Elias: "Then he may be closer than we thought."

Seraphine: "Should we reach out to him?"

Amelia: "If the Council is near, Xander could be walking into a trap."

---

As Xander navigated the hidden trail, he felt a tingling sensation—a sign of magical barriers. He proceeded cautiously, aware that any misstep could alert the villagers.

Suddenly, a shimmering wall of light appeared before him, blocking his path. He reached out tentatively, but the barrier repelled his touch.

Xander: Frustrated "Amelia! Liam!"

His voice echoed, but there was no response.

From the shadows, several figures emerged, cloaked and wary. They surrounded him, weapons drawn.

Guard: "State your business."

Xander: "I'm here to see my family."

Guard: "No one enters without permission."

He raised his hands in a gesture of peace.

Xander: "Please, let me speak to Amelia Hart."

The guards exchanged looks.

Guard: "Wait here."

One of them disappeared beyond the barrier.

---

In the village, Amelia was alerted by a messenger.

Messenger: "There's someone at the barrier claiming to be your... partner."

Her heart pounded.

Amelia: "Take me to him."

Elias caught up with her as she made her way to the barrier.

Elias: "Are you sure about this?"

Amelia: "If it's Xander, I need to see him."

---

At the barrier, Xander waited anxiously. When Amelia appeared, relief washed over him.

Xander: "Amelia!"

She stood on the other side, emotions conflicted.

Amelia: "What are you doing here?"