《Through the Veil of Darkness》


 The Blind Son of Veylora

    The voices echoed in the grand hall, but I couldn¡¯t see their faces. Not that it mattered¡ªI¡¯d long since stopped trying to imagine the expressions that accompanied the words. It was always the same: a mix of disappointment and disdain, thinly veiled behind polite smiles. I stood still, hands clasped behind my back, while my father¡¯s voice thundered above the rest.


    ¡°Do you understand the burden you place on this family, Caelan?¡± His tone was cold, clipped. The kind of tone that didn¡¯t expect an answer. ¡°A son of House Veylora should be a pillar of strength, not... this.¡±


    This. The word lingered in the air, sharp as a blade. My blindness wasn¡¯t something he could say outright¡ªit wasn¡¯t dignified enough. Instead, he danced around it, letting his silence speak louder than his words.


    I tilted my head slightly, a habit I¡¯d picked up when I wanted to seem thoughtful. ¡°Yes, Father. I understand.¡±


    I could feel his eyes on me, scrutinizing every inch of my posture. My mother, as always, was silent. I knew she was there, sitting a few steps away, but she rarely intervened in these moments. Her presence was like a faint breeze¡ªcomforting, but unable to shield me from the storm.


    ¡°You understand,¡± he repeated, his voice lowering. ¡°But what do you do? What do you offer this house, Caelan?¡±


    I clenched my fists, nails digging into my palms. What do I offer? That question had haunted me for years. I wasn¡¯t like Aric, my older brother, whose swordsmanship and charisma had earned him my father¡¯s pride. I wasn¡¯t even like my cousins, who contributed to the family¡¯s alliances with their talents in politics or trade.


    ¡°I will find a way to contribute,¡± I said quietly. My voice betrayed none of the frustration bubbling beneath the surface.


    There was a scoff from my right¡ªAric, no doubt. His voice cut through the silence like a whip. ¡°Find a way? What way is that, little brother? You can¡¯t even find your way to the training yard without help.¡±


    Laughter followed, low and cruel. I felt heat rise to my cheeks but forced myself to remain still. Reacting would only make it worse. That was a lesson I¡¯d learned early: never give them the satisfaction of seeing you crack.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    ¡°Enough, Aric,¡± my mother said softly, finally breaking her silence. It wasn¡¯t a command, but a suggestion. A gentle plea that would be ignored, as always.


    ¡°Enough?¡± Aric¡¯s tone was mocking. ¡°I¡¯m just saying what everyone else is thinking.¡±


    ¡°Aric,¡± my father interjected, his tone sharp. ¡°That will do.¡±


    For a moment, silence filled the hall. I stood there, motionless, as my father¡¯s words lingered in the air. Finally, he let out a long sigh, the sound heavy with disappointment.


    ¡°Dismissed,¡± he said curtly.


    I turned and walked away, keeping my pace steady, my head held high. The cool stone floor beneath my boots was familiar, comforting in its consistency. The moment I left the hall and stepped into the quieter corridors of Veylora Keep, I exhaled, letting the tension drain from my shoulders.


    What do I offer? The question echoed in my mind again. The answer was painfully clear: nothing. Not yet.


    I traced my fingers along the smooth stone wall, finding my way to the library. It was my refuge, the one place where I could escape the weight of expectations. Master Briar would be there, as he always was, surrounded by piles of books and scrolls.


    As I stepped inside, the familiar scent of parchment and ink greeted me. Briar¡¯s voice, warm and steady, reached me before I could call out.


    ¡°Ah, young master Caelan. Come in.¡±


    I walked toward the sound, navigating the room with practiced ease. The library was one of the few places I felt truly comfortable. Here, I wasn¡¯t judged for what I couldn¡¯t do. Instead, I was valued for what I could learn.


    ¡°Rough morning?¡± Briar asked, his tone light but knowing.


    I let out a dry laugh. ¡°You could say that.¡±


    ¡°Your father means well, in his own way,¡± Briar said carefully. ¡°But his vision is... limited.¡±


    ¡°Limited?¡± I raised an eyebrow, amused by the irony. ¡°You mean because he has it.¡±


    Briar chuckled softly, the sound like rustling leaves. ¡°Touch¨¦, young master. But sight isn¡¯t everything, you know. There are other ways to perceive the world.¡±


    I tilted my head, curious. ¡°Other ways?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll understand in time,¡± Briar said cryptically. ¡°For now, why don¡¯t we focus on your studies? I found an interesting scroll about the history of magic infusion. I think you¡¯ll find it fascinating.¡±


    I nodded, letting his words settle in my mind. Other ways to perceive the world. The thought lingered as I sat down and began to listen, his voice weaving stories of ancient magic and forgotten techniques.


    For the first time that day, the weight on my shoulders felt a little lighter. Maybe I didn¡¯t have the answers yet, but here, in the quiet sanctuary of the library, I could at least begin to search for them.

 Chapter 2: The First Spark

    The hum began faintly, barely louder than the sound of my own heartbeat. At first, I thought it was just my imagination¡ªa side effect of another sleepless night. But as I lay in bed, staring into the same void I¡¯d always known, the vibration grew stronger, resonating through the medallion resting against my chest.


    This wasn¡¯t normal. The medallion had been mine for as long as I could remember. A gift from my mother. A symbol of resilience, she¡¯d called it. But in all those years, it had never done this.


    ¡°What...?¡± My hand trembled as I pressed it against the cool, smooth surface. The pulsing wasn¡¯t just faint vibrations anymore¡ªit was warm, alive, and unnervingly rhythmic. ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    The hum responded, as though acknowledging my voice. Panic tightened my chest, and I scrambled to sit up, clutching the medallion like it might escape. I could feel my pulse racing, faster than the rhythm of the shard¡¯s strange energy.


    This wasn¡¯t possible. This wasn¡¯t right.


    I swung my legs over the side of the bed, my feet finding the cold stone floor. The night was quiet, save for the faint creaks of the old keep settling around me. My thoughts swirled as I tried to make sense of what I was feeling. Was this some kind of dream? Or worse, a curse? My father had always warned me that the world beyond our walls was dangerous, full of forces that couldn¡¯t be controlled.


    But this wasn¡¯t the world beyond. This was inside me.


    I needed answers. Now.


    The library welcomed me like an old friend, its familiar scent of parchment and ink grounding me. My fingers brushed against the spines of books as I made my way toward the far corner where I always sat. I didn¡¯t need light¡ªI had long since memorized the path.


    I paused as the shard pulsed again, the hum growing sharper. It was guiding me. Not with words, but with its rhythm, like a thread pulling me forward. My hand found the edge of a table, and then something else¡ªa book I didn¡¯t recognize.


    Its leather cover was rough under my fingertips, the edges worn and cracked with age. There were runes etched into the surface, faint and jagged, their shapes unfamiliar. I hesitated before opening it, the shard¡¯s hum quickening as though urging me forward.


    The pages beneath my hands were brittle, but the moment I touched them, something extraordinary happened. The shard¡¯s energy surged, and though I couldn¡¯t see the words, their meaning unfolded in my mind like a whispered secret.


    ¡°Magic is the thread that binds all things.¡±


    The words came unbidden, resonating deep within me.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    ¡°To wield it is to hold the essence of life itself. But magic is not simply wielded¡ªit is infused, becoming one with the body, the spirit, the soul.¡±


    My breath hitched as the shard pulsed sharply, the hum vibrating through every part of me. Infusion¡ªthe melding of magic with one¡¯s being. It sounded impossible, dangerous even. Yet, something about it felt... familiar.


    The book¡¯s presence faded as the shard¡¯s hum filled the room, steady and insistent. I closed my eyes, letting the rhythm wash over me. Could I really do this? Could I truly bring magic into myself?


    My father¡¯s voice echoed in my mind. What do you offer this house, Caelan?


    I clenched my fists, determination hardening inside me. ¡°I¡¯ll show you,¡± I whispered. ¡°I¡¯ll prove you wrong.¡±


    The first attempt was... unpleasant.


    I sat cross-legged on the cold floor of my chambers, the medallion pressed firmly in my hand. The shard¡¯s hum guided my breathing, its rhythm slow and deliberate. I focused inward, imagining the energy spreading from the medallion into my fingers, weaving through me like threads of light.


    At first, there was warmth¡ªa soothing, gentle pulse that sent a shiver through my arm. But then came the pain.


    Sharp. Unforgiving. Like fire coursing through my veins. I gritted my teeth, my free hand clawing at the stone floor as the shard¡¯s energy surged. The pain built and built until I couldn¡¯t take it anymore. I gasped, releasing the medallion as the energy recoiled. The room fell silent, save for my ragged breathing.


    I stared into the darkness, my chest heaving. ¡°What... was that?¡± My voice was barely a whisper, trembling as much as my hands.


    The shard¡¯s hum faded into a faint murmur, leaving me alone with the dull ache in my arm and the burning sting of failure.


    By morning, the pain had dulled, replaced by a strange tingling in my fingertips. As I flexed my hand experimentally, I noticed something... different. My grip felt stronger, steadier, as though the magic had left some trace of itself behind.


    I couldn¡¯t help but smile. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was something.


    The training yard was alive with the sounds of steel clashing and soldiers shouting orders. I made my way toward the centre, where Aric¡¯s voice rang out, as confident and mocking as ever.


    ¡°Back so soon, little brother?¡± he called. ¡°Didn¡¯t think you¡¯d have the stomach for another round.¡±


    I gripped the wooden sword at my side, the shard¡¯s faint hum steadying my nerves. ¡°Maybe you¡¯ll be the one to quit this time.¡±


    Aric laughed, the sound echoing through the yard. ¡°We¡¯ll see about that.¡±


    The sparring match began as it always did, his strikes fast and relentless. But today, something was different. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened, aligning with my movements. I couldn¡¯t see his attacks, but I could feel them¡ªthe subtle shift in the air, the faint creak of his boots on the ground.


    I deflected one blow, then another, my movements quicker and more precise than ever. Aric faltered, his frustration evident as I pressed the attack. For the first time, I wasn¡¯t just holding my own¡ªI was winning.


    When my blade finally struck his wrist, forcing him to drop his weapon, the silence in the yard was deafening. Aric stared at me, his voice low and disbelieving. ¡°What... how did you...?¡±


    I stepped back, lowering my sword. ¡°Maybe I¡¯m stronger than you think.¡±


    That evening, I returned to the library, my thoughts racing. The shard¡¯s hum was quieter now, almost soothing as I sat across from Master Briar.


    ¡°You seem... different,¡± he said, his tone curious. ¡°Care to explain?¡±


    I hesitated, my hand brushing against the medallion. ¡°I think... it¡¯s alive. The shard, I mean. It¡¯s connected to me somehow.¡±


    Briar¡¯s expression shifted, his usual calm giving way to something more cautious. ¡°Alive? Caelan, you may be dealing with something far older¡ªand far more powerful¡ªthan you realize.¡±


    His words sent a shiver down my spine, but I couldn¡¯t back away now. Not when I was so close to finding the strength I¡¯d been searching for.


    The shard pulsed faintly, its rhythm a quiet promise.

 Chapter 3: A Glimmer of Strength

    The shard¡¯s hum was a constant companion now, a faint vibration just beneath my awareness. Every time I touched the medallion, I felt its presence, a subtle reminder of what I¡¯d discovered. Magic. Not the kind from legends or the distant powers spoken of in stories. This was something real, something within me. Something I could use.


    But I was still cautious. The pain from my first attempt at infusion lingered in my memory, a sharp warning that this wasn¡¯t something to take lightly. Yet, I couldn¡¯t deny the results. My hands felt steadier, my reactions sharper. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was a start.


    I found myself back in the training yard the next morning, the familiar sounds of clashing steel and shouting soldiers filling the air. My brother, Aric, was already there, his voice carrying over the din as he barked instructions at a younger squire. He noticed me immediately.


    ¡°Back again, little brother?¡± he called, his tone somewhere between amusement and irritation. ¡°I thought yesterday¡¯s fluke would be enough for you.¡±


    I ignored his jab, tightening my grip on the wooden practice sword in my hand. The shard pulsed faintly against my chest, its rhythm steadying me. ¡°Care for a rematch?¡±


    His laughter was sharp and derisive, but he stepped into the circle, his sword at the ready. ¡°You really don¡¯t know when to quit, do you? Fine. Let¡¯s see if lightning strikes twice.¡±


    The match began, and for the first time, I felt something close to confidence. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened, aligning with my breathing, my movements. I couldn¡¯t see Aric¡¯s strikes, but I could sense them¡ªthe faint shift in the air as his blade cut toward me, the subtle creak of the ground beneath his boots.


    I deflected his first strike, then the second. His frustration grew with each failed attempt to break my defense. ¡°What¡¯s gotten into you?¡± he snapped, his voice tight with anger. ¡°You¡¯re¡ª¡±


    He didn¡¯t finish. I stepped forward, my sword striking his midsection with just enough force to unbalance him. He stumbled, and I pressed the attack, my movements fluid, precise. When his sword finally fell to the ground, the silence in the yard was deafening.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    Aric stared at me, his breathing heavy, his expression unreadable. ¡°How...?¡±


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯ve been paying attention,¡± I said, lowering my sword.


    His jaw tightened, and for a moment, I thought he might lash out. But he only scoffed, picking up his fallen weapon. ¡°Don¡¯t get cocky, Caelan. One lucky win doesn¡¯t mean anything.¡±


    I stepped out of the circle, the shard¡¯s hum fading into a faint murmur. It wasn¡¯t luck. Not this time.


    Later, I found myself in the library, as I so often did. Master Briar was waiting for me, his expression thoughtful as I sat across from him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been busy,¡± he said, his tone light but knowing. ¡°Word travels fast, you know.¡±


    I frowned. ¡°Word about what?¡±


    ¡°Your match with Aric,¡± Briar replied. ¡°Some of the soldiers saw it. They said you moved... differently. Like you could see his strikes coming before they landed.¡±


    I hesitated, my fingers brushing against the medallion. ¡°It¡¯s the shard,¡± I admitted quietly. ¡°It¡¯s... doing something to me. Guiding me.¡±


    Briar leaned forward, his curiosity evident. ¡°Guiding you how?¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°I don¡¯t know exactly. It¡¯s like I can sense things¡ªmovements, shifts in the air. It¡¯s not sight, but it¡¯s close.¡±


    He was silent for a moment, then said, ¡°You¡¯ve stumbled onto something ancient, Caelan. Magic like this doesn¡¯t simply appear¡ªit chooses.¡±


    ¡°Chooses?¡± I echoed, the word feeling heavy on my tongue. ¡°Why would it choose me?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s a question only you can answer,¡± Briar said. ¡°But be careful. Magic is as dangerous as it is powerful. It doesn¡¯t offer its gifts freely.¡±


    That night, I sat cross-legged in my chambers once again, the medallion clutched tightly in my hand. The shard¡¯s hum was sharp now, insistent, as though urging me to try again. I took a deep breath, focusing on the rhythm of my breathing, the steady beat of my heart.


    The words from the book echoed in my mind. Feel the magic. Let it flow. Guide it to where it is needed.


    This time, I didn¡¯t force it. I let the shard¡¯s energy move naturally, weaving through my fingers, my arms, my chest. The pain came again, sharp and biting, but I didn¡¯t pull away. I embraced it, letting the shard¡¯s hum steady me as the energy coursed through me.


    When the pain finally subsided, I felt... different. Stronger. My muscles ached, but beneath the soreness was a warmth, a sense of connection I couldn¡¯t explain. The shard¡¯s hum was quiet now, almost soothing, as though pleased with my progress.


    I opened my eyes to the same darkness I¡¯d always known, but for the first time, I felt like I could see a path forward.


    The next day, I returned to the training yard, the shard¡¯s hum steady in my chest. Aric wasn¡¯t there this time, but the soldiers greeted me with nods of acknowledgment. It was subtle, but I could feel the shift in their perception. I wasn¡¯t just the blind boy anymore. I was something... more.


    As I stepped into the sparring circle, I tightened my grip on the wooden sword in my hand. The shard pulsed faintly, its rhythm aligning with my movements.


    This was only the beginning.

 Chapter 4: The First Infusion

    The shard¡¯s hum was no longer just a faint, distant rhythm; it had become a part of me. Each pulse felt as though it were echoing within my chest, threading its energy through my being. I could no longer ignore it, nor did I want to. Whatever it was, this shard had opened a door to something far greater than I had ever imagined.


    But it was also dangerous. The memory of the pain from my first attempt still lingered, a warning of the cost of pushing too far. Yet, a flicker of stubbornness kept me from hesitating. This shard had chosen me, and I couldn¡¯t afford to waste its gift. Not when it was my only chance to prove my worth.


    The morning after my second victory against Aric, I returned to the library. Briar greeted me as always, his warm voice cutting through the quiet air. The scent of parchment and ink grounded me, a familiar comfort in a world that so often felt alien.


    ¡°Back so soon, young master?¡± Briar asked. ¡°You¡¯ve been spending more time here than usual.¡±


    I let out a faint smile as I moved toward the table, trailing my hand along the edge to find my seat. ¡°There¡¯s too much to learn, and not enough time.¡±


    Briar chuckled softly. ¡°You sound like a man on a mission. Tell me, has the shard been... speaking to you again?¡±


    I hesitated, my fingers brushing against the medallion hanging around my neck. ¡°Not speaking, exactly. But it¡¯s... alive. I can feel it. And it¡¯s changing me.¡±


    Briar fell silent for a moment, his tone careful when he finally spoke. ¡°You¡¯re certain?¡±


    I nodded. ¡°It¡¯s hard to explain. When I focus on it, it¡¯s like it guides me. During training, I can sense movements. It¡¯s not sight, but... it¡¯s something.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s no small claim, Caelan,¡± Briar said thoughtfully. ¡°Magic of this nature¡ªif it¡¯s truly infused with you¡ªit¡¯s a double-edged sword. It may give you strength, but it may also demand something in return.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t care,¡± I said quickly. ¡°I¡¯ll take the risks. If this shard can make me stronger, I¡¯ll do whatever it takes.¡±


    Briar sighed, the sound weighted. ¡°Then tread carefully. I have a feeling this is only the beginning of what the shard will ask of you.¡±


    That night, I sat cross-legged on the cold stone floor of my chambers, the shard resting in my palm. Its hum was steady, sharper than before, as though it was waiting for me to act. The memory of my first attempt flickered in my mind¡ªthe searing pain, the raw intensity of the energy coursing through me. But I wasn¡¯t afraid this time.If you encounter this tale on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    I took a slow breath, letting the words from the ancient book resurface in my mind. Feel the magic. Let it flow. Guide it to where it is needed.


    The shard¡¯s hum grew louder as I focused inward, my breathing steadying as I aligned myself with its rhythm. I let the energy flow from the medallion into my hands, imagining it weaving through my body like threads of light.


    The warmth came first, gentle and soothing. But it was quickly replaced by pain¡ªsharp and biting, as though my veins were being set ablaze. I gritted my teeth, my free hand clawing at the floor as I struggled to maintain control. The shard pulsed sharply, its rhythm quickening as the energy surged through me.


    Every instinct screamed at me to let go, to stop. But I refused. I tightened my grip on the medallion, letting the shard¡¯s hum guide me. The pain built to an unbearable peak, then suddenly... it stopped.


    I gasped, collapsing onto the floor as the shard¡¯s hum quieted into a faint murmur. My entire body ached, but beneath the exhaustion, I felt something new. A flicker of strength. A connection I couldn¡¯t describe.


    I flexed my fingers, the warmth lingering in my hands. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was enough. For the first time, I felt like I was truly tapping into the shard¡¯s power.


    The next morning, the effects of the infusion were clear. My hands were steadier, my movements sharper, and I felt a faint buzz of energy coursing through me. Even the simple act of walking through the halls of Veylora Keep felt... easier, somehow. It was subtle, but I could feel the difference in every step.


    The training yard was already alive with the sounds of sparring and shouting when I arrived. Aric was there, of course, his voice carrying above the clamor as he barked orders at a group of younger squires.


    ¡°Back again, little brother?¡± he called, spotting me. ¡°Didn¡¯t think you¡¯d have the stomach for another round.¡±


    I ignored his jab, stepping into the sparring circle without a word. The shard¡¯s hum was faint but steady, aligning with the rhythm of my breathing as I gripped the wooden sword in my hand.


    Aric didn¡¯t wait for an invitation. His first strike came fast and hard, a move meant to intimidate. But I was ready. The shard¡¯s energy sharpened my senses, guiding my movements as I sidestepped his attack and countered with a strike of my own.


    The match was faster this time, more intense. Each of his strikes met with a deflection, each of his feints anticipated. I could feel his frustration growing with every passing moment.


    ¡°You¡¯re¡ª¡± he started, but his words were cut short as I disarmed him with a final, well-placed strike. His sword clattered to the ground, the sound echoing through the silent yard.


    Aric stared at me, his breathing heavy, his expression unreadable. ¡°How...?¡±


    I stepped back, lowering my weapon. ¡°Maybe I¡¯ve been practicing.¡±


    The murmurs of the soldiers around us filled the air as Aric retrieved his weapon. He didn¡¯t say another word, walking away without so much as a glance in my direction. For the first time, I felt like I had earned their respect¡ªnot because of my name, but because of what I had done.


    That evening, I returned to the library, the shard¡¯s hum quiet but steady in my chest. Briar was waiting for me, his gaze thoughtful as I sat across from him.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been experimenting,¡± he said knowingly.


    I nodded, my hand brushing against the medallion. ¡°It¡¯s... working. I think I¡¯m starting to understand it.¡±


    ¡°Be careful, Caelan,¡± Briar said seriously. ¡°Power like this is never given freely. The shard has chosen you, yes, but that doesn¡¯t mean its intentions are pure.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll be careful,¡± I promised. But as I sat there, the shard¡¯s hum resonating through me, I couldn¡¯t help but wonder what it would ask of me in return.

 Chapter 5: The Weight of Progress

    The shard¡¯s hum had become a constant presence now, a quiet rhythm threading through my days. It wasn¡¯t loud or overbearing, but it was there¡ªsteady, persistent, and unyielding. Each infusion brought new strength, sharper senses, and a faint but undeniable connection to the magic coursing through me.


    But with each step forward, the weight of my progress seemed to grow. It wasn¡¯t just the physical toll of infusing magic; it was the uncertainty that came with it. What was this shard truly? And why had it chosen me?


    The training yard was busier than usual that morning, the air thick with the sound of clashing steel and shouted commands. My father had ordered a series of drills for the garrison, and the soldiers moved with brisk efficiency under Aric¡¯s watchful eye.


    I lingered at the edge of the yard, the shard pulsing faintly in my chest. Its hum aligned with the rhythm of the soldiers¡¯ movements, sharp and precise. I couldn¡¯t see them, but I could feel the energy they carried¡ªthe tension in the air, the subtle shifts in weight as they sparred.


    ¡°Are you going to stand there all day, little brother?¡± Aric¡¯s voice cut through the din, sharp and mocking. ¡°Or are you here to give the men another show?¡±


    I tightened my grip on the wooden practice sword at my side. His tone hadn¡¯t changed, but I could sense the edge of uncertainty behind it. He hadn¡¯t forgotten our last match.


    ¡°I thought I¡¯d see if you¡¯ve learned anything since yesterday,¡± I replied, stepping into the circle. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened as I took my stance, its energy steadying my nerves.


    The soldiers around us paused, their murmurs filling the air as they turned to watch. Aric didn¡¯t wait for a signal. His first strike came fast, a diagonal slash aimed at my shoulder. But the shard¡¯s energy guided me, and I sidestepped the blow with ease, countering with a quick thrust that forced him back.


    His frustration was palpable as the match continued, each of his attacks met with deflections and counters. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened my senses, allowing me to anticipate his movements before they landed. I wasn¡¯t just holding my own¡ªI was pushing him.This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.


    The match ended with my blade at his chest, his weapon lying on the ground. The soldiers around us fell silent, their disbelief almost tangible. Aric stared at me, his breathing heavy, his expression unreadable.


    ¡°You¡¯ve... improved,¡± he said finally, his tone begrudging. It wasn¡¯t a compliment, but it wasn¡¯t an insult either.


    ¡°Maybe I¡¯m stronger than you think,¡± I replied, stepping back.


    Aric said nothing more, retrieving his weapon and walking away. The soldiers¡¯ murmurs followed me as I left the circle, their whispers carrying a mix of curiosity and respect.


    Later, I found myself in the library, as I often did after sparring. The familiar scent of parchment and ink was a welcome reprieve from the chaos of the training yard. Master Briar greeted me with his usual calm demeanor, though his sharp gaze carried a hint of concern.


    ¡°You¡¯re pushing yourself harder than usual,¡± he said, guiding me to a chair. ¡°Should I be worried?¡±


    ¡°No,¡± I said, shaking my head. ¡°I just... I need to understand this. The shard, the magic¡ªit¡¯s changing me, Briar. I can feel it.¡±


    He was silent for a moment, his expression thoughtful. ¡°Magic has a way of leaving its mark, Caelan. You¡¯re bound to it now, whether you like it or not. But you must be careful. Power like this always comes with a cost.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m willing to pay it,¡± I said quietly, my fingers brushing against the medallion. ¡°If it means proving myself, if it means becoming stronger... I¡¯ll take the risks.¡±


    Briar sighed, the sound heavy with unspoken words. ¡°Then you must also be prepared for what lies ahead. The path you¡¯ve chosen is not an easy one.¡±


    That night, the shard¡¯s hum grew louder as I sat cross-legged on the floor of my chambers. Its energy was sharper now, more insistent, as though urging me to push further. I closed my eyes, focusing on the rhythm of my breathing, the steady beat of my heart.


    The words from the ancient book echoed in my mind. Feel the magic. Let it flow. Guide it to where it is needed.


    I let the shard¡¯s energy spread through me, starting with my arms and shoulders. The warmth was soothing at first, a gentle pulse that sent shivers through my muscles. But as I guided it deeper, the pain returned¡ªsharp, biting, and unrelenting.


    I clenched my teeth, my free hand clawing at the floor as the shard¡¯s energy surged. Every fiber of my being screamed at me to stop, to let go. But I didn¡¯t. I pushed through the pain, letting the shard¡¯s hum steady me.


    When the pain finally subsided, I collapsed onto the floor, my chest heaving. My body ached, but beneath the exhaustion was something new. A faint strength, a deeper connection to the shard¡¯s energy.


    I flexed my fingers, feeling the difference in the way my muscles responded. It wasn¡¯t much, but it was progress. And that was enough.

 Chapter 6: The Test of Balance

    The shard pulsed faintly in my chest as I walked toward the training yard. Its hum, subtle but steady, had become my constant companion. It wasn¡¯t sight¡ªit would never be sight¡ªbut it was something. A rhythm that aligned with the beat of my heart and sharpened the sensations around me.


    Each day, I grew stronger, but with every step forward came the weight of expectation. The shard gave me strength, but it also demanded something in return. I could feel its influence growing, though I didn¡¯t yet understand what it wanted from me.


    The training yard was alive with the sounds of drills. Swords clashed, boots thudded against the dirt, and the faint bark of commands echoed in the air. Without sight, I couldn¡¯t see the patterns of movement, but the vibrations painted a picture in my mind¡ªthe soldiers sparring, shifting, and pausing as they noticed me approaching.


    ¡°Here to gloat?¡± Aric¡¯s voice cut through the noise, sharp and familiar. He was close¡ªjust ahead, his boots grinding against the dirt as he turned toward me. ¡°Or are you planning to train this time?¡±


    ¡°I came to train,¡± I said evenly, keeping my grip firm on the wooden practice sword at my side.


    Aric laughed, a low, mocking sound. ¡°Train? Haven¡¯t you already proven your point? Or are you hoping for another miracle?¡±


    I ignored the taunt, stepping into the sparring circle. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened slightly, aligning with my breathing as I adjusted my stance. ¡°You¡¯re wasting time, Aric. Let¡¯s get started.¡±


    He hesitated for just a moment before stepping into the circle opposite me. His movements were deliberate, almost cautious, though his voice remained derisive. ¡°Fine. Let¡¯s see if your luck holds.¡±


    The first strike came fast¡ªa downward swing aimed at my shoulder. The shard¡¯s pulse quickened, guiding my response. I shifted to the side, deflecting his blade with a solid parry. The force vibrated through my arms, but I held steady, letting the shard¡¯s rhythm keep me balanced.


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    Aric pressed harder, his strikes were relentless. Each swing carried more weight and more frustration, but the shard heightened my senses. I couldn¡¯t see his movements, but I could feel them¡ªthe tension in the air, the subtle shift in his footing before he attacked. It was enough.


    ¡°You¡¯re not the same,¡± he muttered, his voice tight with frustration. His strikes grew heavier, but his precision faltered. The more he tried to overpower me, the easier it became to anticipate his movements.


    Finally, I found an opening. I sidestepped his lunge, twisting my blade to strike his wrist. His sword clattered to the ground, the sound ringing through the yard. For a moment, everything was silent.


    Aric stepped back, his breathing heavy. He stared at me, and though I couldn¡¯t see his expression, I could feel his disbelief. ¡°You...¡±


    But he didn¡¯t finish. Without a word, he turned and walked away.


    The murmurs of the soldiers filled the air as I lowered my sword. Their whispers carried a mix of curiosity and unease, but I didn¡¯t linger to listen. The shard¡¯s hum softened, its rhythm steady as I left the circle.


    Later, I retreated to the library, seeking the quiet refuge of its shelves. Master Briar greeted me with his usual calm presence, his voice warm as he spoke.


    ¡°You¡¯ve been busy,¡± he said. ¡°Word of your sparring matches has spread.¡±


    I settled into my usual seat, brushing my fingers along the edge of the table. ¡°They¡¯re starting to notice,¡± I said quietly. ¡°But it¡¯s not me, Briar. It¡¯s the shard.¡±


    Briar¡¯s tone shifted, growing more serious. ¡°And how do you feel about that?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s... guiding me,¡± I admitted, my hand brushing the medallion around my neck. ¡°I can sense things I couldn¡¯t before¡ªshifts in the air, movements. It¡¯s not sight, but it¡¯s close.¡±


    Briar was silent for a moment, then spoke carefully. ¡°Magic like this doesn¡¯t come without cost, Caelan. The shard¡¯s power may strengthen you, but it will demand something in return.¡±


    ¡°I know,¡± I said. ¡°But I don¡¯t have a choice.¡±


    Briar sighed, the sound heavy with unspoken concern. ¡°Then tread carefully. You¡¯re walking a path that few understand.¡±


    That night, the shard¡¯s hum grew louder as I sat cross-legged on the cold stone floor of my chambers. Its energy pulsed sharply, urging me forward. I took a deep breath, letting the rhythm of my breathing match its steady beat.


    The warmth spread through my legs first, gentle and soothing. But as I guided the shard¡¯s energy deeper, the pain began¡ªsharp and searing, like fire lacing through my muscles. I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms as the shard¡¯s power surged. My body screamed at me to stop, but I pushed through, trusting the shard¡¯s guidance.


    Finally, the pain ebbed, replaced by a faint warmth that lingered in my muscles. I collapsed onto the floor, my chest heaving as exhaustion settled over me. But beneath the ache, I felt stronger.


    I flexed my legs experimentally, feeling the subtle difference in their power. The shard¡¯s hum softened, its rhythm satisfied for now.


    The next morning, my movements felt lighter and more fluid. Even walking through the halls of Veylora Keep felt easier, as though my body was finally beginning to align with the shard¡¯s power. But I couldn¡¯t ignore the weight of the soldiers¡¯ stares or the murmurs that followed me.


    The shard pulsed faintly in my chest, a quiet reminder of the path I¡¯d chosen. This wasn¡¯t just about proving myself anymore¡ªit was about control. Mastery. And understanding the force that had become a part of me.


    Deep down, I knew the shard wasn¡¯t done testing me yet.

 Chapter 7: Threads of Intent

    The shard¡¯s hum was quieter now, less insistent than the night before. Its rhythm matched the steady beat of my heart as I moved through the familiar halls of Veylora Keep. My body still ached from the latest infusion, but beneath the soreness was a sense of strength¡ªsubtle but growing.


    Every step felt lighter and smoother. Even without sight, I could feel the changes in how I moved and carried myself. The shard was shaping me, weaving its energy into my very being. But the whispers hadn¡¯t stopped.


    The soldiers, the servants¡ªeveryone had always whispered about me. Not just because of my blindness but because of what had followed me since birth: my strange, undeniable connection to magic. Even as a child, they had noticed. Candles flickering when I was upset. The air grew still when I was frightened. My father had called it a curse. My mother had called it a gift. But for me, it had always been both.


    The training yard was subdued that morning. The usual clang of steel on steel was absent, replaced by the softer sounds of drills. I paused at the edge, my cane tapping lightly against the packed dirt as I oriented myself. The shard pulsed faintly in my chest, sharpening my awareness.


    ¡°Not sparring today, little brother?¡± Aric¡¯s voice came from somewhere to my left. I turned slightly, focusing on the faint vibrations of his footsteps as he approached. His tone was lighter than usual, though still laced with his usual arrogance.


    ¡°I¡¯m not here for you,¡± I replied evenly. ¡°I wanted to watch.¡±


    ¡°Watch?¡± He let out a sharp laugh. ¡°You mean listen.¡±


    I didn¡¯t rise to the bait. Instead, I tilted my head, focusing on the movements of the soldiers in the yard. Their steps were hesitant, their strikes cautious. The air was heavy with tension. Something had shifted since yesterday, though I couldn¡¯t say what.


    ¡°Father¡¯s summoned the council,¡± Aric said after a moment, his tone quieter. ¡°They¡¯ve been in the Great Hall since dawn.¡±


    The shard pulsed faintly, its rhythm sharpening as the words settled in. ¡°What for?¡±


    Aric hesitated. ¡°Something about the eastern border. Father didn¡¯t tell me much.¡±


    I nodded, my grip tightening on the cane. ¡°I¡¯ll find out.¡±


    I rarely ventured into the Great Hall. Its high ceilings and cold stone walls carried voices in strange ways, making it harder to pinpoint who was speaking or where they were standing. But as I approached the heavy wooden doors, the shard¡¯s energy shifted, sharpening my senses.Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    The voices were muffled at first, their tones tense and clipped. I pushed the door open just enough to slip inside, staying close to the wall as I moved. My father¡¯s voice was the first I recognised¡ªlow and commanding, as always.


    ¡°We cannot afford to wait,¡± he said sharply. ¡°If the reports are true, we must act now.¡±


    ¡°What reports?¡± I asked, my voice cutting through the room. The council fell silent. I felt the weight of their stares, their discomfort palpable.


    ¡°Caelan,¡± my father said after a long pause. ¡°This is not your concern.¡±


    ¡°Anything that threatens our house is my concern,¡± I replied, stepping forward. My cane tapped against the stone floor, the sound echoing faintly. ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡±


    There was another pause, and then someone cleared their throat. ¡°The eastern border,¡± one of the councilmen said hesitantly. ¡°Villages have been disappearing. Entire settlements, gone without a trace.¡±


    ¡°Gone?¡± The word hung in the air, heavy with implication. ¡°What could do that?¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s what we intend to find out,¡± my father said curtly. ¡°But it¡¯s a matter for the council, not you.¡±


    ¡°Let him stay,¡± another voice said, older and calmer. It was Lord Dorian, one of my father¡¯s advisors. ¡°The boy may lack sight, but he doesn¡¯t lack intelligence¡ªor magic.¡±


    The room fell silent again. The weight of Dorian¡¯s words lingered, the unspoken truth hanging heavily in the air. Even as a child, my affinity for magic had set me apart. The flickering lights and the strange calm I could summon had been impossible to ignore. And now, with the shard, that connection was becoming something far greater. Far more dangerous.


    My father let out a sharp sigh. ¡°Fine. But stay quiet, Caelan.¡±


    I listened carefully as the council continued their discussion, piecing together the fragments of information they shared. The disappearances were recent¡ªtwo villages in the span of a week. There were no survivors, no signs of struggle. It was as if the people had simply vanished.


    As the voices drifted on, the shard¡¯s hum grew sharper. I clenched my fist, the medallion warm against my chest. There was something about this¡ªsomething that felt wrong, unnatural.


    ¡°Magic,¡± I said quietly, cutting through the conversation. The room fell silent again.


    ¡°What did you say?¡± my father asked, his tone wary.


    ¡°These disappearances... it¡¯s not natural. It¡¯s magic,¡± I said, my voice steady. ¡°I can feel it.¡±


    There was a murmur of disbelief, but Lord Dorian¡¯s voice rose above the rest. ¡°He may be right. Such things have been known to happen, though it has been centuries since magic of that scale was seen.¡±


    My father¡¯s voice was sharp. ¡°Speculation won¡¯t help us. We need answers.¡±


    ¡°Then send me,¡± I said, the words out before I could stop them.


    The council erupted into murmurs, their voices blending into a cacophony of objections. I stood still, letting their protests wash over me. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened its energy, providing a quiet assurance in the chaos.


    ¡°Enough,¡± my father said, his voice cutting through the noise. The room fell silent once more. ¡°You would have me send you into danger, blind and untrained?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not untrained,¡± I said evenly. ¡°And I¡¯m not helpless. If this is magic, I may be the only one who can sense it.¡±


    My father was silent for a long moment. Finally, he spoke, his tone cold. ¡°Very well. But you will not go alone.¡±


    Later that evening, I sat in the library, my thoughts racing. The shard¡¯s hum was quieter now, though still present, its rhythm steady as I tried to understand what had happened. The disappearances, the council¡¯s fear, and my father¡¯s reluctance all pointed to something larger, something I couldn¡¯t yet see.


    Master Briar¡¯s voice broke through my thoughts. ¡°You¡¯ve set something in motion, haven¡¯t you?¡±


    I nodded, my fingers brushing against the medallion. ¡°I didn¡¯t have a choice. If this is magic, I need to understand it.¡±


    ¡°Then be careful,¡± Briar said, his tone heavy with warning. ¡°The shard¡¯s power may guide you but cannot protect you from everything.¡±


    ¡°I¡¯ll manage,¡± I said quietly. But even as I spoke, I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that the shard was leading me toward something far more significant and dangerous than I¡¯d ever imagined.

 Chapter 8: A Path Forward

    The shard¡¯s hum was a steady rhythm in my chest as I stood waiting at the edge of the courtyard. My father¡¯s words still echoed: You will not go alone. That had been his condition. If I were to investigate the disappearances, I would do so under the watchful eyes of those he trusted¡ªor perhaps those he thought could control me.


    The thought brought a wry smile to my lips. Control me? The shard pulsed faintly, almost as if it shared my amusement. I adjusted my grip on my cane and turned my head toward the approaching footsteps. They were deliberate, heavy, but controlled¡ªsomeone used to discipline.


    ¡°Caelan,¡± Aric¡¯s voice greeted me, colder than usual. ¡°I¡¯m surprised you convinced Father to let you do this.¡±


    I didn¡¯t reply immediately, focusing instead on the second set of footsteps behind him. They were lighter, more precise. A woman, perhaps? The vibrations carried a faint sense of armour¡ªa scout or a ranger.


    ¡°Is that... Resna?¡± I asked, turning slightly toward the second figure. The pause before she replied told me I was right.


    ¡°Impressive,¡± she said, her voice cool but not unkind. ¡°I didn¡¯t think you¡¯d remember me.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re difficult to forget,¡± I said, earning a small chuckle from her. Resna was one of the most skilled rangers in Veylora, though I¡¯d only met her a handful of times. Her reputation spoke louder than her presence, and it was clear she¡¯d been chosen for this mission for a reason.


    ¡°Father insisted I bring someone competent,¡± Aric said, his tone clipped. ¡°He doesn¡¯t think I¡¯m enough to keep you out of trouble.¡±


    ¡°Wise of him,¡± I muttered, earning a sharp glare from my brother¡ªthough I couldn¡¯t see it, I could feel the tension radiating from him.


    ¡°Enough,¡± Resna interjected, her tone firm. ¡°If we¡¯re going to do this, we need to move quickly. The longer we wait, the colder the trail gets.¡±


    The journey to the eastern border was slow and tense. The shard pulsed faintly with each step, its hum aligning with the rhythm of my breathing. Resna moved ahead of us, her steps light and deliberate, while Aric stayed closer, his heavy armour clinking softly with each movement.


    The forest was quiet¡ªunnervingly so. Even without sight, I could feel the absence of life. The usual sounds of birds and the rustle of leaves in the wind were gone. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened as we moved deeper, a quiet warning that set my nerves on edge.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.


    ¡°Something¡¯s wrong,¡± I said quietly, breaking the silence.


    ¡°You¡¯re just noticing that now?¡± Aric muttered, though his voice lacked its usual bite.


    Resna paused ahead of us, her voice low. ¡°He¡¯s right. This place feels... wrong. The air is heavy.¡±


    ¡°Magic,¡± I said, the word slipping from my lips before I could stop it. The shard pulsed again, its energy sharpening my senses. ¡°It¡¯s thick here. Can¡¯t you feel it?¡±


    Neither of them answered immediately. Finally, Resna spoke. ¡°I don¡¯t have your... affinity, but yes, there¡¯s something unnatural about this place.¡±


    Aric shifted uncomfortably. ¡°Keep your focus, both of you. If magic¡¯s involved, we must find its source and eliminate it.¡±


    We reached the first village just before sunset. It was eerily quiet, the buildings standing empty like hollow shells. My cane tapped softly against the ground as I moved forward, the shard¡¯s energy guiding me.


    ¡°Stay close,¡± Resna said, her voice barely above a whisper. I could hear her drawing her bow, the faint creak of the string pulling taut. ¡°We don¡¯t know what we¡¯re walking into.¡±


    I nodded, focusing on the vibrations around me. The shard¡¯s hum sharpened, and I stopped abruptly, holding out a hand. ¡°Wait.¡±


    ¡°What is it?¡± Aric asked, his sword already drawn.


    ¡°There¡¯s something here,¡± I said. The shard pulsed sharply, its energy prickling along my skin. ¡°I can feel it... moving.¡±


    Resna froze, her breath catching. ¡°Where?¡±


    I pointed ahead, toward what I assumed was the village square. ¡°There.¡±


    The silence that followed was deafening. Then, a low, guttural sound broke through the stillness. It was faint at first, like a whisper carried on the wind, but it grew louder, closer. The shard¡¯s energy surged, warning me of the danger before I could fully understand it.


    ¡°Get ready,¡± I said, gripping my cane tightly. The sound grew into a growl, and I heard claws scrape against the stone.


    The creature emerged from the shadows, its presence heavy and oppressive. I couldn¡¯t see it, but the shard¡¯s energy painted a vivid picture in my mind¡ªits movements were unnatural, its body twisted by whatever magic had consumed it.


    ¡°What is that?¡± Resna hissed, her voice tight with fear.


    ¡°Does it matter?¡± Aric snapped. ¡°Kill it!¡±


    The shard pulsed violently as the creature lunged. I sidestepped instinctively, the air shifting as its claws raked the space where I had just been. Aric¡¯s sword clashed against the creature¡¯s hide, the impact ringing like a bell.


    ¡°It¡¯s fast!¡± he shouted, barely dodging its counterattack.


    Resna¡¯s bowstring snapped, and I heard the arrow sink into flesh. The creature roared, its movements growing more erratic. The shard pulsed sharply, and I felt its energy course through me, heightening my senses further. I could feel the vibrations of its steps, the tension in the air as it prepared to strike again.


    ¡°Guide me,¡± I whispered, the words meant more for the shard than myself.


    The fight was chaotic, each movement a blur of sound and sensation. Aric¡¯s strikes were powerful but imprecise, while Resna¡¯s arrows kept the creature at bay. The shard guided my own movements entirely, its energy aligning with my instincts.


    Finally, with a sharp thrust of my cane, I struck a point just beneath the creature¡¯s jaw. The shard pulsed violently, and the creature let out a final, guttural cry before collapsing to the ground.


    Silence fell over the village once more.


    ¡°What was that thing?¡± Resna asked, her voice shaking slightly as she approached.


    ¡°Something twisted by magic,¡± I said quietly. The shard¡¯s hum was steady again, but its energy lingered in my veins. ¡°This isn¡¯t the end of it.¡±


    Aric wiped his blade clean, his tone grim. ¡°Then we¡¯ll deal with whatever comes next.¡±


    I nodded, though a sense of unease settled over me. The shard pulsed faintly, its rhythm a quiet reminder of my chosen path. Whatever was happening in the East was only the beginning.

 Chapter 9: Whispers of the Forgotten

    The night air was heavy as we left the ruined village behind, our steps muffled by the thick blanket of silence that seemed to follow us. Even the shard, so often a steady hum in my chest, felt subdued, its energy pulsing faintly, as though it too was cautious.


    Resna led the way, her movements light and deliberate. I could hear the faint creak of her bow as she kept it ready, her instincts sharper than ever. Aric followed close behind, his armour clinking softly with every step. Neither of them spoke, their tension palpable.


    The path ahead was uneven, the ground littered with debris from a forest left to decay. My cane tapped against the dirt, helping me navigate. But more than that, I relied on the shard. Its hum sharpened as we walked, guiding me around obstacles I couldn¡¯t see.


    ¡°We shouldn¡¯t be out here at night,¡± Resna muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. ¡°Whatever caused this... it¡¯s not gone.¡±


    Aric scoffed. ¡°Do you have a better idea? Sitting around in that village and waiting to be next?¡±


    ¡°She¡¯s right,¡± I said quietly. The shard pulsed in agreement, its energy prickling along my skin. ¡°There¡¯s something here. Something is watching us.¡±


    The forest grew darker as we moved deeper, the air growing colder with every step. My breath hitched as the shard¡¯s energy surged, a sudden spike of awareness that made me stop.


    ¡°What is it?¡± Resna asked, her voice tense.


    ¡°There¡¯s... something ahead,¡± I said, pointing toward the faint vibrations I felt. ¡°Something large.¡±If you spot this narrative on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Resna knelt, her movements silent as she scanned the area. ¡°I don¡¯t see anything.¡±


    ¡°That doesn¡¯t mean it¡¯s not there,¡± I said. The shard pulsed sharply, warning me. ¡°Be ready.¡±


    A low growl, faint but unmistakable, cut through the silence. It was followed by the sound of rustling leaves, growing louder as whatever it was began to move.


    ¡°Positions!¡± Aric barked, drawing his sword. The metallic scrape echoed in the stillness, sending a chill down my spine.


    Resna¡¯s bowstring creaked as she drew an arrow, her breathing steady. ¡°It¡¯s circling us.¡±


    The shard surged, its hum becoming a sharp vibration that resonated through my body. I tightened my grip on my cane, my other hand brushing against the medallion. ¡°It¡¯s not alone.¡±


    The first attack came from the right, a blur of motion that sent Resna stumbling back. Her arrow flew wide, sinking into a tree. Aric lunged forward, his sword clashing against something solid¡ªa creature, its growl rising into a snarl.


    I couldn¡¯t see it, but the shard painted a vivid picture. It was massive, its body twisted and malformed, as though corrupted by magic. Its claws raked the ground as it lunged again, forcing Aric to parry.


    ¡°There¡¯s more!¡± Resna shouted, losing another arrow. The shard pulsed sharply, and I felt the second creature before it attacked, its movements a blur of vibrations.


    ¡°Behind you!¡± I shouted, turning toward Resna. She spun, her arrow flying true. The creature let out a guttural cry as it collapsed, its body thudding against the dirt.


    The shard¡¯s energy surged, and I moved without thinking. My cane struck the ground before me, sending a sharp vibration through the earth. The second creature faltered, its steps giving it away. I twisted, striking upward with the cane¡¯s reinforced end. The impact was solid, the creature letting out a final growl before it fell.


    The silence that followed was deafening. My chest heaved as I tried to steady my breathing, the shard¡¯s hum still sharp but fading. Resna approached, her steps cautious.


    ¡°Is that all of them?¡± she asked, her voice shaking slightly.


    ¡°For now,¡± I said, though the shard¡¯s faint pulse suggested otherwise. ¡°They¡¯re drawn to the magic here. Whatever¡¯s happening, it¡¯s only going to get worse.¡±


    Aric wiped his blade clean, his tone grim. ¡°Then we need to find the source. Fast.¡±

 Chapter 10: The Warden鈥檚 Call

    The ruins of the old watchtower loomed ahead, its crumbling walls barely visible in the faint moonlight. Resna stopped at the base of the hill, her eyes scanning the structure. ¡°This doesn¡¯t feel right,¡± she said. ¡°Why would the magic lead us here?¡±


    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s a remnant of something older,¡± I said, the shard pulsing faintly as I spoke. ¡°Something forgotten.¡±


    ¡°Or something dangerous,¡± Aric muttered, his sword already drawn. ¡°Stay close.¡±


    We climbed the hill slowly, the shard¡¯s hum growing sharper with each step. The air felt heavier here, thick with the lingering traces of magic. I could feel it in my chest, an oppressive weight that pressed down on me with every breath.If you find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.


    The entrance to the tower was dark, the wooden doors long since rotted away. Resna moved ahead, her bow drawn, while Aric stayed close behind me. The shard¡¯s energy prickled along my skin as we stepped inside, its hum becoming a steady vibration.


    ¡°Do you feel that?¡± I asked, my voice echoing softly in the empty space.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Resna replied, her tone tense. ¡°It¡¯s everywhere.¡±


    The shard pulsed sharply, and I stopped, turning my head toward the faint vibrations in the air. ¡°We¡¯re not alone.¡±


    A voice echoed from the shadows, low and resonant. ¡°You have come far, child of Veylora.¡±


    Resna froze, her bowstring taut. ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡±


    The figure stepped into the faint light of the moon, their presence commanding. They were cloaked in shadow, but their voice carried an undeniable weight. ¡°I am the Warden of these lands, and you tread on cursed ground.¡±

 Chapter 11: A New Purpose

    The Warden¡¯s presence filled the room like a storm waiting to break. His voice carried the weight of authority, commanding attention even in the stillness. Though I couldn¡¯t see him, I felt the intensity of his gaze as if it were stripping away the layers I tried to hide behind. The shard in my chest pulsed faintly, an almost imperceptible hum as though acknowledging the power before me.


    ¡°You tread on cursed ground,¡± the Warden said, his tone measured but firm. ¡°Do you know what you¡¯ve stepped into?¡±


    Aric shifted uncomfortably beside me. ¡°We¡¯re here to investigate the disappearances,¡± he said, his usual bravado muted in the Warden¡¯s presence. ¡°If you have answers, speak plainly.¡±


    The Warden ignored him, focusing entirely on me. ¡°And you? Why are you here, child of Veylora?¡±


    His words sent a chill down my spine. He knew who I was. Or perhaps he knew what I carried. ¡°Because it¡¯s my duty,¡± I said quietly, gripping my cane tightly. ¡°And because I can feel it¡ªthis magic. It¡¯s wrong.¡±


    The Warden¡¯s expression softened slightly, though his voice remained grave. ¡°The magic you sense is ancient. It predates your kingdom and your ancestors. It is tied to forces that should have been forgotten.¡±


    ¡°Then why hasn¡¯t it been?¡± I asked, my voice firmer than I expected. ¡°Why is it still here?¡±


    The Warden hesitated. ¡°Because it was left unfinished.¡±


    He led us deeper into the ruins, his steps echoing softly against the stone. The air grew heavier with every step, the faint hum of the shard growing sharper in my chest. I could feel the remnants of magic clinging to the walls like an old wound refusing to heal.


    ¡°The disappearances are no coincidence,¡± the Warden said, stopping in front of what felt like a carved pedestal. ¡°This place is a remnant of the Age of True Magic. Long ago, it contained powerful artefacts¡ªrelics with immense, uncontrollable energy.¡±Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    ¡°Relics?¡± Resna asked her voice tight with caution. ¡°You mean... like the shard?¡±


    The Warden turned toward me, his gaze heavy. ¡°What you carry is but a fragment of that power. A shard of something far greater.¡±


    The shard pulsed sharply, almost as if in recognition of his words. I clenched my fist, the medallion pressing into my palm. ¡°What happened to the relics?¡±


    ¡°They were destroyed,¡± the Warden said, his tone grim. ¡°Or so we thought. But it seems fragments survived, buried and forgotten. Until now.¡±


    ¡°And these fragments are causing the disappearances?¡± Aric asked, his scepticism evident.


    The Warden nodded. ¡°The magic in these fragments corrupts. It twists the land, the creatures, and even the people around it. The villages that vanished... they were consumed by that corruption.¡±


    The weight of his words settled over us like a shroud. I tightened my grip on my cane, the shard¡¯s hum steadying me. ¡°If these fragments are still out there, can they be stopped?¡±


    The Warden hesitated. ¡°It is possible. But it will not be easy. The magic they hold is unlike anything you¡¯ve faced before. Even your shard...¡± He trailed off, his tone laced with doubt. ¡°It may not be enough.¡±


    ¡°We have to try,¡± I said firmly. ¡°If we don¡¯t, more villages will be lost. More lives will be destroyed.¡±


    The Warden studied me for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Finally, he nodded. ¡°Very well. But know this: you cannot turn back from the path you walk. Once you begin, the magic will change you.¡±


    I felt the shard pulse sharply, its rhythm aligning with my heartbeat. ¡°It already has.¡±


    The Warden provided us with a map of the region, marking the locations where the fragments were believed to be hidden. Each site was tied to an old legend, a story that hinted at the magic¡¯s power and the destruction it had caused.


    Resna and Aric poured over the map as we prepared to leave, their voices a mix of strategy and caution. I stood a little apart, the shard¡¯s quiet but insistent hum urging me forward.


    ¡°Caelan,¡± the Warden said, drawing my attention. He stood at the edge of the ruins, his figure outlined faintly in the dim light. ¡°A word before you go.¡±


    I approached him, the shard¡¯s energy sharpening my senses as I drew closer. ¡°What is it?¡±


    ¡°You carry a great burden,¡± he said, his tone low. ¡°The shard you possess is both a gift and a curse. It will guide you but also demand more than you can imagine.¡±


    I nodded, my grip tightening on the medallion. ¡°I¡¯m ready for that.¡±


    ¡°Perhaps,¡± the Warden said, though his voice carried a note of doubt. ¡°But be careful, Caelan. Magic like this has a way of testing the soul. You may find yourself becoming something... unrecognizable.¡±


    His words lingered as we left the ruins, the map in hand and the shard¡¯s hum growing sharper with every step. The path ahead was clearer now, but it was also more dangerous. The magic we sought wasn¡¯t just a threat to the world¡ªit was a threat to ourselves.

 Chapter 12: A Shard of Resolve

    The ruins lingered in my mind as we returned to Veylora Keep. The Warden¡¯s words hung over me like a storm cloud, each syllable a reminder of what lay ahead. The magic will test your soul. It wasn¡¯t a warning I could dismiss.


    I couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that I was walking a path I wasn¡¯t ready for. The shard was quieter now, its hum subdued, but I could still feel its presence¡ªa subtle reminder of my power and the price it might demand.


    Resna walked a few paces ahead, her steps light and deliberate as always. On the other hand, Aric trudged behind me, his armour clinking softly with each step. Neither had spoken much since we left the ruins, and I wasn¡¯t eager to break the silence.


    But the quiet didn¡¯t last long.


    ¡°You should¡¯ve let me deal with the Warden,¡± Aric said, his voice sharp. ¡°He was testing you, Caelan. And you just stood there, letting him poke holes in your resolve.¡±


    ¡°I wasn¡¯t standing,¡± I said dryly, tightening my grip on my cane. ¡°And I didn¡¯t need to fight him. We got what we came for.¡±


    Aric scoffed. ¡°Barely. He doesn¡¯t trust you. None of them do.¡±


    ¡°Enough,¡± Resna said, her voice cutting through the tension like a blade. She turned, her gaze fixed on Aric. ¡°This isn¡¯t the time for your bickering. We have bigger problems to deal with.¡±


    Aric muttered something under his breath but fell silent. Resna nodded and continued walking, leaving me to reflect on the Warden¡¯s warning. He wasn¡¯t the only one who doubted me¡ªAric¡¯s words made that clear. But I couldn¡¯t afford to let their doubts distract me. I had a purpose now, a reason to keep moving forward.


    We reached the keep late that evening, the air heavy with the scent of rain. The gates loomed above us, their iron-bound wood gleaming faintly in the torchlight. As we entered, I could feel the familiar weight of judgment pressing down on me. The soldiers¡¯ whispers, the cautious glances¡ªthey never changed.Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more.


    Father was waiting for us in the hall, his expression as unreadable as ever. His presence was like a stone wall¡ªcold, imposing, and unyielding. Aric stepped forward to deliver his report, detailing our encounter with the Warden and the map of corrupted sites we had retrieved.


    ¡°And Caelan?¡± Father asked, his voice clipped. ¡°What was his contribution?¡±


    Aric hesitated for just a moment. ¡°He... sensed the magic. It helped guide us.¡±


    Father¡¯s gaze shifted to me, his tone laced with scepticism. ¡°Sensed the magic? Is that all?¡±


    I clenched my fists, the shard¡¯s hum stirring faintly in my chest. ¡°The Warden trusted me with this information. He believes I can handle it.¡±


    ¡°Trusted you?¡± Father let out a dry laugh. ¡°The Warden humoured you, nothing more. You¡¯re not ready for this, Caelan. You¡¯ve never been ready.¡±


    The words stung, but I forced myself to stay calm. ¡°I¡¯ll prove you wrong.¡±


    ¡°Then start by proving it to yourself,¡± Father said, dismissing me with a wave of his hand. ¡°Dismissed.¡±


    I sat in the library that night, the map of corrupted sites spread out before me. The shard¡¯s hum was quiet, its energy subdued as I traced my fingers over the marked locations. Each one represented a challenge, a test of my resolve. But they also represented lives¡ªpeople who were counting on me, whether they knew it or not.


    ¡°You look troubled,¡± Master Briar said, his voice warm as he entered the room.


    ¡°I am,¡± I admitted. ¡°The Warden said the magic will test me. But I don¡¯t even know if I can pass.¡±


    Briar sat across from me, his expression thoughtful. ¡°Tests are not meant to be easy, Caelan. They are meant to reveal who we truly are.¡±


    ¡°And what if I don¡¯t like what they reveal?¡± I asked quietly.


    Briar¡¯s smile was faint but reassuring. ¡°Then you change it. Strength isn¡¯t about never failing. It¡¯s about learning to rise again when you do.¡±


    I nodded, his words settling into my mind like stones into water. The ripples they created weren¡¯t answers, but they were a start.


    The next morning, I stood in the courtyard, the shard¡¯s hum steady and quiet. Resna and Aric were waiting for me, their expressions a mix of determination and caution. Deep in the eastern forest, the first site was days away, but I could feel its pull already¡ªa faint, distant hum that echoed in my chest.


    ¡°Are you ready for this?¡± Resna asked, her voice calm but firm.


    I nodded. ¡°I have to be.¡±


    Aric muttered something under his breath but said nothing more. Resna gave me a nod, and together, we set out, the weight of the journey ahead pressing down on us.


    The shard pulsed faintly, its energy aligning with my heartbeat. The road was long, and the challenges ahead were daunting. But for the first time, I felt something more than doubt.


    I felt resolve.

 Chapter 13: Fractured Steps

    The forest loomed around us, its dense canopy blocking most of the sunlight. The air was thick with moisture, the scent of moss and damp earth clinging to every breath. Each step forward felt heavier than the last, though I couldn''t tell whether it was the weight of the journey or the unspoken tension between us.


    Resna walked ahead, her movements nearly silent. Even in the stillness of the forest, her steps barely made a sound, a testament to her training. Aric followed close behind me, his armour clinking softly with every stride. The shard pulsed faintly in my chest, a quiet rhythm that aligned with my heartbeat.


    "This place feels wrong," Resna muttered, breaking the silence. Her voice was low, cautious. "Like it''s watching us."


    She wasn''t wrong. Though I couldn''t see, I could feel the weight of the forest pressing down on us, the air charged with something unnatural. My fingers tightened around my cane, the shard''s hum sharpening slightly as if responding to the unease.


    "We''re close," I said quietly. The vibrations in the air were faint but growing stronger with every step. "Whatever''s here... it''s ahead."


    The clearing came into focus abruptly, the dense trees giving way to an open space littered with jagged rocks and scattered debris. At the centre stood a broken pedestal, its surface cracked and weathered with age. The shard in my chest pulsed sharply as we approached, its energy prickling along my skin.


    "This is it," I said, my voice barely above a whisper.


    Resna crouched beside the pedestal, her fingers brushing against the stone. "It''s ancient," she said, her tone laced with unease. "And it''s been used recently. Look at the markings¡ªthese aren''t just relics. Someone''s trying to activate them."


    Aric stepped forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "And what exactly are they trying to activate?"


    "Corruption," I said. The shard''s energy surged, painting a vivid picture in my mind. The vibrations around the pedestal were chaotic, twisting and spiralling like a storm. "The magic here isn''t stable. It''s feeding on itself."


    Before anyone could respond, a low growl cut through the air. My head snapped toward the sound, the shard''s hum spiking. The ground beneath us seemed to vibrate as something heavy moved through the forest.Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    "We''re not alone," Resna said, her voice tight. She drew her bow, the creak of the string pulling taut and breaking the silence.


    The first creature emerged from the shadows, its form distorted and unnatural. It was large, its body twisted by whatever magic had consumed it. Its claws scraped against the ground as it lunged toward us, its growl rising into a snarl.


    "Move!" Aric shouted, stepping in front of me. His sword clashed against the creature''s claws, the impact ringing out like a bell.


    Resna loosed an arrow, the shaft sinking into the creature''s side. It roared in pain, its movements growing more erratic. The shard''s hum sharpened, and I moved instinctively, using my cane to strike the ground. The vibrations helped me track the creature''s steps, giving me a sense of its position.


    "There''s more!" Resna shouted, her voice rising with urgency. Another growl echoed through the clearing, followed by branches snapping. The second creature was faster, its steps lighter but just as deadly.


    "I''ve got it!" I called, turning toward the vibrations. The shard''s energy guided me as I swung my cane, the reinforced tip striking the creature''s leg. It stumbled, letting out a guttural cry before collapsing to the ground.


    Aric finished the first creature with a sharp thrust of his sword, his breathing heavy. "Is that all of them?" he asked, his tone edged with frustration.


    Resna scanned the clearing, her bow still drawn. "For now."


    The silence that followed was oppressive. I could feel the weight of the battle lingering in the air, the shard''s hum still sharp in my chest. Resna approached the pedestal cautiously, her steps deliberate. "Whatever''s causing this... it''s tied to this place."


    I nodded, the shard''s energy aligning with the chaotic vibrations around the pedestal. "It''s a fragment," I said. "Like the Warden said. A remnant of something larger."


    "And how do we stop it?" Aric asked, his tone sharp.


    "We break the connection," I replied. The shard pulsed sharply, its energy urging me forward. I reached out, my fingers brushing against the cold stone of the pedestal. The magic within it surged, pushing back against me like a living thing.


    "Careful, Caelan," Resna warned. "That''s not something you can just destroy."


    "I''m not trying to destroy it," I said, focusing on the shard''s rhythm. "I''m trying to contain it."


    The magic fought against me, its chaotic energy burning against my senses. I gritted my teeth, the shard''s hum growing louder as I pushed through the resistance. Slowly, the vibrations began to calm, the storm within the pedestal subsiding.


    When it was over, I staggered back, my chest heaving. The shard''s hum quieted, its energy settling into a faint pulse. The pedestal was still, the magic within it dormant¡ªfor now.


    "That was reckless," Resna said, her voice a mix of relief and frustration. "You could''ve gotten yourself killed."


    "I didn''t," I replied, though my exhaustion was evident. "And now we know what we''re dealing with."


    Aric shook his head, his expression unreadable. "This is just the beginning, isn''t it?"


    I nodded. "If there are more fragments out there, we must find them. And fast."


    The clearing fell silent as we prepared to leave, the weight of what we''d faced settling over us. The shard pulsed faintly, its rhythm a quiet reminder of the path ahead.


    This was only the first step.

 Chapter 14: A Fractured Foundation

    The journey back to Veylora Keep was slower this time, the weight of what we had seen pressing down on all of us. The remnants of corrupted magic still clung to my senses, like the fading echoes of a storm. Even the shard in my chest felt heavier, its hum subdued but no less present. Containing the magic at the pedestal had taken more effort than I wanted to admit.


    Aric was unusually silent. The only sounds from him were the shifting of his armor and his steady, tense breathing. Resna walked a small distance ahead, her usual light and deliberate steps carrying a new wariness. She had been the first to sense something was wrong in the forest, and now she was on edge.


    ¡°We need a plan,¡± she finally said, breaking the silence. ¡°That was just one fragment. If there are more, we need to be prepared.¡±


    ¡°Agreed,¡± Aric muttered. ¡°And next time, we don¡¯t rely on Caelan nearly getting himself killed to fix it.¡±


    I ignored the jab. ¡°I had no choice. The magic was unstable¡ªit would have spread if we left it.¡±


    ¡°And what happens when it fights back harder next time?¡± Aric shot back. ¡°You got lucky. That thing could¡¯ve killed you.¡±


    ¡°It didn¡¯t,¡± I said evenly. ¡°Because I understood it.¡±


    Aric scoffed. ¡°You think you understand this magic?¡±


    ¡°I understand enough to know we can¡¯t just destroy it,¡± I replied. ¡°This isn¡¯t a battle where you swing a sword and cut down an enemy. If we attack blindly, we¡¯ll only make things worse.¡±


    Resna sighed. ¡°Enough. Aric, you¡¯re not wrong to be cautious, but Caelan¡¯s right. If we don¡¯t figure out how to handle this magic properly, we¡¯ll lose control before we even understand it.¡±


    Aric didn¡¯t answer right away. When he finally spoke, his voice was low. ¡°Father isn¡¯t going to like this.¡±


    The moment we stepped through the gates of Veylora Keep, I knew we were expected. The guards stiffened as we passed, the air thick with something unspoken. By the time we reached the Great Hall, my father was already waiting.


    He didn¡¯t speak at first, letting the silence stretch. The slow, deliberate tapping of his fingers against the armrest of his chair filled the void¡ªa habit of his, one that meant he had already formed his judgment before we even opened our mouths.


    Aric stepped forward. ¡°We found a corrupted fragment,¡± he said, his voice clipped. ¡°Caelan contained it.¡±


    A long pause. ¡°Contained it?¡± my father repeated, his tone unreadable. ¡°And what exactly does that mean?¡±


    I straightened. ¡°The magic was unstable. If we had left it unchecked, it could have spread. I used the shard to suppress it.¡±The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    A scoff. ¡°So you relied on that thing again.¡±


    I clenched my fists, the shard stirring faintly in my chest. ¡°It worked.¡±


    My father let out a slow breath. ¡°Do you even understand what you¡¯re dealing with?¡±


    ¡°More than you,¡± I said before I could stop myself. The words left my mouth like a loosed blade¡ªsharp, irreversible.


    The room went still.


    Aric tensed beside me. Resna exhaled quietly, as if bracing for impact.


    When my father finally spoke, his voice was like ice. ¡°Leave us,¡± he ordered.


    Aric hesitated. ¡°Father¡ª¡±


    ¡°I said leave us.¡±


    Resna touched my arm briefly before stepping away. Aric muttered something under his breath but followed her. The heavy doors closed behind them, leaving only me and my father in the vast emptiness of the Great Hall.


    He studied me for a moment before speaking. ¡°You think you understand magic?¡±


    I set my jaw. ¡°I¡¯m learning.¡±


    He let out a humorless chuckle. ¡°You don¡¯t even understand yourself.¡±


    I frowned. ¡°What¡¯s that supposed to mean?¡±


    He rose from his chair, his steps measured as he approached. ¡°You¡¯ve always been different. From the day you were born, the signs were there. The way the air stilled when you cried. The way the torches dimmed when you slept.¡±


    I stiffened. I had always known my affinity for magic had been noticed, but hearing it from him now, laid bare, made it feel more real.


    ¡°I tried to shape you into something stronger,¡± he continued. ¡°But strength is not just power, Caelan. It¡¯s control. It¡¯s knowing when to act and when to restrain yourself.¡±


    I tightened my grip on my cane. ¡°That¡¯s rich, coming from you.¡±


    His expression darkened. ¡°You think I wanted you to be weak? To be treated as an outsider? You think I enjoyed watching you struggle?¡±


    I faltered.


    He took a step closer. ¡°Aric never hated you.¡±


    The words hit harder than I expected.


    ¡°What?¡± I breathed.


    ¡°He never hated you,¡± my father repeated. ¡°He never wanted to treat you that way. But I told him to.¡±


    The world seemed to tilt slightly, as if the ground beneath me had shifted. The air felt heavier, the shard silent in my chest.


    ¡°You told him to?¡± My voice was barely above a whisper.


    ¡°You needed to be stronger,¡± my father said simply. ¡°You needed to learn that the world would not be kind to you, and I needed him to teach you that before it was too late.¡±


    I took a step back, my mind reeling. Aric¡¯s anger, his mockery, the years of bitter rivalry¡ªit had never been real?


    The realization left a strange emptiness in my chest.


    My father¡¯s voice softened just slightly. ¡°I did what I had to do.¡±


    I swallowed hard. ¡°And what if you were wrong?¡±


    He didn¡¯t answer.


    The conversation ended there. I left without another word, my thoughts a whirlwind of anger, confusion, and something I couldn¡¯t quite name.


    By the time I reached the courtyard, Aric was waiting. He must have seen something in my face because, for once, he didn¡¯t say anything sarcastic.


    ¡°You knew,¡± I said, my voice tight.


    Aric let out a long breath. ¡°Yeah.¡±


    I clenched my jaw. ¡°And you went along with it?¡±


    He hesitated. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to.¡±


    I shook my head. ¡°Then why did you?¡±


    ¡°Because he was right about one thing,¡± Aric said quietly. ¡°The world isn¡¯t kind. I figured if I was the one being cruel, at least I could control it. At least I could make sure you learned without it killing you.¡±


    We stood in silence, the weight of years pressing between us. Finally, I turned away.


    ¡°I don¡¯t need your protection anymore,¡± I said, walking past him. ¡°And I don¡¯t need his either.¡±


    The shard pulsed faintly as I stepped into the night air, its rhythm steady. I had always known my place in this world was uncertain, but now I knew something else.


    I wasn¡¯t walking this path for my father. I wasn¡¯t doing this to prove anything to Aric.


    This was my path. And I would walk it alone if I had to.

 Chapter 15: A New Path

    The night air was crisp, heavy with the weight of unspoken words. I wandered the keep¡¯s courtyard, my thoughts a tangled web of emotions I couldn¡¯t unravel. The revelation of my father¡¯s manipulations, the years of forced cruelty from Aric¡ªall of it burned inside me, a fire refusing to be extinguished.


    Anger, betrayal¡ªthose emotions simmered beneath my skin. A part of me wanted to confront Aric again, demand why he hadn¡¯t told me sooner. But another part of me knew it wouldn¡¯t change anything. The past was done. The only thing left was what I chose to do next.


    The shard was silent, neither guiding nor comforting me. Perhaps it, too, was waiting.


    I heard Resna¡¯s footsteps before she spoke, her presence quiet but not silent enough to avoid my notice.


    ¡°You¡¯re brooding.¡±


    I let out a humorless chuckle. ¡°And here I thought I was just walking.¡±You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    She stopped a few feet away. ¡°I heard what happened.¡±


    ¡°Of course you did.¡± The keep had many ears. News traveled fast.


    Resna exhaled softly. ¡°And?¡±


    I turned slightly toward her. ¡°And what?¡±


    ¡°What are you going to do now?¡±


    That was the question, wasn¡¯t it? I had spent years proving my worth to a man who saw me as nothing more than a pawn. I had fought, struggled, bled¡ªonly to realize it had all been orchestrated. Controlled.


    But now, for the first time, I had no master but myself.


    ¡°I¡¯m leaving,¡± I said finally. ¡°At dawn.¡±


    Resna didn¡¯t react, as if she had expected the answer. ¡°Where?¡±


    ¡°The next corrupted site,¡± I said. ¡°The magic isn¡¯t waiting, so neither am I.¡±


    She sighed. ¡°You know Aric will follow, right?¡±


    I exhaled slowly. ¡°I know.¡±


    She studied me for a long moment before nodding. ¡°Then I¡¯ll be ready.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re coming?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯ll need someone watching your back,¡± she said. ¡°And between you and Aric, I¡¯d rather keep an eye on the one who actually listens to reason.¡±


    A faint smile tugged at my lips. ¡°Flattered.¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be.¡±


    She turned and left without another word. I stood there a moment longer, the weight of my decision settling in. I wasn¡¯t leaving for my father. I wasn¡¯t leaving for Aric. I wasn¡¯t even leaving to prove myself anymore.


    I was leaving because this was my path.


    And I would walk it, no matter where it led.

 Chapter 16: Beyond the Keep

    The dirt road stretched ahead, lined with patches of wild grass and the occasional gnarled tree. The scent of damp earth and morning dew clung to the air. I didn¡¯t look back at Veylora Keep. I had spent too long in its shadow.


    Resna moved ahead, her steps confident as she scouted the path. Aric walked beside me, his presence familiar but no longer suffocating. He had spoken little since we left, but this time, I no longer felt the need to break the silence.


    The shard in my chest was still, neither guiding nor warning me. Perhaps, like me, it was waiting.


    ¡°How far?¡± I asked, keeping my voice level.


    Resna slowed slightly before answering. ¡°A few days¡¯ travel, maybe longer depending on the terrain. The site is near the old trade routes. No settlements nearby.¡±


    ¡°Good,¡± Aric muttered. ¡°Less collateral damage.¡±


    The way he said it made me pause. I turned slightly. ¡°You think we¡¯re going to fail?¡±


    Aric let out a slow breath. ¡°I think we still don¡¯t know what we¡¯re dealing with.¡±


    I didn¡¯t argue. He wasn¡¯t wrong.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    We traveled in measured silence, stopping only when necessary. Without sight, I relied on the shard and my other senses, though I made a point to use my cane more than usual. I couldn¡¯t afford to depend on the shard for everything.


    Night fell, and we made camp near a river. The fire crackled, casting flickering light against the trees.


    ¡°You sure about this?¡± Aric finally asked, breaking the silence.


    I traced my fingers along the worn edge of the medallion around my neck. ¡°Would it change anything if I wasn¡¯t?¡±


    Aric exhaled. ¡°No.¡±


    We sat in silence, the firelight dancing between us.


    Resna spoke next. ¡°What¡¯s the plan when we get there?¡±


    ¡°Assess the site,¡± I said. ¡°See if the magic is still active. Contain it if possible.¡±


    ¡°And if it¡¯s worse than we expect?¡±


    ¡°Then we adapt.¡±


    Resna scoffed. ¡°Not much of a plan.¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s the best I¡¯ve got.¡±


    She didn¡¯t argue.


    Aric¡¯s voice was quieter. ¡°And if we can¡¯t contain it?¡±


    I tightened my grip on the medallion. ¡°Then we make sure it doesn¡¯t spread.¡±


    The second day brought a shift in the landscape. The thick forest gave way to open plains, the wind no longer tempered by trees.


    ¡°The old trade route isn¡¯t far,¡± Resna said. ¡°We¡¯ll reach the site before nightfall if we keep pace.¡±


    I nodded. The shard pulsed faintly, sensing the magic ahead.


    The air changed. Not physically, but there was an unnatural stillness. Even Aric noticed.


    ¡°I don¡¯t like this,¡± he muttered.


    ¡°Neither do I,¡± I admitted.


    By the time we reached the site¡¯s edge, the shard¡¯s hum had returned, sharp and steady. The magic here was alive, lingering beneath the surface like a wound refusing to close.


    ¡°Stay alert,¡± I said, gripping my cane.


    We stepped forward into the unknown.

 Chapter 17: The Pulse of Corruption

    The ground beneath my boots vibrated faintly, unrelated to the wind or shifting earth. It was the magic. Even before we reached the site, I could feel its pulse¡ªirregular, unstable, like something gasping for air.


    Resna halted ahead of me. The creak of her leather armor was audible as she crouched, scanning the surroundings. ¡°There¡¯s nothing here,¡± she muttered, her voice tight. ¡°No bodies. No remains. Just... nothing.¡±


    Aric¡¯s sword rasped as he drew it. ¡°Same as the last place.¡±


    I stepped forward cautiously, my cane tapping against the packed dirt. The vibrations were stronger here, erratic, like echoes of something that refused to settle. This wasn¡¯t residual energy.


    ¡°It¡¯s still alive,¡± I said quietly.


    Resna turned her head toward me. ¡°What do you mean?¡±


    ¡°The magic. It¡¯s not dormant.¡± I shifted slightly, tilting my head to catch the faintest echo of its presence. ¡°It¡¯s moving.¡±


    Aric tensed. ¡°Moving?¡±


    I nodded, gripping the medallion around my neck. ¡°It¡¯s not settled. It¡¯s searching for something.¡±


    Resna exhaled sharply. ¡°That¡¯s worse.¡±


    A distant crack echoed across the plains. A heartbeat later, the shard in my chest jolted. Not a pulse. Not a hum. A jolt.


    Something was coming.


    At first, it was distant¡ªa rhythmic thudding against the earth. It grew closer with each passing second¡ªheavy, deliberate. Resna had an arrow nocked before I could speak. Aric shifted beside me, his armor settling as he adjusted his stance.


    I took a slow breath, grounding myself. The shard had never reacted like this before. It was sharp, alert¡ªwarning, not controlling. This wasn¡¯t guidance. It was instinct.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Then, I felt it.


    The magic surged through the ground, rippling beneath my feet like waves crashing against the shore. Whatever approached wasn¡¯t just using magic¡ªit was magic.


    I turned slightly. ¡°It¡¯s not an animal.¡±


    Aric exhaled sharply. ¡°Fantastic. Something worse, then.¡±


    The creature emerged from the mist. I couldn¡¯t see it, but I didn¡¯t need to. The air twisted around it, thick with shifting energy. Each step sent another tremor through the ground, and as it moved closer, I could feel its form take shape in my mind.


    A hollow frame. Limbs too long. A body pulsing with something unnatural.


    Resna loosed her arrow. The air split as it struck true¡ªexcept there was no impact. No flesh. No resistance. Just... silence.


    Then, the air screamed.


    I staggered, clutching the medallion as the force of the sound rattled through my skull. The shard¡¯s pulse flared, reacting to the magic, but I pushed it down. I wouldn¡¯t let it control me.


    Aric lunged forward. His sword met resistance¡ªfinally, something solid. A sharp crack echoed as his blade bit into the creature. The magic in the air shuddered.


    The creature retaliated instantly. I felt its movement shift, the way the air folded around it before it struck. ¡°Left!¡± I shouted.


    Aric moved, barely avoiding the clawed appendage that swiped toward him.


    Resna repositioned and fired another arrow. This time, the impact sent a visible ripple through the air. ¡°It¡¯s unstable!¡± she called. ¡°It¡¯s holding itself together with magic!¡±


    I gritted my teeth. ¡°Then we need to disrupt it.¡±


    I moved carefully, feeling the shifts in the ground, the energy twisting. My cane tapped against something¡ªnot stone. Not wood. Something thin. I pressed my hand forward, and the air resisted.


    The creature had no true form. It was something caught between worlds, held together by raw magic.


    Which meant I could break it.


    The shard pulsed sharply, but I ignored it. This wasn¡¯t its choice. It was mine.


    I gripped the air, feeling the magic tremble beneath my fingertips. Then, with everything I had, I pulled.


    The air fractured.


    A sound like splintering glass tore through the clearing. The creature let out a final, piercing shriek before collapsing. Its magic shattered, scattering like dust in the wind.


    Silence.


    My chest heaved. The shard was still again. But traces of magic still lingered in the air.


    Resna lowered her bow. ¡°That was new.¡±


    Aric exhaled, rolling his shoulders. ¡°Let¡¯s not do that again.¡±


    I swallowed hard, my grip tightening on the medallion.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have a choice,¡± I said. ¡°This won¡¯t be the last one.¡±


    And I knew I was right.


    Whoever was behind this had just felt me break their creation.


    And they would come looking for me.