“Ugh, get that Ezza to come and clean this mess! Or she’ll be the next one to suffer my wrath!” Azul ordered a standing guard. He looked at the youth sorrowfully, “Sorry my dears for witnessing my atrocious behavior. It has been a rather stressful day, hasn’t it?”

  They gnced away, “Yes Father…” Ezekiel nodded.

  “Hopefully when you come with me to this next chamber, it will brighten your spirits!”

  Guided by Grand Elder Azul, they were directed to another room where a map of the Alphin world awaited them. Pointing to various locations on the map, Azul addressed Ozma and Ezekiel with a grand tone, "It is time for you to embrace your royal lineage and become true Elementals. The sacrifices of Grec and Fetzia shall not be in vain. You’ve been trained and taught everything you need to know to endure the trials. Be mindful that you’re doing a great service for all of Alpha. Death is a possibility nonetheless, and you shall accept it with honor if it presents itself! Will you accept this challenge?"

  The young Alphins nodded reluctantly, their eyes unsure of how much of the brutal ritual they truly wished to follow. They were still reeling from Azul’s expnation of Alpha’s dark history with the very Essences that granted them life on top of witnessing the brutal beheading of Phobos.

  Azul continued, "This map marks the locations of the eight Essences. I have already mapped out your destinations. First, you will venture to the Volcanic Castle to obtain Novarro’s blessing. Then, at the Castle of Ice, you'll find the Forstus and Gurong Essences. The Ergus Tree will introduce you to Norgan. Next, you'll return here to meet Xios and Phoenix. Finally, you'll journey to Memorandia to encounter The Eye."

  Ezekiel grinned mischievously at Ozma, a spark of friendly competition ignited between them. "A race, then?" he suggested pyfully. Ozma ughed and nodded, accepting the challenge. Sophitia joined in their excitement with a cheer.

  Azul chimed in, “Sophitia, it would be best that you remain here… this would all be in vain if you were to be captured or, worse, killed. Besides, these Alphins can fly to just about every location. It should be quick, despite the grueling nature of the blessings. And you can also keep Ezza company, once she is finished cleaning up. Another option is to visit our vast library. Of course, you will be escorted by my elite guards at all times. You shall join them when they meet the Eye, you may find that she can help you recall your memories. I would say see her first but the Essences demand a certain order...”

  She nodded reluctantly. But Ezekiel wasn’t confident in their ability to keep her safe. Since Phobos could get in without much problem, he couldn’t leave her side knowing the Demontians were presently roaming free. Waiting to jump in the opportunity to nab her at any moment.

  “How did Phobos get in, anyway? There are so many guards out there and soldiers!” Ezekiel questioned.

  “Funny you should ask that. It seems that they are very sneaky and can move within the ground simir to a worm. Wherever they’re coming from, allows them to sneak into this castle. I’ve already informed my guards to be on the extra lookout for instances of fiendish behavior. I assure you. She is safe.”

  “But what if they—” Ezekiel was about to protest.

  “Yes, yes, do not worry my son!” Azul dismissed, “Now go my whelps! I am proud of you both! May the grace of the Essences be with you!”

  Sophitia looked back sadly at her friends though she understood Azul’s words. With a big hug, Ezekiel felt refreshed by her. And then took off with Ozma out of the chamber. He gnced multiple times at her smiling yet sad eyes.

  And so, the young Alphins set off on their journey, fueled by a sense of purpose and the anticipation of what awaited them. True to Azul's words, their first destination was the Fire Cave, nestled within a dormant volcano.

  As they descended toward the forge, the air grew thick with heat, waves of shimmering energy rising from the volcanic rock. Below, fire-affinity Alphins moved with practiced precision, powerful figures hauling bright red minerals from the tunnels, their scales glowing in the flickering light. Massive carriers were loaded with freshly unearthed materials, the rhythmic cng of metalwork echoing through the cavern. Some workers paused to gnce up, acknowledging Ezekiel and Ozma with nods of respect.

  Ozma stood at the overlook, eyes tracing the forge’s familiar structure, but something gnawed at him. The stories, the history, all the things he had known—they suddenly felt distant, as though he was looking at a ghost of something long gone.

  His usual confident tone cracked. “I can’t believe this…” He clenched his fist. “All our lives, we were told this pce was one of the greatest forges in history. A pce where Xero was melted down, and refined into epic jewelry for Elementals. The Fire Tribe fought an entire war over this pce.” His breath came sharp, frustration curling his words. “And now? Now it’s just a glorified workshop for overpriced souvenirs.”

  Ezekiel’s wings twitched, his mind racing. His whole life, he had believed in the legend of this pce—trusted in it. “Xero’s gone,” he muttered, the words tasting foreign on his tongue. “Extinct.” He turned to his brother, half-expecting correction, but Ozma stood there silently. “And we just found out the truth.” he said, shaking his head.

  Ozma’s jaw tightened. “Looks like they wanted to keep the illusion alive.” He let out a bitter ugh. “Keep the forges burning, keep the jewel-crafters working, make sure no one asks questions.”

  Ezekiel dragged a hand down his face. “And we just believed it. Like idiots.” He shook his head, frustration bubbling up. “How many lectures did you give me about the ‘great legacy’ of this pce?”

  Ozma shot him a gre. “Hey, I was lied to too!”

  “Yeah, yeah,” Ezekiel muttered, turning his gaze back down. His eyes locked onto the test shipment being prepared, bright minerals loaded with careful precision.

  “Look at their test haul…” he said, his voice quieter now.

  Ozma exhaled, watching as yet another carrier was rolled out. “Overpriced trinkets. That’s what.”

  The forge below still functioned—but it was a hollow thing now. A relic built on a lie

  “Well, let’s just get this over with. At least the essences aren’t a lie. Right?” Ezekiel asked loosely.

  “Huff. Here’s to hoping. C’mon. First one there wins all of Jakka’s hidden candy!” Ozma called out as he darted down the overlook.

  “Hey!” He darted after him. They ughed while they chased. As fast as their wings could take them, they eventually found their way to the path that led to the mouth of the volcanic cavity. The temperature was unbearably hot, yet the atmosphere was unusually serene and inviting. Perfect pce for a dragon to spend their days.

  They trekked up the rocky path, feeling the heat intensify as they neared the summit of the ancient volcano. When they reached the entrance, they were halted by a towering Alphin elder, Rave, his hair a brilliant mane of fmes. He ughed, a sound like crackling embers echoing through the volcanic cavern. “What’s this?” Rave boomed, his voice filled with amusement. “Two young whelps, barely old enough to understand fire, think they’re ready to challenge the Fire Essence? I’ve seen embers with more spark than you.” He smacked his armlet which caused the ruby inside to sparkle brilliantly.

  Ozma squared his shoulders defiantly. “We’re here to earn the blessing of Novarro. We’re not scared!”

  Rave’s ughter grew louder, as he stepped aside, gesturing toward the smoldering path ahead. “Very well. If you think you’re ready, then prove it. I’m sure I don’t need to expin it more to the royal brats. Harrrrr!” He then walked away, still ughing to himself.

  “Bet he’s in on the whole lie…” Ozma sneered.

  “Yeah, obviously. C’mon!” Ezekiel puffed.

  The brothers stepped towards the ir of the Essence, Ozma leaned over, “By the way, I won!”

  Ezekiel scoffs, “As if. I was clearly ahead of you!”

  “No! I was ahead of you!” They argued up until they reached the ir. A fring presence silenced them.

  They stepped into the ir, where scorching winds rolled over them, and molten rivers cast an eerie orange glow on the jagged rocks. At the heart of the cavern, on top of a fiery throne, lounged a majestic creature, a massive feline-like creature wreathed in fmes. Its fur shined like embers, and its eyes glowed with an intensity that made the brother’s knees feel weak. This was Novarro, the Fire Essence.

  “Well… it’s real, at least,” Ezekiel said, though his confidence wavered. The sheer presence of Novarro, a beast wreathed in undying fmes, made the air thick with heat. The cavern walls shimmered with his radiance.

  Ozma straightened, nudging his brother. “Stand tall, brother. We can’t show it fear.”

  “Right. Okay.” Ezekiel swallowed hard and stepped forward. “Novarro, Essence of Eternal Fmes! We’ve come to acquire your blessing, for an upcoming war is upon us!”

  Novarro’s burning eyes narrowed, the intensity behind them unreadable. He studied the Alphins for a long, dragging moment before—thump—he flopped onto his side, a heavy exhale escaping like a gust of fire.

  “You?” His voice rumbled with a mixture of disbelief and boredom. “You’re the fabled heroes I was told would arrive on this ‘fateful day’?” A pause. Then, with a slow, exaggerated blink, he scoffed, “How… utterly pathetic.”

  Ezekiel and Ozma exchanged a momentary gnce, their pride taking a hit. They turned back to the massive, fming cat.

  “Uh… merciful beast of fire,” Ozma began cautiously, “we don’t understand.”

  “Of course you don’t. You’re mere whelps.” Novarro’s tail wriggled sending a trail of embers into the air. “Go home, ds. Come again some other time, when you’ve grown up. I will not be held responsible for turning children into ash piles! Now, begone!”

  Ezekiel bristled. “Hey! We’re not whelps! We are of age! We’ve come to take the trial!”

  Novarro chuckled, a low, smoldering sound that made the walls tremble. “Of age?” His amusement was thick with condescension. “Hah! Silly whelps. What lies have you been fed?”

  Ozma stiffened. “Lies?”

  The great beast yawned, resting his head on a smoldering paw. “Ah, but what does it matter?” His voice was softer now, almost dismissive. “An order is an order…”

  Ezekiel stepped forward, frustration boiling over. “Wait. What do you mean by lies!?”

  “Surely you know that only chosen Alphins may attempt to take the trial… for no reason other than sacrificial obedience…”

  “We know about that. But we have these jewels. To grant us ascension!”

  The big cat sniffed at the jewels, “Oh… well then. That changes things. Alright then. Let’s see how well you hold up. Haha!” The essence tilted its head, almost amused, and a flicker of something dark passed through its eyes. Without warning, the cavern grew darker, as Novarro unleashed a torrent of fmes that split into two streams, one aimed at each of them. The fire burned through their bodies. Stifling and intense. They screamed out in agony. But Novarro only intensified.

  Ezekiel braced himself, feeling the intense heat scorch his scales. “Is this… all you’ve got?” he forced out, though the fmes were nearly unbearable.

  Novarro watched him struggle, his fiery gaze unwavering. “Fire is more than destruction, young one. It is creation, endurance, and transformation. Can you withstand it, or will you burn away like the rest?”

  Ozma gritted his teeth, pushing forward through the fmes, feeling the searing pain but refusing to give in. “We’re stronger than you think!” he shouted, straining with each step.

  The feline of fmes let out a rumbling growl, a sound of satisfaction. “Strength alone is not enough. Show me that you are worthy to not only breathe the fire but to command it!”

  Ezekiel clenched his fists, focusing beyond the pain, beyond the fear. He thought of everything he wanted to protect—Sophitia, his brother, his home. “We’re here because we have to be,” he decred, his voice steady. “If we don’t face this fire, then we can’t fulfill our duty.”

  Novarro’s eyes abze, “and that duty is?”

  Ozma and Ezekiel fred together in determination. “To become protectors of the material realm!”

  A hint of respect glinted in Novarro’s fiery eyes. The surrounding fmes subsided, and they could see the ir again. Novarro’s expression grew thoughtful, and his nose twitched, catching a scent in the air. Their jewelry glowed red-hot but did not burn.

  “Hmm. Guess she was right. I needed to see it for myself.” he said, his voice lowering to a murmur. “There is something else here, an otherworldly scent… dark, filled with hatred… something destructive and close.” He narrowed his eyes and sniffed the air again, his expression unreadable. ”I am uncertain of its nature, however, it is prudent to exercise caution. It threatens to consume everything in its path.”

  Ezekiel and Ozma exchanged uneasy gnces. They assumed Novarro was talking about the Demontians.

  “You have my blessing. Now. Go. Prove yourself to the others. And make haste. The blessing needs the great cooling, fabled ones!” The big cat then disappeared into the fmes. No longer avaible for any more of the Alphins’ questions.

  The brothers nodded, feeling the weight of the Essence’s words. They left the ir, feeling stronger, yet unsettled by the warning lingering in their minds.

  With the fire trial complete, they emerged from the volcanic ir, feeling the lingering heat in their scales and the fire essence pulsing in their jewelry. The surroundings glowed with residual warmth, and Rave, the Fire Elder, was waiting, hovering above the va flows with his powerful wings. His fiery mane crackled as he watched them approach, an approving gleam in his eyes.

  “Well, well!” he boomed, his voice echoing off the molten walls. “Didn’t think you whelps would survive Novarro’s test. Guess you’re tougher than you look.”

  Ozma hovered to meet him, matching Rave’s fierce gaze. “We’re tougher than you know.”

  Rave’s eyes sparkled, and he inclined his head. “You did well. Now go! The Castle of Ice awaits.” He gestured toward the snowy peaks in the south, his wings stirring the air in powerful strokes. “You’ve earned the right to the next trial… let’s see if you can handle it.”

  The brothers shared a determined look before unching into the sky, wings fpping as they rose above the volcanic ndscape. Feeling overheated, They decided to rest a bit before making their next attempt and nded on the bottom of the volcano. There was a slight coolness to the ground.

  Ezekiel colpsed onto the cool stone floor, still feeling phantom fmes touching his scales. "Well, that was fun. Nothing like being set on fire to wake you up in the morning."

  Ozma groaned, rolling onto his back. "Morning? I don't even know what time it is anymore. My internal clock is screaming at me, and all it's saying is ‘You’re an idiot.’”

  Ezekiel smirked. "Well, your internal clock is correct. We are idiots."

  Ozma huffed. "Speak for yourself. I was graceful in there. You, on the other hand, filed like a burning whelp."

  Ezekiel propped himself up on one elbow. "I was dancing. There's a difference."

  "Oh, is that what that was? Because it looked a lot like—" Ozma mimed wild, uncoordinated filing, complete with exaggerated squawking.

  Ezekiel shoved him. "You're just mad I made it out first."

  Ozma snorted. "Please. We both know I held back so you wouldn't cry about losing."

  "Oh, right. That must be it." Ezekiel rolled his eyes before flopping onto his back again. "Next time, I'm letting you go first."

  "Next time, I'm making you carry me," Ozma shot back, exhaling heavily. "Wake me up if we spontaneously combust again."

  Ezekiel’s thoughts drifted to Sophitia. I wonder how she’s holding up… Probably bored out of her mind. His wings twitched with unease. I just hope she’s safe. Those vile Demontians… They’re pnning something. But what? His jaw tightened. Whatever it is, it can't be good…

  Ezekiel nudged Ozma, “We better head out.”

  “Hmmph, who made you the leader?” Ozma stuck out his fork tongue.

  “I did. I’m the oldest.”

  “By mere minutes!” Ozma argued.

  “Typical brothers, don’t you have better things to do!?” Rave nded in front of them. “The more you squawk, the more time it takes to get things done, and the fire blessing doesn’t st forever? Do you really want to upset the fire essence by needing another blessing?”

  Instead of being scolded by the Fire Elder, the brothers took off and flew south, crossing mountains and frozen pins until the icy spires of the Castle of Ice rose before them. Snowfkes danced on the winds, and the castle loomed like a massive crystal formation against the stormy sky.

  After a swift flight over the frost-bitten expanse, the brothers reached the remote outpost of the Ice Castle. Perched high among crystalline spires and glistening gciers, the castle was a vital hub for the Alphins. Specialized crews here harvested pure, ice and channeled crystal-clear water through engineered gcial conduits—supplies swiftly loaded onto nimble air carriers bound for the volcanic forge. According to the lie, the forge that once melted Xero into epic jewelry used these water supplies to temper the red-hot metals. Now they just temper trinkets.

  Ezekiel circled above, his eyes narrowing as he took in the frenetic activity below. “I can’t believe they fly all this way just to cool those… trinkets,” he grumbled.

  Ozma’s wings beat steadily as he replied with a wry smile, “Without this ice, our ‘epic jewelry’ would be nothing but overcooked scrap. At least the lie keeps our people dreaming.”

  Ezekiel snorted, dipping low to skim the shimmering waterways below. “Dreaming? More like deluded. But until the truth comes out, we’ve gotta keep going.”

  With a shared gnce that mixed exasperation and resolve, the brothers soared onward,nding just before the castle gates. Alda, the Ice Queen, stood waiting for them in her regalia, adorned with silver earrings with sapphire jewels, her scales illuminated with a cold brilliance. She nodded solemnly to the brothers, her frosty gaze fixed on their approach. “Alphins of the Grand Elder, welcome. Follow me—the Water and Ice Essences will receive you in their domain.”

  Inside, the grand halls were carved, and the frigid air hummed with power. They walked through the echoing chambers until they reached a vast room, veiled in mist and crystalline light. Queen Alda gestured to a dark archway, and as the brothers approached, the air grew colder. Alda stepped back, her parting words echoing softly, “The Essences see who they seek. Do not disappoint.”

  Ozma and Ezekiel entered the room, and silence enveloped them. For a moment, it seemed empty. Then, from the far end, two luminous figures appeared, out of thin air. One was covered in thick white fur, like a snowstorm giving it shape, and the other was a flowing, translucent form, watery yet defined, mirroring the shape of its companion. They were not just standing idly—they were wrestling, their movements slow and deliberate, cws sheathed, bodies rolling over each other as they engaged in a game both pyful and intense. Their emerald eyes shone with keen intelligence as they tumbled across the icy floor.

  Noticing the Alphins’ presence, the two Essences paused, gncing at the brothers with sharp, unblinking eyes, like hunters noticing movement in a quiet area. They broke apart, each Essence adopting a regal, poised stance, tails flicking as they scrutinized the newcomers. It was as though the brothers had walked into the presence of two guardians who had decided, for now, to tolerate their intrusion.

  The watery one, Forstus, regarded them with a cool, flowing voice, like a river winding through a gcier. “Look, brother. Guests.”

  The Alphins bowed respectfully. “We seek your blessing to mend our jewels, so that we may gain our Elemental powers,” Ezekiel said.

  The Ice Essence, Gurong, moved forward, eyes narrowing. “Oh. Is that so? Do you hear that brother? They want our blessing.” A faint vibration echoed in the chamber, and the brothers felt a deep chill. The water Essence joined the ice Essence’s side, amusement in its gaze fading to a quiet, scrutinizing calm.

  “You do know the truth. Right? That you more than likely will, and your bodies will be added to the grand sacrifice that we procimed?” Added Forstus

  The brothers nodded and showed the Essences their glowing jewelry.

  Gurong eyed the jewelry suspiciously, “Indeed brother, look. They wish to repair their jewelry to take the pce of the others!”

  “Hmm, yes, but will they survive?”

  “I suppose we shall see…” the great white cat mused as the Essences began to levitate. The chamber shifted—temperature plummeting past natural occurrence; an absolute zero that defied all logic.

  Without another word, the Water Essence raised a cw, and an immense torrent surged forth, filling the chamber. It wrapped around the Alphin brothers and pressed against their scales, dense and heavy, as if the pressure of the ocean compressed them.

  Ozma fred his wings, fighting the pressure, but even his strength meant nothing against the waters. It dragged them deeper, pulling them toward the heart of the test. Ezekiel tried to stabilize himself, but the water moved with them and resisted their strength with a suffocating pressure.

  Ezekiel strained against the unrelenting force, his gaze locking with Ozma’s. At that moment no words were needed—they understood each other completely. Desperation drove them to grasp their jewels, willing them to counteract the unnatural cold.

  But before they could react, ice engulfed them, sealing them in a crystalline prison. Their movements halted instantly, their limbs encased in frost so thick it felt more like stone. Any longer and even their Alphin resilience might have failed them.

  Yet, even as the ice tightened its grip, they refused to surrender. They focused, pushing past the biting stillness, reminding themselves why they were here. Too much was at stake. Giving up was not an option.

  As they continued to focus on their mission. The glowing jewelry began to take the frost and caused the glowing metal to temper. The ice soon melted away, allowing them to move once again. And it flowed into their jewelry.

  The two Essences circled them, feline forms moving with a deliberate, graceful intensity. Their eyes gleamed with watchful wariness.

  “You have endured,” the ice Essence spoke, voice colder than before. “Be warned… Darkness is stirring as we speak. It is coming. Looming over the horizon.” Gurong looked directly at Ozma, “On the inside, especially.”

  Forstus’s tone was solemn, the words carrying omens. “It is no idle warning. The one among you… the destroyer of worlds. It walks among you. Now go to the Essence of Nature, as the waters sustain.”

  In silence, the brothers bowed, silent gratitude reflected in their eyes as they backed out of the chamber, feeling the lingering chill as they returned to the grand halls of the castle. Alda bowed as they passed by her. When they stepped back into the cold air, Ozma came to a sudden halt, staring out at the distant horizon. His gaze was distant and thoughtful.

  “Zekey,” he murmured, breaking the silence, “the Essences’ warning… there’s something about it that I need to understand. It feels like a puzzle that’s just out of reach.”

  Ezekiel stopped beside him, his brows furrowing in concern. “What do you mean?”

  “I don’t know yet.” Ozma sighed, wings drooping slightly. “I can’t shake this feeling. I need to find out what they meant—what this darkness is that they’re sensing.”

  Ezekiel’s eyes softened, though worry lingered in his expression. “If you think it’s important, then do what you need to do. I’ll keep moving forward, and we’ll meet at the final trial?”

  Ozma nodded, gratitude shining through his troubled gaze. “Thank you, Zekey. It won’t be long.” He paused, giving his brother a st, lingering look, before spreading his wings and taking flight, disappearing into the distant peaks.

  Ezekiel watched until Ozma was a mere speck against the snowy backdrop, then turned, refocusing on the journey ahead, the Essence’s warning echoing in his mind. His journey led him far east, to the sprawling boughs of the legendary Ergus Tree, towering over the ndscape like a guardian of the forest. The tree’s branches reached high into the sky, dense and interwoven, forming a canopy that bathed the forest floor in dappled green light. Around its base, a bustling community of Alphins lived and worked, each dedicated to the vibrant life of the forest.

  As Ezekiel descended into the lush undergrowth, he saw forestry Alphins pruning the smaller trees and vines, gathering herbs and berries, and carefully cultivating new seedlings. Others were perched high above, tending to the giant branches of the Ergus Tree itself, mending bark with thick, herbal pastes, and trimming the foliage with sharpened tools crafted from hardened wood and stone. The air was filled with the earthy scent of soil and the fresh aroma of crushed leaves, punctuated by the occasional melody of strange forest birds and insects.

  A tall, sage-like Alphin named Lord Alvos awaited, dressed in robes that looked like they’d been woven from vines and leaves and wearing a belt with a sparkling peridot in the buckle. With a welcoming nod, Alvos extended a cwed hand, offering him an assortment of candies wrapped in thin leaves.

  “Try these,” he said, his voice warm. Ezekiel took one of the candies, its taste rich and fruity, with a sweet tartness that seemed to sparkle on his tongue.

  “They’re infused with the essence of the tree,” Alvos expined. “A taste of the Ergus Tree’s heart, a gift before your trial.”

  After the brief welcome, Alvos led Ezekiel deeper into the heart of the massive tree. They climbed winding staircases formed by spiraling roots and passed through hollowed branches that felt like tunnels. The air grew cooler and more damp as they climbed, and Ezekiel could hear the faint rustling of leaves above, like whispers carried by the wind.

  At st, they entered a secluded chamber within the Ergus Tree, where the light barely penetrated, giving the space an ethereal, shadowy glow. From the shadows, a figure emerged, long and lithe, with gleaming eyes and a sinuous body. Norgan, the Essence of Nature, uncoiled from the darkness, his serpentine body covered in scales that radiated with a mix of green and amber, and a tail that stretched out endlessly behind him. Yet his feline features were sharp, and his gaze was piercing.

  Ezekiel felt uncomfortable as those yellow eyes focused on him, and Norgan’s voice slithered through the chamber, a low, foreboding hiss. “Another Alphin, seeking strength, seeking purpose. Do you truly understand what it is you seek, young one?”

  “Another? Must’ve been Ozma… but how did he beat me here so quickly?” Ezekiel said to himself as he approached Norgan. He met the creature's intense stare. “I seek the power to protect the material realm. To restore what was lost and prevent the darkness from taking hold.”

  Norgan let out a hissing ugh, curling his tail around Ezekiel with an unsettling grace. “Darkness…” he murmured, his voice dropping to a whisper. “You know so little of the shadow that threatens to consume. My world was lost to it, yet, your world exists because of our… demise.” His tail slithered closer, brushing against Ezekiel’s scales as if testing his resolve. “Now that same shadow looms over this world.”

  Ezekiel’s scales prickled with unease. “Then tell me, Norgan—how do I stop it?”

  Norgan’s eyes narrowed a hint of amusement in their depths. “You are already in its web, Ezekiel. You, at the center of it all, drawn like a moth to fme. Heed this…” He leaned closer, his breath cold against Ezekiel’s face. “Be wary of those you call friends. Not all who walk beside you do so with your best interests.”

  Ezekiel tried to hide the fear that was building within him. “Who should I be wary of?”

  Norgan’s gaze became distant, as though looking far beyond Ezekiel. “That… is for you to discover.” Without warning, Norgan’s tail shed out, a quick strike that pricked Ezekiel’s chest. A sharp sting shot through him, and he felt a strange poison spreading through his body, burning but not painful, like an energy infused with raw, untamed nature.

  The world blurred, the walls of the chamber spinning as he felt his mind slipping away, his vision fading to bck. Norgan’s voice echoed in his mind, deep and resonant. “Nature not only harnesses life. But destruction too. As I have warned, those that wield destruction will yield. Be careful dear Alphin. Dangerous things are coming…”

  The warmth of the poison spread to his neckce, where the energy was absorbed into the jewel. A faint, greenish glow pulsed from it as the poison became a part of him, the essence of nature now binding itself to his spirit.

  As Ezekiel recovered, he felt a new energy within him, a grounding force that strengthened his resolve. Norgan’s words didn’t make much sense. All the essences have been rather cryptic at this point. The bustling life outside felt fragile as if it could vanish in an instant. And somewhere out there y the darkness Norgan had spoken of. With the foreboding words of Norgan still echoing in his mind, Ezekiel unfurled his wings and leaped from the canopy of the Ergus tree, soaring into the sky. The rush of wind against his face and the open expanse below helped clear his thoughts. He was hoping that Sophitia was still okay. It felt like time was moving faster than he wanted. Then he became excited because the next location was the Castle of Sky where Sophitia had been waiting.

  Ezekiel flew faster through shifting clouds and golden sunbeams, crossing vast forests, kes, and mountain ranges that dotted the ndscape below. As he gained distance, Ezekiel could see the towering Castle of the Sky in the distance. The storm below spun chaotically yet drew ever-sting peace and relief.

  Ezekiel spiraled downward to nd softly on the broad balcony of the castle, his wings folding neatly behind him. He made his way through the high-vaulted crystal corridors, and as he turned a corner, he glimpsed a familiar figure gazing out over a balcony, the wind tugging at her obsidian hair.

  “Sophie,” he called out. She turned, her face lighting up with relief and joy as she ran to him. They embraced, the memory of the conversations at the st few trials melting away in each other's presence.

  “Are you alright? You didn’t get too bored did you?" Ezekiel asked, his voice soft with concern.

  Sophitia nodded, her expression was hopeful. "I am, now that you're here." She looked on, “I… I was able to find more memories while you were gone.”

  “Of what?” he held her arms.

  “Who I am…” her crystal eyes locked into his.

  “Who are you besides my best friend, Sophie?” He said with a toothy smile hoping this would cheer her spirits.

  “I know I am not a Demontian. Though I look like one… you know, because of the horns…”

  “I think they’re beautiful.” He said as he touched one of them. “Besides, we both have horns so that’s something we have in common!”

  She smiled deeply, “There is more to me though. I have power… like it is returning to me…” Something lurked behind her eyes, “…like a destructive force.”

  “I’m sure everything will be fine,” Ezekiel said while trying to stuff the words of the Essences out of his mind. “Come, there are only a few Essences left, and I don’t want to lose against Ozzie!”

  Hand in hand, they made their way to the central chamber. Ezekiel stopped just before the doorway, thoughts of the previous conversations flooding his mind, “Sophie… whatever happens, I want you to know that I stand by you. You make me feel so alive and filled with wonder. I couldn’t imagine my life without you. I hope you know this.”

  Sophitia smiled, “Me too, Zeke, me too.”

  “Stay right here. I’ll be right back. The Essence chambers can be quite votile. I almost died in the st few.”

  “Oh? What is it like?”

  “Well, the fire essence could basically burn anything to ash. Ice and water, I was frozen into a block of ice. And then Norgan bit me!”

  “He bit you?”

  “Yes. They are like beasts of another world. Magical. Lethal. Enigmatic.”

  “Oh dear… Hopefully, this will go smoothly.” She smiles happily.

  “So far it has… like it was all meant to be… there’s some secret going on, Sophie. When we meet the final essence, we’ll know everything. Anyway, I’ll be back!”

  “I promise. Nothing bad will happen.” Sophitia responded with confidence.

  He entered the presence of the wind and energy Essences. The air grew still, and two figures emerged from the shadows. Xios, a sleek bck feline-like creature with eyes that glinted like starlight, floated with quick flickers of electric bolts licking at the ptform. And Phoenix, a resplendent cat-like entity with immense, colorful wings elegantly lifted her. The two essences moved with the smooth, fluid grace of beings eternally watchful and wise.

  They observed Ezekiel and then turned their gaze to the doorway, as though they sensed Sophitia. Phoenix’s feathers bristled, and Xios’s ears fttened, their bodies tense with recognition.

  "The Destroyer," Xios’s voice was barely a whisper, it cut through the silence like a bde.

  Phoenix recoils, “it is here… we can feel it!” She hissed.

  Ezekiel gnced at the doorway, confused by their reaction, “What is this? You know her? What do you know? How!?” He demanded.

  The beings looked at each other and back at Ezekiel, “Do you know not what she has done to our kind, the Destroyer of worlds?”

  Ezekiel stood tall, “What!? Is that what she is feeling inside? A destructive power?”

  “The seal pced upon her is almost broken. So that is the prophecy… Worry not. The Eye will make everything clear.”

  “What? Why can’t you just tell me!? What is she? Who is she?” Ezekiel pleaded.

  Xios spoke next, his voice low. “Something dark within that vessel is rising, something far beyond our sight. It draws nearer, and we sense its energy at its core, whether by fate or misfortune. The Eye sees all things and makes all things clear.”

  Ezekiel was in disbelief, but he figured it was best to get it done and out of the way now. He stepped forward, trying to keep his mind from reeling at the constant influx of enigmas “Let’s just move on then. Will you grant me your power?” Ezekiel announced to them.

  The Essences observed Ezekiel in silence before Xios floated forward, eyes gleaming with an intensity that crackled in the air. Phoenix followed, her feathers lifting as the wind stirred around her, growing in strength until a gale whipped through the chamber. Lightning arced across the room as Xios raised a paw, and a storm of raw energy ignited in the air between them, swirling with brilliant hues of blue and silver.

  “Brace yourself, Alphin,” Xios intoned, his voice like rolling thunder.

  Ezekiel felt a charge tingle along his scales, and then, in an explosion of lightning and wind, their power collided with him. Bolts of energy seared through the air, each like a shock to his system as they struck his neckce, charging it with a pulsing, radiant force. Wind surged around him, lifting him briefly off the ground as Phoenix’s wings spread wide, channeling currents of sheer power that wrapped around his form like a cyclone. Causing him to spin and threatening to tear his body limb from limb.

  Xios released a roar, and a bolt of pure lightning shot from his cws, meeting the whirlwind of energy and merging into a single blinding sphere around Ezekiel. The electricity surged through every fiber of his being, filling him with strength as his neckce glowed with a radiant shine that cast shadows across the chamber walls. Phoenix’s winds circled him faster and faster until they funneled into the neckce itself, sealing the essence of wind within.

  The storm faded, leaving Ezekiel standing in the stillness, his neckce now bzing with renewed power. He staggered, the lingering crackle of energy humming beneath his scales.

  Phoenix and Xios floated back, their eyes unreadable yet filled with something akin to caution and hope. “The blessing is complete. Now. Go. Meet your eyes to the Eye.”

  Ezekiel stepped out of the Essence chamber. He gnced at Sophitia.

  “How’d it go?”

  “It went fine. Let’s go to the next Essence.”

  She smiled brightly, “Yes, let’s!”

  They made their way through the castle where they were met with Azul.

  “Congratutions on making it this far! I can't wait to see you become a full-fledged Elemental, Ezekiel, my son!”

  “Thanks, Father. Did Ozma come by here?” Ezekiel wondered.

  “Ah, yes, he did. He is already at the Memorandia.”

  “Aw, he won after all.” He gently stamped his foot.

  “Having a brotherly race I take it?”

  “Yes, father. We shall now go to the Memorandia.”

  “Yes! That is great news. May the essences grace you!” He gestured toward a hallway that led to a grand door that shined greater than the floors.

  “What is this?” Sophitia asked.

  “It just leads to the Memorandia portal. A ship that the Eye resides on. There are a few Alphins there that , but it’s pretty lonely, and I hear it’s really creepy… like not from our dimension creepy.”

  “Ooo, exciting.” She said as they walked through the massive door.

  Within the room stood a translucent portal. The castle of sky powered not only different parts of the Alphin world but the portal to the Memorandia too.

  As they drew closer to it, there was a loud hum. A massive amount of power appeared to be required to run it. Within touching distance, the energy swirled with the glory of the cosmos in reaction to their presence. They exchanged gnces before stepping through the portal.

  In an instant, they were engulfed in a spectrum of light and then released into the strange expanse of a transcendental vessel. The ship pulsed with life of its own, walls and floors of pristine white. Strange geometric patterns glowed softly in hues of azure and royalty, it created a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere along the walls, quite simir to another vessel that Dante encountered.

  They wandered through the vessel’s long corridors with many doorways, their senses tingling with the unknown. Holographic dispys surrounded them, showing glimpses of time and space shifting in mesmerizing patterns. Off in the distance, a figure approached quickly.

  “Zekey! Sophie!” Ozma rushed forward, they embraced tightly. “You guys gotta get a load of this ship! The Memorandia is so much more than I realized. Who built this thing!?”

  “I don’t know, it is quite amazing, don’t you think Sophie?”

  “Yes, it is impressive. Feels kind of familiar though.” She looked around with intrigue.

  Ezekiel was shocked by the revetion, “Really? Like… you’ve been here before?”

  “No… that’s not possible, it can’t be.” Sophitia looked around.

  “What are you trying to say, Sophie,” Ozma inquired, “Are you remembering being on this ship?”

  “She should.” A voice echoed around them. “She should recognize it’s twin.”

  Startled, “What was that?” Ezekiel asked, preparing for an ambush.

  “Come to my chamber young ones. We have much to discuss.” The voice beckoned.