Page 141 of Dark Awakening

Though only her voice remains, I feel Seraphina's aura pulse with approval. "Yes, precisely. To unify the fractured realms requires more than brute force or magical ability alone. Harmony demands a leader who can profoundly relate to the struggles of every realm, someone capable of forging true understanding and camaraderie between all peoples. One of us, yet touched by the divine. This is what your father needed and so created you, Dani."

A light bulb moment strikes me. "Well, that explains it, doesn't it? My charm and knack for bringing people together to take on the looming danger."

"In a sense, yes," Seraphina affirms kindly. "You were crafted with this purpose ever in mind. Your human heart is full of love and laughter, empathy and grief, determination and courage. These make you the embodiment of unity itself, my dear child. Through your compassion and actions, the realms may finally be brought together again."

As the weight of this massive responsibility comes crashing down on me, I can't help but feel equally intimidated and exhilarated. This role I have to play in the grand scheme of things is ridiculously complicated. But no matter, I'll do what needs to be done with sass and style, spreading hope and positivity like a boss so that darkness doesn't stand a chance in hell. Bring it on.

The crown then hovers between us. Seraphina gestures gracefully to each empty setting as she resumes her explanation.

"Here once rested the Shadowstone, representing Unbra, the forsaken Shadow Realm. It grants power over darkness itself—controlling shadows, crafting invisibility."

She indicates the next vacant slot. "Pyronyx is a symbol of Pyrothos—the fiery Realm of Flame. Its bearer can summon and master infernos, immune to the highest heat and able to sculpt wildfire according to their will."

Her hand drifts to the third socket. "Aquanite, from Aquaria's liquid expanses. This stone's ebb and flow reflect water's adaptable, ever-changing nature. One connected to Aquanite wields dominion over all forms of water, able to shape currents and summon deluges at their whim."

She gestures to two other settings. "Faerite, from the vibrant Fae Realm of Lumeneria, allowing communication with all creatures of magic. And Zephyrite, granting power over wind and flight through the aerial realm of Zephyria."

Finally, Seraphina indicates the central setting. "Here shall one day reside the legendary Aetherite, the embodiment of your father's blessed Light Realm. Its pure energy shall empower you to pierce any shadow, heal any wound or ailment, and strike down wickedness with hallowed light. However, you already possess the power of light."

Seraphina indicates the last setting, where the amber Terraglide gem already rests. "Here lies the Terraglide stone, representing Mortalis, the Mortal Realm embodied by humanity. It connects you to the very Earth, enhancing physical gifts and resilience. Terraglide also enables communication with nature herself, symbolic of mankind's empathy and tenacity."

I squint at the vacant spaces on the board. After some pondering, I vocalize my tangled musings."In order to defeat Moretemis, I have to become a globe-trotting gem collector and assemble the ultimate fashion accessory?"

Seraphina laughs beatifically, pride shining in her aura. "You perceive the path clearly. Yes, uniting the stones to wield their collective power is paramount. Once all seven stones are returned to their rightful place, you shall possess the full might required to rally the realms as one against Mortemis's darkness."

I inhale deeply, bracing myself. "Where the hell do I even start?"

Wisdom weighs Seraphina's response. "To successfully unite all worlds against their common foe requires strategic choices. The first step you take is of the utmost importance."

I wait on tenterhooks, knowing whichever realm she guides me toward first will set the trajectory of all that is to come.

"I advise beginning your journey within Lumeneria, the verdant Fae Realm. The Faerite stone confers ties with all beasts and spirits of nature—such friendships will prove invaluable in the trials ahead. Many creatures there possess ancient insights, should you earn their trust."

My curiosity piques at her mention of magical creatures. "What do you mean? How may they help me?"

"In Lumeneria, you shall find the power to communicate with all living things, from the tiniest faerie to the mightiest dragon. The denizens of that realm can open many doors and whisper guidance untold by mortal ears. Seek their wisdom and your path shall be illuminated."

Her aura is reassuring as she finishes, "Have faith, dear heart, and follow where your instincts guide. As you obtain each gemstone's blessing in turn, the way to the next shall become clear. Trust in the crown and your destiny."

I nod slowly as the reality of this information sets in.

Seraphina's aura brushes me gently as it brightens, washing the room in shades of dawn. "Never forget, though challenges await, you do not face them alone. Your allies shall aid you each step of the way. And your mate, Rhyland, shall be your stalwart strength through all."

Her melodic voice rings with conviction. "Heed him, for your souls are intertwined. Consider him your bastion against adversity."

As Seraphina floats away, I'm left with a truckload of destiny dumped in my lap. Gem hunting, rallying the realms, uniting worlds, defeating primordial evil? Fuck me gently with a chainsaw.

A part of me wants to curl up under my blankets and say nope. But Dad didn't bless me as his Chosen One so I could flake out. This is some Harry Potter-level shit, and it's time to step up.

As Seraphina's glow fades out, I stand tall. Destiny wants me to play hero? Challenge accepted.

Morty, get ready to have your ass thoroughly kicked!

Rhyland

78

Ipush through the pulsing Karma crowd, their chatter fading behind me. There is no sign of Lucian among the chaotic lights and deafening music. Assuming he's in his office, I find respite from the sensory assault behind closed doors.

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