As the woman concluded her explanation, a warm, serene smile spread across her face.
" Allow me to introduce myself, " she said, her voice softening like a gentle breeze. " I am Cantina, the last Dragon Savior, or also known as the Eternal Flame bearer. "
Her gaze was so powerful that it demanded silence, leaving Starfania still flabbergasted. She longed to possess qualities, to embody the unwavering confidence and wisdom that seemed to radiate from her every movement. The dragon gently nudged Starfania to get a bit closer to her and to stop standing like a statue and actually say something. Yet, when Cantina's expression shifted, Starfania's confidence faltered.
Cantina coughed, the sound sharp and deliberate, before declaring with cutting frankness, " If you're the future savior, we're in trouble. It seems you don't care enough. "
Starfania took a step back, stunned by the directness of Cantina's words. She looked into the wise woman's eyes, searching for a hint of humor or kindness, but found none. Instead, there was a fire in Cantina's gaze that seemed to burn right through her uncertainty.
"You must understand," Cantina continued, her tone firm but not unkind, "being a savior is not just a title. It's a commitment, a weight you carry for those who cannot."
Starfania swallowed hard, feeling the gravity of the moment pressing down on her shoulders.
"I—I want to help," she stammered, the words tumbling out before she could think. "I just don't know how."
Cantina's smile returned, softer this time, as she stepped forward, bridging the distance between them.
" I know this is a lot to take in, " she said, her voice carrying a note of understanding, though her tone remained firm. " I can only imagine how difficult it must be for an eighteen-year-old like you to comprehend the responsibility you have just been given. But if you let me finish–without interruption–I promise it will all make sense. Hearing how the Dragon Savior came to be will let you understand the role you are about to play. "