Silent Ruler [DNF]

Chapter 29: Borrowed time

Floating somewhere between life and death, that's where George currently existed. The currents had taken his body somewhere deep into the Earth's core. He'd no control as the water shipped his body to unknown locations. Something told him that he was being transferred somewhere, but he barely had energy enough to keep his eyes open, so his mind wasn't exactly functioning properly.

Stones were breaking around him and suddenly he sensed how the stream was slowing down. Eventually it stopped completely and with the last bit of energy he forced his eyes open.

He was in a cave, floating in a puddle with multiple small water streams leading to it. The bioluminescent stalagmites and stalactites indicated that it was a part of the lush cave. A bunch of roots were growing through the roof. That's when he understood where he was. He was underneath the big tree in the center of the cave.

Waterdrops were sliding of the roots creating a what almost felt like rain. Although it even more so felt like tears.

After observing the hundreds of roots, he noticed a disturbing pattern: They were all dying.

Aluminum. He cursed.

Despite his complete exhaustion he still felt frustration rising, causing a few tears to trail down his face. He hadn't been fast enough.

It's not you fault, child. The now familiar voice comforted. But the words didn't resonate with him. He felt like he could've done more, like he should've done more.

His body and mind were so drained, yet he didn't feel done. His mission couldn't be finished. People he cared deeply about would die because of his brother's wrongdoing.

Nature always finds a way to ensure balance. But it might not be achieved in the way you think– or want. The voice said gently.

"I can't let them die!" George half-yelled with a broken tone that echoed through the empty cave walls.

Death isn't the distinct end people think it is. It's merely marking the end of one chapter so that a new one can begin. Was the response he received.

But George wasn't going to accept that. Somewhere deep inside, he knew that his story wasn't meant to end just yet and not like this.

A profoundly crazy, absurd, and straight out bizarre idea shot through his head. This being that had guided him so much recently was something so beyond human. Something made from pure energy. Something that the human brain couldn't even comprehend. George just knew that it was the thing that had created the protective shield around the forest. The thing that had granted George's his abilities. So maybe, just maybe, it could grant him the energy he needed to ensure that the future for his friend would be the one they deserved.

Your end will be their beginning. The phrase ran through his mind.

"Lend me your power and I'll return to you when it's over!" George cried out in desperation.

A moment passed by without any response.

"Please." He pleaded in a broken voice.

Your heart and intentions are pure. Your destiny was never kind, but you've exceeded every expectation. I can grant your wish, but I need you to full-heartedly want it. And before you decide, you should know that you've already done more than enough, child.

It didn't take more than a second for George to decide. "Allow me to do this last thing and then I'm willing to accept whatever fate has planned for me."

A warm breeze ruffled his dirty hair before energy beyond comparison overtook his body. Every cell felt like it's been given the strength of an army. From the water he floated to his feet.