'.....'= Thoughts
"....."= Conversations
________________________________________________________________________________"Although you can't control and change the mirror dimension, however you want as you have no knowledge related to that. Also its name is Mirror Veil key," Ancient One spoke.
Harry raised his eyebrow. "Mirror Veil Key? Shouldn't it be called Mirror Veil Ring or something?"
The Ancient One chuckled softly, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Ah, titles and names, they can be quite arbitrary. Mirror Veil Key felt appropriate given its function."
Harry quietly observed the ring, its surface shimmering faintly in the ambient light of the library. His expression grew serious as he turned to the Ancient One. "Why are you giving me this? Do you need something from me?"
The Ancient One's smile softened, her demeanor calm and reassuring. "Did I ask anything from you, Harry?"
Harry hesitated, sensing a deeper meaning behind her gesture. "Nothing is free in this world," he murmured. "You must have a reason."
The Ancient One's smile widened, a hint of playfulness in her eyes. "Perhaps I simply believe in goodwill, Harry."
Harry shook his head, unconvinced. "This only makes you more suspicious."
The Ancient One chuckled softly, her voice carrying a tone of ancient wisdom. "You have a sharp mind, Harry. Always questioning, always seeking answers."
Harry folded his arms, his gaze steady on the Ancient One. "Do you want me to protect the people of Earth? Act like some hero?"
The Ancient One's expression softened, her eyes reflecting a deep understanding. "I haven't asked that of you, Harry. Live your life, pursue your path. You needn't worry. There are forces and entities beyond your imagination, and I am here to safeguard this realm."
Harry nodded slowly, processing her words. "Then why give me this ring?"
The Ancient One's gaze turned thoughtful. "Consider it a tool, an opportunity. The Mirror Veil Key may aid you in ways unforeseen."
Harry frowned, unsure of what to make of the situation. "I'm not the hero type," he admitted. "I won't sacrifice myself for others."
The Ancient One's smile was serene. "And yet, you possess qualities that may shape your future in unexpected ways."
Harry sighed, grappling with the weight of her words. "I'm not sure I understand."
"You will, in time," the Ancient One assured him. "Take the ring, Harry."
"Harry," the Ancient One began, her voice gentle yet carrying the weight of centuries, "I don't have to ask you for that. You yourself would help me without asking." She smiled mysteriously, as if knowing something he didn't yet grasp.
Harry furrowed his brow, puzzled. "What do you mean?"
"You are a good person, Harry," the Ancient One continued, her tone warm and reassuring. "You would even give your life for the people you consider as close ones. I just hope that you remain this way and never change."
Harry sighed, feeling tired of this conversation that seemed to circle around things he couldn't fully comprehend. He knew the Ancient One had glimpsed possibilities of his future, paths that diverged into unknown territories. In some of those visions, he might have become a formidable villain, wreaking havoc. In others, he might have emerged as a protector of Earth, defending it against unimaginable threats. The specifics of those divergent paths remained a mystery to him.
Once again, Harry glanced at the Ancient One. Her expression still held that irritating "I know everything about you" smile. Despite his reservations, he couldn't bring himself to dislike her. So far, she had been nothing but helpful, offering guidance without coercion, and now, bestowing upon him an artifact of considerable power without asking for anything in return.
Conflicted, Harry searched for the right words. "I... I don't know what to say."
"You don't need to say anything, Harry," the Ancient One replied softly. "Just remember, I am not your enemy."
Harry nodded slowly, absorbing her words. Despite his skepticism, there was a sincerity in her voice that he couldn't ignore. "Thank you," he finally managed, unsure if he was thanking her for the artifact, her insights, or simply for not being an adversary.
"You're welcome, Harry," the Ancient One said warmly. "Take the Mirror Veil Key. Let it be a guide and a protector, just as you have the potential to be."
With a hesitant nod, Harry reached out and accepted the ring. Its surface shimmered faintly, resonating with a subtle energy that he could feel even through his fingertips.
As he slipped the artifact onto his finger, a sense of responsibility settled over him. Whether he liked it or not, he now possessed something that connected him to a world beyond his understanding, a world where his choices could shape destinies.
The Ancient One watched him quietly, her expression unreadable yet somehow comforting. "Remember, Harry," she said softly, "the future is not set in stone. It bends to the will of those who dare to forge their own paths."
Harry nodded again, feeling a strange mix of apprehension and determination. Whatever lay ahead, he knew he couldn't ignore the weight of this moment or the trust placed upon him by someone as ancient and powerful as the Ancient One.
"How do I use this to open the mirror dimension?" Harry asked, his voice steady despite the swirl of emotions within him.
The Ancient One regarded him thoughtfully, her eyes seeming to pierce through his soul. She spoke in a calm, reassuring tone, "To open the mirror dimension, Harry, you need only to envision yourself entering it. Focus your thoughts on the mirror dimension, let your mind connect with the essence of the Key. It will respond to your intention."
Harry nodded slowly, absorbing her words. It sounded almost too simple, yet he knew from their previous encounters that the Ancient One's guidance was rooted in profound wisdom.
"So, it's all about intention," Harry mused aloud, more to himself than to the Ancient One. "Just like the way you wield magic."
The Ancient One smiled knowingly. "Indeed, Harry. The Key responds to the will of its bearer, aligning itself with your intentions. But remember, the mirror dimension is not to be taken lightly. It reflects and refracts reality in ways that can be both fascinating and perilous."
Harry nodded again, his mind racing with possibilities. He could sense the latent power within the ring, waiting for him to tap into it. Yet, he also felt a sense of caution, a reminder of the responsibility that came with wielding such power.
"I understand," Harry replied, his voice firm. "I'll be careful."
______________________________________________________________________________________________
For 5+ advance chapters visit my patreon.
patreon.com/StoryTeller229