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?"