The Ancient Wind
Prompted by the words of the ancient wind spirit, I crawl through a small hole in the rock wall. Inside, a narrow, dark space stretches out before me, resembling a labyrinth. Strange patterns are carved into the walls; I don’t know what they are, but they look like ancient characters or symbols. As I proceed, the air gradually changes. A damp chill pricks my skin, and the whisper of the wind grows clearer in my ears. Then, as my view opens up, a vast space spreads out before me. This is the center of a massive cave, with countless stalactites hanging from the ceiling. The scene resembles a mysterious palace stretching deep underground. And in the center of the cave, a massive crystal could be seen shining. This must be the site of the Wind King’s trial. Several stone pillars stood around the crystal, each carved with the image of a different wind spirit. Those statues were brimming with vitality, giving the impression that they might come to life at any moment. “The Wind King’s trial is to control the wind energy dwelling within this crystal,” the voice of an elderly wind spirit echoed throughout the cave. “This crystal is connected to the Wind King’s soul, and only those who can control its power will be able to pass the Wind King’s trial.” I took a deep breath and took out my instrument. Using the melody written in the Wind Score as a guide, I play a melody that resonates with the Wind King’s soul. The tones produced by the instrument spread throughout the cave, reflecting off the crystal and creating an even more mystical atmosphere. At first, the crystal showed no reaction to my melody. However, as I played the melody with greater depth, subtlety, and power, I could see the crystal gradually begin to glow more brightly. Then, a faint breeze began to blow from the crystal. It was as if it were the very breath of the King of the Wind. The breeze blowing from the crystal gradually grew stronger, sweeping through the cave. The wind was cold, sharp, and powerful. Yet, at the same time, it was a wind that somehow conveyed a sense of gentleness. I surrendered myself to the flow of the wind and drew closer to the crystal. And at the center of the crystal, I stood face to face with the soul of the Wind King. The Wind King gazed at me gently and began to speak quietly. “The melody you play is truly beautiful. It is a melody born of the power of the wind spirits and your heart becoming one.” “You are qualified to control the power of the wind and guide the people,” the Wind King declared quietly. “You have passed the Wind King’s trial.” The crystal’s radiance intensified, filling the entire cave with brilliant light. Then, a new wind score drifted down from the crystal. It was a gift from the Wind King—a score for wielding the new power of the wind. I accepted the score and began preparing for a new journey. Now that I have passed the Wind King’s trial, I sense that a new adventure awaits.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
