Between Two Worlds

Selena stood frozen, her heart racing as Lord Alaric approached. His resemblance to Alexander was undeniable, yet there was something darker in his expression, a mysterious intensity that unsettled her. She tried to remain composed, reminding herself that she was no longer in her world she was in a time where she was Princess Helena. And somehow, this Lord Alaric was part of her past.

"I… I need some time alone," Selena said, her voice steady but distant. She couldn't afford to let her confusion show.

Lord Alaric raised an eyebrow but nodded. "Of course, Your Highness. I will await your call." He bowed slightly before turning to leave, his footsteps echoing down the hall.

As soon as he was gone, Selena let out a shaky breath. She turned and walked swiftly down another corridor, trying to find a quiet place to think. Every step felt surreal the ornate walls, the rich tapestries, the servants who bowed as she passed it was all too vivid to be a dream. But how was it possible? Was she truly in the past?

She touched the glowing ring on her finger, and a wave of warmth spread through her. Somehow, this ring had transported her here. But why? And more importantly, how was she supposed to return to her time?

***

In the Present

Alexander paced in his room, frustration building with every passing moment. He had searched the apartment, the streets, and even called Selena's friends, but there was no sign of her. All he had was the strange trail of blue sparks that had disappeared outside his window.

Desperate, he opened the ancient book again, flipping through the pages until he found a section about twin flames and temporal bonds. The text was cryptic, filled with metaphors and symbols, but one passage caught his eye:

"When one is lost in time, only the other half of the soul can guide the way back. The bond must be rekindled through the flame of remembrance."

Alexander clenched his fists. "Rekindle the bond… but how?" he muttered. He felt helpless, but he couldn't give up. Somehow, he had to find a way to reach Selena. He remembered the professor's words: "The path of twin flames is never easy." Perhaps Professor Alden could help him understand what to do next. Without wasting another moment, Alexander grabbed his coat and rushed out the door, determined to get answers.

***

Back in the Past

Selena wandered through the palace gardens, trying to gather her thoughts. The air was warm, and the scent of blooming flowers filled her senses. Yet, despite the beauty of her surroundings, unease gnawed at her. She couldn't stay here forever. She needed to find a way back to Alexander and her time.

Just then, a voice interrupted her thoughts. "Princess Helena, is everything all right?"

Selena turned to see a young woman in a simple yet elegant dress approaching her. The woman's kind eyes and gentle smile made Selena feel slightly more at ease.

"Yes, I'm fine," Selena replied, though her mind was far from settled.

The woman curtsied. "I'm Lady Elara, your personal attendant. If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate to call on me."

Selena managed a smile. "Thank you, Lady Elara. I… may need your help soon."

Elara tilted her head curiously but said nothing more, respecting Selena's need for space. Selena watched her leave, grateful for the kindness, yet knowing she couldn't share her secret with anyone not yet.

As she walked deeper into the garden, Selena suddenly felt a strange sensation a faint warmth spreading through her chest, as if Alexander was near. She touched the ring again, and for a brief moment, she thought she heard his voice, faint but clear: "Selena, hold on. I'll find you."

Her eyes widened, and her heart swelled with hope. Somehow, their bond was still strong, even across time. If Alexander could reach her, perhaps there was a way to return. She just had to hold on and trust that he would find the key.

***

Meanwhile, in the Present

Alexander arrived at Professor Alden's house, breathless but determined. He knocked urgently, and the professor opened the door, surprised by his late-night visit.

"Alexander, what's the matter?" Alden asked, stepping aside to let him in.

"It's Selena," Alexander said, his voice urgent. "She's gone. The ring… it did something. I think she's trapped in the past."

The professor's expression grew serious. He gestured for Alexander to sit down. "Calm yourself and explain everything."

Alexander recounted what had happened, showing the empty box and the ancient book. Professor Alden listened carefully, his eyes narrowing as he processed the information.

"It seems the ring acted as a gateway, linking her to a past life," Alden said thoughtfully. "If what you say is true, then Selena is now living in that past as her former self Princess Helena."

"Then how do I bring her back?" Alexander asked desperately.

Professor Alden tapped the book's cover. "If she's truly your twin flame, your bond transcends time. You must strengthen that bond by anchoring yourself to her through something familiar a memory, an emotion, anything that ties you both together. Once the bond is strong enough, it may create a bridge for her return."

Alexander nodded, determination blazing in his eyes. "What do I need to do?"

"I'll guide you through the ritual, but it won't be easy. You must be fully committed mind, body, and soul."

"I'll do whatever it takes," Alexander said without hesitation.