Tears of midnight Crystal

Chapter 13

Narrator's Pov

In the heart of the Aquamarine Clan's territory, a serene afternoon suddenly turned ominous as thick, dark clouds began to gather overhead. The once gentle breeze turned into gusts of wind, causing the trees to sway uneasily. People in the village square looked up with concern, noticing the unusual rapid movement of the clouds, swirling ominously and blocking out the sun.

Near the river that ran through the village, the water that usually flowed calmly began to surge with unexpected force. Waves crashed against the riverbanks, spraying mist into the air. Fishermen hurriedly pulled their boats ashore, sensing the growing intensity of the currents.

Within the village itself, torches and candles that adorned the pathways and homes burned with an unusually strong flame. The flickering light cast dancing shadows that seemed to whisper of impending danger. Residents gathered in small groups, exchanging worried glances and murmuring about the strange phenomenon.

At the center of the village, Elder Marin, a respected figure known for her wisdom in reading the signs of nature, emerged from her humble abode. Her face was grave as she scanned the darkened skies and observed the turbulent river. She lit incense sticks and began a solemn ritual, chanting ancient prayers to appease the elements and seek guidance from the spirits of their ancestors.

"Hindi ito matatablan ng ritual! May gustong ipahiwatig ang espirito ng elemento!" Sigaw niya.

Elder Marin approached the gathering, her expression softened but still tinged with concern. "The spirits are restless," she explained, her voice carrying the weight of her years of experience. "We must remain vigilant and united. Something stirs in the realm of the unseen, and we must heed its warning."

With dark clouds looming ominously overhead, torrential waters surging through the rivers, and the flames of torches and candles burning brighter and wilder than ever. Amidst this turmoil, Hestia, a seemingly powerless girl, had been feeling unusually weak all day.

As the evening approached, Hestia stumbled through the door of their small, cozy cottage, her face pale and her steps unsteady. Her mother, Lou, immediately rushed to her side, her eyes wide with concern.

"Hestia, anak, ano'ng nangyari?" Lou asked, her voice trembling as she helped Hestia to a chair.

"H-hindi ko alam, Ina," Hestia whispered, her voice barely audible. "I just feel so weak... like all my energy is being drained."

Lou's heart sank as she realized what was happening. Today was Hestia's sixteenth birthday, the age at which powers typically manifested in their clan. She had hoped that the signs wouldn't appear so dramatically, but it seemed fate had other plans.

Lou gently brushed a strand of hair from Hestia's forehead, trying to keep her composure. "Rest, anak. I'll get you some water," she said, though her mind was racing with the implications of Hestia's condition.

As Hestia closed her eyes, Lou hurried to the kitchen, her thoughts in turmoil. She knew she couldn't reveal the truth to Hestia or the villagers—not yet. The dark clouds, the raging waters, and the intense flames were all tied to Hestia's emerging powers. The realization that her daughter had the ability to control the elements was both thrilling and terrifying.

Outside, the storm showed no signs of abating, and villagers were growing more anxious by the minute. Some were beginning to suspect that something—or someone—was causing the unnatural weather.

Lou returned to Hestia's side, placing a damp cloth on her forehead. "Anak, just relax. Everything will be okay," she said softly, though she knew the challenges that lay ahead. She had to find a way to help Hestia control her newfound powers before they spiraled out of control.

As night fell, Lou sat by Hestia's bedside, keeping vigil. She knew that the coming days would be crucial. She would have to teach Hestia to harness her abilities in secret, away from the prying eyes of the villagers who were already on edge.

In the darkness of their cottage, as the storm continued to rage outside, Lou whispered a silent prayer. "Please, guide us through this. Give us the strength to face what's to come."

The wind howled, and the flames flickered, casting long shadows on the walls. Lou held Hestia's hand tightly, knowing that the true test of their strength and unity was only just beginning.