Upon finally docking at the northern tribe, Gale noticed the incomparable beauty of the region. Its structure was notably more lush than the southern tribe, his homeland, almost as if it belonged to an entirely different universe. The ancient constructions, erected centuries ago, stood imposingly, witnessing the passage of time with a captivating dignity.
The ship was warmly welcomed by the northern people, saluting their lord after returning safely home, with soldiers lined up in a position of respect.
"Welcome back, father," Desna and Eska, the twins, said in perfect synchronization.
Following Unalaq, Gale also encountered the twins. The disturbing memories of the two still echoed in his mind.
"Hello, Gale the puppy," teased Eska and Desna with a malicious voice.
"Hello, Desna and Eska. It's always a pleasure to see you again," greeted Gale, maintaining courtesy amid uncomfortable memories.
Noticing that the introductions had come to an end, Unalaq proceeded.
"Desna and Eska, prepare the meditation room for me and Gale. I will teach him without interruptions to enter the spiritual world. I hope not to be disturbed," Unalaq said, his voice laden with urgency.
"Yes, father."
Upon realizing the urgency in his father's words, the twins hurried to prepare the room in the palace.
*
Upon arriving at the palace and entering the meditation room, Gale was surprised by a completely empty room, imbued with the fragrance of incense that evoked the gentle smell of the sea breeze.
"Enter, Gale, let's begin. And we will only leave this room when you enter the spiritual world," Unalaq said, entering the room and assuming the lotus position.
"Yes," replied Gale, also assuming the lotus position.
Unalaq, sensing something amiss, rose from his position.
"Something is wrong, come here," Unalaq said, signaling for Gale to approach.
As he approached his master, Gale was surprised by a sharp pain that made him fall to the ground.
"What's happening?" he exclaimed, writhing in pain.
Unalaq stared at Gale seriously, realizing the critical situation.
"Your chi is blocked in a unique way, Gale. It was done manually to prevent access to your true spiritual essence," Unalaq began, approaching the fallen youth. "Upon sensing my spiritual aura, the blocked points in your body reacted, desperately trying to connect to that energy. This is a sign that your connection to the spiritual has been abruptly interrupted."
Unalaq continued,
"The technique I will teach you is called Water Transcendence. It is an ancient practice that involves a peculiar state, a state of semi-death. Make no mistake, Gale, this is not a journey free of dangers. When you reach this state, the line between life and death will be thin. If this connection is broken improperly, you run the real risk of not returning to the physical world."
Unalaq continued, as if Gale's life depended on it.
"You will be on the threshold between the two realms, and it is at this point that the technique unfolds. While in this state, you will have the opportunity to transcend your limitations and access the Spirit World. However, any distraction, any disturbance in your concentration, can result in fatal consequences. The danger is real."
Realizing the magnitude of the technique, a whirlwind of emotions swept through Gale's mind. Fear crept in, but alongside it, a deep desire emerged, bringing with it a new perspective. Yes, desire. Fear gave way to curiosity and a yearning for something beyond, something that would transcend conventional understanding. A thirst for meaning.
"I am ready," declared Gale, rising from the ground.
Soon, the two assumed the lotus position.
"Normally, to master this technique, you would need to prepare to face your own death. This would involve days of abstinence from food and water, or a mortal wound that would take you to the threshold of post-death. However, you are unique," explained Unalaq, choosing his words carefully to ensure Gale understood.
"With your bloodbending ability, you can induce your own death. Gradually restrict the flow of blood toward your heart. Slowly provoke your death. But remember, you must remain alive. You must stay on the thin line between life and death, a line that can be broken even by a simple drop of water."
Absorbing Unalaq's words, Gale began his inner journey.
Masterfully focusing, he restricted the blood flow to his heart, further slowing down his heartbeats. Simultaneously, he directed his attention to the chi points previously blocked, seeking to tune them with the spiritual energy emanated by Unalaq.
As Gale perceived the once inert chi points being adjusted by Unalaq's energy, and with his heartbeat gradually slowing, he experienced increasingly gentle breaths. A profound silence settled in his ears, creating an atmosphere of anticipation.
Soon, the previously dormant meridians began to flow, resembling a dammed creek now released by the stones. A murmur echoed in Gale's mind, accompanying the renewed flow of energy throughout his body. A sigh of relief escaped his lips, intertwined, however, with an imminent sense of danger that infiltrated his body and mind.
"The drop of water is approaching, young Gale," echoed Unalaq's voice in his mind.
Intense anxiety seized him, as if death itself were calling his name. It was a more overwhelming sensation than any previous experience, surpassing even the distress experienced with his father.
Facing the imminence of death, a paradoxical calm enveloped Gale.
"So, is this it?" he murmured internally.
However, instead of death, a voice emerged. A voice permeated with sinister intentions, but strangely carrying a nostalgic sensation.
"So, you've finally returned. I've been waiting for you, little blue demon," the voice proclaimed.