At first glance, the patterns seemed unremarkable. But as Shannon carefully transferred them onto paper, she couldn't shake the subtle sense of resistance that arose with each stroke, reminiscent of when she first learned to draw a talisman.
It felt as if hidden within these intricate lines, there were indeed sigils—symbols with a purpose—waiting to be uncovered.
It took three hours for her to complete drawing the entire pattern of the Emeralda Stone. Seeing the beads of sweat on her forehead, Emeralda commented, "You should take a break."
Shannon shook her head, then held the Bentrix Stone on her collar. Before long, the exhaustion she felt vanished.
Emeralda had similarly sensed the spilling spiritual energy from the Bentrix Stone. "The spiritual energy from that stone feels so special. It came from that person, right?"
Shannon knew she meant Benjamin. "It was a gift from him."
"He likes you," said Emeralda.
Shannon's heart trembled. This was the first time anyone had so blatantly stated the fact that Benjamin liked her. Neither of them had ever proclaimed their feelings for each other despite confirming their engagement.
Did Benjamin like her?
"I guess so," she thought.
Shannon nodded, looking awkward yet pretending to be calm. "Yeah."
"And you like him, too."
Shannon didn't respond this time. Deep inside in her heart, she also nodded in agreement.
Emeralda wasn't bothered by her lack of reaction, asking, "If you two like each other and are already engaged, why aren't you married yet?"
Shannon was momentarily taken aback by the sudden transformation. Her attire now consisted of intricate embroidered shoulder shawls and a flowing skirt with layers of delicate fabric, each piece seemingly crafted by divine hands.
Not only her clothes, but her head, too, was adorned with a stunning golden crown. The design was familiar—she had seen something similar in a museum collection guide before.
Even Shannon, usually composed, couldn't help but pause, caught off guard by this unexpected change.
But what truly stunned her was what lay ahead. Outside the door was a carefully arranged walkway, decorated with vibrant flowers on both sides.
Villagers stood holding bouquets, their faces full of joy. A red carpet stretched down the path, leading to the gate of the courtyard.
At the end of the path stood a man, dressed in formal wedding attire, holding a red silk ribbon. He was quietly waiting, bathed in a golden light.
Familiar yet unfamiliar, the energy around him was dazzling, making it impossible for Shannon to look away.
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