The group followed Elder Ralnor deeper into the intricate structure of the spirit home. The halls were alive with magic—walls adorned with glowing glyphs, soft light streaming from enchanted crystals, and the air itself seemed to hum with energy. Eventually, they stopped in front of an ornately carved door.
Ralnor turned to them, his expression calm but serious. "Inside, you'll meet others who may assist you. Be respectful and open-minded. These individuals are among the most important in our realm."
Shin nodded, his eyes sharp. "Got it."
Miko and Kuro exchanged a glance, the tension palpable as Ralnor pushed the door open.
---
The Council of Six
The room they entered was vast but cozy, a circular chamber with a large, glowing table at its center. Sitting around the table were six individuals, each radiating immense power. Their auras filled the room, making it hard to breathe for a moment.
Shin's sharp eyes darted around. "Six people," he muttered, his tone curious.
The six spirits turned their gazes to the newcomers, their expressions varying from intrigued to neutral. Miko, Shin, and Kuro moved cautiously to the table, each taking a seat across from the council.
Elder Ralnor raised his hands in a welcoming gesture. "My esteemed guests, allow me to introduce these travelers. Say welcome to them."
The six council members, their voices carrying authority and grace, spoke in unison. "Welcome."
One of them, a tall male spirit with an aura of fiery gold, leaned forward. "You've brought us an interesting group, Ralnor. Especially this one." He gestured toward Miko, whose aura was already clashing subtly with theirs, creating an unspoken tension in the room.
Miko's golden and blue energy flared slightly as if responding instinctively to the challenge. Shin and Kuro both tensed, prepared for any sudden moves.
Elder Ralnor chuckled lightly. "Calm yourselves. This is not a battle of power but one of understanding."
---
The Search for Answers
Ralnor turned to the six council members. "Our young friend Miko is searching for information about his parents. I believe their knowledge may provide answers."
A female council member, her aura a serene silver, tilted her head. "We would be happy to assist. What were their names?"
Miko took a deep breath, steadying himself before answering. "My mom's name was Elara, and my dad's name was Kael."
The room fell silent. The six council members exchanged looks of shock, and one of the females gasped audibly. Tears welled up in her glowing eyes, and another council member, a stern-looking man, clenched his fists.
Elder Ralnor's face softened into a knowing smile. "Ah… now it all makes sense. That's why your aura is so powerful, young Miko."
Miko frowned, confused. "Why are you all so surprised?"
One of the female elders, her voice trembling with emotion, spoke up. "Elara… she… she was the princess of the spirits."
---
A Shocking Truth
The words hung in the air, heavy with meaning. Miko, Shin, and Kuro stared at her, their expressions a mix of shock and disbelief.
Kuro was the first to break the silence. "Wait… you're telling us Miko's mom was royalty? Bro, you're royalty?"
Miko's eyes widened, his thoughts racing. "What? No, that's impossible. I lived a normal life. My mom was just… normal. My dad too."
The elder shook her head, her tone firm. "No, my boy. Elara was no ordinary spirit. She was our princess, a beloved leader with unmatched grace and power."
Shin leaned back in his chair, a sly grin spreading across his face. "Interesting. A princess and now her son with this kind of potential? That could make Miko quite the ally in the future."
Kuro smirked, nudging Miko. "Dude, you've got royal blood. You've been holding out on us."
Miko was overwhelmed, shaking his head. "I didn't know. I swear. My mom never told me anything about being a princess. We were just… a normal family."
---
The Heroic Father
Miko hesitated before asking the question that lingered in his mind. "What about my dad? What was he like?"
Elder Ralnor's expression turned somber, his voice taking on a reverent tone. "Kael… your father was a hero. A legendary figure among spirits and mortals alike. He was known for his bravery and strength, but one day, he disappeared along with Elara. They vanished without a trace, leaving the Spirit Realm in mourning."
Shin, always analytical, raised an eyebrow. "A legendary hero and a spirit princess? That's quite the power couple."
Miko's mind reeled. "My dad… a hero? I never would've guessed. He never talked about his past."
Ralnor nodded. "They must have had their reasons for hiding their identities. Perhaps they wished to protect you or live a life free from the burdens of their titles."
Kuro leaned back, crossing his arms. "So, let me get this straight. Miko's mom was a princess, his dad was a hero, and now we're sitting here with a guy who might be destined for greatness. This is crazy."
Miko ran a hand through his hair, his emotions a whirlwind. "I don't know what to say. This is all… too much."
Elder Ralnor placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Take your time to process, young one. You are part of a legacy far greater than you realize. But remember, it is not your lineage that defines you—it is the choices you make."
The council members nodded in agreement, their expressions softening.
Shin leaned forward, his sharp gaze fixed on Miko. "Looks like you've got a lot to live up to, Miko. But don't worry. We've got your back."
Miko managed a small smile, the warmth of his friends' support grounding him amidst the overwhelming revelations.
Ralnor gestured to the council. "Let us continue. There is more to discuss, and perhaps more answers to uncover."
As the group delved deeper into the mysteries of Miko's heritage, the Spirit Realm seemed to hum in anticipation, the air thick with the promise of untold revelations.