, eyeing the soldiers warily.
"We are merely following orders. Besides, it would be foolish to try and assassinate you with the Emperor's full attention on you. It would be an insult to him, and we could lose our heads. And I'm sure you'd wish to see your friends. The women you arrived with."
"Are they ok?" I asked quickly.
"They are fine now. Although, they did give the Emperor a hard time much earlier in the day. Something about killing their friends. I am to assume that's you two."
"We're not dead..." Ezreal confirmed.
"Yes, the Emperor's mercy has spared your lives. And you both will be escorted to his chambers."
"Escorted? Or detained?" I clarified.
"Come see for yourself."
The soldier stepped aside and pointed at a row of chariots, each pulled by horses.
"Let's go, Ezreal," I urged. He looked hesitant, but I knew the danger was minimal.
We climbed into one of the chariots, the soft padding providing a surprising level of comfort. The sand soldiers took their positions, and with a signal from their leader, the horses began to move. The chariot ride was smoother than I expected, the night air cool against my skin as we traversed the desert.
As we approached the grand ruins that served as Azir's temporary palace, the sheer scale of the ancient architecture loomed above us. Towers and walls, intricately carved with Shuriman glyphs, stood tall against the starry sky. Torches flickered, casting long shadows that danced along the stone surfaces.
Ezreal leaned over, his voice low. "I can't believe we're actually being summoned. Let's hope this goes better than last time."
I nodded, my eyes fixed on the massive gates that were opening before us. If they planned to kill us, now would be the perfect time.
The chariots came to a halt, and we were escorted inside. The interior was even more impressive, with lavish tapestries and golden statues adorning the halls. The soldiers led us through a series of corridors until we reached a large, ornately decorated door.
The lead soldier knocked, and a moment later, the door opened to reveal a grand chamber. Emperor Azir stood at the far end, flanked by more sand soldiers. His presence was commanding, his golden armor and regal stance radiating authority.
"Enter," Azir commanded, his voice echoing through the chamber.
"Ravik!" Akali's voice called out.
She and Irelia embraced me in a tight hug. I hugged them back, relief washing over me.
"No yeah. I'm just tagging along. Totally didn't save him or anything" Ezreal quipped.
"We're glad to see you safe," Irelia assured him.
"Likewise." I said.
Azir cleared his throat, and we turned to face him.
"I believe we have some discrepancies to clear up. First, I would like to apologize for assaulting you. As you well know, Yaavin is a being of chaos. And he has killed many of my people. These... warriors, whom I believed to be corrupted by his influence were able to explain the situation." He explained.
"I understand. Thank you for your apology. And thank you for sparing our lives. I promise we are not working with Yaavin. In fact, we are seeking to destroy him." I added.
"Yes, I'm quite aware now. Sivir, being of my blood, vouched for you." He said. My eyes looked over to Sivir. She did?
"Thank you." I told her.
She simply nodded.
"And as a sign of good faith, I will tend to your wounds and give you a place to rest. We shall speak in the morning. There is much more to discuss. My guards will escort you to your rooms. Goodnight." He bowed and left.
The soldiers led us to a series of guest rooms, each furnished with luxurious Shuriman decor.
"All we had to do was get chased around half to death to relax in style." Ezreal observed. I chuckled.
"I guess so." I replied.
The guards bowed and left. I turned to Sivir. "Hey. Thanks again for vouching for us." I said.
"Well, I wasn't going to say anything. But then these two and the void girl went crazy. The emperor was a bit shocked." Sivir answered.
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"Irelia was angry. I'm sure you can imagine. And then that void girl just went ballistic. And Akali was flying all over the place." She walked up to me.
"Your story, and the loyalty you've gained from them, speaks volumes to what you've said about destroying Yaavin. I hope you can make it true."
I smiled. "I intend to. By the way, where did Kai'Sa go?" I asked.
"She's around. She didn't want to stay here. She wanted to ensure there were no Xer'Sai or any void around. Though it's for the best, she started to horde all the mangoes they gave us."
"Then we should rest while we can. I have a feeling Azir will tell us about the Mind. I can still feel it's call." I said.
Ezreal yawned. "I agree. Night!"
Irelia and Akali looked at each other. They walked towards their shared bedroom. I looked at Sivir.
"Now that you know what you know, will still stay with us or leave tomorrow?" I asked.
Sivir shrugged. "Haven't decided yet. We'll see."
Sivir left to her own room, leaving me to mine. We were all able to bath and change, the beds, while a little too soft, were comfortable. The next day would come, and one way or the other, I will destroy the fragment.
"The name Yaavin is not just a relic of our past—it is a harbinger of chaos and destruction that threatens our future. You seek to understand this ancient terror, but know that the knowledge I share comes with grave responsibility."
We listened intently as Azir continued, "Yaavin appeared amidst the chaos of the Rune Wars, a being of immense power drawn to our world. His path of destruction led him across many regions, and he eventually reached Shurima. Here, he clashed with the Ascended, our greatest warriors, causing widespread devastation."
Ezreal raised a hand, curiosity evident in his eyes. "You said Yaavin appeared during the Rune Wars. How did he manage to travel between realms?"
Azir nodded. "It is believed that the chaos and powerful magic unleashed during the Rune Wars created rifts between realms, allowing entities like Yaavin to traverse them. His arrival was a consequence of that upheaval."
Azir's eyes narrowed as he recounted the tale. "His power was unparalleled, and he showed no mercy. He moved on to Mount Targon, where he attacked the Celestials themselves, killing many. But his ambition did not end there. He ventured north to the Freljord, battling their gods and spreading chaos."
Akali leaned forward, her brow furrowed. "What made Yaavin attack the Celestials and the Freljordian gods? Was it pure ambition or something else?"
"He sought to challenge the most powerful beings, testing his might against theirs. It was both ambition and a desire to dominate."
"During the Darkin War, Yaavin returned to Shurima. The Darkin, recognizing his destructive nature, gave him the name Yaavin. He fought both the Darkin and the Ascended, intensifying the conflict and causing untold suffering."
Sivir spoke up, curiosity tinged with concern. "The Darkin named him Yaavin. What does that name signify in their language or culture?"
Azir nodded solemnly. "Yes, they did. They named him out of both fear and respect for his destructive power. The Darkin recognized a force as relentless as their own, one that could neither be ignored nor underestimated."
Azir paused, his expression grave. "After the Darkin were sealed, Yaavin sought to challenge the Targonians who had imprisoned them. He ascended Mount Targon once more, fighting the Celestials, including a powerful celestial to have taken the shape of a dragon. Ultimately he was banished. I have learned recently that his banishment meant he was sent to the Void."
That revelation struck me. And I could see it on the face of the others. If Yaavin went to the Void, it would explain the creatures kept attacking me. I can only imagine the destruction he caused while he was there.
Ezreal looked thoughtful. "So instead of the celestials splitting him, they sent him to the Void. Wait, that means they didn't separate him! Someone else did... Do you have any theories on what kind of power could have done it?"
Something else did it? Something powerful enough to tear Yaavin in three?
Azir's expression was grave. "If the gods did not split him, then it must have been an entity or force of immense power, perhaps one we have not yet identified. It could have been a collaboration of ancient magics or a being of great strength that opposed Yaavin's destruction. The records are unclear, but it is evident that whoever or whatever did this possessed incredible might, rivaling that of the gods themselves."
He then shifted his focus, his tone more urgent. "A fragment, as was explained to me," He nodded in the girls' direction, "Came to Shurima. I recognized it immediately. It took the form of an unassuming jewel, its dull exterior hiding the potent energy within. Its presence radiated a dark, insidious influence, corrupting those who lacked the mental fortitude to resist."
Azir continued, "The allure of the jewel was undeniable. It whispered promises of power and dominion, exploiting latent ambitions and vulnerabilities. Those who came into contact with it were twisted into agents of chaos. Unlike the Darkin weapons, mere proximity to this artifact was enough to feel its corrupting pull."
"How did you manage to lock away the Mind of Yaavin?" Kai'Sa entered the room from the outside, looking satisfied there was no immediate threat in the area.
His voice grew heavy with the weight of his memories. "Many were drawn to the jewel, and many were corrupted. I had no choice but to execute them, as they posed a great danger not only to Shurima but to all of Runeterra. The jewel also attracted hordes of Void monsters, compounding the threat."
Azir's eyes hardened. "To protect my people, I decided to lock it away in a temple, hidden in a region far to the southeast, infested with the Void. It is the only way to ensure the Mind of Yaavin did not fall into the wrong hands. Only a fool would be mad enough to traverse that region."
Kai'Sa's eyes widened slightly. "The Void-infested region southeast of here... That's the Lavender Sea, where the city of Bel'Veth once stood... It's now overrun with Void creatures, and a powerful entity controls the area."
Ezreal looked over. I could see he had a million questions pop into his head just then.
"The Lavender Sea is extremely dangerous, but if the Mind of Yaavin is there, we have no choice but to retrieve it. It's very presence could cause unpredictable effects on the void. If they attacked Ravik, imagine a fragment in the center of it." She continued.
Azir finished, "You must destroy the Mind of Yaavin, lest its corrupting influence be unleashed once more. This task will not be easy, but it is necessary for the safety of Runeterra."
Ezreal sighed. "I guess that means we're going to the Lavender Sea. I have a bad feeling about this, but I guess that's nothing new. It's not like we haven't dealt with powerful Void monsters before." Ezreal commented with a determined nod in my direction.
"You're welcome to recover while you're here. If you truly plan to go to this Lavender Sea, you should be at your very best. Whatever horrors lie in wait there will demand your very best. When you feel prepared to leave, I will provide chariots as transportation." Azir said.
With that, he turned and strode from the room, his sand soldiers following dutifully behind him.
Sivir glanced over at the group, her usual confidence replaced with a rare moment of hesitation. "I'm not one to dive into a nest infested with the Void. It's dangerous, and I've got my own stuff to take care of."
I nodded, understanding her reluctance. "It's ok. Thanks for everything you've done so far."
She started to turn away, then paused, a calculating look crossing her face. "But... there's something you should know. The Void's presence has been growing, and it's starting to affect trade routes and treasure sites. If this Mind of Yaavin isn't dealt with, it could ruin me—and everyone else making a living in Shurima."
Ezreal gasped. "Sivir? Are you warming up to us?"
Sivir sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Looks like I don't have much choice. If I'm going to protect my interests—and maybe even make a profit out of this—then I'm in. Just don't expect me to do it for free."
"Your assistance is welcomed. I know your skills will be an invaluable addition to our cause." Irelia said.
I nodded in agreement. "Thank you, Sivir. We'll be counting on you."
Sivir met my gaze. "Don't know what you mean. I'm just doing this to secure my profits. If things go south, I'm getting out of there. Nothing personal, but you have to look out for yourself, right?"
"I don't know, I feel like you've gotten a little soft in your short amount of time with us. Ravik has that kind of effect on people." Akali teased.
Sivir rolled her eyes, suppressing a grin. "I wouldn't go that far. I'm just doing this because it's in my best interest. Can't let you die on me now, can I?"
"Fair. You and Akali seem to enjoy having investments in me." I quipped.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Akali said, feigning innocence.
Kai'Sa strode closer to us, a serious look on her face.
"There's something you must know. If we're going to the Lavender Sea, we may inevitably meet it." She warned.
"Meet who?" I asked.
"The entity I mentioned before. The one that controls the Lavender Sea."
"Who is this person?" Irelia pressed.
Kai'Sa hesitated, her gaze dropping to the ground.
"Its name is Bel'Veth."
"Like the town that was there?" I asked. Kai'Sa looked me deep in the eyes.
"My suit, my second skin. Do you see how it and I are joined? A form of symbiosis. It helps me survive and it feeds on the void I slay. The void is the same. They assimilate and take on the form of those they defeat. Bel'Veth... destroyed the whole town. What came out was a horror that assimilated that very town. She is the strongest I have ever encountered." She explained.
"So... this thing is a void creature and a human mixed together?" Ezreal asked.
Kai'Sa shook her head. "It is a void monster that has taken on the collective experience and memories of all the people that lived there. It says that the void needed a physical form... so it came to be."
"That's... pretty insane." Ezreal said.
"It captured me and it... interrogated me, trying to understand humanity and our world. It feeds on knowledge and fear. I managed to escape, but not before realizing just how dangerous it is."
"So, we're heading into a place controlled by a Void entity that knows our every move and thrives on our fear?" Ezreal asked, a hint of apprehension in his voice.
"Yes," Kai'Sa confirmed. "But we can't let that stop us. If we don't retrieve the Mind of Yaavin and destroy it, the consequences will be far worse than anything Bel'Veth can do alone."
I agreed with her, but there was something in her eyes. They held the same haunting look I was familiar with. The struggle of being pressed down by an overwhelming force. Like Yaavin. I could tell she was not telling us everything, but I couldn't bring myself to ask.
Kai'Sa turned to look at me. "I want to help you. Will you let me join you?" She asked.
I looked around the group, meeting the eyes of everyone present. I smiled.
"We can use all the help we can get." I said.
She nodded, smiling back at me.
Irelia's eyes softened. "Welcome to the team."
"I guess we should start preparing. I have a feeling we'll be in for the fight of our lives." Akali said.
"How much time should we take to prepare? I'm done fighting at half strength." Ezreal questioned.
Kai'Sa placed her hand on her chin, thinking. "From what I can remember, the Lavender Sea is a few days away. I'm not sure if that's with or without the chariots."
"Look, I'm not letting a Lavender Sea or void monster get the best of me. But if we're going to into a warzone, I say we live it up as much as we can before we go. It's not every day you get to live like royalty." Sivir remarked.
Akali laughed, her eyes lighting up. "I like the way you think. Let's get some food and drinks in us. Maybe even find a bar."
Irelia looked at her disapprovingly. "We need to be ready to leave at a moment's notice. Not hangover the next morning."
"Let them have their fun, Irelia. There's no harm in it. Besides, it might be the last time they can relax like this for a while." Ezreal reasoned.
"From what I remember, you once told me letting fatigue catch up with us is the last thing we want." I mentioned with a smile.
"You do have a point. Very well, but we shouldn't drink too much. I rather not be in the middle of a battle with a killer hangover." She said.
"Alright! Drinks and food!" Akali exclaimed, pumping her fists into the air.
"Maybe we can find a bath house nearby as well. Don't know the next time we'll get to have one. Plus, I need a change of clothes. My old ones are just covered in sweat and dirt." Ezreal offered.
I nodded. "Sounds like a plan. Let's see if we can find one of Azir's followers. They can tell us where we can get what we need."
We found one of Azir's servants and after a quick conversation, she escorted us to the local marketplace. It was a bustling place, full of people and merchants hawking their wares.
As we walked, the servant began to explain the significance of the area. "This part of the capital, known as the Sun Market, has been carefully restored under Emperor Azir's guidance. The Sun Disc you see in the distance is a symbol of Shurima's rebirth and a beacon of hope for all Shurimans. This market has always been the heart of commerce and culture, drawing traders from as far as Piltover and Ionia."
The marketplace was a vibrant tapestry of life. Stalls overflowed with colorful fabrics, exotic spices, and intricately crafted jewelry. The air was filled with the mingling scents of incense and freshly baked bread. Traders from across Shurima and beyond gathered here, their voices blending into a lively symphony of haggling and friendly banter.
"The architecture you see here," the servant continued, "is a blend of ancient grandeur and new construction. Majestic columns and arches, remnants of a bygone era, stand alongside newly built structures adorned with fresh carvings. These buildings are not just a testament to our past but also a promise of our future. The Emperor has spared no effort in ensuring the revival of Shurima's glory."
Golden sunlight filtered through awnings, casting dappled shadows on the stone pathways. Fountains with crystal-clear water provided a cool respite from the desert heat, their gentle splashing adding to the ambient sounds.
"This market," the servant concluded, "is more than just a place of trade. It is a living museum, a gathering spot where the old and new Shurima meet. Each day, as we rebuild, we honor our ancestors and their achievements, and we look forward to a future where Shurima stands as a great empire once more."
From behind I could see Akali dragging her feet. I slowed down to walk beside her.
"You ok?" I asked. She looked to me, and I could see the boredom on her face.
"If she tells me one more thing about something, I might go crazy." She whispered.
"It's like she's on a mission to educate us on the history of Shurima and its architecture. I know she's enthusiastic about it, but this is just too much." I shared.
"I don't know about you guys but I'm having a blast." Ezreal expressed.
"Of course, you are. You are a big nerd. You might as well be the one giving the tour." Akali responded. Everyone chuckled.
"It's alright. At least I'm tall enough to see some of the infrastructure here." He retorted.
"Hey! I'm not that short!" Akali said with a frown.
"Yeah... sure..." Ezreal said sarcastically.
Akali huffed and crossed her arms, pouting like a child being told she can't have more candy.
I couldn't hold back and began laughing out loud, which made our impromptu tour guide stop.
"Is something wrong?" She asked.
"No... it's just... you're very passionate about Shurima history." I answered with a smile.
She nodded, smiling as well. "I am. It's my home, and I want everyone to know the greatness of it." She said proudly.
We continued our walk through the market, taking in the sights and sounds. Somehow, we managed to have her guide us to where we really wanted to go. After nearly raiding all the food and drinks, we raced by to the palace.
Once we were all bathed and ready, an unimaginable sight awaited us.
The spread before us was plentiful. There was an array of dishes that reflected the opulence and diversity of Shuriman cuisine. At the center of the table, a large platter of spiced meats drew our attention. Skewers of succulent lamb and chicken, marinated in a blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, were grilled to perfection, their juices sizzling and aromatic.
Surrounding the meats were bowls of colorful salads. Fresh pomegranates were scattered across a mix of greens, their ruby seeds adding a burst of sweetness and crunch. Another bowl contained a traditional Shuriman dish of roasted chickpeas, lightly spiced and garnished with parsley and a drizzle of lemon juice.
Platters of flatbreads, still warm from the oven, were piled high. These were accompanied by an assortment of dips: creamy hummus, smoky baba ghanoush, and a fragrant za'atar blend. The breads were perfect for scooping up these rich, flavorful spreads.
Honey cakes glistened on a silver tray, their golden crusts soaked in sweet syrup and topped with a sprinkling of crushed pistachios. Nearby, there were dates both fresh and dried, presented in ornate bowls, offering a simple yet delicious treat.
Couscous, fluffy and light, was served with a variety of toppings. Some bowls featured spiced vegetables, while others were mixed with nuts and dried fruits, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
In addition to the solid fare, a variety of drinks were laid out. Carafes of spiced wine emitted a warm, inviting aroma, the deep red liquid infused with cinnamon and cloves. For those who preferred non-alcoholic options, there were pitchers of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice, vibrant and tangy, and mint tea, cooling and refreshing with a hint of sweetness.
A special place on the table was reserved for the traditional Shuriman coffee. Strong and dark, the coffee was brewed with cardamom and served in delicate cups, promising a robust end to the meal.
Finally, a large bowl of Shuriman rice pudding stood out, its creamy surface dusted with cinnamon and adorned with dried apricots and figs. The rich, comforting dessert was the perfect conclusion to the feast.
"I've... never seen so much food before." I said as we all sat down at the large dining table.
"It's quite a spread." Ezreal added.
Akali nodded enthusiastically. "I'm ready to dig in."
Irelia looked at me with an amused smile. "You seem overwhelmed."
"I am... It's just... I never imagined I would be eating like this." I answered.
"Well don't think about it. Enjoy it. Enjoy time with your friends." She said.
Friends...
"Your memories. Would you like to know who you are?" He asked. Of course I do! I mean... yes. I do want to know. Everything was new, but it didn't feel overwhelming. I'm familiar with this place. Somewhere here was a family looking for me. Loves ones who knew me since I was a child. I was sure of it.
"Yes. Yes I would."
The memory of my first day on Runeterra flooded my mind. There was no family or loved ones looking for me. But now, as I looked at the people around me, I realized that maybe they were the ones I was looking for all along.
Irelia, Akali, Brother Tenzin, Karma, Shen, Ezreal, Sivir, Kai'Sa, and everyone I met on my journey so far. I'm grateful for this world.
I smiled at them and said, "Let's eat!"