As nightfall draped its veil upon the city, the duo approached the riverbank. Amidst the tranquil, moonlit waters lay a pulsating orb of blue light, casting a hypnotic allure. Alaric raised a brow, unimpressed by the fantastical sight. He stopped for a moment, semi-reluctant to move closer. Before he could voice his skepticism, the orb beckoned. Dex, oddly silent, followed Alaric's lead as they approached the glowing sphere. With a touch, the orb unraveled a vivid vision—a glimpse of a memory, surreal yet hauntingly familiar. A flash of a snowy night filled his vision. Alaric knew those stars but could not place where. It was the moon that really seemed to dominate this vision. Its white light was intense and he could feel its draw. For a moment, he was lost.
A wave of disorientation swept over Alaric, the vision eluding rational explanation. A momentary lapse and the ball expelled a forceful energy, propelling both men backward. Alaric managed to steady himself, with minor injuries of bruising on his tailbone, while Dex lay unconscious, overcome by the ordeal. “Dex, wake up.” He shook the man but to no avail. “Tsk” was all he could mutter. The boy got low and scooped the man’s body over his shoulders. After pausing for a moment to ensure his balance, the two rose. Alaric had hoisted Dex onto his back and the two started to make their way away from the riverbank. “I better get some extra pay or something for this shit.” He grumbled.
Alaric heaved Dex onto his shoulder, a frown etched on his face as he traversed the dimly lit streets, en route to the nearest hospital. The journey was fraught with uncertainty, but a fortuitous encounter with Dacol Lubex, a figure known for aiding newcomers, eased Alaric's burden. As Dex regained consciousness, Alaric handed over the bewildered detective to Dacol's care, gathering his reward before taking his leave. Confusion lingered within him, something about that orb seemed different. It had shown him something. A memory perhaps? That piercing silver moon image hung in his head as he made his way back through the town.
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