Heles had heard of the red crystal spear, but she'd never dreamed she would wield it. But metal didn't work against the monster threatening the town, and that meant she'd needed to try whatever she could.

There were stories about it, legends and sayings. Not just anyone could take it in hand, but to Heles it felt light and comfortable. With it, Alster Island would be safe. She would make and keep it that way.

Red crystal barely showed the blood that flowed over it, having pierced strange hide.

And red crystal would show the way to a better future.