Hearts Of Darkness

*POWER OF LIGHT*

CHAPTER 3

The power of light, the king says, his voice filled with a strange intensity. A power that has been dormant within you, waiting for the right moment to awaken. And that moment has come. Soleil feels a jolt of recognition. She remembers the light that had shone from her hands, the light that had saved her from the shadow creature. I...I think I know what you're talking about, she says. But I don't understand why you've chosen me. Soleil stares at the king, trying to make sense of what he has told her. Why me? she asks, her voice full of uncertainty. Why have I been chosen? The king's expression softens. Because you are special, Soleil, he says. You have a kind and compassionate heart, and a desire to help others.

There is much darkness in this world, the king continues. But there is also light. And you have the power to bring that light to those who need it most. That is why you have been chosen. Soleil's mind is reeling. She doesn't know what to say. What if I don't want this power? she asks, her voice barely above a whisper. The king looks at her with understanding. That is your choice to make, he says. But I would urge you to consider the consequences of refusing this power, the king says. There are those who seek to use the power of light for their own selfish purposes, and they will stop at nothing to get it. If you refuse to accept your destiny, they will find someone else to wield the power. And that person may not have the same good intentions as you. Soleil feels a weight settle on her shoulders. She is being asked to make a difficult choice, and she doesn't know what to do.

The king sees the conflict in her eyes. You do not have to decide now, he says, his voice gentle. Take your time to consider your options. But know this, no matter what you choose, you will always have a place here, in this realm. You are always welcome. Soleil feels a wave of relief wash over her. She is grateful for the king's kindness, and for the time he is giving her to think things over. Thank you, she says, her voice full of emotion.

The king smiles. I have one more thing to tell you, he says. There is someone who has been watching over you since the day you were born. They have guided your path, and protected you from harm. They have always been there for you, even when you did not know it. And they will continue to be there, no matter what you decide. Soleil is confused. Who is it? she asks. The king's smile widens. That is for you to discover, he says.

Soleil looks into the king's eyes, and sees that he will not tell her more. She nods, understanding that this is a journey she must take on her own. What happens next? she asks. What will I do? The king's expression turns serious. You must leave this place, he says. You must go out into the world, and discover who you truly are. You must follow your heart, and your instincts.But before you go, the king says, there is one more thing you must do. Soleil looks at him expectantly. You must choose a name, he says. You cannot continue on this journey with a name that was given to you by another. You must choose a name that represents who you are, and who you want to be. Soleil considers this. She has never thought about her name before, but now, it seems incredibly important. I will think about it, she says.

Good, the king says. Take your time. But there is one other thing I must tell you. When you leave this place, you must promise to remember one thing, wherever you go, and whatever you do, you must always be true to yourself. Never forget who you are, and what you stand for. And remember that there are people out there who care about you, and who will help you if you ever need it. Soleil feels a surge of emotion, and she is moved by the king's words.

Now, the king says, it is time for you to go. Soleil takes a deep breath, and looks around her. She is sad to leave this place, but she knows that she must. Will I ever be able to come back? she asks. You may return whenever you wish, the king says. But only when you are ready. And when you do, you will find that everything has changed, and yet everything is the same. Soleil nods, and takes one last look at the king. Thank you, she says.

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