The Guardian of the Garden smiled, and I saw a glimmer of sadness in her eyes. I have been waiting for you, God of Death, she said. For I know what you seek.
I frowned, unsure of what she meant. What do you mean? I asked.
The Guardian's smile grew wider. I know that you seek the Chalice of Life, she said. But I also know why you seek it.
I felt a surge of anger. How could she know? I asked.
The Guardian's eyes seemed to bore into my soul. I know because I was once like you, she said. I was once a god, seeking to control the balance of the universe.
I stared at her, shocked. You...you're a god? I asked.
The Guardian nodded. Yes, she said. I was the Goddess of Fate. But I was tricked by the other gods, and I was cast out of the heavens.
I felt a pang of sorrow for her. And now? I asked. Now that you are no longer a god?
The Guardian's eyes filled with tears. Now, she said, I am cursed to guard the Garden of Eden for eternity. Never able to leave, never able to rest.
Ariana stepped forward, her eyes filled with compassion. We can help you, she said. We can help you break your curse.
The Guardian looked at her, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. How? she asked.
Ariana smiled. We are on a quest to gather the ancient artifacts, she said. And with them, we can control the balance of the universe. We can break your curse.
The Guardian's face lit up with joy. Really? she asked.
Ariana nodded. Yes, she said. But we need the Chalice of Life. Will you give it to us?
The Guardian hesitated for a moment, then nodded. Yes, she said. I will give it to you. But only if you promise to break my curse.