Prologue

It was a picturesque end of day in the village square; a day long overdue. The dozen of us wore long, flowing dresses intricately decorated with patterns and colors that would make a spring morning jealous. We moved in unison, dancing to the rhythmic beats of drums and our hearts.

It was a mesmerizing spectacle, as our dresses swirled so gracefully; our movements so energetic. We clapped, laughed, and embraced the crowd’s joy. Spectators, captivated by the spectacle, joined in clapping, cheering, or even participating in simpler dance moves. To them, it was easy to believe that there was a celebration of life or unity.

But I was the only one that this was the last performance.

As the dance progressed, the rhythm intensified, and our energy and enthusiasm reached a climax. I could feel it in the air; it was time.

It was time for a grand finale.

My heart was fluttering as I stepped forward, capturing the attention of everyone around. My confidence and grace radiated a magnetic presence that drew all eyes towards me. My long, colorful dress flows elegantly with each step, accentuating my every movement.

These were my people and this was my village; my homeland. If this were the end, let them die with a smile.

My body was alive, an instrument of expression, translating my emotions of what was coming into fluid motions. A step, spin, and leap, precise movements channeling the energy of my expectations.

When it was time to end my solo performance, I closed my eyes and opened my arms to the sky, welcoming Damnation. I’ve heard so much about you.

There I stood, amidst the fading music and exuberant crowd, a profound sense of disbelief came over me. Nothing...? The anticipation, the hope...nothing!

What the horseradish!?!

“Yeshtha!” my voice echoed off of walls of gold and glamor. Why must she be on the fourth floor? My dress was great for dancing, but not for climbing stairs.

Once I reached the balcony I fixed my gaze on another standing at the edge. “Yeshtha!” I don’t understand, Yeshtha. The alignment, the stars.....”

“There’s no way of knowing,” Yeshtha replied, her back turned to the young woman. “The stars were there, but somehow...this world continues.”

“How? How is that possible? You said Eden bore the seed of its destruction long ago!”

With her arms tucked into her robe Yeshtha stared silently into the horizon, studying the stars as they dotted the evening sky one by one.

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“The Midaharian’s almost destroyed the fabric of existence by recklessly summoning Catalyst!” I said, stomping my heel like a spoiled child. I don’t care! Shouldn’t I be spoiled? Yeshtha and the others raised me to believe a better world was going to be born from the ashes of this one; starting today! “Will we have to wait another millennium to be rid of them now?”

“Look, Chakma. Damnation’s star is still there. Do you see it?”

Chakma narrowed her eyes and focused. “Shouldn’t the vessel be nearby?”

“It’s out of view.”

“What went wrong?”

“I will consult with the heavens for that answer,” Yeshtha said.

“And I will do my own search!”

“Chakma,” Yeshtha called with her stern motherly tone. “You will speak to a Kasara before doing anything else.”

“A Kasara!?” I snapped, impatiently. “This was no time for seers. Besides, the nearest one was half a day’s ride into the next providence!”

“Then you may want to change into something more suitable for the trip.”

I knew better than to voice any type of disagreement with Yeshtha. It just was not worth it. Better go now before she picks out what I am to wear.

***

As disappointed as I felt, the lush vegetation of the Zangama Hills was a pleasant distraction. These tranquil lakes remind me of my younger days when I used to enjoy boat rides to nearby villages. I forgot how much I loved the luxurious air here.

But with Damnation proclaimed, I said goodbye to those days, Zangama Hills, and everything beyond the great oceans. Now what am I to do?

The carriage came to a gentle stop outside of the Kasara’s abode. After the six hour ride, I couldn’t wait to stretch my legs. Given that the house I stood before was home to a renowned seer, I half expected him to meet me at the front door.

“Pathrus? Are you home?” No response, and the door was wide open. May as well let myself in. Knock knock. “Pathrus?”

“Come in, child,” Pathrus said from an adjacent room. “I was expecting you.”

There he was in the middle of the floor seated comfortably with his legs twisted and palms open. I approached as quietly as possible and took a seat.

“You must know why I came.”

“Ah, because you enjoy my company,” Pathrus said. With the deadpan look on his tired face, I wasn’t sure if he was facetious or not.

“You must be as disappointed as I am. The stars are all out of order; Damnation never came. What happened?”

“No, Damnation came.”

“Horseradish!” I knew he was a blind man, but he can’t be dumb as well! “The land is unchanged! Surely you can sense that!”

Without saying a word, Pathrus raised a hand and pointed over my shoulder at a large gold trim mirror. I caught my scream and jumped to my feet. The mirror showed Pathrus’ burning body, the entire house engulfed in hungry flames.

I looked back at the seer in disbelief. Everything was normal before me, but in the mirror... It looked so real..

“I..I don’t understand...”

“Damnation came, but its vessel, young Aiden, split space, split time,” Pathrus explained. “Created another reality.”

“Pathrus..” Was he telling me..would he have me to believe that Eden’s child was able to form another reality? One with Damnation!?! “How do we fix this?! There must be a way!”

“It’s more than just that, dear child,” Yeshtha added with her unexpected arrival. How’d she get here so quickly? “Am I right, Pathrus?”

“What..?What else is there??” I said, more confused than ever.

Pathrus nodded.

I’m beginning to lose my patience. “What do you mean another Rebirth? Yeshtha..”

“Our universe was gifted with a new celestial body very recently. And judging by its brilliance, a Rebirth that rivals Damnation was brought into being.” She turned to me and added, “The Rebirth of Destiny.”

End Prologue