The butterfly lifted off the window ledge, its wings fluttering gracefully as it moved in front of Rebecca. Its radiant glow seemed to pulse in time with her quickening heartbeat. As it hovered, the voices returned, flooding her mind once again, this time clearer and more direct.
Voice 1:
"We are the gods of this world."
Gods? Her mind raced with confusion, but before she could process, the voices continued.
Voice 2:
"We've attached our consciousness to this butterfly, transforming it into a divine messenger."
The butterfly circled lazily around her, almost playfully, as if it were nothing more than a beautiful insect. But Rebecca knew better now.
Voice 3:
"It is our eyes and ears, sent to explore and observe things that interest us. And you, Rebecca... You have caught our attention."
She had been unknowingly followed. Watched. How long had they been observing her? Rebecca wondered for how long they have followed and for how long they will follow.
Voice 4:
"For quite some time, we've noticed the unusual energy within you—an energy not of this world. A fluctuation that piqued our curiosity."
The butterfly fluttered closer to her, the air around it humming faintly.
Voice 5:
"We wanted you to be aware of our presence. That is why we have started this communication in your mind."
These gods had been watching her every move, following her since the moment she'd entered this world, ever since her soul had merged with this body. And now they were making contact, revealing their existence.
Rebecca stood frozen, trying to wrap her head around it all. She didn't know whether to feel honored, scared, or both. She had to ask something, anything that could help her understand the situation.
But before she could even form a thought, the butterfly circled her one last time, landing softly on her shoulder, its glow warmer now, almost like an invitation.
The voices returned, softer now, almost comforting, as if sensing Rebecca's unease.
Voice 1:
"Do not fear us. We mean you no harm."
The butterfly on her shoulder glowed faintly, its presence surprisingly warm.
Voice 2:
"We are merely curious. We'll continue to follow you, but only casually."
Casually? The idea of being followed, even in a nonchalant way, didn't sit right with her, but before she could react, another voice chimed in.
Voice 3:
"If you share information about your original world—anything that intrigues us—we may offer you gifts."
Gifts from gods didn't come without a price. Rebecca knew that much from stories.
Voice 4:
"Think of it as a trade. We seek knowledge. In return, we can provide something that could benefit you."
Voice 5:
"We are not in a hurry. Take your time. When you're ready, speak to us."
The butterfly fluttered gently on her shoulder, as if waiting for her response. But Rebecca remained silent, unsure of what to say or do.
The possibility of gaining something to help her and Draven was tempting. But trust wasn't something she could give so easily, not to anyone, let alone gods who watched her every step.
She gazed at the butterfly, its delicate wings fluttering gently against her skin. Though she didn't fully trust these gods, they didn't seem hostile, and having someone to talk to—someone who already knew the most dangerous secret about her—was strangely comforting.
"I... I can share information about my world freely," she began, her voice quiet but sincere. "There's no need for gifts. Honestly, as you can see, I'm alone here in this world. I've been keeping so much to myself, and sometimes... I just want someone to talk to, someone I can trust to share my heart with."
The butterfly glowed softly, its wings beating steadily, as though listening intently.
"If you can promise me that you won't tell anyone—no one at all—about what I say, even the most casual things, then I'll gladly share. Not for rewards or gifts, but because... I'd like to consider you my friends." Her tone softened, almost wistful. "Though I don't fully trust you yet, I hope that maybe, we can get along. Maybe even become good friends."
Rebecca shared her thoughts carefully, her mind weighed down by the uncertainty of trusting the gods. She knew this was a fragile moment, one where her decision could change things—perhaps for the better, or possibly for the worse. She had been through too much to not consider the consequences of every word she uttered now.
The gods whispered among themselves, their voices soft in Rebecca's mind. She could feel their thoughts swirling around her. Finally, one voice spoke clearly, warm and inviting.
"We accept your condition, Rebecca," it said. "You don't need to worry. We will keep your secrets safe. We are just curious about you and your world. Your feelings are what we want to hear."
Another voice added, filled with excitement, "You are interesting to us, and we want to share in your journey. We wish to learn about your thoughts and feelings. In return, we will share our own stories with you, so you know you are not alone."
Feeling a wave of excitement, Rebecca decided to introduce herself formally even if they knew her name "Hello, my name is Rebecca. It's nice to meet you. May I know your names?
The butterfly danced in the air, glowing softly as a voice answered. "I am Zephyr, the God of Wind. I can control the breezes and storms, bringing change wherever I go."
Another voice chimed in, more resonant, "I am Liora, the Goddess of Light. I can create light and warmth."
A deeper, calm voice followed, "I am Thorne, the God of Nature. I can communicate with plants and animals."
Finally, a gentle voice added, "I am Nox, the God of Shadows. I can blend into the darkness."
The fifth voice, a melodic and enchanting tone, joined the others. "I am Astra, the Goddess of Stars."
With Astra's addition, the group felt complete, each god bringing their unique essence into the conversation.
Rebecca listened closely as each god introduced themselves along with the powers they possess, with pride.