As I left my house for my uncle's, I looked around to see many people crowding around. I can't blame them. They must have heard the disruption, and wondered what it was. "Excuse me," I said, being the only thing I could say and keep my composure. I walked to my uncle's house, trying not to cry as I walk. So much had happened, so many things unanswered; it all confused me. I looked at the crystal I clutched tightly in my hand. How could such a small gem cause so much trouble?
I never had that much trouble walking through town before. I felt uneasy, like someone or something wanted to hurt me. I kept looking around, looking behind me, then I ran. I ran from my thoughts, my fears. I didn't know why I felt that way; all I knew was that I didn't want to stay outside, in the open.
Upon reaching his house, I noticed the door was open. Fearing the worst, I rushed inside. "Uncle," I yelled, hoping for a response. "Uncle, can you hear me?"
"Estoch," he yelled, yet his voice sounded muffled. "I'm in the back room."
I quickly rushed to the back of the house, hoping he was in good health. I ran through the many rooms, stepping around turned over chairs and tables. "Uncle, are you hurt," I yelled out to him.
"I'm not sure," he replied. "I can't see."
"I'll be there shortly Uncle. Please remain strong!" I kept moving until I reached the back room, where I saw my uncle sitting in the corner. I walked closer to him and knelt next to him.
"Estoch," he asked, "is that you?" He held his head high, holding his eyes.
"Uncle, what's wrong with your eyes," I asked him.
"They've been hit." He removed his hands, showing a large wound across both eyes.
"Uncle, who did this to you," I asked him.
"I'm not sure. He took my sight quickly, then asked where your father was."
"Dammit. I know who you speak of."
"I hope you didn't run into him. He seemed angry."
"I did run into him. He was angry." My voice began to trail off.
"What did he want with your father?"
I stood silent for a moment, trying not to cry. "He wanted something of his. A crystal of some sort."
He grabbed my arm, and said, "Please tell me the monster doesn't have the crystal!"
"The crystal is safe with me, Uncle."
"What about your father? How is he?"
My composure broke, and I began to cry. "He's dead..."
Terron sighed. "I knew this day would come," he said. "Estoch, I have a favor to ask of you."
I stopped crying. "Of course Uncle."
He held his hand out. "Please hand me the crystal."
"Yes, Uncle." I held my hand out and placed the crystal in his open hand. "What do you plan to do?"
He clasps his hand over the crystal, and remains still for the longest time. "Ah, yes. This is the one," he said. "It's no wonder demons are after it. It contains great power."
"What is the crystal," I asked him. "What is it about that gem that makes demons want it so badly?"
"This crystal is important. It holds the balance of the planet within it's jewel casing."
"What do you mean, Uncle?"
He points to the other side of the room, to a bookcase. "There is a book on the top shelf of the bookcase. Read this book to answer what questions you may have. Keep it with you to protect it from the evil."
"Uncle, what are you planning?"
"You must leave this town, never to return. That crystal must be protected at all costs."
"Why should I leave, Uncle? I want to fight. I want to avenge my father's death!"
He stood up. "Foolish boy! Do you really think you can fight Chaos all by yourself?"
"You know of Chaos?"
"Indeed, I do. He is unlike any demon you may have faced."
"Then what do you suggest I do? Keep running?"
He paused. "You have a point. You can't run forever. If you truly feel you can fight, then see the King. He should be able to help you."
"Fine, I shall do so. Thank you, Uncle." He handed me the crystal, and I stood up. "I'll summon my mother over."
I left his house, and walked in the direction of the castle, clutching both the book my uncle had given me, and the crystal that everyone seems to want. As I head to the castle I can help but think what I'm getting myself into. I looked to the small gem, then the book. I questioned the whole thing. It was just too odd to fully believe. I began to close in on the castle, so I kept walking until I reached the gate. "Excuse me, I need inside the castle," I told the guard.
"Sorry young one," he said. "The castle is closed to the public for the night."
"It's urgent matters," I said, holding the crystal up for him to see.
"Excuse me. I'll open the gate immediately."
"Thank you." My heart was pounding as hard as it could. I didn't know why I felt so uneasy, nor did I know what was coming. All I knew was that I wanted to avenge my father. I wanted to slay Chaos.
~end chapter 2~