ELSIE WOODWARD
As I proceeded deeper into the inner sanctum, my sight was pulled to the vast sky above. It seemed to stretch endlessly, mirroring the vastness of my aspirations and the yearning I felt to explore the world beyond. However, deep within, a nagging presence pulled at my heart—the vestiges of my past that I had tried so hard to leave behind.
The scenery changed with each step I took, revealing a world of intricate beauty. The colours swirling around me reflected a rainbow of emotions, mirroring the complexities of my own inner turmoil. This trial was more than just a test of my abilities; it was a chance to confront the shadows that had followed me for far too long.
A soothing voice resonated across the air, asking me to confront my history and accept the scars that remained. It was a hard endeavour since I had spent years burying those memories deep within me, intending to keep them concealed forever. But there was no way out in the depths of the inner sanctuary.
As I tentatively extended my hand, the ground replied by rising to meet my contact. It was a grounding sign, a reminder to face my history with courage and resilience. I allowed the memories to rise with dread, confronting the agony and heartbreak that had moulded me. It was cathartic, and it was a start towards healing.
I then focused my attention on the air, breathing in the unseen links of my past. The murmurs of forgotten hopes and dashed goals mixed with the current moment with each inhale. Exhaling, I let go of the burdens that had bound me, letting the winds of change sweep the weight of regret away.
Finally, I reached the glistening waters, which reflected both my inner wishes and the difficulties I had faced. As I buried my hand, I met the depths of my own emotions, acknowledging long-suppressed weaknesses. The seas reacted by rippling in acceptance, telling me that genuine power is found in admitting and loving one’s own flaws.
I sensed a significant metamorphosis taking place within me at that key time, surrounded by the symphony of nature’s components. The challenge had not only put my talents to the test, but it had also helped me to regain my identity, to recognise the wounds in my spirit, and to find the fortitude to continue ahead.
***
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WALLACE GARRET
"I was beginning to worry that you wouldn’t wake up," I said to Elsie as her eyes fluttered open, signalling her emergence from a deep slumber.
Kei had already awakened, and I had kept a watchful eye over each of my companions, hoping that they would successfully pass the trial. Just as concern began to creep in, Elsie finally stirred.
Extending a helping hand, I assisted her in getting up while Kei observed our interaction.
"So, all three of us have successfully completed the trial of the inner sanctum. Congratulations!" I offered my heartfelt praise to both of my fellow Venturers.
"It seems the trial was designed to grant us something, whether directly or indirectly. You both emit a different aura now, a more refined one," Kei commented, noting the changes in our energies.
Having scouted the area, I informed them that the elevator to the 10th realm was just in the next room. However, before venturing further, I suggested that we take a moment to sit down and share our experiences. Both Elsie and Kei nodded in agreement.
I proceeded to recount my own experience within the inner sanctum, describing the endless corridor, the enigmatic bridge, and the perplexing place that defied comprehension.
"So, if I understand correctly, your nexus is ‘space,’ and the reason for its connection to your memories remains locked away. The person you dream of seems to play a significant role, and your nexus is entwined with them. However, something is preventing you from uncovering further information," Kei inquired, seeking clarification.
"You summed it up quite well," I replied, acknowledging the accuracy of Kei’s understanding.
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Following that, I focused on my surroundings and attempted to tap into the first phase of sol-weaving. With the knowledge that my nexus was space, a transformation occurred. My vision split into two, revealing countless white dots on each side.
"Now…" It took some time for me to grasp the mechanics of this ability. I had been experimenting with it while both Kei and Elsie were still slumbering.
Using my willpower, I forged a connection between a dot on one side of my vision and another dot on the opposite side, creating an imaginary line in my mind.
Simultaneously, space around two specific locations began to distort, capturing the attention of Kei and Elsie. These locations corresponded to the dots I had connected when my vision was divided.
I was manifesting my "space" nexus in these areas, overlapping with the existing space and generating spatial distortions. However, maintaining these distortions required an immense amount of energy, depleting my reserves rapidly. Consequently, I could only sustain them for a few seconds.
"What an extraordinary power..." Kei remarked, astounded by the capabilities of my newfound sol-weaving ability.
After the conclusion of the show, a nagging thought resurfaced in my mind—something that I had momentarily forgotten.
"Oh, by the way, the caretaker gave me something called a ‘blessing’," I revealed, seeking clarification from my companions. "Have either of you heard about it?"
Elsie’s expression froze in a mix of surprise and curiosity upon hearing my words.
"A blessing?" she exclaimed, taking a moment to gather her thoughts before continuing.
"Blessings are mystical powers granted by the enigmatic Limbo to Venturers who have accomplished specific feats. They are incredibly rare, and only a select few Venturers possess them. You must be quite fortunate to have received one," she explained.
"I see, but I’m not sure what this blessing actually does," I responded, hoping for further insights.
"You’ll have to discover that on your own," Elsie replied, her tone tinged with a hint of jealousy.
*
After my account, Kei took his turn to describe his experience within the inner sanctum. He spoke of traversing an endless graveyard, where he confronted his own reluctance to accept his power instead of casting blame on it.
"Now that I have embraced this power, a change has occurred. The once turbulent energy within me has calmed down, flowing steadily like a serene river," Kei concluded, his voice filled with newfound confidence.
With his explanation complete, Kei closed his eyes, preparing to demonstrate his sol-weaving abilities. Previously, whenever he had employed this power, it had drained his life force and unleashed an uncontrollable surge of "death" energy into his surroundings. This inability to control his power had been a source of concern.
However, this time was different.
A gasp escaped Elsie’s lips as she beheld the true nature of Kei’s power, now under his control. From Kei’s arms, pure black mist emanated, swirling through the air like an ethereal gas. Gradually, it spread, reaching out towards us.
"Don’t worry, I have tested it," Kei reassured me, his words intended to alleviate any apprehension.
As the black mist enshrouded me, a sense of weakness permeated my entire being. Though not overpowering, the mist seemed to sap away fragments of my life force. After a few seconds, it dissipated, leaving me unharmed.
"This is the true essence of my power. I have gained control over it, ensuring it does not spiral out of control. Rather, it acts gradually on my target, weakening them without causing any adverse effects to myself," Kei explained, his tone resolute and assured.
*
The final part belonged to Elsie, and Kei and I settled down to listen to her account of her time within the inner sanctum.
"I had buried certain memories of my father’s death deep within my mind. These memories haunted me, and I struggled to confront them. However, this trial provided me with the opportunity to face them head-on. Now that I am embarking on this journey in the outside world, I can finally come to terms with those memories," Elsie explained, her voice carrying a mix of relief and resolution.
"I understand," I responded, my tone gentle and understanding. "We won’t press you to share the details if you’re not ready, but we are glad that you have found something meaningful within this realm."
Kei nodded in agreement, a supportive expression on his face. We respected Elsie’s journey of self-discovery and were content knowing that she had gained her own personal growth from the inner sanctum’s trial.
*
"With that, our briefing comes to a close," I announced as we finished our much-needed rest.
"Let’s get going!" The words spilled from my lips, brimming with excitement and determination. I yearned to face the unknown challenges that awaited us on Route 64.
"Wait…" Elsie’s voice trembled with uncertainty as she hurriedly finished packing her belongings.
Kei, on the other hand, moved at a slower pace, his silence betraying his thoughts.
This moment marked the commencement of a fresh adventure, an adventure brimming with excitement, joy, and delightful surprises. It held the promise of laughter, exhilaration, and heartwarming moments that would create lasting memories. This journey would take us on thrilling escapades, unexpected encounters, and breathtaking sights that would leave us in awe.
With each passing moment, we would relish the thrill of the unknown, cherishing the camaraderie and shared experiences that would deepen our bond. As we prepared to set foot in the next realm, we embraced the vibrant tapestry of experiences that awaited us, ready to immerse ourselves in a world of wonder and endless possibilities.