Cosmic Odyssey : Beyond The Star Lies The Unknown

Chapter 2

                     THE BEGINNING
                  

Year 10,543 A.E. (Aethorian Era)

In the grand estate of the esteemed Arcanix clan, Jasper Arcanix beamed with joy as he cradled his newborn daughter in his arms. His eyes sparkled with excitement as he gazed at her tiny face. Beside him, his wife Ophelia smiled wearily, her golden-blonde hair cascading below her collarbone, her captivating golden-hued irises—a common trait of the sterling clan—shown with love.

"What do you think we should name her?" Jasper asked, his voice filled with anticipation.

Ophelia's gaze drifted to their daughter, and a soft smile spread across her face. "Let's name her Elyria, meaning beautiful light."

Jasper's smile broadened. "Elyria Arcanix, I like it." He handed the baby to Ophelia, who gently took Elyria from him.

As Ophelia held her close, Elyria stirred, her light blue eyes with golden specks fluttering open. Confusion etched on her tiny face, she looked around, taking in her new surroundings.

'A few moments ago, I  was in the spirit hole...' Elyria thought, bewildered. 'Who cares? I am finally Outta There, anyway.'

Her eyes locked onto Jasper. 'Where am I? And who is this ridiculously handsome man staring at me like I am the stars?'

Before she could ponder further, a childish voice whispered in her mind, "You are in Aethoria."

Elyria's thoughts jolted. 'And Who are you buzzing around my ears? And how can you hear what I'm thinking? And why do you sound like a know-it-all?'

"Calm down little one.I am Kyros," the voice replied, "and I'm within you."

Elyria's mental response was laced with sarcasm. 'Oh, great. Because being possessed by a mysterious voice isn't creepy at all.'

Kyros chuckled. "Do not worry, Elyria. I am your inner guide."

Elyria's mental shout echoed. 'Inner guide? You're more like an inner stalker!'

Kyros' gentle laughter resonated within her. "I promise I'm here to help."

Elyria's gaze drifted towards the man and woman. Jasper's blood-red eyes looked at her with a gentle gaze, his chiseled face and sharp jawline a testament to his strong features. His jet-black hair was sleek and styled, framing his prominent cheekbones.

Ophelia's golden-blonde locks fell elegantly below her collarbone, subtle waves cascading down her neck. Her captivating golden-hued irises sparkled with love as she gazed at Elyria.

As Elyria struggled to grasp her surroundings and the mysterious voice within her, Kyros continued, "I will guide you through the complexities of this world, Elyria. Trust me."

Elyria's thoughts swirled. 'Complexities? You mean like why I have a voice in my head?'

Kyros sensed her confusion. "Aethoria is a realm of magic and wonder. Your family, the Arcanix clan, holds a significant place in this world. You, Elyria, are special."

Elyria's eyes narrowed. 'Special? What does that even mean?'

Ophelia's gentle voice interrupted Elyria's thoughts. "Welcome to the world, little one. We're so glad you're here."

Jasper chuckled amusedly at Elyria's changing expression, his blood-red eyes shining with doting. "You're going to change the world, Elyria."

Elyria's thoughts drifted back to Kyros. What secrets lay hidden in this realm? And what role was she destined to play? And why do I have a feeling my life is about to get really complicated?

As the night enveloped the estate, casting a soft, moonlit glow across the landscape, Elyria's journey began. With Kyros by her side, she embarked on a path of discovery, magic, and self-discovery.

But little did Elyria know, her arrival had set off a chain reaction, awakening forces both ancient and powerful.

And in the shadows, a low, whispered voice murmured, "The threads are woven, the wheels turn. The Arcanix heir's path is set... for now."

A pause, followed by a faint, mirthless chuckle. "The game begins, and the pawns are in place.The question is, will Elyria Arcanix become a player or a sacrifice?"