Crystal Ball
Geometric patterns emerge inside the crystal ball. I stare intently at the intricate, maze-like patterns. The patterns constantly shift shape, as if they were alive, luring me deeper inside. Trusting my intuition, I take a step forward.
The moment I step inside, my consciousness is drawn into the crystal ball as if being sucked in. Before I know it, I find myself standing in a mysterious space unlike anything I’ve ever seen.
It was a place that felt as if I were in a dream. In the sky, a giant gear rotated slowly, and the ground shimmered with a kaleidoscope of colors. A sweet fragrance wafted through the entire space, calming my heart.
I began to walk slowly, keeping a watchful eye on my surroundings. Then, a small light appeared before me. I walked toward that light. As I drew closer to the light, it gradually grew larger, eventually taking the shape of a door.
The door was adorned with mysterious patterns, and at its center was a keyhole. I checked the items I was carrying. I had various items, such as the “Infinite Book” and the lyre of the Atlantis civilization, but I had no idea which one would be the key to opening this door.
I stare intently at the door. Then, a faint voice comes from within it: “Find the key to the truth that lies deep within your heart.”
Once again, I ask myself, “What exactly is the key to the truth?” I look back on my life so far. Over the long years I have lived as an immortal of Penglai, I have witnessed countless lies and deceptions. And there have been times when I, too, found myself in situations where I had no choice but to lie.
Yet, even so, what I have always cherished most is a heart that seeks the truth. I have strived to live honestly with my own heart. And it is that heart that has led me here today.
With conviction, I place my hand over my heart. Then, quietly, I speak to the door: “The key to my truth is a heart that seeks the truth.”
Then, strangely enough, a warm light pours out from my chest, and that light is drawn into the keyhole of the door. The keyhole swallows the light and clicks. Then, the door begins to open slowly.
What awaits beyond the door? With a mix of anticipation and anxiety in my heart, I step through the doorway. Perhaps a new trial lies in store for me. Yet I trust my heart and resolve to move forward.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
