ASCENSION: BOOK 3- APOCALYPSE.

Chapter 25: The Beacon & The Flame.

For a moment I thought I was dead, lost in space and time. As the pain and burning sensation left my body and mind, a spark of light appeared, illuminating the dark void I was surrounded by. As it grew brighter and brighter, I could hear a digitised voice, distant at first, then louder as it spoke.
"Welcome Clarke Griffin of the Sky People. Choose your construct."
I looked around to find the source of the voice but couldn't pin point it's location, "How do you know who I am?"
The voice answered, "Your mind provided the information. Please, choose your construct."
"I don't understand," I called out, confused by what was happening.
"This is an introduction program to the artificial intelligence module know as The Beacon Of Light. It is the second of its kind, the first is known as The Flame Of Humanity. The Beacon requires you to choose a digital representation of an environment that you feel connected to, a place in which you will welcome those that come after you," The voice continued.
Before I knew it I had already subconsciously chosen. From out of nowhere I found myself standing in a beautiful glade in the woods. Sunlight gleamed through the trees as a warm summer breeze filled my senses with the sent of pine. I recognised it as an area of woodland near to the border of Trikru territory that I had always sought solitude in during tumultuous times. It was my place of comfort and calm and of safety. Even though this was a virtual domain, it still felt so real.
"Construct complete. Thank you." the voice spoke and then disappeared.
"It all seems confusing doesn't it, Clarke?" Another voice spoke from behind me, a female voice.
I turned to see a woman standing there. She had dark hair tied back from her face, wore simple clothing of a black shirt and pants that looked out of place in the middle of my virtual forest. Her expression was empathetic, yet there was a strangeness about her. Although she seemed human in appearance, I caught her image flickering occasionally, indicating she was not flesh and bone.
"Who are you? I cautiously asked.
"I am an avatar of Dr Becca Franco, the creator of The A.I modules known as The Flame Of Humanity and The Beacon Of Light. I am part of the introduction programs for both units." She said, informatively.
I looked at her in awe, knowing that this was the visage of the first Commander, "You're Becca Pramheda!"
Her avatar smiled, "I am merely a representation of her to help your mind with this transition. You are the first of your kind to bond with The Beacon. When you pass from this life your consciousness will remain within this unit to guide others in creating a better world for humanity," she softly spoke.
I was overwhelmed by the whole experience and still slightly disorientated as my mind continued to process its connection to The Beacon.
"Is it always so hard to keep focused, in here?" I asked as I forced myself to try and concentrate.
"It will become easier once The Beacon has completed its connection to you. Both A.I units are designed to enhance the mind of their bearer Confusion will give way to clarity," Becca's avatar reassured.
Intregued by her words I sought to find out more from my guide,
"Why were two A.I's created?" I asked.
In the space between us, the avatar activated a digital deconstructed image of both The Flame and The Beacon. It illuminated bright blue as it rotated to show me every aspect of its structure.
"Two were created so that two could guide, The Guardian of The Flame and The Light Bearer. Each will bring a balance to the other. The Flame is designed to enhance logical thought in its bearer, The Beacon enhances compassion. Together they bring a different perspective to help to benefit the human race in times of great need. Stand side by side with the one who holds The Flame, they will need you as much as you need them in troubled times," she explained.
Lexa had always been a logical and pragmatic leader, even before she bonded with The Flame, which is why it seemed so apt that she became its next bearer after Takoma. She always saw the bigger picture during tumultuous times and acted accordingly. Yet, Lexa's humanity never lost itself to ego or the cold disposition logic can sometimes bring to a persons nature. She retained her sense of self knowing that it was as equally as important as the enhancements The Flame would bring.
I wondered to myself how I would be fully affected after The Beacon had settled in my body and if I could processed all that was about to change within me? I felt a sense of panic in the realisation of how important The Beacon's connection was to The Flame and the legacy of Becca Pramheda. Such knowledge left me feeling unworthy of the significance it represented, "I'm in no position to guide or lead with the one you call, The Guardian of The Flame. I find myself here out of necessity, not because I earned the right to bear something so important."
Becca's avatar tilted her head, almost confused by my words, "The circumstance under why you are now here in this construct speak for themselves. Your memories show a selfless warrior, who concerns herself with the betterment of others. Clarke of The Sky People, is indeed worthy to bear The Beacon Of Light."
I suddenly felt a huge sense of peace course through my body. Maybe it was my mind finally becoming one with The Beacon or maybe, in that moment, I finally accepted my own sense of self worth. Either way I felt humbled by those words.
"Then I only hope whatever time I have left can be used wisely."
Becca's avatar held out her arm for me to grasp, symbolising the bond I now shared with The Beacon. I reciprocated the gesture as she spoke her final words to me, "What you do in this life, however long or short the duration, will echo in here as long as The Beacon survives. Stay true to your heart, Clarke Kom Skaikru and remember death is not the end."
In an instant Becca's avatar disappeared as the A.I completed its upload to my mind. A feeling of peace washed over my consciousness. There was no more confusion, only the clarity that was promised. It was only when I heard the echo of screams and of war consuming my people, did the calm of this digital space shatter.