Summary of the Story: The Resurrection of Artenen Aeolus
The story unfolds with Artenen Aeolus adrift on a boat, lost and disoriented, with no memory of how he ended up in the middle of the sea. As he struggles to find a port, he encounters a mysterious blue light that guides him toward an unknown destination. The journey takes a surreal turn when a trident of light appears, steering his ship toward a hidden island. However, the light ultimately declares him unworthy, and Artenen crashes into an unseen island, his ship damaged beyond repair. As he begins to drown, Artenen's spirit detaches from his body, and he finds himself ascending to the spirit world, filled with conflicting emotions of joy and regret.
In the spirit world, Artenen encounters beings of light and shadow, but his defiance leads to his rejection and a painful fall back to his lifeless body. A dark figure taunts him, revealing that all is lost, leaving Artenen truly defeated for the first time. Meanwhile, Rachel Skymoon, a close companion of Artenen, is plagued by visions of his death and sets out on a desperate mission to save him. Guided by a mystical Star Key, Rachel embarks on a perilous journey to the island of Krale, where she hopes to find the high priest capable of resurrecting Artenen.
With the help of Jav, a merman of the Porion Tribe, Rachel and her companions sail to the island of Krale. Upon arrival, they navigate the treacherous terrain and face numerous dangers, including a giant troll and the ominous silence of the island. Eventually, they reach a mountain temple where the high priest resides. Despite the priest's initial skepticism about Artenen's worthiness, Rachel's unwavering faith in her brother's virtues convinces him to help.
The high priest reveals that to resurrect Artenen, they must sail to the island of Mt. Trivian, where a sacred ritual can be performed. The journey is fraught with peril, including a fierce storm and an encounter with an undead necromancer, but the party perseveres. Upon reaching Mt. Trivian, they make their way to the Showgaw Temple of Light, where the ritual will take place. The ritual requires the combined efforts of the priesthood and Rachel's companions, along with the use of the Star Key that holds Artenen's soul.
As the ritual progresses, Rachel experiences profound emotions, sensing the presence of the gods. The ritual is a success, and Artenen is resurrected in a new body, much to the joy and relief of Rachel and her companions. The story concludes with Artenen and Rachel reunited, their bond strengthened by the trials they have endured. The gods have blessed their efforts, and the story ends with the sealing of the scroll, marking the end of this chapter in their lives.
This tale is one of redemption, faith, and the enduring power of hope. It explores the depths of despair and the strength required to overcome it, as well as the bonds of friendship and family that can transcend even death. Through Rachel's determination and the aid of the divine, Artenen is given a second chance at life, and the story leaves the reader with a sense of closure and fulfillment.