Stars lit up the night sky like delicate snowflakes, appearing still and timeless, reminiscent of an old photograph. Alex smiled as the wind tousled his hair into a wild mane. If he were out in the vastness of space, riding the edges of the known universe, those stars would become a choreographed blizzard, swirling and dancing in a cosmic ballet. But for now, with his arm draped over the branch of a windswept tree and his head gently leaning against the bark, the starlight maintained its familiar constellations. These celestial patterns, having witnessed centuries and millennia, quietly watched over this fleeting moment.
He lingered in this tranquil state for a while as Nyx returned to her own world to rest. Seeking clarity, he stepped outside to clear his mind, gazing up at the breathtaking starry night. Yet, doubts crept in.
"Can I really succeed? Am I truly cut out to lead others? Can I achieve this dream? Am I capable?"
Filled with uncertainty, he shivered at the thought of failing and losing precious people like he had in the past. For a moment, he even entertained the absurd notion of staying here forever, enjoying a quiet, peaceful life. Maybe if he removed himself from their lives, they wouldn't suffer from being associated with him. Prophecy or not, perhaps he should forget everything and live quietly until the end.
Such thoughts flashed through his mind, but he quickly slapped himself hard, forcing himself to regain his composure.
"I'm an idiot for even considering such things, but I'm grateful for these feelings—they make me human. Everyone has moments like this. I won't succumb; I will prevail. My life isn't solely my own; many lives are intertwined with mine, so I mustn't selfishly think only of myself. I have to keep moving forward and accomplish what needs to be done. I will take over this realm for my survival and for the survival of my family and loved ones. I will overturn the entire game board, and I will be the final victor. It's how it must be."
His declaration was filled with conviction, fueled by an unwavering spirit to survive—not just for himself, but for all those connected to him. A sense of relief washed over Alex, lifting the weight from his shoulders; now he could pursue his goals with renewed pride.
Unbeknownst to him, Nyx watched from her world, observing his transformation. After enjoying the cool night breeze, he returned to his thoughts. Nyx smiled for a second time that night, genuinely happy for his emotional growth. She needed to recover quickly, along with her sister, to support him. Finishing her task, she crafted a black arm forged from the fusion of the Eternal chain and various materials. It was ready, and tomorrow, he would receive his new arm.
Feeling exhausted Nyx immediately went to sleep.
The curtains bathed the room in an orange glow as the morning light streamed in, heralding yet another perfect sunrise. It reminded Alex of the times he had spent in a beach hut, watching the ocean awaken beneath a golden shimmer. For a moment, his mind conjured the rhythmic waves gently lapping at the sandy shore, and he felt his heart beat in time with their slow, soothing cadence. He inhaled deeply, welcoming the new day.
Reaching out to touch the fabric, he noticed how the light poured through every gap between the fibers, much like it had through the walls of that beach hut, illuminating the space like brilliant fireflies at dawn. The material felt warm beneath his fingertips, and as the sun flooded the room, painting everything in vivid colors anew, he could almost feel those golden rays soaking into his skin.
A new day had dawned. Leaving the comfort of his bed, Alex stepped out of the log house and made his way toward the lake. As he gazed at his reflection on the water's surface, he noticed how unruly his hair had become. He resolved to ask Nyx for help with a haircut.
Afterward, he trained vigorously, pushing himself until he was drenched in sweat. Stripping off his clothes, he leaped into the lake for a refreshing bath. Once he emerged and dried off, he changed into fresh clothes and joined Nyx for breakfast.
The breakfast spread was a delightful array of colors and aromas, filling the air with an inviting warmth. A large wooden table was set outside, allowing the morning sun to cast a golden glow over the meal.
Fluffy scrambled eggs, perfectly seasoned and sprinkled with fresh herbs, sat alongside crispy bacon that crackled with flavor. A basket of warm, crusty bread was nestled on the table, its golden crust giving way to a soft, pillowy interior, perfect for slathering with butter or homemade jam.
Fresh fruit added a vibrant touch—a bowl filled with juicy berries, slices of ripe melon, and sweet peaches, their natural sweetness complementing the savory dishes. A steaming pot of coffee exuded rich and robust scents, while a pitcher of freshly squeezed orange juice glistened in the sunlight, promising a refreshing burst of citrus.
Nyx had arranged everything with care, adding a few wildflowers as a centerpiece, which swayed gently in the morning breeze.
As they sat down to eat, the sounds of nature surrounded them—the gentle rustling of leaves, the distant call of birds, and the soft lapping of the lake's water, creating a serene backdrop for their meal. It was a perfect start to the day, filled with nourishment and the promise of new adventures ahead.