Chapter Six: The Bond Awakens
"Can you believe it? After waiting that long, we're finally back."
The man spoke to the beasts surrounding him, as if expecting a response. As if in agreement, the creatures began circling him, snarling and shifting, while he remained at the center—perched atop a massive, two-headed beast. The heads moved restlessly, releasing strange, guttural sounds that echoed through the stillness.
Back in the village, a strange smoke rose into the sky, more visible and foreboding than ever before. Its appearance shocked the entire village into silence and fear. For those who had heard of the prophecy, such a sound could only mean one thing—an ominous sign. Among them was Ariella's grandmother.
"It's happening again," she murmured, her voice barely above a whisper. "The prophecy… He has risen. He will swallow the earth whole."
Her eyes, filled with dread, locked onto the distant smoke.
"This time, how will we save our village—with no chosen ones? God might have forsaken us," she said, her voice trembling with despair.
In the forest, the two girls sat down, struggling to catch their breath, trying to understand what had just happened—and why.
"Did you… see the red glow on your palm?" Ariella asked, still shaken.
Elara, her hands trembling slightly, looked up. "Oh, come on, Ari. I was busy grasping onto anything I could to save my life—how could I notice a glow?"
Ariella gave a small, almost nervous laugh. "Yeah… about that. There was a red glow on my palm right when you were tumbling. Coincidentally, it disappeared the moment we were both safe—then it was replaced by a beautiful green glow."
Elara raised her eyebrows. "Really? That's… strange. Does it mean the mark senses our danger?"
Ariella nodded slowly. "Uhmm… that would appear to be the case. That means any time one of us is in danger, the other would automatically be able to know."
They locked eyes in silent understanding. No more words were needed. For now, this was the only explanation that made sense.