Blood Moon: The Dark Academy

Episode Five: The Old Gods

Olivia

I felt a sensation of weightlessness, as though I were an ethereal being floating through an infinite cosmos, drifting amid a tapestry of stars that twinkled like diamonds scattered across the obsidian void. Each star pulsed with its own vibrant life force, their radiant hues painting the darkness with splashes of sapphire, amethyst, and fiery crimson. I was no longer confined by a corporeal form; instead, I merged with the vast expanse of space itself, becoming one with the celestial symphony that resonated around me.

The stars, each a unique masterpiece, danced in harmonious unison, intricately woven together by the delicate threads of destiny. I gazed upon them with the awe of an artist beholding a grand creation—an exquisite cosmos crafted not by my hands but by the divine embrace of the universe. A profound pride swelled within me, igniting a sense of belonging among these celestial bodies, each one glowing with individuality and beauty, as if whispering secrets of their origins.

As I drifted further into this ethereal realm, my attention was irresistibly drawn toward a radiant beacon—a colossal red sun bathing the space around it in an iridescent glow. It shimmered with the warmth of creation, its incandescent brilliance calling my name in a sonorous whisper that resonated with the very core of my being. This was it—the architect of all that exists, the heartbeat of the universe itself.

I could feel its boundless love enveloping me, wrapping me in a cosmic embrace that transcended time and space. In that moment, I realized we were intertwined, this magnificent entity and I, united in a tapestry of love and cosmic destiny, and a deep sense of belonging coursed through my essence. This connection, an eternal bond, illuminated my spirit, igniting a flame of adoration that shimmered brightly against the backdrop of forever.

I awoke with a start, instinctively clutching my neck, shocked by the phantom pain that still coursed through my body. Was it all just a dream? I mused, replaying the events that had unfolded. The Blood Moon had risen ominously, and a shimmering portal had materialized. Through it had crawled a fearsome Hellhound, its jaws snapping as it bit me. Uncertainty gnawed at me; how much of it had actually happened?

As I lifted my head, my eyes gradually adjusted to the dimly lit room around me. A wave of recognition washed over me as I took in the room's round crimson walls, vibrant as if wrapped in fresh rose petals.

"Ah, you're awake," came a smooth voice, cutting through the haze of my thoughts. I turned to find Khxlynd'r seated across from me at the ornate tea table, a fresh cup of steaming tea placed invitingly before each of us.

"Good morning," he greeted with a warm smile, lifting his cup to his lips, savoring the steam that curled upward as he took a gentle sip, his eyes fluttering closed in contentment.

"What happened?" My voice quivered with panic, adrenaline surging through me as I scanned the room. "Where's the Hellhound?"

"Drink first," he replied in a gentle cadence, his red eyes glinting with an unspoken reassurance. "It will help you feel better."

I glanced down at my porcelain cup, the liquid swirling within it a striking blush color. Hesitantly, I lifted it to my nose and inhaled deeply; the sweet, fruity aroma enveloped me, evoking a forgotten comfort.

"Strawberries," I murmured, nostalgia flooding my senses. My mother had loved this tea, sipping it each morning, her laughter as bright as the sun.

As I took a cautious sip, the taste burst on my tongue—sweet and vibrant. A wave of relaxation cascaded over me, and I released a deep breath, allowing the lingering stress to melt away.

"Better?" Khxlynd'r inquired, arching a black eyebrow, his gaze locked onto mine with a gentle embrace.

"Yes," I managed, exhaling another shuddering breath, feeling the tension unspool from my body.