The words of the divine creature echoed in Elara's head.
"Choose."
The world around her remained silent, as if the universe itself was waiting for her answer.
Kael stepped closer to her. His voice was quiet but firm. "Elara... We'll find a way. You don't have to decide alone."
But she knew he was wrong.
That decision was entirely up to her.
Elara clenched her fists. "What happens if I refuse?"
The creature of light tilted his head slightly.
"Then fate will decide for you."
A shiver ran down her spine. She thought of the vision – of herself as the goddess of destruction. To the blood that stuck to her hands.
"I don't want to be that person," she whispered.
"And yet it's in you."
The voice didn't sound accusing. Not judging. Just... true.
"What if I decide to save the world?"
"Then you'll have to fight."
Kael drew his sword. "Then we fight."
The divine being watched him for a moment, as if it was shining through his soul.
"The trials that lie ahead of you will demand more than you can imagine."
Then it raised a hand - and with a huge flash of light the world changed again.
The Awakening of Prophecy
Elara and Kael found themselves on a floating platform, an endless storm raging among them, lightning twitching through the darkness. Above them rose a huge altar, in which golden characters were engraved.
"What is this?" Kael asked.
"The place of your choice."
Suddenly, Elara felt it.
Something in her awoke. A power that had been dormant for centuries.
Her body began to glow, a soft but uncontrollable light. Their veins burned as if fire were flowing through them.
"What's happening to me?!"
"Your true legacy will be raised."
Elara gasped. Images shot through her head - memories that were not her own.
She saw herself in other lives. As a warrior, as a queen, as a monster.
And then... she saw the face of her true enemy.
A dark figure, hidden in the shadows. Eyes that glowed like burning coals.
A voice, deep and old:
"Finally... you're mine."
A shock went through her when she fell to her knees. The platform shoored, Kael snatched it.
"Elara! Stay with me!"
But the dark voice laughed
"It's too late. Your destiny is sealed."
The light around Elara darkened. She felt something pull her down.
"No..."
Kael held her tight. "I won't let you go!"
Elara knew she had to fight. But she also knew...
That she might not be able to win.