Chương 3: The Savoir

Then, something magical happened. A blinding light filled the dim room, its brilliance erasing the shadows and casting an ethereal glow over everything. Helena shielded her eyes, her heart pounding in her chest as the light grew more intense. When she dared to peek through her fingers, she saw a glowing figure materialize before her.

At first, she thought it was a man, but the more she looked, the less she believed he was from her planet. His hair was a fiery red, cascading down his shoulders like molten lava. His clothes were elegant and refined, exuding an otherworldly quality. The fabric shimmered with a stunning orangish-red hue, but as Helena looked closer, she realized that his garments were not merely dyed. They were on fire—not blazing, but glowing with a controlled, even heat that emanated a sense of power and serenity.

The figure's presence was commanding, and Helena felt a strange mix of fear and awe. His eyes, a piercing gold, locked onto hers with an intensity that made her breath catch. There was something ancient and wise in his gaze as if he had seen the rise and fall of countless civilizations.

"Who are you?" Helena whispered, her voice trembling.

The figure smiled a warm, radiant smile that made her feel safe despite the surreal situation. "I am Aelion," he said, his voice melodic and soothing, yet filled with authority. "I come from beyond the stars, summoned by the plight of this world."

Aelion's gaze softened, his expression filled with compassion as he turned away from Helena. In a swift motion, he intercepted Jerome who had started charging the two of them again after having been knocked back by Aelion. With a flick of his hand, Aelion conjured a barrier of shimmering energy, deflecting his assault effortlessly.

The man stumbled back, his eyes widening in disbelief as he found himself thwarted by an unseen force. He recoiled, fear etched on his face as he realized he was no match for the mysterious godly figure before him. Aelion's presence exuded power, his very aura commanding respect and obedience.

"Who are you?" the assailant stammered, his voice trembling with uncertainty.

Aelion's expression remained calm, but there was a hint of steel in his eyes. "I am Aelion," he declared. His aura surrounded the room, and as he spoke his voice carried an air of authority that made the man before him whimper. His voice grew deeper, and his aura darker as he continued to speak, his voice echoed around the now shaking room as he announced that, "I will not allow harm to come to this woman."

Jerome backed away, his courage gone in the face of Aelion's awe-inspiring power. He cast a fearful glance at Helena before turning and fleeing into the darkness, disappearing into the darkened street.

Helena watched in awe as Aelion dealt with her master with effortless grace. She felt a surge of gratitude and relief wash over her, realizing that she had been saved by this enigmatic stranger. But even as she marveled at his power, questions swirled in her mind. Who was Aelion, and why had he come to her aid?