The Pillar

Arthur stood bewildered, his mind racing with the events unfolding before him. Though he had always sensed the presence of mysterious abilities in this world, he never imagined he would encounter anyone with such powers on Isle, a street long cut off from the outside world. 

Are they the officers who just recently entered the Isle? he pondered, anxiety gnawing at him. What do they want with me? Have they discovered that I possess a mysterious ability too?

A heavy sigh escaped his lips. His thoughts were a chaotic whirlwind, swirling with questions only one person could answer—the one who spoke of the Isle, the one who hinted at the nature of their abilities and the means to escape. 

Yet, in the end, he realized he needed their help more than he cared to admit.

Arthur's mind was a tempest, and he had never imagined such turmoil would arise in the Isle. He had believed that once he escaped, he would face the real challenges and mysteries of the world. But now, everything he held true had been shattered.

Even though they hadn't fought or engaged in a display of power, he felt an insurmountable gap between himself and the figure that loomed before him. He knew he could not triumph in a confrontation; this stranger was far more experienced than he.

"Arthur, are you okay?" a heavy voice echoed in his ears, pulling him from his reverie. It was Piro.

"You've been standing there for quite some time," Piro added, concern etched on his face.

"I'm alright, I think I'm just a bit tired and need some rest," Arthur replied, moving toward the staircase.

"Did you see where Jason went?" he asked, halting and turning back to Piro.

"He left just a moment ago," Piro answered, his brow furrowing. "Is something wrong?"

"Nah, nothing's wrong. I'll head up and rest for a bit," Arthur replied before turning and ascending the stairs to his room.

---

Morning descended upon the Isle, but today's dawn was unlike any other. The sky hung heavy with clouds, blocking the sun's rays from warming the earth, casting an eerie gloom over the landscape. 

Amidst this somber morning, Arthur sat on his bed, lost in thought about the events of the previous day. He felt unprepared to confront the new world he had entered, despite his initial belief that he was ready. The weight of uncertainty pressed down upon him as he contemplated the meaning behind Jason's words. He knew he needed to meet him at midnight to uncover the truth about the Isle and the reason for Jason's scrutiny.

After wrestling with his thoughts, Arthur decided to pause his conclusions, resolving to hear everything from Jason, who seemed to possess knowledge he lacked.

Rising from his bed, he steeled himself for breakfast. He opened his door and stepped into the corridor, heading toward the staircase. At that moment, another door creaked open, and Lily emerged, also making her way downstairs for breakfast.

"Good morning, Lily," Arthur greeted her.

"Good morning, Arthur," she replied, her voice weary and low.

Arthur studied her for a moment before asking, "Did you sleep well last night?"

With a downcast expression, Lily replied, "I couldn't sleep well. Maybe it's because I changed my surroundings. I had bad nightmares and couldn't find rest."

"Why not go back and rest a little longer? You might find it easier to sleep now," Arthur suggested gently.

"Nah, I'm alright. I can manage. Besides, I'm a bit hungry after staying up all night," Lily said with a faint laugh, patting her stomach.

"Alright then, let's head downstairs," Arthur said, leading the way.

---

The inn was quiet, still early in the morning, as many of the Isle's residents preferred to revel through the night. Arthur and Lily greeted Piro before taking a seat at a table. They ordered their meals, and as they ate, silence enveloped the inn, broken only by the sounds of their utensils clinking against their plates.

After finishing their meal, Arthur paid and turned to Lily, who was preparing to leave for her room. 

"Lily, wait a moment. I know you're tired, but I have a few questions about the Isle," Arthur said, halting her departure.

Lily turned back, sitting once more, her heavy eyelids threatening to close. "Just ask; if I know, I'll tell you," she responded in a low voice.

"I want to know about something I overheard people discussing yesterday," Arthur said, maintaining a respectful tone.

"What is it?" Lily asked, struggling to focus.

"Do you know anything about the Dawn of Death?" Arthur inquired, searching her tired eyes.

"Yes, I know a little. I've heard about it since I was young," Lily began, her voice tinged with sadness. "They say it was the greatest disaster the Isle has ever faced. Many lives were lost that day, and no one truly knows what caused it. Death came suddenly, claiming countless souls without warning."

She paused, her gaze distant, before continuing. "It was also the day I lost both my parents and my loved ones."

"I'm so sorry," Arthur said gently, wishing to console her.

"It's alright. That's in the past," Lily replied, managing a soft smile that belied the sorrow she carried deep within.

"I also heard that all of this began when the officers from outside the street arrived, and shortly after, the Dawn of Death occurred, sealing the street off from the rest of the world," Lily concluded, her voice heavy with the weight of her memories.

Arthur fell silent, lost in thought, processing everything he had just learned. 

"Thank you for sharing that with me," he said at last, his voice sincere as he regarded Lily with newfound respect. She had endured so much from a young age.

"That's what I'm here for—as your guide," Lily replied, her smile brightening the gloom.

Arthur returned her smile, feeling a connection deepen between them. Just as Lily prepared to stand and leave, a thought struck him, and he called out to her once more.