Chapter 14: Crossroads of Souls

The sky above Eternity had lost its previous stability. Winds, spiraling in chaotic patterns, transformed the peaceful landscape into a series of blurred images that changed in an instant. One truth remained constant: everything was on the brink of explosion. Only now, as it seemed that all paths led to one point, Melania and Endar found themselves at the crossroads of souls — a place where the past, present, and future merged into one.

This was a space without end or beginning, where both time and space lost their essence. They stood amidst dead trees that were not trees but rather echoes of existing forms. Only one thing remained certain — each of them had to face their destiny, and this was the place where it would all unfold.

Melania walked ahead of Endar, her footsteps echoing hollowly in the silence. Her thoughts were focused on how everything they had built could go awry. The decisions she would have to make were drawing nearer. The question that lingered in her mind refused to let go: was she ready to pay for the new Eternity with what she loved?

“Melania,” Endar said quietly, as though afraid to break the silence of this place. “We can’t just move forward not knowing where it will lead us. These paths aren’t only ours; they may intersect with others, and you know what that might mean.”

Melania stopped and looked at him. In her gaze was a mix of determination and fear. She knew that the further she went, the more questions arose. And the further she walked, the harder it became to make a choice.

“I know what you mean,” she replied. “But I can’t stop now. We have to go through this. If we don’t do it now, we lose everything.”

Endar looked at her with some doubt but also understanding. He was here too to finish what they had started. Yet deep inside, a question was growing: was there another way? A way that wouldn’t require sacrificing part of oneself, part of their essence?

Then, before them, appeared another figure — dark as night, its aura full of calm and wisdom. It was one of the guardians, whose role was more than just an observer. His name was Altar, and he was the line that held the balance between these worlds. He was one who did not intervene unless necessary, but if the critical point was reached, he would step in.

“I see you’re approaching the point where everything will be decided,” Altar said, his voice calm yet carrying an undercurrent of power that was inevitably approaching. “But remember one thing: your choice won’t just shape your path; it will leave a mark on every other Eternity.”

Endar couldn’t hold back and approached him.

“You mean we affect more than just ourselves?” he asked.

Altar nodded. He raised his hand, and a series of symbols appeared from the darkness, as if summoned by his motion.

“Every choice has its line, every decision creates new paths. Sometimes these paths intertwine, sometimes they cross in a way that no two lines will ever be the same. But remember, Melania, Endar, there is always balance. Where one path ends, another begins.”

Melania looked at him, trying to understand what he meant. She felt her heart tighten with an unknown threat.

“And what do you suggest?” she asked, her words calm, but her heart beating faster. “What must we do to avoid a catastrophe?”

Altar paused, observing them both. His gaze was thoughtful, yet filled with quiet sorrow.

“In each of you lies the power to influence change. But remember: power without wisdom is chaos. You must not only observe but learn to influence in a way that does not destroy what has already been created. Eternity needs your help, but will you have the strength to make the right choice?”

Here, at this crossroads of souls, they felt the weight of their future decisions. And although the path they had chosen seemed to lead into great uncertainty, it was here and now that their choices would determine their fates — and the fates of all worlds.