Embers of Resolve: A Confluence of Fates (Part 7)

The night feels long as my sleep brings me into my dream.

Later in my dream, I was brought back to that realm and found myself once again standing in that ethereal emptiness, face-to-face with the enigmatic orb of light. Its radiant presence seemed to exude both familiarity and a sense of mystery.

The orb of light spoke in a voice that held a touch of wisdom and resonance, "It seems that fate has once again united us."

I found myself uttering words of bewilderment and curiosity, "What the… how can I be here again? And you! What are you exactly?"

In response, the orb's luminous presence seemed to glow with a knowing air. "Isn't it apparent? You should recognize me by now."

My skepticism couldn't be contained. "This is absurd. How could I possibly know someone—or something—like you? You're unlike any being I've encountered. You're a weird talking light."

The orb's response was calm and assured, "In the realm of dreams, the dreamer may encounter their own reflection, even while their physical form rests. Yet, in your case, I am more than a mere reflection. I am your true essence, and you are ensconced within a dream." He explained it to me.

A sense of incredulity gripped me. "So, you're claiming that you are me, and I am you? This is beyond preposterous."

The orb radiated a serene light, its glow casting a soft luminescence around us. "Belief is yours to bestow. In this domain, only truth prevails."

Maybe I should take his word. Believe it or not, at least it can't bring harm.

My skepticism remained unwavering. "Fine then, what are you exactly? Spare me the obvious—yes, you're an orb, but what is your true identity?"

The orb's light seemed to shimmer with distant memories. "I am akin to the genesis of all things. In the vast expanse of emptiness, I existed alone."

The revelation intrigued me. 

"So, you are telling you're some sort of a creator?" I try to recap what I understand.

"One could say that, but creation was borne from within itself. Though, that time has passed. I've since become a wandering light, devoid of purpose or direction." The orb's luminosity remained constant as it clarified.

A sense of realization began to take root. "But for what purpose could that be?" I questioned.

With a tone that carried a hint of amusement, the orb responded. "I could say that my purpose is merely to create a shadow."

I sighed. "Obviously. Where there is light, there shall be a shadow." I thought to myself.

The orb's radiance deepened. "Wherever I move, a shadow will emerge."

My curiosity led me to ask a pivotal question. "Then, how does that explain that I am you?"

The orb's response carried a tinge of whimsy. "I became intrigued and decided to engage in a form of amusement. Before I knew it, I found myself within your form."

The revelation left me gasping for comprehension. "You mean, my former self or my current self?"

The orb clarified, "Your former self."

Intrigue coursed through me. "But why reveal yourself now?"

The orb's explanation bore a touch of melancholy. "As I reside within you, my memories fade and I gradually assimilate more human-like attributes. My consciousness has resurfaced as I've traversed to another realm."

A sudden realization hit me. "Could it be... 'Master'?"

The orb's response was swift and genuine. "I am unfamiliar with this 'Master' you speak of."

My mind raced, connecting the dots. "The one who revived me..."

The orb interjected with a dose of reality. "Revival is not within the realm of possibility on Earth."

A sudden idea struck me.

"Technically, but what about this world?" I questioned.

The orb remained aloof. "I understand it may sound implausible, but this realm operates under different rules."

"So, you're just ruling over the Earth?" My inquiry continued. 

The orb debunked the notion. "I neither oversee nor rule over Earth. The realm is not under a singular dominion. Or are you referring to human influence? The wealthy who wield power through affluence?"

My curiosity focused on the journey that led me here. "Then how did I end up in this realm?"

The orb's response carried a playful edge. "Perhaps you should inquire of your 'Master.' Or utilize your clerical powers to establish contact. Alternatively, a visit to the church might offer insight. And who knows, perhaps a sacrifice could serve as a unique gateway."

My exasperation showed through. "Are you serious? You sound more like an unhelpful adult."

"Are you blaming yourself? I only take your form. Basically, I am you. That's why I'm behaving like you." The orb explained that my blame would return to my own fault.

A touch of annoyance lingered in my voice. "For god sake. "Are you implying that I should perform a real sacrifice? (Would that truly lead me to answers?) If it was you, would you have contact with me after I make a sacrifice?".

The orb's response took on a whimsical turn. "Well, if it involves sacrificial..." It giggled softly.

Amusement laced my words. "Why? Do you have a fondness for sacrifice?"

The orb seemed to nod, its motion limited to a gentle ascent and descent. Our unspoken exchange spoke volumes.

"Anyways, about last time. What do you mean there is someone else?" I asked him about the statement he made on our last encounter.

"Don't try to act like a dumb. You already know it." The orb told me.

I have a thought momentarily.

In an introspective moment, my realization came to the fore.