As my sister vanished into the sky, leaving me alone in the cold, empty space, I knelt beside the remains of Atlas—now nothing more than a pile of ashes. Using my telekinesis, I gently gathered his remains and shaped a small, ornate pot from the surrounding earth to store them in. The pot felt heavy in my hands, not just with the weight of Atlas's ashes, but with the burden of guilt, anger, and a growing sense of responsibility. Atlas had been more than just a mentor—he was my guide through the chaos of my fragmented memories, the one constant in a world full of uncertainty. Now, that light had been extinguished, snuffed out by the very person I had trusted most.
I could still feel the echoes of his presence, the wisdom he had imparted, and the deep bond we had shared. But now, there was only silence, an emptiness that gnawed at my soul. I knew that if I wanted to avenge Atlas, to bring justice for what had been done, I would have to confront the shadows of my past, unravel the mysteries of the universe that had been kept hidden from me, and, ultimately, decide who I truly was.
The path ahead was uncertain, fraught with dangers I couldn't yet comprehend, but one thing was clear—I couldn't continue to be the person I had been. The betrayal had cut too deep, and the loss too great. I would have to become something more—stronger, wiser, and less trusting. My sister had shown me the cold, harsh reality of the world we lived in, and I could no longer afford the luxury of sentimentality.
I stood, clutching the pot to my chest, and looked up at the sky where my sister had disappeared. I couldn't chase after her now, not when I was still reeling from the shock, but I swore to myself that this wouldn't be the end. There were answers out there—answers about who I was, about the true nature of the mission that had led to Atlas's death, and about the larger forces at play in this universe. And I would find them, no matter the cost.
Taking a deep breath, I began to walk, my steps uncertain at first but growing more resolute with each passing moment. I would need allies, resources, and knowledge if I was to have any hope of confronting the truth. But above all, I would need to uncover the parts of myself that had been hidden, the powers and memories that lay buried deep within my mind.
As I left the place where Atlas had fallen, the pot of ashes safely secured at my side, I knew one thing for certain: the journey ahead would be long, and it would change me in ways I couldn't yet imagine. But I would face it, for Atlas, for the person I once was, and for the future that now hung in the balance.
The time for uncertainty was over. It was time to find out who I truly was and of what I was capable. The universe held its secrets close, but I was determined to pry them open, one way or another.
As I emerged from the dimension, Flora rushed toward me, her face pale, eyes wide with fear. She looked like she'd just seen a ghost, her usual calm replaced by sheer panic.
"I was so worried," she gasped, her voice trembling. "I heard all these noises coming from the dimension, but I couldn't move—I felt paralyzed. Please, tell me you're okay."
Even in her terror, she was beautiful, her concern wrapping around me like a lifeline in the storm. But seeing her so scared only deepened the ache in my chest, knowing how much I'd have to tell her, how much more I'd have to burden her with.
Her gaze dropped to the pot in my hands, her brow furrowing in confusion and concern. "What happened in there?" she asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
I swallowed hard, my throat tight with the weight of what I needed to say. "Flora... Atlas is gone," I said, my voice cracking under the strain.
Her hand flew to her mouth, her eyes welling up with tears. "Gone? But... how?"
I hesitated, feeling the words catch in my throat. I hadn't told her about my sister, about the dark secrets of my past that I had barely begun to understand myself. But now, there was no avoiding it.
"My sister," I finally managed to say, the words feeling foreign and heavy on my tongue. "She... she killed him."
Flora's eyes widened in shock. "Your sister? I didn't even know you had a sister. Why would she...?"
"She was on a mission," I said bitterly, the memory of my sister's cold words still fresh in my mind. "She said it was necessary, that Atlas was a threat. But I can't accept that. Not after everything he did for us."
Flora reached out, her hand trembling as she touched my arm, her eyes full of sympathy and determination. "I'm so sorry," she whispered. "But we'll figure this out. We'll get through this together, I promise."
I looked at her, feeling a surge of gratitude and love despite the darkness closing in around us. "I know," I whispered, squeezing her hand. "But there's so much more we don't know, Flora. My sister... she's not the person I thought she was. And I'm not sure who I am anymore."
"We'll find out," Flora said, her voice steady despite everything. "We'll uncover the truth, no matter how deep we have to dig. You're not alone in this."
I nodded, drawing strength from her resolve. Whatever the future held, I knew that with Flora by my side, I could face it. But I also knew that the road ahead would test us both in ways we couldn't yet imagine.
"Let's go," I said, taking a deep breath. "We have a lot to figure out."
Flora nodded, her hand still in mine, and together we walked away from the dimension, ready to face whatever came next. We quickly packed what we needed and stored our belongings in our pocket dimensions. Atlas's ashes were safely placed in a small dimension I had created.
Flora changed into a more comfortable outfit for traveling long distances. While she was getting ready, I was lost in thought, trying to devise a plan for our next steps. Completely absorbed, I accidentally opened the door to where Flora was changing.
The sight that greeted me was unexpected. Flora stood in her undergarments, her body relaxed and confident, a stark contrast to the turmoil of the moment. My heart raced, overwhelmed by the sudden and intimate view. I fumbled, quickly closing the door. "Oh, I'm so sorry! I didn't mean to—"
Before I could finish my apology, Flora's soft laughter drifted through the door. "It's okay," she said with a playful tone. "You can come in if you want. I don't mind."
I felt a rush of heat to my face and awkwardly excused myself, mumbling about needing to use the guest bathroom. After a hasty and unnecessary trip to the bathroom, I knocked on the door, hoping to find a semblance of normalcy.
"Flora? Are you ready?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"Just about," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of teasing. "Come on in."
I opened the door cautiously, only to find Flora waiting for me with a mischievous smile. She had finished dressing but was still holding her clothes, seemingly not in a hurry to put them away. Her eyes sparkled with mischief and something else—a clear invitation.
"Feeling better?" she asked, her gaze lingering on me with an almost expectant look.
I swallowed hard, trying to focus on her words and not the intimate nature of our situation. "Yeah, much better," I said, feeling the awkwardness dissipate as I met her gaze. "I'm sorry about before. I just got a little... distracted."
Flora stepped closer, her hand resting lightly on my arm. "It's alright. I actually thought you might like the view. I've always been a bit... forward."
My heart pounded in my chest. Flora's closeness, her easy confidence, was both comforting and electrifying. "You really don't hold back, do you?"
She shook her head, her smile widening. "Not when it comes to you. I like you, and if I have to make the first move to get your attention, I will."
I looked into her eyes, feeling a mix of affection and nervousness. "Well, you certainly have my attention," I admitted, feeling a soft, reassuring warmth in her presence. "But maybe, next time, we could avoid any more surprise encounters."
Flora laughed softly, stepping even closer. "Deal. But only if you promise to make a move when the time is right."
I chuckled, feeling a newfound resolve. "I promise. Let's just focus on the journey ahead for now."
Together, we set off, the earlier tension melting away as we embraced the adventure before us. Confident and calm, we looked at the sky and nodded our heads in unison. Our shared determination was palpable, a silent promise that we could face anything together.
With synchronized movements, we leaped into the air, each of us grasping the other's arms. The sensation of weightlessness enveloped us as we ascended, and in a heartbeat, we found ourselves in the vast expanse of space. It felt normal, natural—even freeing. No helmets, no suits, just the pure essence of who we were.
To reach our full potential, we decided to be close but without holding hands, allowing our energies to flow freely and harmonize. We activated our halos, the radiant energy enveloping us as we ascended further into the cosmos. The universe stretched out before us, an endless canvas of stars and galaxies.
Our expected travel time to leave the solar system was just about a minute, but we encountered a bit of difficulty. As we approached our destination, we neared the Oort Cloud, a massive, icy barrier that had previously thwarted my attempts to escape our solar system.
The Oort Cloud loomed ahead, a shimmering, dense field of ice and debris. We took a deep breath, bracing ourselves for the challenge. Together, we surged forward, pushing through the icy expanse. For a few seconds, the darkness and cold enveloped us, but then, as if by magic, we felt a rush of freedom.
With a final push, we broke through the barrier of the Oort Cloud, and the familiar glow of distant stars greeted us. The weight of our solar system fell away, replaced by the boundless possibilities of interstellar space. We had escaped the confines of our home star system and were now truly free to explore the universe.
We looked at each other, our faces lit with triumphant smiles. Flora's eyes sparkled with a mix of relief and excitement. "We did it," she said, her voice filled with wonder. "We're officially out of the solar system!"
I grinned, feeling a rush of exhilaration. "Yeah, we are. And the universe is ours to explore."
We floated side by side, the vastness of space stretching infinitely before us. There was no immediate rush, no pressing deadlines—just the endless expanse of stars and the thrill of the unknown. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty and enormity of the cosmos, I felt a profound connection with Flora, a shared sense of purpose and wonder that transcended words.
Together, we floated through the stars, ready to face whatever came next in our journey through the universe. The adventure had only just begun, and with Flora by my side, I knew that no matter what challenges we faced, we would face them together.
As we drifted through the vast emptiness of space, Proxima Centauri—our nearest stellar neighbor—loomed in the distance. At 14.6256 light-years away, it would take us approximately 31.4 minutes to reach it at our current speed of 46.5 billion miles per second. But my thoughts were focused on another pressing matter: the location of the planet Lohto.
Jinvolo had mysteriously teleported to Lohto, the planet from which he originated, before my sister could capture him. If he managed to escape to his home planet, it suggested he was compressing his powers, not wanting us to find out. But why? The question lingered in my mind and the only way I thought to seek the answer was for us to also travel to Lohto.
"Flora," I said, breaking the silence, "I've been thinking about Jinvolo's sudden teleportation to Lohto. If he could get there that quickly, it means Lohto might be relatively nearby, or it could be that Jinvolo has a very advance halo that lets him go camo and lets him teleport anywhere, or that he lied to us, and his planet is outside the galaxy." Then I added on, debating if what I sensed from him was true or not. "But I didn't detect any significant magical energy from him, which doesn't add up if he used some sort of magic, to get him out of the situation."
Flora's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "If Lohto is close by, it might be a good idea to scan for any anomalies or advanced technology that could explain Jinvolo's rapid departure. There might be some form of technology or hidden outpost on Lohto that allowed him to teleport so swiftly."
I nodded. "Exactly. We need to check the nearby regions for any signs of technological activity or energy signatures. Lohto might have facilities or infrastructure that made Jinvolo's quick escape possible."
We began our search, scanning the surrounding star systems for any unusual signals or signs of advanced technology. The vastness of space stretched out before us, but with Flora's expertise and our combined determination, we were confident that we could uncover Lohto's location and understand why Jinvolo had reached it so urgently.
As we continued drifting through the void of space, our quest to locate Lohto pressing on, I suddenly felt a profound shift within me. My halo, which had once been a dark red, now transformed into a brilliant blend of orange and yellow. It glowed like a phoenix, the colors flickering and dancing with an ethereal flame that, surprisingly, felt soothing rather than painful.
A surge of new information flooded my mind, revealing that this was the Phoenix Halo, the third of ten halos. It was an upgrade from the Crimson Halo, though still not the most powerful. This new halo granted me the ability to test my immortality, which I already possessed through my vampire lineage, and expanded on the Crimson Halo's abilities. I could now control my energy flow with increased efficiency and begin learning advanced spells, a skill set I had previously neglected in favor of honing my physical prowess.
I glanced at Flora, who was mirroring my transformation. She, too, had acquired the Phoenix Halo. Her eyes sparkled with excitement and gratitude. "Thanks!" she said, her voice melodious and warm, like an angel's whisper.
I felt a rush of empowerment, a new surge of strength coursing through me. The Phoenix Halo was awakening untapped potential, but it was clear I had much more to achieve. The next halo, according to my newfound knowledge, would be the Ethereal Halo. My progress was evident; I had improved both my physical and energy control to the point where this upgrade was possible.
Despite the exhilarating power now flowing through me, I couldn't shake the memory of my sister's overwhelming strength. Her halo was formidable, but that only fueled my determination. I knew I needed to grow stronger, to surpass her one day, and to confront whoever controlled her to free her from their influence. Only then could I hope to start anew with her, to rebuild what was lost.
For now, with the Phoenix Halo illuminating our path, Flora and I pressed on, ready to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead. Our journey through the universe was just beginning, and I was more determined than ever to uncover the truth and reach new heights of power and understanding.
As we made our way toward Proxima Centauri, the Phoenix Halo enhanced my senses, nearly doubling the capabilities I had with the Crimson Halo. It wasn't just an incremental boost; I could now detect halo energy in massive quantities, far beyond anything I had encountered before. This energy wasn't like my sister's, yet it was far more powerful—hundreds, perhaps thousands, of times stronger than my own halo.
"Flora, over here," I said, my voice tinged with both excitement and caution. "I can sense high energy fluctuations. I think we should explore this path."
Flora moved closer, her presence comforting as she, too, tuned in to the energy. With the Phoenix Halo amplifying her senses as well, she quickly understood what I was referring to. "Yeah, I can sense it too. It's coming from Proxima. This could mean that Lohto is closer than we thought, or… maybe Proxima is Lohto," she suggested, her tone thoughtful.
Her guess resonated with me. The idea that Proxima Centauri, the star itself, could be Lohto made a strange kind of sense. The energy coming from it was too intense to be anything ordinary.
"Let's head there," I decided. With a shared sense of urgency and curiosity, we zoomed through the void of space, our halos blazing as we pushed forward.
The journey took us only another ten minutes, but it felt like an eternity as we neared Proxima Centauri, the energy growing stronger with every passing second. The closer we got, the more certain I became that we were approaching something far beyond what we'd encountered so far. Proxima wasn't just a star—it was something much more significant, perhaps the key to understanding Lohto and the immense power it held.
As we arrived, the sight before us was awe-inspiring. Proxima Centauri was pulsating with energy, a beacon of power that seemed almost alive. The realization hit me—this was Lohto, the planet Jinvolo had teleported to, hidden in plain sight as a star. Whatever secrets it held, we were about to uncover them, and I knew our journey was about to take a monumental turn.
As we hovered before Proxima Centauri—now revealed as Lohto—the sheer magnitude of the energy emanating from it was overwhelming. The star-like glow of Lohto pulsed rhythmically, as if it had a heartbeat, each wave of energy more intense than the last. This was no ordinary planet; it was a celestial entity of immense power, one that held secrets far beyond our understanding.
Flora and I exchanged a glance, the unspoken question hanging in the air: What now?
"We need to proceed carefully," I said, my voice steady despite the awe I felt. "Whatever this place is, it's not just a planet. It's something more."
Flora nodded, her expression serious but tinged with curiosity. "Do you think Jinvolo knew all along? That he was hiding here, right under everyone's noses?"
"It's possible," I replied, my mind racing with possibilities. "But if he's here, then he must have a reason. Maybe Lohto isn't just a sanctuary—it could be a stronghold, or even a weapon."
The idea of a planet-sized weapon sent a chill down my spine. But we had come this far, and there was no turning back now.
"We should land and see what we can find," Flora suggested, her hand lightly gripping mine. The contact was reassuring, a reminder that whatever we faced, we would face it together.
With a slight nod, I agreed. We slowly descended toward the surface of Lohto, the fiery energy of our Phoenix Halos illuminating the way. As we breached the outer atmosphere, the landscape below began to come into focus—if it could even be called that. The terrain seemed to shift and ripple, as though the planet itself was alive and constantly in motion.
When we touched down, the ground beneath our feet felt warm, almost like a living creature's flesh. The air buzzed with energy, and the sky above us burned with the same orange and yellow hues as our halos.
"This place… it's like nothing I've ever seen," Flora whispered, her voice filled with wonder.
I could only nod in agreement. Lohto was more than just a planet; it was a living, breathing entity, and we were standing on its surface. The energy here wasn't just ambient—it was concentrated, directed. It was as if the planet itself was aware of our presence.
We began to explore, moving cautiously through the strange landscape. The ground would occasionally shift beneath us, causing us to stumble, but we pressed on. The deeper we ventured, the more I could feel the planet's power seeping into my very being, resonating with the Phoenix Halo.
Suddenly, Flora stopped, her eyes wide with realization. "Look over there," she said, pointing toward a distant peak that seemed to shimmer with an ethereal light.
As I focused on it, I saw what she was pointing out: a structure, ancient and grand, perched atop the peak. It radiated with the same powerful energy we had felt from space.
"That must be it," I said, my heart pounding with anticipation. "Whatever secrets Lohto holds, they're likely in there."
Without another word, we started making our way toward the peak, driven by the need to uncover the truth. The path ahead was uncertain, and the dangers were likely greater than anything we had faced before. But we were ready to face them, side by side, in this strange and powerful world that defied everything we thought we knew.
The journey to the peak was arduous, but with each step, our resolve strengthened. Whatever lay at the top of that peak—be it answers, power, or more questions—we were determined to reach it and discover the true nature of Lohto and the forces at play.
As we stepped into the ancient structure, it was immediately clear that the place had been abandoned for centuries. Dust coated every surface, though the space still looked oddly organized and well-kept, as if someone—or something—had been maintaining it, even in its emptiness. The air was thick with a scent that was both spicy and bland, a strange combination that caught my attention instantly. I glanced at Flora and saw that she had picked up on it too; her nose wrinkled slightly as she inhaled the peculiar smell.
Without a word, we moved toward the source, our curiosity overpowering our caution. We passed by rooms filled with odd collections: paintings hung neatly on the walls, beds were made up as if waiting for occupants, and shelves were stocked with random objects like rocks, balls, and even games—both ancient board games and more modern video games. It was as if this place had been a home, long forgotten but not entirely abandoned.
The scent grew stronger as we neared a large kitchen. Everything inside—from the countertops to the oven—was handcrafted, each piece meticulously designed. Whoever lived here had taken great care in their work. Yet, there was no sign of life, just the lingering aroma that now dominated the room.
We moved silently, our senses heightened by the Phoenix Halo, keeping ourselves hidden as we ventured deeper into the structure. The rooms we passed began to tell a sadder story—small beds, toys, and decorations that hinted at children who never came. It was clear that someone had planned for a family here, but those plans had never come to fruition.
Finally, we reached the source of the smell—a large bowl of food, steaming and half-eaten. The figure hunched over it was pale, with little to no hair on his arms, likely a boy judging by his size and the delicate build of his limbs. As I focused, a hint of black hair caught my eye. My heart skipped a beat; this could only be Jinvolo. The features, though not entirely visible, were too similar to mistake.
With a deep breath, I activated my Phoenix Halo, gathering power in my hands. I stepped forward, making my presence known.
The figure froze, the bowl slipping from his grasp as he turned slowly to face me. It was Jinvolo, just as I had suspected. His face was a mask of confusion and fear, his eyes wide with disbelief.
"How did you find me…?" His voice trembled, barely above a whisper. The fear in his expression was palpable, and for a moment, I felt a pang of pity. He seemed genuinely terrified, as if he'd expected never to be found in this hidden place.
I stepped closer, the energy of my Phoenix Halo crackling around me. "You didn't make it easy," I said, my voice steady despite the tension in the air. "But we have questions, Jinvolo. And you're going to answer them."
Flora stood beside me, her presence a silent reminder that we were in this together. Jinvolo's eyes darted between us, realizing that he was outnumbered and outpowered. There was no escape for him now, not from us, not from the truth that we were about to uncover.
Jinvolo's eyes darted frantically around the room, searching for an escape that didn't exist. The realization that he was cornered seemed to sink in as his shoulders sagged slightly, a mix of resignation and dread clouding his expression.
"You shouldn't have come here," he finally muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "This place… it's not what you think."
I tightened my grip of the energy swirling around me, letting the power of the Phoenix Halo surge through my veins. "We're not leaving until we get answers, Jinvolo. What is this pace? Why are you here? And what does this have to do with Lohto?"
He hesitated, his gaze flickering between Flora and me as if weighing his options. Flora, sensing his hesitation, stepped forward, her own Phoenix Halo glowing softly. "We didn't come all this way to play games, Jinvolo. Tell us what you know, and maybe we can help you."
Jinvolo let out a bitter laugh, though there was little humor in it. "Help me? You don't understand… No one can help me. Not now."
"Try us," I said, keeping my voice firm but not harsh. "We've seen more than you think, and we're willing to listen. But you have to start talking."
For a long moment, he remained silent, his face a mask of inner turmoil. Then, with a weary sigh, he sank down onto a nearby chair, his pale hands trembling slightly as he rubbed his temples. "Lohto… Proxima… they're not just a planet or a star. They're alive, sentient in a way you can't imagine. This place is their heart, their mind… and their prison."
Flora and I exchanged a glance, both of us absorbing the weight of his words. "A prison?" Flora asked, her voice softer now, tinged with concern.
Jinvolo nodded slowly. "Lohto was once a powerful entity, a god-like being that ruled over this corner of the universe. But it was too powerful, too dangerous. So, the ancient ones—the ones who came before us—trapped it here, binding its essence within Proxima, hiding it in plain sight. What you see as a star… is just a fragment of its true form."
I felt a cold shiver run down my spine. "And you… what's your connection to all of this?"
"I'm… I was its guardian," Jinvolo admitted, his voice hollow. "Chosen to watch over Lohto, to ensure that it remained sealed. But I failed. The seal is weakening, and it's only a matter of time before it breaks. When it does…" He trailed off, his eyes wide with fear. "You have no idea what will happen if Lohto is freed."
Flora's hand found mine, a silent reassurance in the face of this revelation. "Is that why you ran? To try and stop it?"
"Yes, along with other reasons," Jinvolo said, his voice suggesting his terror because of my sister. "But I'm not strong enough. Not anymore."
I tightened my grip on her hand, the weight of Jinvolo's words settling heavily on my shoulders. "Then it's up to us," I said quietly. "We'll do whatever it takes to keep Lohto sealed. But we need your help, Jinvolo. You know this place better than anyone."
He looked up at me, his eyes searching mine for any sign of doubt or deception. Finally, he gave a slow, reluctant nod. "Alright," he said. "I'll help you. But you need to understand… this is a fight we might not win."
"Then we'll fight until the end," Flora said, her voice steady with determination. "We're not giving up."
Jinvolo sighed, a mixture of relief and resignation in his expression. "Very well. Follow me. There's something you need to see."
He stood and began to lead us deeper into the structure, through winding corridors and down ancient staircases. The deeper we went, the stronger the energy became, until it felt like the very air around us was vibrating with power.
Finally, we reached a massive door, intricately carved with symbols that seemed to pulse with their own light. Jinvolo placed his hand on the door, and it slowly creaked open, revealing a vast chamber beyond.
In the center of the chamber, floating above an ornate pedestal, was a swirling mass of light and darkness, shifting and coalescing into shapes that defied comprehension. The energy radiating from it was overwhelming, a force of nature contained within fragile bonds.
"This is the heart of Lohto," Jinvolo said quietly. "And this… is where the fight will begin."
I was astonished by its presence—this powerful force wasn't quite as strong as my sister's, but it was close. Flora, clearly frightened, gasped, "I can't breathe. I feel dizzy, like my energy is being drained…" She fainted before she could finish.
I caught her just in time and quickly carried her away from the heart of the structure to the opposite side, with Jinvolo right behind us. As we ran, I checked her pulse; it was increasing steadily.
"She's going to be okay, right?" Jinvolo asked, his voice tinged with fear.
"Yeah, she'll make it. She's stronger than this," I replied confidently.
We settled down on two couches that seemed to represent a living room—at least in concept. I still had questions swirling in my mind, so I asked, "Is it okay if I ask you some questions?"
Jinvolo nodded, and I began, "Why did you become the guardian? Or rather, how did you become the guardian?"
He smiled faintly before beginning his story. "Long ago, on Lecewei—the planet that is technically my origin—there was peace. It was the second planet in this solar system, a hotspot for intergalactic trade. You could find anything there, from exotic foods to rare minerals, even potions to enhance your halo. But then, a girl was born into a middle-class family. She was beautiful, with purple hair and striking green eyes. She had two eyes, just like you and me. As she grew up, she dreamed of exploring Lecewei's moon, a stunning blue-gray sphere. Her family couldn't afford it, so she dedicated herself to becoming what you would call an astronaut. After years of hard work, she finally became one and was launched into space. But midway through her journey from the planet to the moon, the rocket, powered by an Arcane Halo, was damaged. The halo tried to repair it, but the damage came from outside—someone had attacked the rocket. She was resilient, doing everything she could to fix the situation, even though her partner on the mission had tragically died. She wasn't particularly powerful, as she only had the Phoenix Halo, and the mission could have been accomplished by anyone with or without a halo. But as the attackers, armed with halos equal to or greater than Arcane, closed in, someone saved her.
"This man single-handedly defeated the space pirates and rescued the girl. She was fighting for her life, her helmet cracked, unsure how to survive without it. He saved her and brought her back to Lecewei, where he was handsomely rewarded and stayed until the girl recovered. He was charming, almost godlike in appearance.
"When the girl woke up the next morning, the man was still there. Her parents, unfortunately, had died while she was unconscious. She thanked him, and it was what you would call 'love at first sight.' But there was a rule: no person was allowed to marry or date anyone from another planet. This man wasn't from Lecewei; he was from a neighboring solar system, near Earth. But they didn't care. They were in love and happy together, despite society's scorn. They were banished, mocked, and ridiculed. The man and the woman fled to this star—the very one we're on now. The man, as it turned out, was an ancient being who had once stopped Lohto from wreaking havoc. They made their home here and lived happily, but one day the man had to leave on a mission. His wife was pregnant at the time. He promised he'd be back soon, but he never returned. The girl, who had grown stronger over the years thanks to the man's teachings, managed to return to Lecewei. Society laughed at her again, criticized her, even hit her while she was pregnant. She retreated back here, just as Lohto's seal began to weaken. After giving birth, she prepared rooms for the child, filling them with random objects—balls, paintings, games. She dedicated herself to keeping Lohto sealed, all while raising me. She died when I turned ten.
"I promised her that Lohto wouldn't escape. I studied ancient black magic, strengthening my halo, but I hit a wall after reaching the Arcane Halo. For the past two years, I haven't been able to advance any further. And now, because of my failure, Lohto is going to destroy my home."
I…I am so sorry," I said, feeling the weight of his words. Then I reassured him, "Don't worry, we'll make sure Lohto doesn't escape." Jinvolo looked up, my words seemed to strengthen his resolve, filling him with a renewed sense of hope and determination.
Though I rarely feel emotions toward others, except for Flora, something about Jinvolo's story struck a chord deep within me. It reminded me of my mom and how she was murdered by Kai, a memory that still haunted me.
"Anyway, what are your other questions?" he asked, breaking the silence.
I took a deep breath, organizing my thoughts. There were so many questions swirling in my mind, but I needed to focus.
"How did you manage to hold off Lohto for so long?" I asked.
Jinvolo leaned back, his eyes distant as he recalled his past. "It wasn't easy. After my mother died, I was left alone, with only her teachings and the remnants of my father's power to guide me. I dedicated every moment to mastering the ancient black magic she'd introduced me to, and I pushed my Arcane Halo to its limits. But even with all that, it was more about strategy than raw power. Lohto is cunning, but he's also predictable if you know where to look. I've spent years studying him, learning his patterns, anticipating his moves. The seal my mother created was weakening, but I kept reinforcing it, patching it up whenever it showed signs of breaking."
He paused, a flicker of pain crossing his face. "But I was never strong enough to create a new seal. I could only buy time."
I nodded, taking in his words. "So you've been holding him off, alone, for all these years?"
"Yes," Jinvolo replied, his voice tinged with exhaustion. "But now, with you here, there's a chance we can do more than just delay the inevitable. We can stop Lohto for good."
His determination was contagious, and I felt a surge of resolve. "We will," I said firmly. "Together, we'll find a way."
Jinvolo gave a small smile, the first genuine one I'd seen of him. "I believe you," he said quietly.
Just then, Flora stirred in my arms, slowly coming to. Her eyes fluttered open, and she looked up at me, dazed but okay. "What happened?" she whispered.
"You fainted," I explained, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "The energy from the heart was too much, but you're going to be fine."
Flora smiled weakly and nodded. "I'm glad you're here," she said, her voice soft but full of trust.
"Always," I replied, squeezing her hand gently.
With Flora recovering and Jinvolo's story giving us new insights, I knew our journey was far from over. We had a powerful enemy to face, but we also had each other, and that gave me hope.
"Let's rest for a bit," I suggested, glancing at Flora and then Jinvolo. "We'll need all our strength for what's coming next."
Jinvolo agreed, and we settled into a cautious calm, each of us lost in our thoughts as we prepared for the battle ahead.
As we rested, I drifted into sleep and found myself in a familiar dream. I saw the same two people who had haunted me since I was young. The red room, their hair the same fiery red, eyes glowing with an eerie light, fangs protruding. I tried to run, but no matter how far I went, or if I turned invisible, they always knew exactly where I was. I couldn't escape them.
I awoke with a start, breathing heavily. Flora was asleep on my lap, while Jinvolo rested on the couch-like structure nearby. I reached into my pocket dimension and quickly pulled out a pillow, gently placing it under Flora's head before heading toward the heart of the structure.
"I'm not strong enough to defeat him. I need to get stronger," I muttered to myself, staring at the heart. I took a deep breath and sighed, feeling a renewed determination to defeat Lohto and uncover the mysteries of the universe.
I stepped outside, driven to train and push my halo to evolve further. I needed to reach the same level as my sister's halo. As I practiced with my halo, crafting spells to strengthen it, Jinvolo joined me while Flora continued to sleep.
"You have trouble creating spells," he observed with a smile.
"Yeah… I mostly use my halo for strength, speed, or with a weapon. I can cast spells sometimes, but I usually rely on my physical abilities and different powers like telekinesis and various manipulations," I admitted.
"I can teach you," Jinvolo offered. "I may not be as physically strong as you, but I have a lot of experience with magic. I can train you."
"Thank you," I said, genuinely touched. "That's very generous of you."
"Don't mention it," Jinvolo replied. "I have the Arcane Halo, which opens up a variety of advanced magical capabilities. It allows me to weave complex spells and harness arcane energies, enabling me to manipulate mystical forces and craft powerful artifacts."
"What are arcane energies and mystical forces?" I asked, curious to learn more.
Jinvolo looked at me thoughtfully before answering, "Arcane energies are the raw, untapped forces of magic that exist in the universe. They're everywhere, in every particle and wave, but only those who have reached a certain mastery can truly harness them. Think of them as the building blocks of all magical spells and enchantments. Mystical forces, on the other hand, are the refined use of these energies, shaped by will and intention. They allow a spellcaster to manipulate reality itself, bending the rules of nature to create fire from nothing or turn invisible."
I nodded, absorbing his words. This was a new perspective, something I hadn't considered before. My training had always focused on physical prowess and direct application of power, not the delicate intricacies of magic. "I see. That makes sense. I've been too focused on brute strength and overlooked the finer aspects of what my halo can do."
Jinvolo smiled, "Exactly. You have immense potential, but you need to learn to channel it in different ways. With practice, you'll be able to use your halo not just for combat but for a variety of purposes. It's about balance—knowing when to use force and when to use finesse."
I glanced back at Flora, still peacefully sleeping. "I want to learn. I want to protect the people I care about and ensure that Lohto never escapes."
Jinvolo nodded, his expression serious. "Then we'll start immediately. First, let's work on channeling your energy more efficiently. The Phoenix Halo gives you the ability to control energy flow, so we'll start by refining that. Try to feel the energy around you, in the air, in the ground beneath your feet. Draw it in slowly, focus it into a single point."
I closed my eyes, taking a deep breath as I reached out with my senses. At first, it was like trying to catch smoke with my bare hands, intangible and elusive. But as I concentrated, I began to feel it—a faint warmth in the air, a subtle vibration beneath the surface. I pulled it toward me, guiding it with my mind until I felt it coalesce into a single, steady stream.
"There you go," Jinvolo encouraged. "Now, hold that energy, feel it flow through you. Don't let it dissipate. Keep it controlled, focused."
I did as he instructed, maintaining my grip on the energy. It felt like holding a wild animal by the reins, powerful and restless, but I was determined not to let it slip away. Sweat beaded on my forehead, but I kept my focus, breathing steadily as I channeled the energy through my body.
After what felt like an eternity, Jinvolo spoke again. "Good. Now, I want you to release that energy in a controlled burst. Don't just let it go; direct it, shape it. Make it take form according to your will."
I nodded, still concentrating. I visualized the energy as a ball of light in my hands, bright and pulsing with power. Slowly, I began to mold it, compressing it tighter and tighter until it was a small, dense sphere. Then, with a sharp exhale, I thrust my hands forward, releasing the energy in a focused blast.
The air in front of me rippled and distorted, a shockwave of force radiating outward. I watched in awe as the blast shot forward, slamming into a distant rock and shattering it into pieces. My heart raced with exhilaration, a rush of adrenaline flooding my veins.
Jinvolo clapped his hands, a broad grin on his face. "Well done! That's exactly what I was talking about. You have the raw power; now you just need to refine it, channel it properly. With time, you'll be able to do even more."
I smiled, a surge of confidence welling up inside me. For the first time, I felt like I was beginning to understand the true potential of my halo. "Thank you, Jinvolo. I think I'm starting to get the hang of this."
He nodded. "You're a fast learner. We'll keep practicing, and soon enough, you'll be ready to face whatever comes our way. Together, we'll make sure Lohto never sees the light of day."
As I stood there, feeling the rush of energy coursing through my body, I heard a soft rustle behind me. I turned to see Flora stirring, her eyes fluttering open as she slowly regained consciousness. She blinked a few times, looking disoriented, before her gaze settled on me and Jinvolo.
"What's going on?" Flora asked, sitting up and rubbing her eyes. Her voice was groggy, but there was a determined spark in her eyes.
I smiled at her. "Jinvolo is teaching me how to channel my halo's energy more effectively. It's not just about strength; it's about control and precision."
Flora's eyes widened with interest. She got to her feet and stretched, then walked over to us with a curious expression. "Can I learn too? I've always relied on my own instincts and physical abilities, but if there's more I can do with my halo, I want to know."
Jinvolo nodded, looking pleased with her eagerness. "Of course, Flora. Your halo has its own unique properties that can be harnessed in many ways. Learning to use magic can only enhance your abilities and make you a more versatile fighter."
Flora grinned, excitement lighting up her face. "I'm ready. What do I need to do?"
Jinvolo gestured for her to stand beside me. "First, let's start with the basics, just like we did with Nova. Close your eyes and focus on the energy around you. Feel it in the air, on the earth, everywhere. Your halo can tap into these energies, drawing them into yourself."
Flora nodded, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. I watched as her expression shifted, her brow furrowing slightly in concentration. I could see her aura begin to glow faintly, a soft, pulsing light that surrounded her. She stood still for a moment, then her aura grew brighter, more vibrant.
"I feel it," Flora said, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's like a warm current flowing through me."
"Good," Jinvolo encouraged. "Now, just like Nova did, try to channel that energy into a single point. Focus it, control it, and shape it with your mind. Don't rush; take your time to understand how the energy moves and responds to your will."
Flora nodded again, her face calm and focused. Slowly, she raised her hands in front of her, her aura intensifying as she concentrated. I could feel the air around her begin to hum with energy, a gentle vibration that made the hairs on my arms stand up.
As Flora concentrated, a small ball of light began to form between her palms, flickering and wavering like a candle flame in the wind. She frowned slightly, her hands trembling as she struggled to maintain control.
"It's okay, Flora," I said softly. "Just take it slow. Feel the energy, don't force it."
She nodded, taking a deep breath and steadying her hands. The ball of light grew more stable, its glow becoming more consistent as she focused her mind. I could see the determination in her eyes, the resolve to master this new skill.
After a few more moments, Flora exhaled sharply and released the energy in a controlled burst, just as Jinvolo had instructed me. The ball of light shot forward, not as forcefully as mine, but still enough to make a small impact on a nearby rock, leaving a faint scorch mark.
Flora's eyes opened wide with surprise and excitement. "I did it! I actually did it!"
Jinvolo smiled, clapping his hands in approval. "Well done, Flora! That was a great start. With practice, you'll get even better at controlling and directing your energy. It's all about understanding how your halo interacts with the forces around you."
Flora turned to me, her face glowing with happiness. "This is amazing, Nova! We can both learn to use magic and get stronger together. We'll be unstoppable!"
I nodded, feeling a surge of pride for her. "Absolutely. We're in this together, Flora. The more we learn and grow, the better prepared we'll be for whatever comes next."
Jinvolo looked at us both, his expression serious but encouraging. "You two have a lot of potential, and with dedication, you can achieve great things. But remember, learning magic isn't just about power—it's about understanding and responsibility. The more you learn, the more you'll realize just how much there is to know."
Flora and I exchanged a determined glance. We knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but we were ready to face it head-on. With Jinvolo's guidance and our newfound commitment to mastering our halos, we felt more prepared than ever to take on the challenges that awaited us, including the battle to keep Lohto sealed away.