Starfania felt utterly debilitated, as though a massive metallic force had slammed into her, leaving a deep bruise etched into both her body and spirit. Through the thick haze clouding her mind, faint echoes of voices drifted in and out–distant, like they were calling from another world. And yet…amidst the searing pain, a sensation of solace gently began to take hold. She stirred. As she became more aware of the slow and steady of her breath. Her body still ached, but beneath the discomfort, there was life. She was healing. Then, a gentle tap on her shoulder startled her, pulling her back from the edge of sleep. Starfania jolted awake, but quickly calmed down when she saw Cantina. Her presence radiated calm. She managed a weak but genuine smile, and she returned it with the kind of smile that held both relief and pride.
" It's a relief to see that you didn't suffer any major injuries, " she whispered, kneeling beside her.
Starfania blinked, still trying to gather her thoughts as her voice guided her through the fog. " Aeron and Lyam carried you here while you were unconscious. You were drifting in and out. They weren't sure how long you might be out. "
Starfania swallowed hard and nodded slowly. She shifted slightly, gritting her teeth through the soreness. " How did you know that would happen? "
Cantina's expression brightened, a soft glow of awe in her eyes. " I didn't, but I knew when Atlas chose you as his rider. There was something special inside of you. "
Starfania looked down at her hands, her fingers trembling as memories filtered back. "But I never felt special. Just ordinary, you know?"
She felt a wave of frustration wash over her. "Why me? What makes me different?"
Cantina smiled gently, her eyes steady. "Sometimes, it's not about being extraordinary. It's about the choices you make. Atlas saw your heart, your courage in the face of doubt. That's what matters."
Starfania was quiet for a moment, absorbing the words.
"Courage," she repeated softly, testing the weight of the word.
"Yes," Cantina affirmed, her voice firm yet kind. "It takes bravery to embrace the unknown. And you did just that."
Starfania drew in a deep breath, letting it out slowly. She still felt uncertain, but a flicker of hope ignited within her.
"What happens next?" Cantina leaned closer, her expression growing serious. "Next, you'll need to train. The bond between you and Atlas will grow stronger, but only if you invest your heart into it. Are you ready for that?"
Starfania nodded, determination setting her features. "I am."