Taming Luna-2

Awakening

It is a term used to describe the moment an individual unlocks their Soul Essence, granting them access to immense power that lies within them.

A person usually awakens between the ages of 12 and 17, though this is only the average. Awakening can occur at any stage of life, depending on the individual's talents and destiny.

During Awakening, a person's soul connects to the Soul Plane—a vast realm that reflects the essence of all living beings. This connection reveals their Soul Essence, a core energy that determines the path they are destined to follow.

Awakening is not without risks. For some, the process is smooth and enlightening. For others, it can be overwhelming, leaving them physically or emotionally injured. Yet, those who succeed are fundamentally changed—their abilities are heightened and their destiny set in motion.

What is the Soul Plane?

The Soul Plane is a metaphysical realm that exists parallel to the physical world. It is the cradle of all life and the source of Soul Essence. When one connects to the Soul Plane, they briefly transcend their physical form and interact with their true essence.

The Soul Plane is unique to each individual. Some see vast mountains or endless plains, while others experience violent elemental storms. The nature of the Soul Plane varies from person to person, reflecting their inner spirit.

What is Soul Essence?

Soul Essence is the life force that connects an individual to the very fabric of existence. It is both a reflection of their spirit and the source of their powers. Everyone possesses Soul Essence, but it can only be accessed and harnessed through Awakening.

There is no fixed age for Awakening. An individual could awaken at 80 or even at 7, depending on their innate talents and what destiny has in store for them.

What happens if someone doesn't awaken?

Practically nothing changes. Soul Essence can only be harnessed through Awakening, so those who do not awaken cannot access or use it. However, the essence remains within them.

--

"What did you just say?" Kai sprang to his feet after hearing Zer's words about still being able to contract even without being awakened.

{Are you deaf or something?} Zer replied with a mocking tone.

"N-No, no. I heard you clearly, but didn't you just say that I can't do that?"

{Hmm, you can't...} Zer paused, his lips curling into a grin as he observed Kai's confused reaction. {But I can.}

"Just what nonsense are you spouting? What does it have to do with me, whether you can tame her or not? It's practically not gonna be mine."

Zer sighed and shook his head, clearly uninterested in arguing with someone so clueless.

{Boy, what I'm saying is that I can temporarily guide you to harness Soul Essence—for the sake of the contract.}

"Wow, you can do that?" Kai's eyes lit up with excitement, replacing his previous anger and embarrassment.

"Are you telling the truth, Mr. Zer?" Lira asked, blinking in confusion.

{Yes,} Zer answered smugly. {It's one of the artificially Awakening methods.}

Both Lira and Kai's eyes widened upon hearing that, but before they could press further about the topic—

{It's very complicated. You two wouldn't understand it,} Zer said with a dismissive wave.

{And your minds and bodies aren't prepared for the process, so I'll explain it when the time comes. For now, let's focus on you contracting with Luna.}

Zer stood up and gestured for Kai to come closer.

Kai walked over, stopping when he was near Zer.

{Alright, sit in lotus position now,} Zer instructed, his tone firm.

Kai obeyed without hesitation, sitting cross-legged with his back facing Zer.

Zer then turned his head toward Lira and Luna. {Bring her in front of him.}

Lira nodded and carefully walked toward Kai, placing Luna in front of him.

{And you, boy, put your hand on her head.}

Kai extended his arm to touch Luna. She flinched slightly but didn't protest, soon calming down after sensing her mother's embrace from behind.

{Now close your eyes and try to empty your mind. I'll handle the rest,} Zer said, placing his paw on Kai's head as the latter closed his eyes.

"What? It's so dark… where am I?" Kai thought, glancing around, only to realize he had been engulfed by an infinite void of darkness.

"If I remember correctly, I was about to contract with Luna, but what is this place, and why am I here?"

As he was about to say something or move, a pair of glowing eyes emerged from the darkness, staring directly at him.

Kai's breath hitched at the sight. He gulped, a chill running down his spine.

The eyes glowed brighter, and a set of fangs appeared beneath them.

Rooooar!

The roar shattered the infinite void, and Kai suddenly opened his eyes, snapping back to reality.

But before he could react, Luna quickly growled, bit his hand, and then jumped into Lira's arms.

"Aah!" Kai cried in pain, grabbing his bitten hand.

{Ah, so she hates you as well, nice!} Zer commented, amused by the scene unfolding before him.

"What happened?" Lira tilted her head as Luna nuzzled her head against her own.

{It seems like she wants you to contract with her,} Zer explained.

"Oh, really?" Lira asked, picking up Luna and bringing her close to her face.

Kai was about to say something but stopped when Zer opened his maw.

{Why don't you tame her instead?}

"I can?" Lira blinked in surprise.

{She wants that. Of course, you can. Didn't you remember I said that it requires mutual consent? And what am I here for? To help you, of course.}

Lira didn't say anything, simply nodding. She sat cross-legged and placed her palm on Luna's head. Zer placed his paw on Lira's head and closed his eyes.

'What was that?' Kai shuddered, recalling the cold, white gaze of the eyes. 'Should I stop her and tell her?'

Suddenly, a bright, vibrant glow washed over Lira and Luna. Kai hesitated, thinking about interrupting their contract.

Before he could react,

{Congratulations, you successfully tamed her,} Zer said with a genuine smile, looking at Lira. The latter smiled in return.

Luna opened her azure, blue eyes and smiled at Lira, letting out cute "Kwaa" sounds.

Lira quickly grabbed her, nuzzling her cheeks with Luna's.

"What? Tamed?" Kai exclaimed in disbelief.

"B-But when I—"

{Because she doesn't like you,} Zer interjected with a smirk. {I already told you, they only like kind and loyal souls, not misfit rogues like you.}

"B—"

{Whatever you saw was just an illusion created by her to scare you or to help you understand your place,} Zer continued.

"Umm," Kai mumbled, nodding slowly. His shoulders slumped and his face lost all color, clearly showing his sadness.

Zer sighed, his tone filled with pity. {Don't worry, she's just a child. Her opinion will change when she grows up with you.}

{Then you can try your luck taming her,} Zer suggested with a sly grin.

"What? But she—" Kai started, confusion written all over his face.

But before he could finish, Zer interrupted him.

{I know, she's already contracted with Lira, but...} Zer paused, his lips curling into a smirk. {You still can—without breaking the contract.}