Chapter 54: ~ The Light Crystal
"I've been waiting for your arrival," said the figure with a voice that resonated deep in their chests. "I am the guide you seek. What do you wish to know?"
Belinda and Luca exchanged glances, looking at the radiant figure with reverence and hope. "We need to obtain the light for the Crystal of Life," Belinda answered, her voice trembling. "Our world is dying. We’ve come seeking guidance."
The figure smiled gently. "Light does not only come from outside; it also exists within you. To reclaim it, you must rid yourselves of the darkness in your hearts. Only then can true light arise and illuminate the world."
Luca and Belinda looked at each other, realizing the weight of the responsibility now on their shoulders.
"We’re ready," Luca declared firmly. "We want to learn and fight to restore everything."
"Good," the luminous figure replied. "Let us begin this journey together. Light, like life itself, must be fought for."
With those words, the figure raised its hand, and a dazzling light began to envelop them, preparing to take them on a journey to restore hope to a world on the brink of despair.
The light surrounded Luca and Belinda, creating a warm and calming aura. They felt the energy flowing into them, as though it was empowering the courage and strength within their hearts.
"When light merges with goodness," the figure continued, "it holds the power to change everything. But before we proceed, you must understand that this journey will not be easy. The darkness in your world has deeply rooted itself. You must be prepared for great challenges."
The figure turned its attention to Belinda. "This light gathers around you, young lady. Who are you, truly?"
"I am the daughter of Estell. A descendant of the Bloodmoon goddess," Belinda answered resolutely.
"A descendant of the Bloodmoon goddess?" The figure paused before speaking again. "I have waited for you for a long time. Without purging yourself of the darkness, the light crystal belongs to you, Princess of Estell."
Belinda was startled as a bright light moved toward her, hovering just before her eyes. She gazed at the light, realizing it was a stunning crystal, glowing with a vibrant orange hue—the same as the eyes of the Ravis people and her own.
Her eyes widened as she took in the beauty of the crystal before her. The shimmering orange light within seemed almost alive, creating a brilliance that made her heart through with warmth.
"Is this...?" Belinda hesitated, reaching out a tentative hand.
"Yes, this is the Light Crystal that has awaited you," the faceless figure confirmed, its voice soft yet firm. "Unite the three elemental crystals, and the Crystal of Life will shine brightly once again, restoring your power."
"Understand this, Princess of Estell," the figure said solemnly. "Every generation of Bloodmoon heirs faces their own trials. Your journey begins by cleansing the darkness within you. This light is not just a source of power but also a responsibility that you must wield wisely."
Belinda pondered the words, reflecting on her fears and doubts. "What must I do to cleanse myself?" she asked earnestly.
"When darkness seeks you, it will play on your fears and doubts. You must confront it directly. Meditate in this light and embrace every part of yourself—your bravery, your fragility—because all of it is who you are," the figure explained, gesturing toward the glowing crystal.
Belinda nodded, understanding the depth of the guidance. "If that's what it takes, I’m ready," she said with renewed determination, her eyes blazing with a newfound resolve.
Resolutely, Belinda extended her hand and grasped the crystal. As her fingers touched it, the orange light surged through her, flooding every corner of her being. It felt both cool and searing, filling her with energy as it coursed through her soul.
She sank into meditation, allowing the light to guide her to confront her fears and doubts. In the stillness, shadows from her past began to emerge—moments of pain, feelings of inadequacy, times when she felt abandoned or unworthy. Yet, with each shadow, she countered with memories of her strengths, her unyielding spirit, her love for her family, and her hope for her world.
"Light, illuminate my path," she whispered. "I will face this darkness."
And as she did, the light within her began to shine brighter, driving away the shadows. In the process, she felt a long-held weight lift from her shoulders, dissipating like mist in the morning sun.
When she finally opened her eyes, the figure smiled. "Now you are free from the darkness. With your courage and strength, you are ready to wield the crystal of life. It’s time to embrace your true power and bring it to the world."
Still feeling the crystal’s energy coursing through her, Belinda nodded with conviction. "I will. I’ll fight to protect this light and restore hope to everything that was lost."
With renewed determination, she prepared for the next phase of her journey, ready to face any obstacle to save the world she loved. With Luca by her side, they stepped out of the cave, carrying the light within them and an unyielding resolve to persevere.
"Next, we go to the Sacred Lake," Luca said, receiving a nod of agreement from Belinda.
"Are you alright?" Luca asked, noticing her pale complexion.
"I’m fine. My head is just spinning," Belinda replied. "Probably a side effect of the cleansing process."
"Let’s rest for a while. I’ll heal you with recovery magic," Luca offered, scooping Belinda into his arms. He spread his large wings and began flying, carrying Belinda as they soared through the skies.