Chapter 2: Preparation for the Journey

Lilith couldn't tear herself away from the ancient book all day. Each new page was like a window into a world long forgotten and filled with magic. Artifacts, ancient spells, invisible boundaries — all of it enveloped her mind, stirring awe and curiosity. But more than anything, she was drawn to the map, pulsing with an unknown power at its center. The symbols scattered across the map were so intricate that their mystery seemed to call Lilith to unravel them.

Lilith was a tall girl with long, jet-black hair that fell softly onto her shoulders in waves. In her gray-blue eyes, one could see a sky before a storm — calmness concealing a whirlwind of thoughts. She had always been drawn beyond the familiar walls of the city, and that spark of a seeker had burned in her gaze since childhood. Despite her sharp mind and strong will, she could sometimes be too impatient and stubborn. This often got Lilith into trouble.

As the shadows of evening light began to envelop the city, Lilith, clutching the book, resolutely headed toward her mother. Marianna, her mother, was a wise and cautious woman, her graying hair neatly arranged, her gaze perceptive and unshakable. She always knew how to find the right solution in any situation. Convincing her to let Lilith go on such a dangerous journey — and alone, at that — would be difficult. But Lilith was stubborn too. If she set her mind on something, she would see it through. That stubbornness she had inherited from her mother. And Marianna knew her daughter well, which gave Lilith hope that her mother would understand, support her, and not try to dissuade her from this journey.

– Mom, – Lilith began as she sat down for dinner,

– I found something important. This book... it contains a map and writings that might help us understand what happened to our world.

Marianna met her daughter’s words with a soft but cautious smile.

– Lilith, you know things like this can be dangerous. We've always kept our distance from ancient secrets.

– But, Mom, Lilith insisted.

– This is a chance to change everything. We can find the truth, and maybe even find a way to bring life back to the world.

Marianna looked at her daughter for a long time in silence, clearly thinking over Lilith’s decision. It was obvious she was worried. But deep down, there was a flicker of pride. She knew Lilith had inherited her strength of spirit and stubbornness. And she understood that stopping her daughter would be impossible.

– Alright, – Marianna sighed.

– If this is so important to you, we'll prepare everything you need. But please, be careful. Some secrets may be too dangerous.

Lilith eagerly began her preparations. The map, notes, provisions, compass — she packed everything with meticulous care, but inside her, a fire of impatience burned. Night fell over the city, but Lilith couldn’t sleep for a long time. She could feel her heart racing with excitement for the adventure ahead. She knew that her life would never be the same. Tomorrow awaited not just a journey — it was the path to uncovering mysteries that could.