? Faris S. J. 2024. All rights reserved.


    Chapter Four: The Laws of Desilta


    Am I dreaming, or is this reality? I still can’t believe what has happened to me. I’d always read about hidden worlds and parallel realms inhabited by strange people, wrapped in mystery and excitement. Worlds I would escape into through the pages of books, fleeing my harsh loneliness to live in places far more brilliant and alive.


    As I lay on Luca’s bed—he had kindly lent me his room—my thoughts spun wildly, trying to make sense of this new world I’d stumbled into. It only took a few minutes before sleep claimed me; perhaps my body and mind desperately needed rest to process these incredible events.


    The next morning, a light knock on the door woke me. It was followed by Elena, Luca’s mother, saying in her warm voice,


    ‘I’ve prepared breakfast. You’ll find some clothes that Luca left for you beside the bed.’


    Their generous hospitality sparked a deep gratitude in me, though I couldn’t shake off the strangeness of this unfamiliar place. I began dressing in the clothes Luca had left, glancing around the simple, comforting room. It reflected something of his kind personality. When I made my way down to the living room, I found Luca and his mother seated at the table, waiting for me to join them.


    The moment Luca saw me in his tight clothes, which barely fit, he burst out laughing, his infectious laugh filling the room. I couldn’t help but smile, despite the embarrassment.


    I sat at the table, overwhelmed with shyness, unsure what to say. The mouthwatering aroma of food filled the air, deepening my appreciation for these strangers who had opened their home to me.


    Luca broke the silence in a friendly tone.


    ‘Bradley, don’t worry about the clothes. We’ll head to a merchant later to get you something that fits. But before that, I need to go to the White City for my first day working as a builder.’


    I noticed a subtle change in Luca’s voice when he mentioned “working as a builder,” as if the subject stirred unpleasant memories. I also caught the fleeting disappearance of Elena’s smile, which hinted that “builder” held a deeper story.


    I was torn. I wanted to break the awkward tension, but I wasn’t used to opening up to people. I had spent so many years in solitude, surrounded by my self-imposed walls, that I never learned how to bridge the gap with others.


    And yet—like a shaft of light piercing through my thoughts—I had an idea: why not use this opportunity to change? Here, in this new world, it felt as though life had handed me a second chance. Why shouldn’t I try to become a new Bradley, a better version of myself?


    Before I even realised what I was saying, the words slipped out of my mouth:


    ‘I’ve worked in construction too.’


    Luca and Elena turned to me with visible surprise, clearly not expecting such a declaration. Luca’s eyes widened with curiosity as he asked,


    ‘Really? You worked in construction in your country too?’


    I laughed lightly, trying to cover my nervousness.


    ‘Not exactly. In my world, you can choose to work in any field you like. You can learn another trade and switch jobs if you want something new.’


    My words seemed to ignite a genuine curiosity about Luca. His eyes sparkled with interest, as though he was imagining an entirely different world, and for the first time, I realised that I—Bradley—had the ability to inspire others and make them curious through my words. It was a joy I’d never known before. I’d always denied myself the pleasure of the connection, yet here I was, feeling it for the first time.


    But before Luca could ask me more questions, his mother interrupted, reminding him of the need to catch the workers’ cart heading to the White City.


    ? ? ?


    Luca left quickly after we bid him farewell, wishing him luck on his first day as a builder. As soon as he was gone, I was left feeling awkward and out of place. What was I supposed to do now? The idea of staying alone in the house with Elena made me uncomfortable, as though I were trapped in a spiral of uncertainty.


    Elena broke through my thoughts with her calm voice.


    ‘Bradley, I’d like to check your head first to make sure you’re all right. After that, we’ll go to the market to buy you some proper clothes, and then I’ll take you to the village council.’


    I felt grateful for her care, but was suddenly struck by another problem. I said hesitantly,


    ‘But… I don’t have any money.’


    Embarrassment engulfed me. I wasn’t used to accepting help from others; I had always hated the idea of someone paying for me or relying on anyone. The thought of depending on Elena’s generosity weighed heavily on me.


    She laughed softly, her voice filled with tenderness, and said,


    ‘Bradley, if you’re going to live in Desilta, you’ll need to understand something simple: we help each other here without expecting anything in return. It’s part of who we are.’


    Her words warmed something deep inside me, as though this world carried lessons I had never learned in my old one—lessons about solidarity and simplicity.


    After breakfast, which Elena had carefully prepared, she began examining my head with cautious hands, her fingers moving gently as she checked each part with precision.


    Curiosity bubbled within me, and I asked her,


    ‘Elena, are you a doctor? You seem skilled at this.’


    She smiled kindly and said,


    ‘I’m a Sage, Bradley. Here, the Sage path gives us knowledge across various fields. In Desilta, Sages specialise in sciences, medicine in all its branches, education, and strategic planning for the community.’


    She continued speaking as she worked.


    ‘In Desilta, you’ll find a Sage who specialises in medicine, who knows how to heal illnesses and understands the human body deeply. Another may focus on teaching, able to pass on knowledge in innovative ways. We Sages play an essential role in advancing our society and solving its problems.’


    I listened intently, beginning to grasp more about this place. Yet one question lingered, pushing me to ask:


    ‘But I heard you don’t get sick here in Desilta. So why do you need Sages in medicine? And what’s the role of the Tree of Life I’ve heard about?’


    Elena laughed lightly, amused by my curiosity, and said,This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    ‘I’ll answer you, Bradley. The Tree of Life is a vital part of our world, and while the people of Desilta don’t suffer from common illnesses, there are still emergencies and injuries where care is needed. The Tree of Life grants us strength and vitality, but there are times when we require the help of Sages.’


    Her words were filled with mystery and wonder, leaving me with more questions than answers, as though I had fallen into an endless secret.


    She took a deep breath before continuing, her eyes shining with an ageless wisdom:


    ‘The people of Desilta are the descendants of humans and elves. We are born as humans, carrying all human traits. That’s why, when children are born here, they don’t possess the full immunity adults have. This immunity is only completed when they reach the age of twenty, at which point they undergo the Test of Life’s Path. Until then, children and young people are vulnerable to illness, which is where the Sages’ care becomes vital.’


    Her words stunned me. Humans… elves … How could that be possible?


    Seeing my shock, Elena added,


    ‘The Tree of Life plays an essential role in strengthening the children and youths’ immune systems; we use its extracts to protect them from severe illnesses. Once they turn twenty and their Life Path Bracelet is activated, the traits of the elves begin to appear. Their eyes turn blue—a sign that they’ve gained immortality, eternal youth, and health.’


    I listened intently, my mind reeling at the revelations. I still couldn’t fully comprehend it. Was that why Luca''s and Elena’s eyes were blue? Fear gripped me briefly, but it was quickly replaced by a sense of safety—Elena’s kindness and honesty reassured me.


    Elena finished examining my head and smiled reassuringly.


    ‘It looks like your head is perfectly fine. Do you remember how you hurt yourself?’


    I hesitated, unsure how to explain my complicated story, especially since I still didn’t understand how I had arrived in this world. Instead, I said simply:


    ‘I hit my head near the lake.’


    She looked at me with understanding, then said,


    ‘Well, you seem to be fine now. Come on, let’s get you some proper clothes, and then we’ll visit the leader of our village’s Sages. He might have an idea about your city—Liverpool—and how we can help you.’


    ? ? ?


    We left the house and made our way to the clothing market, where the merchant welcomed us with a warm smile. He wore a glowing yellow bracelet. The merchant helped me choose clothes that suited me, and as we left, I noticed Elena hadn’t paid him anything. Feeling embarrassed, I slowed my steps until she turned to me with concern.


    ‘Bradley… is everything all right?’


    I answered hesitantly,


    ‘Elena, I feel embarrassed. I should pay for the clothes.’


    She gave me a reassuring, kind smile and said,


    ‘Bradley, there’s so much you need to learn about Desilta. We don’t use money here, nor do we trade. In Desilta, as long as you’re committed to your Life Path, your Life Bracelet provides for all your needs. For instance, I’m devoted to my role as a sage, and as a reward, the glow of my bracelet increases, allowing me to receive what I need.’


    Her words filled me with amazement. This world seemed to be an ideal version of life, free from financial competition or survival anxieties. Everything was built on dedication and cooperation.


    What a world—where people lived in harmony and served one another with sincerity. A thought crossed my mind: how could I become part of this system and contribute in my own way?


    We arrived at a large building situated at the centre of the village—by far the most imposing and majestic structure I had seen. It stood as though it were the very heart of the village, its commanding presence and carefully chosen location marking it as the council of the village Sages. I entered alongside Elena, and my eyes were immediately drawn to the elaborate carvings etched into the walls, each telling a tale of the village’s ancient history.


    Above us, the ceiling was covered with stained-glass windows depicting glowing Life Bracelets in five distinct colours. The sunlight streaming through them cast mesmerising hues of red, green, yellow, blue, and white across the room, bathing it in a magical glow that stirred an undeniable sense of awe and wonder deep within me.


    ‘Wait here, I’ll fetch the leader of the Sages.’ Elena whispered softly, her voice barely audible in the reverent hush of the hall.


    I nodded silently and sat on one of the finely crafted chairs near the edge of the room. The stillness was almost overwhelming. Only the faint whisper of wind filtering through unseen cracks broke the silence, filling the space with an almost sacred calm.


    Before long, Elena returned, this time accompanied by a young man of striking appearance. He was tall and graceful, with sharp, handsome features and piercing blue eyes that shone even brighter than Elena’s. Around his wrist, a Life Bracelet glowed with a brilliance unmatched by hers—an undeniable symbol of his authority. I knew at once that this man must be the leader of the Sages.


    He stepped forward with an air of quiet confidence, a gentle smile on his face.


    ‘Welcome to our village, Bradley,’ he said, his voice steady and composed. ‘I’m Thomas. Elena has told me that you need our help to return to your city.’


    I hesitated, suddenly unsure of myself. Both Elena and Luca had assumed that leaving was what I wanted, but now, standing in this mysterious and wondrous world, I felt an unexpected pull—as though this place might be what I had been searching for all along. Still, I answered cautiously:


    ‘Yes… I want to return to my country, to England. Liverpool is where I live.’


    Thomas’s brow furrowed slightly, his expression tinged with curiosity.


    ‘I’ve never heard of England or Liverpool. Can you describe where it is? Perhaps it borders a kingdom or city I might recognise?’


    ‘It’s an island. It’s surrounded by the sea on all sides.’ I explained, my voice faltering slightly.


    Thomas tilted his head thoughtfully, the faintest trace of a frown on his face. he said slowly,


    ‘I have travelled for more than two centuries, visiting all the kingdoms and lands surrounding Desilta. And yet, I have never heard of an island surrounded entirely by the sea.’


    Turning to Elena, he asked,


    ‘You said he had suffered an injury to his head? Are you certain of his condition?’


    Elena’s tone turned firm, almost defensive.


    ‘I examined him carefully. Physically, he’s perfectly fine.’


    Thomas shifted his gaze back to me, his blue eyes intense and unwavering.


    ‘Then we have a problem, Bradley. You don’t know how to return to your world, and we have no knowledge of where it might be. According to the laws of Desilta, you cannot remain here.’


    The calm finality in his voice sent a jolt through me. I stared at him in disbelief, the heat rising in my chest.


    ‘But I’ve done nothing wrong!’ I exclaimed, my voice shaking with anger. ‘Why are you forcing me to leave? Is this what you call hospitality in Desilta?’


    Thomas regarded me with a mixture of patience and curiosity, his voice steady as he replied,


    ‘You misunderstand, Bradley. This is not about punishment. After the war with the Ravens Kingdom, and the disappearance of our leader, Luca, the Council of Sages created laws to protect Desilta. One of these laws states that no one over the age of twenty may remain here without a Life Bracelet for more than a week. Traders and visitors alike are bound by this rule. Do you understand now?’


    Desperation surged within me, and I answered bitterly,


    ‘But where am I supposed to go if I’m forced to leave? Why can’t I stay until I find a way back home?’


    Thomas’s expression darkened, his tone growing serious.


    ‘If you stay beyond a week, Bradley, your body will begin to deteriorate. Without the essence of the Tree of Life, time will reclaim you. You will age rapidly—and you will not survive. According to our laws, the Tree’s essence cannot be used by outsiders here. Those who purchase it must leave Desilta to use it.’


    The weight of his words crashed over me, leaving me stunned. My mind raced as I considered the horrifying possibility: Would I return to my world, only to wither away like a crumbling shell of myself? My gaze darted to Elena, silently pleading for help. She smiled gently, her voice calm and soothing as she said,


    ‘There is another option. You could become a citizen of Desilta. You could take the Test of Life’s Path.’


    Silence fell between us, heavy and uncertain. I searched their faces, my voice barely a whisper as I said,


    ‘But… as Elena told me, you are descendants of humans and elves. If I take this test, does that mean I’ll become like you? Will the bracelet make me one of the elves?’


    Thomas’s expression softened slightly, and he nodded.


    ‘You will become like us, Bradley. You’ll gain immortality, eternal health, and youth. You would not be the first outsider to take this path. But understand this—once you accept it, the laws of Desilta will apply to you.’


    His words hung in the air, forcing me to grapple with a choice that seemed impossible. On one hand, I could leave—facing an uncertain fate, possibly aging into ruin. On the other, I could remain here, gaining youth and health, but binding myself to a life I didn’t fully understand. Would I trade one prison for another?


    Thomas watched me closely, as though he could read the war raging within me. In a quieter voice, he said,


    ‘I know this is not an easy choice. The Life’s Path is a vow, Bradley. It is a commitment to dedication and purpose.’


    Elena placed a gentle hand on my shoulder, her warmth grounding me.


    ‘But here in Desilta, the Life’s Path isn’t a prison. It’s an opportunity to grow and learn. It’s a journey to discover who you truly are and who you want to become.’


    Her words sparked something deep within me—a fragile ember of hope. Could this path truly be a chance for me to free myself from the loneliness and fear that had defined my old life? I thought back to my years of isolation, hiding from the world, too afraid to embrace change.


    Thomas took a step closer, his voice low and reassuring.


    ‘Bradley, if you choose this path, you will not walk it alone. Each of us began as you are now—unsure of ourselves, uncertain of where we belonged. With guidance and community, we found our purpose. You will too.’


    Elena nodded, her eyes warm and encouraging.


    ‘You will find your place here, Bradley. No matter the doubts or fears you carry now, you won’t have to face them alone. We will be here for you.’


    For a moment, silence reigned between us. I had never before faced a decision of such magnitude—one that touched my very life and destiny.


    ? Faris S. J. 2024. All rights reserved.