Hexarium's heart pulsed with a renewed vitality, the magical energy within it shimmering with a renewed brilliance. It was as if the world itself had taken a breath, freed from the suffocating grip of Matthieu's darkness.
Exhaustion sapped my spirit as I was surrounded by a myriad of ethereal spirits. Their presence was comforting yet powerful, and I couldsensethe wisdom and ancient knowledge they held.
"We have watched you, Fawn, throughout your many lifetimes," one of the spirits spoke with a voice that resonated like a gentle breeze.
I bowed my head respectfully, acknowledging the spirits' presence. It was the very first time the spirits of Hexarium had outright spoken with me.
"I am humbled by your observation,” I murmured, my spirit fading slightly.
The spirits shimmered, their essence swirling like galaxies. "You have been an extraordinary protector of the balance between the mortal and spirit realms. Your bond with your mages is unlike any other, and your actions have shaped destinies. Thanks to you six, Matthieu is no more. Our magic can flow again just like before, and Hexarium can be at peace with itself again.”
"You have reached a crucial juncture," another spirit chimed in. "It is time for you to decide how you wish to continue your journey."
“Decide on what? What choices do I have?"
The spirits explained, "One path leads to rest, where you and your bonded mages can finally find peace and solace in the eternal embrace of the spirit realm. Your immortal souls will be united, and you will become part of us.”
"And the other path?" I breathed, my mind racing with possibilities.
I had wanted to end my life for so long, and here they were, offering me everything I used to want andmore.
"The other path offers the continuation of your immortal life in the mortal realm alongside your bonded mages. You will remain together, sharing experiences, and witnessing the ever-changing world until the end of days," a spirit replied.
My spirit throbbed with love and confusion.
I wanted to rest my spirit,desperately. But I wasn’t ready to just yet. I wanted to spend more time with my bonded and experiencelifewith those I loved.
The spirits observed my struggling. "Remember, whichever path you choose, your impact on the world and the spirit realm will be profound. Your legacy will endure."
I made the men I’d fallen in love with a promise, even with the temptation of giving into eternal rest, I knew that wasn’t what they would want—and I didn’t think I wanted it anymore, either.
"I choose to stay with my bonded mages in the mortal realm,” I declared. "Our journey is not over, and I wish to continue exploring the wonders of Hexarium and life with them by my side."
The spirits' light brightened, and a sense of approval emanated from them. "Your choice is respected, Fawn, for it is made with love and a brave heart. The very things that made you our chosen one. Embrace the immortal life you've chosen, and may your bond endure for all eternity."
With those words, I felt a rush of energy filling my spirit. My ethereal form started to wane, and I felt myself being pulled back to the mortal world where my vessel awaited my spirit. But I knew our mission was accomplished.
Matthieu was no more in vesselorspirit, and we were free to live our lives the waywewanted.
With a final surge of spirit energy, I separated myself from the spirit realm, returning to my physical form in Hexarium.
* * *
I suckedin a sharp gasp as my heart battered against my rib cage, and I shot up from Aimon’s lap. He must’ve been holding me and waiting for me to resurrect.
Aimon’s strong arms wrapped tightly around me a moment later. “Thank the spirits you’re alive.”
“I’m immortal.” I sank against his chest with a heavy breath. “I’m not dying on you that easily. Besides, our souls are tied. If I die, you all die. And vice versa.”
Magic trickled through my vessel, and I could feel its strength radiating from the depths of my soul.
My heart ached at the realization that Declan had been dead since my guild had fallen, but there was a dark presence emanating from somewhere nearby—not as dark as Matthieu’s spirit, but there was a tinge of madness rippling around us.
Its existence made it impossible for me to grieve Declan like he deserved.
“What happened?” I pulled back, resting my hands on his shoulders and glancing around to see darkness filling the room.
Jasper stood on one side, wielding his dark powers against the rest of my bonded mages.
