Carmen, the queen of Benevento, the high priestess of the Crystal Dragon, is said to be one of the miracles to be brought into this world…
Her long, flowing hair was the colour of spun gold, cascading down her back like a waterfall of silk.
Her eyes were the deepest shade of blue, sparkling like gems in the sunlight. Her skin was flawless, like porcelain, and her lips were full and rosy.
But it was not just her physical beauty that captivated those around her. There was something more, something intangible that drew people in. Perhaps it was her kind and gentle nature, or her sharp wit and intelligence. Whatever it was, there was no denying that she was a rare and wondrous creature, a true embodiment of beauty in every sense of the word.
As one of the most powerful priestesses known for her sealing abilities, Carmen had always dreamed of using her powers to seal away the Demon King and bring peace to the world. However, fate had other plans for her, and she was brought into this world during a time of relative calm.
Despite this, Carmen excelled in her work and found joy in her family, until tragedy struck.
The hero appeared, leaving a path of destruction in his wake. It is said that Carmen sacrificed her own life force to stop him and activated a powerful ability known as the Crystal Tree of Sealing...
Years later, the effects of her sacrifice are still felt, but Carmen is no longer there to witness it.
Her daughter, Ruby, kneels at her bedside, calling out to her in desperation. But the light in Carmen's beautiful eyes has faded, and her once vibrant body now lies still and lifeless.
"Ah, Amber," the hero sneered. "I warned you that using that power would hurt like hell." His white shirt revealed the seal that their mother, Carmen, had placed on, a twig of a tree with some crystals embedded in it. The hero's regeneration was frightening; his tissues could be seen as they healed, and a little steam emanated from his body.
"It seems like it will be a good day," he remarked, his smile sending shivers down the group's spines.
"You prick! I'll pulverize you right here!" Amber released a powerful wind blaster from her palm, slamming the hero into the wall. The air grew stronger, and due to being pressed against the wall, the hero was even more affected. The sound of bones crunching could be heard. Amber's attack was called Wind Blast, and its power continued to increase. However, the hero didn't flinch; instead, a sadistic grin spread across his face.
"I never thought the cute Amber would be this angry," he taunted.
"You killed my mother, and you laugh like it was nothing! You killed a miracle!" started to scream Amber.
"My bad, I suppose," the hero replied with a chuckle. The wind grew stronger, and the wall began to crumble. However, the dark presence within the hero arose, and in a flash, he swung his arm.
The king swiftly intervened, stopping the hero's attack with his sword. His sword movements combined with the power of the Crystal Dragon that created an emerald crystal shield, shielding Amber from harm. However, she looked shocked as she noticed a big scratch on the crystal's surface.
As she fell to the ground, she looked up at the hero's red, terror-filled eyes and the bloodlust that he was emitting. She couldn't believe that one of the kingdom's most prosperous heroes was capable of such terror.
But just as she was about to lose all hope, a bright, shiny ruby light emanated from Ruby's palms. The light brought instant relief to Amber, and her breathing gradually slowed. It was an ability that only the highest-ranked priests possess, known as Aliviador de Luz .
With Amber's condition stabilized, Ruby turned to face the hero with an intense look. "What happened to you, hero?" she demanded. "You were once our savior, our protector. But now you have become a monster, consumed by your own power."
The hero remained silent; his eyes locked onto Ruby's. But as he gazed at her, his bloodlust began to dissipate, and his red eyes began to fade.
Abel laughed…
"I used to believe that I was a hero, a protector of the innocent and a warrior against evil.
But the truth was much darker than that. I was a killer, a cold-blooded murderer who relished in the act of taking lives. The thrill of the hunt, the rush of the kill, it was all I ever wanted…"
Ruby's gaze caught Abel off guard. He had expected anger, maybe disgust, but what he saw in her eyes was something entirely different. It was a look of pity, a feeling he had never experienced before.
Abel couldn't help but think how strange Ruby was.
Her words and actions left him wondering what her true motives were.
As he sat down, the Crystal Dragon began to undo his shield. "So, you said what you needed to say,"
Abel said to him. "But I will not fight for you. You can move away."
Desperately, the dragon tried to convince Abel one more time. "I know you were mistreated by the previous king but think about the new generation that will come. They need a hero like you. We need you, Abel."
Abel let out a bitter laugh. "It's strange how I'm suddenly needed now, after all these years of fighting. I know this kingdom better than any of you. I've seen kings, queens, and princesses come and go. I even remember when you were just a hatchling given to the king as a gift."
"Okay, Abel. I had hoped that you would find peace with this deal. I hope you enjoy your stay within these walls forever," said the Crystal Dragon with a heavy heart.
With a heavy sigh, the Crystal Dragon and Ruby left the prison cell. At that moment, the only ones left in the room were the king and Amber.
The king forcefully placed his hand on Abel's shoulder and whispered some words.
Abel covered his face with his hands, the king and Amber then quietly left the room, leaving Abel alone with his thoughts.
"What did you say to him, Father?" asked Amber.
"Nothing, just reminded him of something," said King Jasper.
In the tranquil gardens of the kingdom of Benevento, the Crystal Dragon and Ruby were admiring the vibrant flowers in silence. The gentle breeze carried the sweet fragrance of the blossoms, creating a peaceful ambiance. However, the serene moment was soon interrupted by the Crystal Dragon's lament.
Even though I am a powerful being, heroes are very bothersome," he remarked, trying to lighten the mood."
"I'm more disappointed than what was achieved." she sat down at a fountain that was built there and a lotus flower wandering the water of the fountain.
"Disappointed?" looked at Crystal Dragon, surprised.
"I thought they were like the legends, dedicated to saving the seven kingdoms. Their stories, their bravery... I heard them from my father; those were what would put me to sleep. To think that I saw... a person who is just..." She didn't finish the word, but she was frustrated.
The Crystal Dragon gave a warm smirk and said, "I knew it. You're the daughter of your mother... I loved her a lot. Sometimes I miss her, but finally, I could see it in you. She was a very carefree soul. She would give mercy even to the worst enemies. So don't feel bad, okay?"
Ruby smiled gratefully, feeling a sense of comfort from the Crystal Dragon's words. As she stood up, the Crystal Dragon took her hand gently. "My dear Ruby, I heard that an upcoming festival is coming," he said, changing the topic. "The festival of the fishermen."
Ruby's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Yes, my lord. It's a grand celebration that honours the fishermen and their catch."
"I want to go there," the Crystal Dragon declared, a hint of childlike enthusiasm in his voice. "I haven't been there before, and it sounds like a lot of fun."
Ruby looked hesitant. "But my lord, is it safe for us to venture out to such a public event? What if someone recognizes us?"
The Crystal Dragon chuckled. "Fear not, Ruby. I have many disguises at my disposal. We can blend in with the crowds and enjoy the festivities without drawing unwanted attention. Besides, it's been too long since we've had a little adventure."
Ruby smiled and nodded, feeling reassured by the Crystal Dragon's words. "Yes, my lord. It would be nice to see more of the world beyond the kingdom's walls."
"Then it's settled," declared the Crystal Dragon with a grin. "We shall attend the festival of the fishermen and make some memories of our own."
The Crystal Dragon started to suppress his power, and the aura that he had before vanished. His wings disappeared, and he looked like a normal person with a charming look.
Ruby also had to change her appearance, so she went to her room and changed her blonde hair to pink. Her ruby eyes changed to blue, and she wore a beautiful but simple red dress.
As the Crystal Dragon and Ruby approached the kingdom's coastline, they could see the vibrant colours and bustling crowds of the festival of the fishermen. The air was thick with the scent of fresh seafood and the sound of lively music, as people from all over the land gathered to celebrate the bounty of the sea.
The kingdom of Benevento was a sight to behold, with its towering castles and winding cobblestone streets. The buildings were adorned with colourful banners and flags, giving the entire city a festive feel. Everywhere they looked, people were laughing, dancing, and indulging in the local delicacies.
But what truly captured their attention was the sea. The water stretched out as far as the eye could see, shimmering in the sunlight like a vast field of diamonds. The waves crashed against the shore, sending sprays of salty mist into the air. Fishing boats dotted the horizon, their sails billowing in the gentle breeze.
The Crystal Dragon and Ruby wandered along the beach, taking in the sights and sounds of the festival. They watched as fishermen brought in their catches, marveling at the size and variety of the sea creatures they had captured. They sampled grilled octopus, squid ink pasta, and other delicious dishes, savoring the flavors of the sea.
As the day turned to dusk, the festival reached its climax. Fireworks lit up the sky, their colorful explosions reflecting off the shimmering sea. The crowd cheered and applauded, caught up in the excitement of the moment.
They danced together, laughed together, and enjoyed the beauty that these festivals had to offer. As they walked into the walls of the castle, the body of the Crystal Dragon started to crumble. In the huge hall where the moon makes her wonders in the big windows, the Crystal Dragon stopped moving.
"My priestess, it looks like this is the end of my journey. I need to turn back to the sanctuary," he said.
"I hope that you enjoyed your stay here," she replied.
"It was the best day," he said with a smile.
Ruby walked away. The Crystal Dragon raised his arm and wanted to touch her. His heart was beating.
"Do you truly want to become human, Crystal Dragon?" asked the king, while adjusting his position to better reflect the moonlight.
"I don't think it's a good idea to eavesdrop on someone, my king," replied the Crystal Dragon.
"I knew it the moment you blessed my daughter... you loved it... my wife Carmen," said the king.
"I love all those who give gifts and show their love to me. I love humans, and I also love those who serve me as priests and priestesses," said the Crystal Dragon.
The king laughed. "I hope you're right. Nobody will give you the love you desire. She will only see you as a deity, nothing more, nothing less, just like my wife."
The Crystal Dragon remained silent as the body that hosted him started to crumble.
The king walked towards the prison where Abel was being held. One of the guards opened the door and saw Abel waiting inside.
"Have you made your decision?" asked the king.
"Let's create some havoc," replied Abel, as an evil aura filled the room.