Divine Hearts Among the Sky

Chapter 52: The power inside

As I sat by my mother's side, her weakened form resting against the pillows, I took a deep breath and mustered the strength to share the heartbreaking truth with her. The weight of the words hung heavy in the air as I prepared to recount the events that led to Selena's demise at the hands of Athena.

"Mom," I began, my voice trembling slightly, "Athena... she killed Selena."

A flicker of disbelief and sorrow crossed my mother's face, her eyes widening with the weight of the revelation. The bond between Selena and our family had always been strong, and the news struck a painful chord within all of us.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I continued, recounting the treacherous encounter in the dark depths of the cave. The way Athena had cunningly lured Selena into a trap, exploiting her trust and extinguishing her light with a single, merciless strike.

My mother's grip on my hand tightened, her face etched with a mixture of grief and anger. It was a heavy burden to bear, knowing that Athena had not only taken Selena's life but also shattered our sense of security and unity.

In a voice choked with emotion, I conveyed the injustice of it all, how Athena had sought to undermine our strength and sow discord among us. But in the face of this tragedy, I made a solemn vow to my mother and myself.

"We won't let Athena's actions go unanswered, Mom," I said, determination burning in my eyes. "We will honor Selena's memory by standing together and fighting for what is right. We will ensure that her sacrifice was not in vain."

My mother nodded, her gaze filled with both grief and resolve. Though weakened by her own battle, she understood the importance of carrying Selena's legacy forward, of fighting against the darkness that threatened our world.

"Belle," she began, her voice a mere whisper, "Athena possesses formidable powers and cunning intellect. But remember, my dear, power alone is not invincible."

She took a moment to catch her breath, her gaze never leaving mine. Her words carried a weight of experience and a touch of caution.

"Athena draws her strength from manipulation, deception, and the fear she instills in others. To defeat her, you must not allow yourself to be ensnared in her web of illusions. Find your own truth, your own source of power, and stand firm in it."

Her words struck a chord deep within me. I had always been aware of the strength I carried within, the unique gifts bestowed upon me by my hybrid nature. Now, more than ever, it was time to embrace those gifts, to tap into the depths of my own potential.

My mother continued, her voice growing fainter but still filled with conviction. "Bella, remember who you are. You possess the power of the moon, the strength of the lycan, and the wisdom of the witches."

As I sat there, contemplating the question of how to defeat Athena, a myriad of thoughts raced through my mind. It was a daunting task, considering her immense power and cunning nature. But I knew that we couldn't afford to back down or let fear consume us.

I turned to my mother, seeking guidance in this moment of uncertainty. Her weary eyes met mine, and with a gentle smile, she began to share her wisdom, as if she had heard my thoughts.

"Bella, my dear," she said, her voice filled with a mixture of love and determination, "to defeat Athena, you must first understand her weaknesses."

She went on to explain that while Athena possessed formidable magical abilities and an unmatched intellect, no being is invincible. Every individual, no matter how powerful, has their vulnerabilities.

My mother's words resonated within me, sparking a glimmer of hope. If Athena had weaknesses, then it meant that there was a way to bring her down, to restore balance and protect the ones we held dear.

"But what is her weakness?" I furrowed my eyebrows.

"Bella," she said, her voice filled with a mix of love and concern, "since the day you were born, Athena has harbored a deep desire to eliminate you. Selena, sensing this danger, intervened and suggested that you may hold the key to stopping Athena's reign."

My heart skipped a beat at the realization that my mere existence could play a pivotal role in thwarting Athena's plans. My mother continued, her voice growing stronger with each word.

"You possess a unique power, Bella," she said. "A power that stems from your lycan heritage, intertwined with your witch lineage. This combined strength, untapped and unexplored, could be the very weapon we need to bring down Athena."

She looked at me with determination and pride, and continued. "You're her weakness, Belle." she begins, her words laced with awe. "You are not just a witch; you are a copycat witch, capable of mirroring and harnessing the abilities of others. But what makes you truly unique is the presence of your lycan blood, which grants you immense strength, resilience, and instinctual prowess."

I hold my breath, absorbing her words with a mix of astonishment and hope. Could this be the answer I've been searching for? My mother's eyes lock with mine, her gaze filled with unwavering belief.

"Athena fears you, my child," she continues, her voice growing stronger with each word. "From the moment you were born, she sensed the power within you, the potential to be her greatest enemy. That is why she seeks your demise, to prevent you from realizing your full potential."

Tears well up in my eyes as I listen to my mother's words, feeling a strange mixture of fear and exhilaration. Could I truly possess the strength to stand against Athena? The weight of responsibility settles upon my shoulders.

"To tap into your hidden powers, my dear, you must learn to embrace both sides of your heritage—the witch and the lycan," she imparts, her voice filled with wisdom. "It is the fusion of these two powerful forces that will unlock your true potential. But it won't be an easy path, my child. It will require self-discovery, inner strength, and the willingness to confront the darkness within yourself."

Her hand reaches out, caressing my cheek with a tenderness that only a mother can convey. "You have the power to channel the abilities of others, to adapt and mirror their strengths. But to do so, you must first understand yourself—your desires, your fears, and your true purpose."

I nod, hanging onto her every word, as the magnitude of my journey dawns upon me. It is not just about defeating Athena; it is about discovering who I truly am, embracing the depth of my powers, and finding my place in this world.

"Train your mind, body, and spirit, my child," my mother continues, her voice a gentle whisper. "Seek guidance from those who understand the intricacies of your unique gifts. Trust in yourself, for within you lies the untapped power that can rival Athena's."

A surge of determination fills my being as I absorb her words. I am not alone in this battle; I have the unwavering support of my loved ones and the wisdom of my mother guiding me. I will embrace my heritage, explore the depths of my powers, and unlock the hidden potential that resides within me.

With a renewed sense of purpose, I lean in closer to my mother, our foreheads touching. "Thank you, Mom," I whisper, my voice filled with gratitude and determination. "I won't let you down. I will find a way to stop Athena"

Her weak smile warms my heart as she whispers, "I believe in you, my child. Embrace your power and let love be your guide. You are destined for greatness."

As I leave her room, a newfound sense of purpose fills my every step. I am ready to embark on this transformative journey, to tap into the hidden power residing inside me, and stand against Athena with all the strength and determination that flows through my veins. The path ahead may be treacherous, but I am no longer afraid, for I am a force to be reckoned with.