- The Forgotten -
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Samuel awoke abruptly, his breathing rapid and his heart pounding in his chest. He realized he was no longer in the warm shelter of the cabin; instead, he was in Letárnia, a place shrouded in oppressive darkness. A strange sensation spread through his body, as if an invisible force was taking over him, paralyzing his thoughts and actions. His eyes strained to see through the gloom, until a translucent figure began to materialize before him.
— Welcome, Samuel. You look frightened, but don't be afraid, I won't hurt you — said the creature, its voice echoing like a distant wind.
Samuel tried to speak, but the words got stuck in his throat. He felt trapped inside his own mind, a powerless spectator, only able to see and hear what the being said.
— Do you see this place, Samuel? This is the Forgetting — the end of all things and the balance of life. I wonder what's running through your mind, or rather, through your dreams and desires — the entity continued, its presence almost suffocating.
Samuel's vision grew heavy as he stared at the entity, anguish tightening in his chest. He didn't even have the strength to close his eyes. But suddenly, the scene shifted, and he found himself surrounded by his family and friends, their smiles and laughter filling the air. It was a vivid memory — one he thought he had lost forever.
— You can feel it, can't you? That longing for them. This is your greatest dream — to see them again — said the entity, its voice seductive and cruel at once.
— It's a shame this dream is so impossible and distant. That's why I heard you; you wished, and I came to fulfill that wish. I can bring them back — your world and everyone you loved. You won't have to worry anymore. All I need is one thing — the creature went on, its greed evident in its tone.
— Reach your hand out to me — it said, the voice now more insistent.
Samuel was lost in his own head, in his memories. His eyes, once full of hope, now seemed empty, as if something was erasing them. His hands moved involuntarily toward his chest, from where a light began to shine, pulsing like his heartbeat.
— I just need that light, the one I lost. Only then can I satisfy your wish and bring your family back, just as they were — the entity insisted, reaching a hand toward Samuel.
The light slowly began to leave Samuel's chest, a vital force he could barely comprehend. Just before he could offer it to the being's hand, he stopped the motion, his determination reignited.
— If you really want this light, then come and take it from me — but only if you can — Samuel challenged, his voice now steady and resonant.
Samuel's eyes, once colorless, regained their life and brightness, and his strength returned. Confidence began to grow within him, warming his spirit.
— If you thought I'd fall for that pathetic speech, you're dead wrong. My dream might seem impossible to you, but I won't sacrifice my light and let others suffer for your greed — Samuel declared, his voice echoing through the darkness.
— What a pity... If you want to suffer for them, then suffer. But that light — it's mine — said the entity with disdain, thrusting its hand into Samuel's chest. He felt searing pain, a despair threatening to consume his mind.
— Get off me! — Samuel shouted, grabbing the creature's hand with force, a fierce determination burning in his heart. — Next time you mention my family, I'll end you right here.
— So be it — the entity hissed, its voice dripping with contempt.
Samuel's hands began to glow. He gripped the creature's arm tightly, making it howl in agony. He could hear the creature's cries of pain.
— What is this!? What have you done!? This pain is unbearable! You'll pay, you'll pay with your life for this! Mark my words, human! This won't be the last time we meet! — the being screamed, its words filled with fury and torment.
Freed, Samuel began to fall into a deep void, the darkness consuming him. His vision blurred, and his hands and chest began to glow again, as if the light wanted to escape him. Just as he was about to be lost in the abyss, he woke up, gasping. A breath of relief escaped his lips, and he felt his body lighter than ever. He looked at his hands, still glowing faintly — but the light soon faded.
"What was that? That creature… Was it really just a dream? I hurt that thing. So that's what the light wanted to show me — the Forgetting. I barely escaped this time. Why did it want the light so badly? I better get up, it's probably late."
Samuel got up from bed and grabbed his backpack, the weight of his journey still present in his mind. "If I'm staying here for a while, I better get my things in order and take a hot shower. I really need it." He organized his belongings, each movement carrying the feeling of a new beginning, and then headed toward the bathroom.
A few minutes later, Samuel finished his shower and dressed in clothes he had found in the cabin. They were warm and comfortable, fitting his tired body well. Sitting by the fireplace, he ate something to satisfy the hunger gnawing at him while reflecting on his future.
"How can I save this world from the Forgetting? She didn't explain much, but she said I was on the right path. Could it have something to do with this war? Maybe."
As those thoughts stirred in his mind, someone knocked at the door. He stood up and opened it calmly.
— Good evening, sorry to come so late — that meeting took longer than I expected — said the Alpha, his voice bringing unexpected comfort.
— No problem — Samuel replied.
— I see you've changed clothes; they suit you well. But I didn't come just to compliment your outfit. I came to talk, if you're free — said the Alpha, his gaze serious but friendly.
— I'm free, what's it about? — Samuel asked, curiosity rising.
— Well, first, come outside. It's a beautiful night — the Alpha invited, gesturing to the starry sky.
Samuel stepped out of the cabin and joined the Alpha, the fresh night air filling his lungs.
— You know, Samuel, at first, like I said, I doubted your words. I didn't know if you were telling the truth or just a lunatic. But after getting to know you a bit, I realized you really aren't from here. I wonder about your past… and how you know this world so well. Can you tell me? — the Alpha asked, his voice curious.
Samuel sat beside the Alpha, the weight of his memories heavy on him, but also easing his heart.
— My past is… complicated. In my early years, I lived happy moments with people I loved — everything was practically perfect. But one day, that all changed. Bloodthirsty beings destroyed and killed everyone I ever loved. I did everything I could to save them… but in the end, I was left alone. But it's okay. I've learned to live with the silence, and even though I miss them, I know they're in a better place.
— About your world… I used to dream of this place. I dreamed of living here with the ones I lost. I'd write stories in my notebook about this world, just to forget how painful mine was. Eventually, I got lost in my own imagination, with no one to share it with — Samuel continued, his voice tinged with sorrow but also hope.
The Alpha looked up at the sky, his features softened by the starlight.
— I completely understand, Samuel. Living in a world without those you love is painful, but it seems you handled it as best as anyone could. They truly are in a better place, rooting for your success — believe that.
— Thank you for thinking that way, sir — Samuel replied.
— Don't thank me, it's the truth — the Alpha said, his gaze firm and sincere.
Samuel lowered his head for a moment.
— I hope you enjoy your time here. You deserve some rest — the Alpha added.
Samuel and the Alpha watched the stars and shared stories with one another. For the first time in months, Samuel felt truly at ease beside someone he could finally call… a friend.
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