Flash Fiction February 2026 Day Four: Belief (Valan)

 

1. Flash Fiction February 2026 Prompt: Belief (a ritual that was supposed to be symbolic starts to actually work)

“Has anyone actually tested to see whether or not this is going to truly work or are we flying blind here?” At the question I hear a voice that I identify to be Ayron's pipe up with “It’s been tested before, sure. Does it actually work? Supposedly, if you’re really the chosen one at least.” there’s a pause, followed by a mumbled “if you’re not then it was nice knowing you…everyone else has died.” much less cheerfully than he’d begun the answer originally. Well that’s cold comfort. At least I’d be missed? Why the wise women believe I’m some sort of reincarnation I don’t think I’ll ever understand. It would explain the strange occurrences lately though with  random assassins popping up here and there, strange dreams, and apparently on one or two occasions I’ve appeared almost as if someone were controlling me. If that’s the case I’d very much like Nerevar to stop doing that. After all, I have things to do, and places to be, with important people who do not take kindly to being ignored. Mentally preparing myself I get ready to face what could possibly be my demise. Ayron wishes me good luck, and reminds me to believe in myself. I can’t quite tell if he’s joking or not. Belief can be a powerful thing, though, and stepping into the cave I feel as if I’m about to find out exactly how powerful it can be. Eventually I complete the trials expected of me by the goddess and come to the final test- an enchanted ring. The whole ritual, which for centuries has proven more symbolic and a way to hold on to hope and the belief in the prophecy than anything else, is nearly complete. Taking a breath to calm myself I pick up the ring. Holding my breath, closing my eyes tightly should something awful happen, and certainly looking ridiculous I very quickly slip the ring on my finger with an involuntary yelp. A moment passes. I peek open one eye and then relax. I’m not dead! “Now that is a nice ring” I say aloud to myself admiring the enchanted piece of jewelry now proving I am what the wise women and their long held belief said I am. A second later my thoughts are interrupted by a very otherworldly voice. Looking around confused and in awe I say to no one in particular, perhaps rhetorically to my friends waiting for me once I return.  “I know you guys said this was mostly symbolic…but I think it’s working…”