Chapter 954 954: The Trials of The Sacred Place
Arriving at the threshold of the sacred place, Flint encountered an archaic stone gate, weathered by time yet exuding an aura of reverence. Enigmatic symbols and intricate carvings adorned the gate, telling stories of trials and wisdom passed down through generations.
As the gate swung open, a breathtaking view unfolded—a serene clearing encircled by colossal boulders, each etched with symbols representing elements, celestial bodies, and the stages of enlightenment. The atmosphere was charged with an almost tangible potency, a palpable sensation of power and mystique.
Flint couldn't help but be amazed by this magical scenery. He thought he could only see this in a movie. But he was experiencing this magical moment on hand.
"Is this really true? Or am I dreaming?" Flint smacked his face. He groaned at the impact. Of course, he was not dreaming. He could feel every pain. When he got hurt during the fight, he even thought of dying.
But fortunately, Cassie saved his life and protected him over and over again.
"I must acquire power so that I can return to Cassie. I must protect her this time." Flint mumbled with a strong resolve.
He shifted his gaze to the center where an altar stood, a monolithic structure intricately adorned with glowing runes and inscriptions of ancient wisdom. Crystalline formations pulsed with an otherworldly light, emanating an energy that seemed to dance and weave through the air.
Flint immediately ran to the altar, positioning himself in the middle. He felt an invisible energy engulfing his whole body. He could no longer move as if he were frozen like a statue.
"Damn. What's happening to me? I can't move."
It did not take long before a flying orb showed up in front of him. The flying orb was a mixture of different colors– blue, red, green, orange, yellow, violet, white, and black. To his surprise, a voice was heard coming from the flying orb.
"Welcome, seeker, to the Sacred Place. I am the Guardian Orb, entrusted to guide those who seek the power within."
Flint gazed in astonishment, his curiosity piqued by the unexpected encounter. "The Guardian Orb... I've heard of you. What should I do to acquire the power?" he inquired, fascinated by the magical flying orb.
In response to his question, the orb hovered gracefully around him, radiating an aura of ancient wisdom.
"To acquire the power, you must pass through trials designed to test your spirit, mind, and strength. The path is bespoke to each seeker with challenges tailored to your essence. In other words, these trials are unique to each seeker, tailored to test their resolve, inner strength, and connection to the energies that envelop this mystical site." The flying orb explained to Flint.
"Those who pass the trials with courage, wisdom, and humility are imbued with the essence of the sacred place. The power is transformative which harmonizes with their spirit and augments their abilities. This power isn't wielded, but rather channeled in harmony with the universe, fostering balance, enlightenment, and an unwavering connection to the energies that permeate existence."
Flint nodded, his determination solidifying. "I'm ready. Show me the way."
The orb emitted a soft, pulsating light, forming a shimmering pathway leading deeper into the Sacred Place. At that certain moment, Flint's mobilization came back. The force that was holding him in place finally disappeared. He followed the flying orb as it led him to the path of the first trial.
"The first trial is of perception. Navigate through the illusions that veil reality. Trust your instincts, for not all that appears is as it seems." The flying orb warned Flint. For some unknown reason, the guardian orb didn't want Flint to fail. He could feel Flint's determination. His resolve was anchored to his desire to protect someone he loved.
Soon, Flint stepped onto the glowing path, his senses heightened as he traversed the mesmerizing route. Ethereal visions danced around him, challenging his perception of reality. Yet, with unwavering focus, he discerned the truth amidst the illusions, taking each step with determination.
However, when someone showed up, Flint suddenly halted on his steps. That person was none other than Ella, his first love.
"Flint…" She called him. Ella looked the same as the last time he saw her. She smiled at him faintly but there were tears in her eyes.
Back to Flint's mind, he knew that this was just an illusion. However, he couldn't stand to walk away after facing Ella in her saddest moment. He had seen her cry many times. She cried because of Liam. She was worried about Liam and she wished him to recover and wake up from his deep slumber. Flint witnessed those moments.
"Liam is gone… He is gone. I failed to save him… I don't deserve to live." Ella sobbed in front of him, blaming herself.
At that certain moment, Flint realized his inner thoughts… his dark side. Unable to stand watching her in pain, Flint prayed once that Liam could finally rest in peace. He thought if Liam would finally leave, Ella would never cry again and be put in the same situation over and over again. It was also because of jealousy. He wanted Ella to take notice of him. He felt like she was so obsessed with Liam.
With that thought in mind, Flint froze in his spot, unable to continue. He was trapped in that moment, his heart filled with guilt.
"Flint… What should I do now? I… I can't live without Liam. I love him. If I can exchange my life so that he can live, I'll do it." Ella turned in the opposite direction wherein there was a cliff. She planned on taking her life by jumping off the cliff.
"Ella, wait!" Flint called her as he extended his right hand. This time he managed to take steps, following Ella.
Ella stopped at the edge of the cliff, not looking at Flint. "I don't have reason to stay alive."
Flint's rationality was clouded by his guilt. He felt somehow responsible for Ella's pain and suffering. 'I was the one who wished Liam to die. This is my fault.'
From the distance, the door of the passage to the next trial was slowly closing. If Flint would stay longer, he wouldn't be able to proceed to the next trial. He would be trapped there and gained nothing. Ella always had a special spot in Flint's heart. He couldn't walk away from her.