Chapter 3: What... What is this place?
Everything felt strange and new. His old life, his old strength—gone, replaced by this small, weak body. Panic and anger mixed inside him. This new world was already changing him, and he wasn't ready.
He looked around again. People were watching quietly.
Hiroshi looked at the man in front. He wore long white clothes that covered his whole body. 'Isn't he feeling hot in that? Hiroshi thought. 'That looks heavy and thick.'
The man's voice was clear and strong. He spoke in a serious, formal way.
"Today, we gather to begin a sacred ritual. May the light guide us and bring blessings to our land."
In front of the man stood a young girl. She looked about sic years old, with long brown hair that shined like silk and she wore a simple white dress. She looked nervous but brave.
The girl stepped forward and put her hand on a glowing, clear ball floating in the air. The ball shined very bright, and Hiroshi had to cover his eyes.
Around the room, many people whispered softly. Then, they started clapping.
The man in white smiled and said, "You are blessed by the light. Your path will be strong and full of hope."
Hiroshi heard the man call another name. "Axelius Dravenhart."
Hiroshi shook his head and said, "I need to get out of here."