3 Chapter II : From Hermit to Hero

Although she had mentally prepared herself, Arya was still surprised to see someone manipulating water. As she watched in amazement, the water took strange shapes, forming into what looked like razor-sharp blades. The girl's eyes flicked up, and she locked onto Arya's gaze. Suddenly, the water blades shot forward, hurtling toward the cabin with incredible speed.

Arya stumbled backwards, trying to dodge the deadly attack. The blades sliced through the wooden walls of the cabin like a hot knife through butter, sending splinters flying everywhere. Arya barely managed to avoid being struck. As she looked back, she saw the girl calmly walking out of the stream, still manipulating the water with ease.

"Wait! I come in peace. Don't attack me."

Arya was afraid, but also fascinated. She had never seen anything like this before. The girl walked toward her, and as she did, the water flowed along with her, as if it were an extension of her body.

"You shouldn't have come here," the girl hissed, her hands flicking outin a series of precise movements. Suddenly, Arya was lifted into the air, the water around her twisting and turning as if it had a mind of its own.

Surrounded by the swirling water, Arya realized that she needed to defend herself. With a deep breath, she focused her energy, summoning the power within her. A faint blue glow enveloped her hands as bolts of crackling lightning danced between her fingertips.

Electricity crackled around Arya's hands, sending tingles up her arms and filling the air with the scent of ozone. Bolts of lightning danced around, illuminating the meadow. The girl gasped in surprise as she witnessed this display of power.

Arya unleashed a surge of electrical energy towards the girl, aiming to disrupt her control of the water. The bolts shot through the air, crackling and sizzling with power. But to Arya's surprise, the girl effortlessly redirected the water around her, creating a swirling shield to protect herself. The lightning strike hit the water and travelled along its surface in all directions.

She retaliated, manipulating the water to form sharp tendrils that lashed out towards Arya. But Arya's lightning-enhanced speed allowed her to dodge the attacks with agility, her movements blurring as she weaved between the watery strikes.

Seeing an opening, Arya closed in on the girl. She unleashed a concentrated bolt of electricity from her hand aiming it carefully to disable but not harm her opponent. The lightning bolt crackled through the air, illuminating the surroundings, arcing towards its target with deadly precision.

The girl's eyes widened with alarm as electricity surged towards her. In a split second, she formed a water barrier to shield herself. However, the intense electrical charge overwhelmed it, causing a powerful explosion of steam and energy. The force sent both girls sprawling backwards, momentarily stunned.

Before the steam dissipated, Arya swiftly closed the gap between them, her amazing speed making her nearly impossible to anticipate. Just as she reached the girl, her powers still crackling around her, she halted her attack. A gust of wind swept through the meadow from her incredible speed, rustling the leaves and causing both girls' hair to whip in the air. The sudden stillness hung between them as Arya stared intently into the girl's eyes, searching for answers. Then, breathing heavily, she looked into the girl's eyes and snapped.

"You can't beat me. It would be in your best interest to surrender now. I don't want to hurt you, but I will if I must. Trust me." Arya glared at her fiercely, her amber eyes glowing.

The girl trembled in fear. Just now, her life flashed before her eyes. She realized the difference in strength between them. In the end, she had no choice but to accept her defeat.

"What do you want from me?" She glared back with false bravado.

"You can start with your name."

The girl hesitated for a moment before answering, "Leila."

"Okay, listen Leila, I don't care where you're from or what you're doing here in the middle of nowhere. All I want to know is this: These powers, were you born with them?"

"That's none of your business!"

"Oh but that's where you're wrong, Lei-Lei. It's got a lot to do with me. In fact, it's got more to do with me than with you." She smirked.

"Really? Lei-Lei? Also, that doesn't even make sense. What does it have to do with you?"

"It has something to do with me when the fate of the world rests on your answer."

"Huh, what?"

"Aren't you curious about me too? If you answer my questions, I'll answer yours too. Equivalent exchange."

Leila paused, her curiosity piqued by the enigmatic girl standing before her. It was undeniable that she had never encountered someone quite like this before. This girl possessed an imposing stature, with a towering and muscular build. Strands of curly hair, as vibrant as crimson, cascaded down her back in a ponytail, capturing attention effortlessly. Leila couldn't help but be captivated by the girl's striking features - bright amber eyes that seemed to hold secrets, complemented by caramel skin radiating a subtle glow.

"Alright but I reserve the right not to answer if I don't feel comfortable," Leila said in a firm voice. Arya nodded in understanding.

"I'm pretty sure I was born with them. At least, I don't remember a time where i didn't have them."

"Really? Oh my God! I can't believe it. I've actually found one! Oh my God, oh my God!" Arya began jumping around in a frenzied state, pumping her fist triumphantly. "In your face, Nala!"

Leila sighed, looking at Arya with a mixture of annoyance and confusion. "Seriously, what's wrong with you? You're crazy."

"I know. Nothing new here. Anyway, Lei-Lei, my name is Arya. It's very nice to meet you. In fact, I could kiss you right now."

Leila's eyes widened in alarm. "Please don't."

"A hug then?"

"No touching!" Leila quickly crossed her arms and glared at Arya.

"Fine, fine. Jeez, you'd think I'm an old man trying to molest you or something. Back to the point, I came here looking for you."

Leila eyed her suspiciously. "Why?"

"To save the world, of course!"

"Oh God! You're so annoying. Can't you speak clearly? It's like we're not even speaking the same language here."

"Look, what do you know about your powers?"

"Not much. I don't know where they came from. My family didn't know either."

"So you don't know anything. Just my luck." Arya sighed. "Let me tell you a story. A long ti--"

"I don't want to hear it." Leila glowered. This crazy woman was messing with her.

Arya ignored her, she was enjoying herself too much. "A long time ago, there was a prophecy from, I don't know, some old woman. It said that in the near future, a massive calamity would befall Earth. Monsters would appear out of nowhere and bring humanity to the brink of destruction." She deepened her voice for dramatic effect.

Leila rolled her eyes, "What do you mean by monsters?"

"Oh, you know, the ones from fairy tales: dragons, trolls, giants. Something like that. And of course, where there are monsters, there must also be heroes! And that's where we come in!"

Leila lifted one arched eyebrow, "Heroes?"

Arya was getting carried away, "Chosen by nature as guardians of humanity. Granted powers by the Six Holy Spirits. Blessed with the honor of relinquishing our mortal bodies to become their vessels."

"Hold on! I couldn't have heard that right. Did you just say relinquish our mortal bodies?"

"To become their vessels, yes. You have a spirit inside you."

"No I don't. You're talking nonsense."

"Yes, you do. I can prove it to you right this minute. Do you want to see?"

Leila stared at Arya, her mouth slightly agape. She couldn't believe the audacity of this girl. Standing there and spouting such nonsense. And yet, she seemed so confident while doing so that Leila couldn't help but question herself. Could it possibly be true?

Leila, skepticism etched on her face, finally gave in. "Okay, I'll humor you. Show me," she said, half-mocking, half-curious.

Arya's smirk transformed into a look of solemn concentration. She stood taller, her eyes shutting as if to look inward. Inhaling deeply, she stretched her hands skyward. A quiet descended, and when she spoke, her voice was loud and powerful.

"By the light within, I call you forth, spirit of light, Yeelen. Reveal yourself and the truth we seek."

As the last words left Arya's lips, a soft glow enveloped her body. From within her, a radiant figure emerged, emanating a warm and gentle aura. She floated before Arya and Leila, her form ethereal and filled with grace.

"Behold," Arya said with a triumphant smile, "Yeelen, the spirit within me."

Leila watched in awe, her skepticism slowly giving way to curiosity. She couldn't deny the presence of Yeelen, a being of pure light and energy. Her eyes widened as she realized that maybe, just maybe, there was some truth to Arya's claims.

Yeelen turned her attention towards Leila, her voice resonating with a soothing melody. "Greetings, young one. I am the spirit of light, Yeelen. Although her delivery is terrible, my host's claims are true. Your spirit dwells within the realm of water. It is the spirit of water, Ji, that grants you the ability to manipulate its essence."

Leila blinked in astonishment. "I... I have a spirit within me?"

"That's what I said." Arya responded.

Yeelen nodded gently. "Indeed. Ji is a moody spirit, harboring a disdain for humans. That is why she has remained hidden, never revealing herself to you. But fear not, for I am here to guide you, to awaken the spirit that slumbers within."

Leila's mind was abuzz with disbelief and fascination. She had always wondered about her powers, their origin, and now it seemed that her questions were being answered. Yeelen approached Leila, extending her hand towards her. A soft, radiant light emanated from her palm as she channeled her powers. Leila stood still, a mixture of anticipation and apprehension coursing through her.

As Yeelen's gentle energy met Leila's skin, an indescribable sensation washed over her. It was as if a dormant energy surged to life within her, rushing through her veins like a mighty river. She could feel the presence of another entity awakening deep within her being.

A surge of power flowed through her, causing Leila to gasp. She closed her eyes, surrendering to the sensation that engulfed her. The world blurred around her as the energy intensified, taking on a life of its own.

When Leila opened her eyes, she was met with a mesmerizing sight. A figure made entirely of swirling water stood beside Yeelen. Its form danced and undulated, glistening with a serene beauty that mirrored the fluidity of the element it represented.

Leila's breath caught in her throat as she beheld the embodiment of Ji, the spirit of water. The figure radiated an aura of both tranquility and power, and she could sense its consciousness intermingling with her own.

Awe and wonder filled Leila's heart as she realized the truth of her existence. She wasn't alone in this world, and her powers were not merely a coincidence. She was connected to a spiritual realm, entrusted with the ability to shape and control water.

"Hmph! Still a human lover, I see."

"It has been a long time, sister."

"Not long enough! Listen, human. Don't get any ideas about being special. I only chose you as my host because you were the most convenient."

All the awe on Leila's face retreated like a tide. She glared at the arrogant spirit but decided to refrain from responding. Who knew what it could do to her if she was disrespectful?

Yeelen intervened with a gentle smile. "Ji may have a brusque demeanor, but together, we have a greater purpose. Our solid forms exist in a realm beyond, making it impossible for us to directly face the monsters threatening this world. That is why we require hosts, like you and Arya, to bring forth our powers and combat the impending darkness."

Leila absorbed Yeelen's words, her gaze shifting between Ji and Arya. It was a lot to take in, the realization that she was connected to an ancient spirit and that she held the power to protect humanity.

Arya stepped forward, her eyes shining with determination. "I know this is overwhelming but, Leila, we have a destiny to fulfill, a big responsibility on our shoulders. Together, with the powers the spirits have given us, we can become the heroes this world needs."

Leila hesitated for a moment, her thoughts racing. She looked at Arya, then at Ji and Yeelen. A sense of purpose welled up within her, mingling with a hint of excitement and apprehension. But she still had some questions that needed to be answered.

"You talked about an impending calamity that is approaching. How do I know you're telling the truth? For all I know, this could be an intricate plot to turn me into your mindless little soldier."

Arya snorted disdainfully. "I just kicked your ass, remember? Does it look like I need a soldier?"

"Just answer the damn question." Leila snapped.

"You've been living here for a while, haven't you? Did you not see that giant mammoth in the forest?"

"Be serious. Mammoths don't exist."

"Wait, you really haven't seen it? Wolfie, there was a mammoth, wasn't there?"

The wolf that had been sitting on its hind legs indifferently watching everything happen nodded.

"See?" Arya said as Leila shrieked in horror at the sight of the wolf.

"What is that?"

"A wolf, duh."

"Where have you seen a wolf this huge?"

"Don't mind the small details. Anyway, since you seem isolated from the rest of the world, maybe you haven't heard. However, there have been more and more sightings of monsters in the past few years. Of course, because of me and my allies, there has been no big incident. People just think they're rumors and aren't aware of what's really happening."

Leila didn't say anything. Because she chose to live like an hermit/naturalist, she really didn't get a lot of news about what was happening outside. As such, she couldn't tell if Arya was lying or not. But if she was right and there really were monsters threatening the peace of the world, her conscience wouldn't allow her to sit back and do nothing.

"Let's say I believe you, what would you expect from me? In fact, who are you really?"

"Me? I'm a princess." Arya smiled brightly.

Leila looked at her blankly. She couldn't be bothered to reply.

"No, I'm serious! I really am a princess. Wait, you know what? Nevermind that for now since you're so distrustful. All you have to know is this: When they say a calamity will be fall the earth, they're not joking, okay? It's gonna be so bad that even you and I, as strong as we are, will not stand a chance. We'll need all the help we can get. And to do that, all the hosts must become aware of who they are."

"What do you mean?"

"Aside from Arya, none of the other hosts are capable of communicating with their spirits at present and so, they are unaware of their identity as hosts." Yeelen cut in. "But they need this awareness as it will open the door for others to harness our powers."

"Others? You mean if a host knows they're a host, the spirit will leave their body and move to someone else and give them powers too?"

"No, you simpleton." Ji answered contemptuously. "It means the host will become a door, a gate of sorts, between this realm and the spirit realm. Through you, humans who are worthy can be blessed with the same powers. You will act as a bridge between the two worlds, allowing the spirit to manifest its blessings in this realm."

"Wow! That's amazing!" Leila smiled excitedly, not caring that she was just insulted. "So there will be other people with the same powers as me!"

"Not exactly. Their strength will depend on your abilities. If you are not a strong and sturdy bridge, the elemental energy that can be transferred will be lacking." Ji responded.

Leila froze. She really didn't like the sound of this. If other people's strength depended on hers, then that would mean that their weakness would be her fault, right? Just thinking about it made her sweat. She decided to leave that thought for later.

"How many hosts are there beside me and Arya?"

"Four." Arya answered, holding up four fingers.

"Okay." She breathed. "Earlier, what did you mean when you said 'relinquish our mortal bodies'? Are you saying our bodies will be possessed by the spirits?"

"Wow, you still remember that? I was joking. Do I look like I'm possessed?"

"Do you really want me to answer that?"

"Actually, no. Do you have more questions? I'm getting tired here."

"If you're feeling tired, just imagine how I feel getting all these life-altering bombs dropped on me out of nowhere." Leila glared at her.

Arya smiled sheepishly. "Yeah, you're right. So, what do you say? Are you going to join me? The fate of the world kind of rests on your shoulders you know? Not trying to pressure you or anything."

Leila fell deep into thoughts. After careful consideration, she took a deep breath and made her decision. She looked at Arya and the shimmering figure of Ji, the spirit of water, and nodded.

"I may not fully understand everything yet, but I can't turn a blind eye to the potential danger we're in. If there's a chance for me to make a difference and protect the world, then I'm in."

Arya's face lit up with a wide grin. "That's the spirit! Welcome to the team, Leila. We're going to begreat partners."

Yeelen's serene voice filled the air. "With your acceptance, the bond between you and Ji shall strengthen, and the true extent of your powers will gradually reveal themselves. But remember, the path ahead won't be easy. You'll face trials, battles, and sacrifices. But fear not, for we will guide you, and we shall lend you our strength when needed."

Leila nodded, a mix of determination and nervousness in her eyes. "I'm ready."

"Good." Yeelen said. "Then let us hope that this journey ahead of you will be filled with light and triumph." Yeelen turned to Arya. "Arya, my dear, remember the light that burns within you. It holds the power to illuminate the darkest of paths and ignite hope in the hearts of those around you."

With those words, her form gradually dissipated into a radiant beam of light. The ethereal glow floated towards Arya and seamlessly merged with her being making her feel a sense of unity with the spirit within her. The light enveloped her, infusing her with an inner radiance that seemed to emanate from her very core. Her expression softened as Yeelen reconnected with her. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, a serene smile gracing her lips.

Ji turned to Leila, her figure shimmering with watery brilliance. "Remember, human, I chose you for a reason. You may be flawed and fragile, but you possess the potential to wield my power. Don't disappoint me."

As Ji's form dissipated, merging back into Leila's being, she closed her eyes, grounding herself in the present moment. She felt a gentle warmth spread throughout her body as Ji's essence fused with her. The water gently encased her, caressing her skin in a comforting embrace. It molded to her contours, merging with her essence. In that moment, she could feel Ji's consciousness melding with her own, their consciousness interweaving like a seamless tapestry. She recognized it and realized that she had always felt its presence but never understood what it was before.

Leila's senses heightened, her perception expanding beyond the physical realm. She could now feel the ebb and flow of water in the world around her, the subtle currents and hidden depths. It was as if she had become one with the essence she controlled.

She opened her eyes and found Arya looking at her with a smile. Leila grimaced and let out a defeated sigh.

"Well, I guess I'm stuck with you now." Leila muttered.

Arya's smile widened mischievously. "Oh, don't worry. I'll take very good care of you," she teased, winking playfully.

Leila rolled her eyes, yet a reluctant smile tugged at her lip. Despite the weight of her newfound responsibilities, Arya's lightheartedness brought a much-needed moment of levity to the situation. In that brief exchange, Leila thought that maybe, just maybe, things would not be as terrible as she imagined. Maybe she could even make friends and not have to be alone anymore.