(ISADORA'S POV)We followed the elder through the winding paths of the village, surrounded by towering trees that whispered secrets of ages past. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting a golden glow on the vibrant flora that thrived in this magical realm. Each step brought them deeper into the heart of the Kingdom of Light, where the remnants of its former glory were etched into every stone and flower.
"Welcome to what remains of our home," the elder spoke, his voice a low rumble that resonated with the weight of history. "This was once a thriving kingdom, the Akan, the heart of the universe. We were the center of all creation, the keepers of light and magic."
I exchanged glances with Julian and Gabriel, captivated by the elder's words. "What happened?" I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.
"A dark sorcerer," the elder said, a shadow passing over his features. "His cruelty shattered our unity, scattering the royal family and plunging us into chaos. We became mere whispers of what we once were. The sword you seek, the First Sword, it is more than a weapon; it is a key to our past and our salvation."
The group continued walking, and the elder gestured to the lush landscape around them. "Even in ruins, our kingdom is blessed with beauty. These lands are filled with magical creatures, rare plants that you won't find elsewhere. They are the remnants of our history, a reminder of the light that once illuminated this place."
After a while, they reached a clearing dominated by a majestic waterfall, its waters shimmering like liquid crystal. At the base, atop a rocky pedestal, rested the First Sword. It gleamed ominously, drawing everyone's attention.
"There it is," the elder declared, his voice laced with reverence. "But be warned, it cannot be wielded by just anyone. Only the heir, deemed worthy, can claim it."
Julian, unable to resist the allure of the sword, stepped forward. "What makes someone worthy?" he asked.
The elder's gaze darkened. "Only those who bear loyalty and bravery in their hearts can hope to wield its power. Or so we thought.Many have tried, but none have succeeded. We theoretically believe it is only for the heir of The Kingdom of Light,to grasp"
Julian felt a chill run down his spine. Something about the sword called to him. "What if I try?" he asked, half-joking.
"Don't," Gabriel said, shaking his head. "It's probably best to leave it alone."
I, sensing his unease, nudged him gently. "Come on, just for fun. What do you have to lose?"
As we stepped closer to the sword, the elder warned, "You are not ready for what it entails. The sword only reveals its true power to those who are destined."
Ignoring the elder's warning, Julian made his way to the pedestal.
Of course nothing happened. "Thank you for telling us your stories. I'll be sure to pass them along." I say
"No. Make a vow to secrecy of never speaking of this place. Ever. That all I want. This place has thrived without the knowledge of outsiders knowing of it. We live in peace." The elder exclaims.
"Most definitely," I bow,followed by Julian,Gabriel and the others on this mission with us.
As we turned to leave, Gabriel found himself drawn to the sword. Despite the elder's insistence to step away, he felt an inexplicable connection to it. He stepped forward, entranced, and the elder's voice broke through his reverie.
"No, do not—"
But it was too late. Gabriel's hand brushed the hilt, and in that instant, the world around him exploded in light. The sword seemed to grip onto his hand, binding him to its magic.
"Whoa! What's happening?" Gabriel exclaimed as the air around them crackled with energy.
The waterfall roared louder, cascading into the pool below, and the vibrant colors of the village began to swirl around them. The very fabric of their reality seemed to shimmer, and the memories of the tribes people began to resurface.
"What's going on?" Julian shouted, his eyes wide with disbelief.
"I don't know!" Gabriel replied, stunned by the power coursing through him.
As the light intensified, the buildings of the village began to reassemble, memories flooding back into the minds of the villagers. The elder watched in awe, realizing that the heir had awakened something long dormant.
"By the gods..." the elder breathed, taking a step back. "It's you!"
Gabriel looked at his friends, confusion written on his face. "What do you mean?"
Suddenly, the villagers began to bow, their faces filled with reverence. "The heir has returned!" one cried out, their voices echoing through the clearing.
Julian and I exchanged glances, our mouths agape. "Gabriel... you're the heir?" Julian stammered, incredulity etched in his features.
As the realization washed over all of us, Gabriel was in denial of the truth he has stumbled upon.
"I... I remember,"he whispered, the weight of his newfound identity settling heavily upon him.
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'A Princess and a Commoner: Star Crossed Lovers'
FantasyIn the kingdom of Clovendale, Princess Isadora is suffocated by the weight of royal expectations and a future sealed by an arranged marriage. Desperate for freedom, she regularly escapes to a nearby village, this is where she meets Gabriel-a commone...