The Altar
As you approach the altar, the man in the robe begins to speak quietly. “Long ago, this was a sacred site for a people who boasted an advanced civilization. They understood and wielded the power of the ‘Words of Creation,’ but they could not control that power, and ultimately brought about their own destruction.”
The old hunter adds, his expression complex. “By manipulating the ‘Words of Creation,’ they sought to bend the forces of nature to their will. But the price they paid was great. The land was laid waste, the seas dried up, and the people perished.”
The man in the robe continues, “We have guarded these ruins to ensure we do not repeat their mistakes. If misused, the power of the ‘Words of Creation’ can destroy the world. But if used correctly, it can also save it.”
I asked with a serious expression, “Then, what does it mean to use the ‘Words of Creation’ correctly?”
The man in the robe replied, “It means listening to the voice of your own heart and valuing harmony with nature. And above all, it means not using that power for selfish gain.” He touched the crystal on the altar and directed its light toward me. “You have overcome the trials and proven the truth of your heart. But this is only the beginning. To fully understand and master the power of the ‘Words of Creation,’ you will need to face further trials.”
The old hunter speaks gently to me. “Mitamu, you are the chosen one. I believe you can use the power of the ‘Words of Creation’ correctly. But the path ahead is arduous. Never forget to keep your heart in check and listen to the voice of nature.”
The man in the robe takes a gem from the altar and offers it to me. “This gem is the key to controlling the power of the ‘Words of Creation.’ It will protect you until you learn to master that power.” I accept the gem. It emits a warm, gentle light.
“This gem responds to the state of your heart and unleashes its power,” the man in the robe explains. “If your heart is calm, the gem will glow gently and guide you. However, if your heart is troubled, the gem will sound a warning to alert you to danger.”
I clasp the gem tightly and renew my resolve. “Thank you. I swear that, together with this gem, I will use the power of the ‘Words of Creation’ rightly and lead the world toward a better future.”
The man in the robe nods with satisfaction. “We pray for the success of your journey. And we hope to see you again someday in this sanctuary.”
The inhabitants of the ruins see me and the old hunter off, bowing their heads quietly. I expressed my gratitude to them and left the ruins. Once outside, the desolate landscape stretched out before me once more. Yet my heart felt much calmer and filled with hope than before.
Holding the jewel in my hand, I set out on a new journey. The old hunter asked me, “Mitamu, where are you headed now?”
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
