Chapter 14: Despair… Light of Hope ( 2 )
We're going to go back in time a little, to where Liora took her final phase of the trial.
Liora still stood frozen, her staff trembling in her grip as the brutal scene replayed yet again—the man's swords slashing. The boys body cut in two, blood splattering everywhere like macabre confetti. Her mind raced, conflicting thoughts screaming louder than the chaos around her.
Should I kill him? Can I kill him? He's human... each repetition of the horror tightened the knot in her chest until Solara's hints finally clicked.
"a demon... maybe he's a demon in disguise," she whispered frantically, her voice barely audible. With newfound resolve, she locked her eyes on the man and chanted, "Golden Ray!" a pillar of light erupted, consuming him instantly.
This time, the boy vanished without exchanging glances, leaving Liora breathless and shaken. Solara's melodic laughter broke the tension. "congratulations, Liora."
The young mage sprinted toward the phoenix, her voice a mix of triumph and panic. "I figured it out, Solara! He wasn't real—he was a demon trick, right?"
Solara's smile faded slightly, her tone gentle but unyielding. "he was real, Liora. A simulation, yes—but still human. Sometimes, evil wears a human face".
Liora's eyes widened in horror. "but... but I killed him! I'm a murderer?" Solara shook her head, wings rustling softly.
"no. you acted to save the innocent. But remember: not all enemies are demons. Some are humans who've lost their way. Your journey will force you to face that truth—and choose between your principles and survival." Liora swallowed hard, tears welling up. "i-I'll study harder. I'll learn to judge better."