ã€ŠThe Etherboundã€‹


 1. The Fallen Chase

    In a city of towering spires, their silver peaks glistening against the heavens, a lone figure with midnight-black wings streaked through the sky, pursued by a legion of winged warriors. His silver armor gleamed under the ethereal light, and at his waist hung a sheathed sword, its hilt glimmering with divine inscriptions. In his arms, he clutched a massive, leather-bound tome, its cover thick and ancient, as though it held secrets that should never be unveiled.

    From behind, his pursuers forged spears of pure Etherea, crackling with celestial energy, and hurled them toward him.

    "Samael! This chase is a waste of time¡ªwe can end it now!"

    The voice came from a figure with ashen-gray wings, his presence commanding yet restrained. He, too, was clad in radiant silver armor, his sharp gaze locked onto the fleeing angel. But Samael did not acknowledge him.

    "Samael, stop!"

    This time, the voice was softer yet far more powerful, a call that carried both authority and sorrow.

    Samael did not need to turn to know who had spoken.

    The one calling his name was a woman of celestial beauty, her luminous white wings glowing with an almost divine radiance. She was clad in the same silver armor, though on her, it looked as if it were forged from light itself. Her presence outshone even the stars above, yet her piercing gaze carried desperation, longing¡­ and something unspoken.

    But Samael did not stop.

    He soared toward the very edge of the city, where the sky itself seemed to shatter into endless unknown. And without hesitation, he plunged downward, vanishing into the stormy clouds below.

    Yet, the onslaught did not relent.

    By now, hundreds of winged figures had joined the hunt, their brilliant forms painting the sky with streaks of gold and silver, each one determined to bring down the fallen angel before he escaped with the forbidden truth.

    "Metatron, I can stop him. Just give me time¡ªlet me talk to him alone," Uriel implored, her voice steady yet urgent.

    Metatron''s silver gaze remained cold, unwavering.

    "I''m sorry, Uriel. But the crime he has committed cannot be forgiven."

    His words struck like iron, final and absolute.

    Uriel clenched her jaw, but she did not argue. Instead, Etherea flared around her, a radiant aura of pure light wrapping around her form. She surged forward, accelerating like a falling star, her luminous wings leaving a trail of brilliance in her wake.

    Metatron narrowed his eyes. He would not allow hesitation to jeopardize their mission.

    "All units, assist Uriel in capturing Samael!" he commanded.

    The legion of celestial warriors obeyed, diving downward like a storm of silver and gold, following Uriel''s lead. Meanwhile, Metatron remained above, observing. Below him, the sky rippled with light and shadow, as Uriel, a beacon of divinity, closed in on Samael, the lone figure shrouded in darkness.

    Samael exhaled sharply, his grip tightening around the forbidden tome.

    He had no time.

    With a flick of his wrist, he opened his left palm¡ªand the air around him trembled.

    A dense, swirling mass of Dark Matter ignited at his fingertips, its presence devouring the surrounding light like an abyss consuming the stars. In a single motion, he unleashed the power outward, and a thick black mist exploded from his body, expanding in all directions.

    The sky darkened.

    One by one, the pursuing angels vanished into the abyss, their golden armor swallowed by the creeping void.

    Uriel did not hesitate.

    Her radiance intensified, her entire being blazing with celestial brilliance. Then, she opened her eyes¡ªand golden fire burned within them.

    "Follow my light!" she commanded, her voice cutting through the darkness like a divine decree.

    The warriors close to her pushed forward, guided by her unwavering glow. But those who had fallen too far behind¡ªthose outside her light¡ªwere now adrift in the black void.

    And then, the mist moved.

    Tendrils of Dark Matter coiled around the isolated soldiers, constricting like living shadows.

    Before they could react, spikes of pure void energy erupted from the darkness, piercing through their armor.

    Not to kill. But to incapacitate.

    Their cries of pain echoed through the sky. Samael had struck with precision¡ªbrutal, but merciful.

    Uriel halted for a brief moment, her body still alight with divine radiance as pained cries echoed behind her. Instinctively, she turned her head back, her golden eyes searching the mist for the wounded warriors.

    "Uriel, we cannot stop now," a voice called out.

    A figure with deep blue wings had caught up to her¡ªRaijel, his expression firm yet urgent.

    "But Raijel¡­ they¡ª"

    "Samael wouldn¡¯t kill them."

    His voice was unwavering, filled with certainty.

    Uriel clenched her jaw, exhaling sharply before turning her gaze forward. She had to keep going.

    With a powerful beat of her wings, she burst through the thick veil of black mist, her radiance illuminating the darkness as she led hundreds of winged warriors in pursuit.

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    And then¡ªthey saw it.

    The chase had led them beyond the borders of Heaven itself, to the very threshold of the Material Plane. Below them stretched an endless layer of water, glistening like a liquid mirror, floating beneath the clouds as if separating two realms.

    And there¡ªSamael was descending rapidly, racing toward the barrier, his intent clear.

    "Aquarel!" Uriel called out, snapping her gaze toward a figure with light blue wings flying behind her.

    Aquarel raised both hands, palms facing downward.

    In an instant, a colossal vortex of water roared to life just ahead of Samael. The torrent surged upward, swallowing him whole, its powerful current entangling him in its grasp.

    "Glaciel!" Uriel''s voice rang again.

    A figure with frost-touched, pale blue wings responded immediately. With practiced precision, he hurled a spear of ice directly into the whirling torrent.

    The moment the frozen weapon made contact, the entire water vortex turned to solid ice, trapping Samael mid-motion, his form encased in a prison of frozen crystal.

    The once-boundless waters beneath them had transformed into an endless field of ice, sealing Samael within its grasp.

    Uriel descended carefully, landing before the frozen tomb, her golden light reflecting against the ice¡¯s surface. Through the crystalline barrier, she could see him¡ªSamael, frozen in place, still clutching the tome in his arms.

    The moment felt heavy. Final.

    The surrounding warriors moved into formation, their wings spreading outward as they encircled the frozen mass, sealing off any possible escape.

    Uriel stepped closer. Slowly, she reached out, pressing a delicate yet resolute hand against the frigid surface.

    "Samael¡­" she whispered. "I know you can hear me. Stop this. Return the tome. Return to Heaven. Return to me."

    For a moment, the world held its breath.

    And then¡ªa violent presence tore through the air.

    A shadow loomed from above.

    Metatron.

    He had finally arrived.

    His gaze burned with fury, his hands already charged with Etherea, crackling like restrained lightning. He plummeted downward, his fist colliding against the frozen vortex with tremendous force.

    The ice shattered.

    Samael¡¯s body was thrown backward, flung across the frozen battlefield as shards of ice scattered like celestial glass.

    "Metatron, we can talk about this!" Uriel pleaded, her voice sharp with desperation.

    But Metatron did not acknowledge her.

    He descended swiftly, his silver wings cutting through the sky like blades. The moment Samael crashed onto the icy ground, the legion of warriors moved, encircling him in a massive formation, their bodies forming an impenetrable dome of wings and steel.

    There would be no escape.

    Metatron landed heavily, his presence demanding absolute authority. His glowing silver eyes locked onto the wounded angel before him.

    "Return it. Now."

    Samael shifted, slowly pushing himself up, the ancient tome still clutched tightly in his arms.

    From this distance, Uriel could see it clearly¡ªhis once-pristine armor was now battered and torn, his body covered in golden wounds that still shimmered faintly with divine light.

    Yet, despite the pain, he smirked.

    "What do you plan to do with the Tome of The Presence?" Samael''s voice was hoarse, but steady.

    "I am merely returning it to its rightful place¡ª"

    "You mean into your hands?"

    "To the Throne of Light."

    "Your throne?"

    Metatron¡¯s brow twitched, but he remained composed.

    "You sound like a cornered beast, Samael," he sneered. "Snarling in a desperate attempt to escape."

    A cold silence stretched between them.

    "Almost all of your followers have been captured. Once I find the last of them, I will cast you all into Hell myself."

    Samael exhaled slowly, his golden eyes scanning the warriors around him.

    And then, his gaze found hers.

    Uriel.

    The moment their eyes met, his expression softened, his smirk fading into something quieter, something mournful.

    Metatron saw it.

    And it enraged him.

    Without hesitation, he raised his right hand, and in an instant, countless spears of Etherea formed around Samael, hovering like swords of judgment.

    Uriel¡¯s breath caught.

    "Metatron, stop¡ª!"

    But Metatron''s fist clenched.

    The spears struck all at once.

    Samael¡¯s body jerked violently as the Ethereal spikes pierced through him, one after another.

    Golden blood seeped from his wounds, dripping onto the frozen ground like liquid sunlight.

    But the tome¡ªthe tome remained untouched.

    Every spear aimed toward it shattered upon impact, unable to defile its sacred power.

    Metatron lowered his hand, exhaling sharply.

    "If you refuse to return it¡ªthen I will take it from you myself."

    Samael staggered to his feet, his body trembling from the Ethereal spears lodged in his flesh. Golden blood dripped onto the frozen ground, staining the ice beneath him like molten sunlight.

    But even now¡ªeven at the edge of defeat¡ªhe smiled.

    Slowly, painfully, he lifted the tome. His fingers, slick with divine blood, traced the ancient markings on its cover.

    "Samael," Uriel¡¯s voice wavered. "Don¡¯t do this."

    But he did not look at her.

    Instead, he unlocked the binding and opened the sacred tome.

    At that moment, a sudden gust of wind tore through the battlefield, as if the very fabric of the world shuddered in protest.

    Metatron¡¯s eyes widened in fury.

    "STOP HIM!"

    The warriors lunged, but it was too late.

    Samael¡¯s voice rang clear and unshaken as he began to read.

    The words¡ªancient, forbidden, primal¡ªflowed from his lips like an incantation never meant to be spoken again.

    The sky darkened.

    The earth cracked.

    And beneath Samael¡¯s feet, a sigil ignited¡ªa swirling emblem of black fire and silver runes, pulsing like a heartbeat.

    Uriel gasped. She recognized that sigil.

    "Samael¡­ what have you done?"

    The very air rippled, warping around him as tendrils of dark Etherea coiled around his body, binding him in unseen chains.

    Metatron¡¯s rage boiled over.

    "SEIZE HIM! NOW!"

    But the moment they moved¡ªa sudden shockwave exploded outward.

    Light and shadow collided, the force so great that even the strongest warriors were thrown back, their formation shattered like glass.

    And at the center of it all¡ªSamael stood, his golden eyes burning with something¡­ irreversible.

    And then¡ªblack fire engulfed him.

    The Curse had begun.

 2. Awaken

    All eyes were on Samael.

    The battlefield trembled under the sheer force of Etherea radiating from his body, waves of power rippling outward, distorting the air itself.

    Uriel¡¯s heart pounded in her chest, ¡°What is he trying to do?¡±

    "STOP HIM!" Metatron¡¯s voice thundered across the frozen expanse.

    Samael ignored the command. His fingers turned the pages of the sacred tome, faster this time. He scanned the forbidden words, his voice a low, steady chant that carried through the howling wind.

    And then¡ªthe world itself began to break.

    A violent tremor surged through the battlefield, splitting the ice beneath their feet. Jagged cracks raced outward, deep and unrelenting.

    The celestial warriors staggered as the once-solid ground beneath them fractured and crumbled.

    Then, suddenly, the tome ripped itself from Samael¡¯s grasp, rising high into the stormy sky.

    And then¡ªit shattered.

    The pages burst free, scattering like falling stars.

    Some soared far beyond the clouds, vanishing into the unknown.

    But most¡ªmost plummeted through the fractured ice, disappearing into the Material Plane below.

    Metatron¡¯s fury burned through the chaos.

    "DAMN YOU, SAMAEL! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!"

    But Samael did not answer him.

    He looked at Uriel instead. Their gazes locked¡ªgold meeting gold, light meeting shadow.

    A ghost of a smile touched his lips. One filled with longing. With farewell.

    And then¡ªblack fire erupted from his body.

    The explosion consumed everything.

    And then¡ªdarkness.

    ===

    A young boy, no older than seven, gasped awake.

    His chest heaved, his body drenched in sweat.

    His small hand trembled as he wiped his forehead, pushing back locks of jet-black hair damp with perspiration.

    His breathing slowed, but the pounding in his heart did not fade.

    He rose from his bed, his bare feet touching the cold floor, and stepped toward the window. With careful hands, he unlatched it.

    A cool night breeze swept into the room, brushing against his face, stirring his dark hair.

    He closed his eyes for a moment, inhaling deeply.

    Then, his gaze lifted toward the moon.

    ¡°That nightmare again¡­¡±, His thoughts echoed in his mind, heavy with an unspoken weight.

    His room was on the third floor of a grand castle, overlooking an expansive courtyard. Below, torch-bearing guards patrolled the castle walls, their silhouettes moving against the flickering light.

    Beyond the castle¡¯s perimeter, a densely packed city stretched into the distance, its streets quiet under the moonlit sky. And far beyond that, at the very edge of the horizon, loomed an immense outer wall¡ªthe final barrier that separated the city from the world beyond.

    The boy exhaled, long and slow.

    ¡°What does this dream mean? This is the third time¡­¡±

    A faint presence stirred near his door.

    A flicker of Etherea¡ªsmall, but unmistakably alive. Familiar.

    A rapid series of knocks suddenly echoed against the wood.

    "Big Brother Revan! Are you awake?!"

    The voice was young, eager, and impatient.

    Revan sighed, already knowing the source.

    He didn¡¯t need to open the door to recognize the presence on the other side.

    ¡°Xander¡­¡±

    His five-year-old younger brother¡ªthe third son of House Vaelgrim.

    "Tonight is Caelan¡¯s High Moon Trial!" Xander¡¯s excited voice rang from the hallway.

    Revan smiled faintly. Of course.

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    "I¡¯ll get ready. You go ahead to the Hall of Shadow."

    But before he could take another breath, the door burst open.

    A small, dark-haired boy came rushing into the room, his bright eyes sparkling with excitement.

    Xander grinned up at him, practically bouncing on his feet.

    "I¡¯ll wait for you!"

    Revan chuckled.

    "Why are you so excited?"

    Xander¡¯s face lit up.

    "Because this is the first time I¡¯ve ever stayed up this late!"

    Revan shook his head, amused, as he walked toward his wardrobe. Inside, his House Vaelgrim uniform was neatly arranged, ready for the night¡¯s events.

    Meanwhile, Xander scurried toward the sofa, plopping down in a slouched position, his excitement barely masking his drowsiness.

    Revan glanced at him, his smirk widening.

    "Why are you alone? Where¡¯s Diana?"

    "She was right behind me¡­ but I think I was faster."

    Revan¡¯s brow raised.

    "Father will scold you if you keep making Diana chase after you."

    Xander pouted.

    "You always get scolded, and you never care."

    Revan laughed. "That¡¯s different."

    A moment later, a breathless figure appeared at the door.

    A young woman in a maid¡¯s uniform¡ªDiana.

    She looked like she had run across the entire castle.

    "Young¡­ Lord¡­ Xander!" she huffed, hands on her knees.

    Her frustration lasted all of two seconds before she marched over and yanked Xander by the ear.

    "Aww¡­ aww¡­! I¡¯m sorry, Maid Diana! You were too slow!"

    "Too slow?" Diana seethed. "You used Etherea to boost your speed and ran around the entire castle before coming here!"

    "Ouchhh¡­! It hurts¡­! Big Brother, help me!"

    Revan leaned against the wardrobe, smirking.

    "You brought this on yourself, Xander."

    Xander groaned dramatically, but Revan had already fastened his sword to his waist.

    ¡°I shouldn¡¯t keep them waiting.¡±

    "I¡¯m ready. Let¡¯s go."

    Diana finally released Xander, though her scolding glare remained sharp.

    As they stepped out into the dimly lit hallways, their destination loomed ahead¡ª

    A place hidden beneath the castle. A place known as the Hall of Shadow. A place where tonight¡ªa trial awaited.

    Several figures had already gathered¡ªdistant relatives, members of a lesser branch of House Vaelgrim. Though they shared the same bloodline, tonight was not about them.

    Standing at the entrance, waiting to greet them, was a Guard Captain. His armor bore the emblem of House Vaelgrim, polished and pristine.

    As Revan and Xander approached, the captain bowed deeply, acknowledging them with proper respect. Then, his gaze flickered toward Diana, his lips curling into a faint smile before he nodded in silent recognition.

    Without a word, he gestured for them to follow.

    Their seats had been prepared¡ªa section reserved exclusively for the Main Branch of House Vaelgrim.

    As they stepped forward, Revan¡¯s eyes immediately fell on a woman seated with effortless grace, her presence commanding yet warm. She exuded quiet strength, the kind that came from noble lineage and unwavering discipline.

    Before her stood a boy¡ªtall for his age, around eleven¡ªhis posture relaxed, but his mother¡¯s hands still fussed over his ceremonial attire.

    His onyx-colored eyes reflected the dim torchlight as he sighed in mild exasperation.

    "Mother, my clothes are already fine."

    The woman merely smiled, adjusting the folds of his formal robe with practiced ease.

    ¡°I know, Caelan, but tonight is important for House Vaelgrim."

    Her words were spoken not as a correction, but as a quiet decree.

    Her icy-blue hair shimmered faintly under the torchlight, a rare contrast to the deep onyx eyes that marked her as part of Vaelgrim now.

    Even clad in Vaelgrim¡¯s colors, her heritage was unmistakable. She had not been born into this house¡ªshe had become part of it through marriage to the Patriarch.

    When she turned to Revan and Xander, her expression softened, her regal demeanor giving way to a warmer, more familiar presence.

    "I¡¯ve prepared seats for you. Sit here."

    She gestured to two grand chairs beside her¡ªornate, though not quite as elaborate as the one she occupied.

    However, to her right, there was another seat¡ªlarger, more imposing, its presence unmistakable.

    "You didn¡¯t forget what tonight is, did you?"

    Caelan leaned slightly toward Revan, his onyx gaze narrowing playfully.

    Revan smirked. "Relax. As if I¡¯d forget your big night."

    Caelan arched a brow, clearly unconvinced. "Uh-huh. Like how you ''didn¡¯t forget'' my birthday banquet?"

    Revan chuckled. "That was different. The food was too good. Made me sleepy."

    "You literally slept through half of it."

    "And I made it up to you with a gift, didn¡¯t I?"

    Caelan rolled his onyx eyes, but there was no real anger¡ªjust playful exasperation.

    "Yeah, yeah. Just don¡¯t snore through my High Moon Trial, too."

    Xander snickered from beside them, his own onyx gaze sparkling with mischief.

    "If he does, I¡¯ll pour ice water on him."

    Caelan smirked.

    "Deal."

    Revan only shook his head, grinning at their antics.

    And then¡ªthe air shifted. A pressure settled over the chamber¡ªdense, heavy, unrelenting.

    A gust of wind howled through the room, carrying with it an unmistakable force¡ªa pulse of Etherea, raw and absolute.

    The torches flickered. And then¡ªthey died.

    Darkness swallowed the chamber.

    From the center of the training hall, a swirling mass of black fire erupted, spiraling upward like a storm made of shadow.

    The air vibrated, thick with energy.

    And then¡ªfrom within the inferno, a figure stepped forward.

    A man.

    His footsteps echoed in the silence, slow, measured, yet impossibly heavy.

    He carried a lantern, but its glow did not come from fire¡ªit came from a single luminous stone, white as the moon, yet pulsing with ethereal light.

    The darkness seemed to bend around him, folding into his presence like an obedient force.

    A hush fell over the chamber.

    Even the most hardened warriors of House Vaelgrim stood in silent reverence.

    And then¡ªhe spoke.

    "The hour has come."

    His voice was deep, steady, and absolute.

    "Caelan Vaelgrim¡ªstep forward."

    The command rang through the hall, final and unwavering.

    Revan exhaled slowly, his grip tightening around his sword¡¯s hilt.

    He had seen his father many times before. But tonight¡ªsomething felt different.

    The High Moon Trial had begun.

 3. Reflections in Black Flame

    Caelan descended the stone steps slowly, each step echoing through the silent colosseum-like arena. The training field at the center awaited him, illuminated only by the ethereal glow of distant torches.

    His hand instinctively tightened around the hilt of his sword, the leather grip firm against his palm.

    He could feel it¡ªthe weight of expectation pressing down on him.

    "Good luck," Revan whispered, barely loud enough for anyone else to hear.

    Caelan turned slightly, catching his younger brother''s gaze, before offering a small, confident smirk.

    "I''ve trained hard enough. I don''t need luck."

    Revan let out a slow breath, shaking his head with a quiet chuckle. That unwavering confidence¡ªthat was what he admired most about his brother.

    Caelan reached the center of the training field, where their father stood, waiting.

    Cassius Vaelgrim¡ªthe Patriarch of House Vaelgrim.

    The air around him felt heavier here, as if his very presence demanded absolute attention.

    Cassius''s voice rang loud and clear, cutting through the tense stillness of the colosseum.

    "Tonight, Caelan Vaelgrim will prove himself before all of House Vaelgrim."

    His onyx eyes, dark and unreadable, swept over the gathered spectators.

    "He will show us that he is ready to stand as a true member of this house. That he is ready to embrace his path."

    A pause.

    "And I, Cassius Vaelgrim, as Patriarch of this house, will test his strength."

    Caelan exhaled, steadying himself.

    "Am I fighting you, Father?" he asked, tilting his head slightly.

    Cassius''s lips curled into a knowing smile.

    "No."

    The response came simply, yet carried weight.

    "You will fight the enemy that will always stand before you. The enemy that you will never stop fighting."

    Caelan''s brow furrowed slightly.

    "What does he mean?"

    "Are you ready?" Cassius asked.

    Caelan didn''t hesitate.

    With a fluid motion, he drew his sword, his stance shifting into the Vaelgrim combat form¡ªfeet planted, body balanced, blade angled for precision.

    His onyx eyes locked onto his father''s.

    "I''m always ready."

    Cassius lifted his hand, his fingers engulfed in black fire, flickering like a living shadow.

    With a single gesture, he cast his palm toward the far end of the training field¡ªroughly two hundred meters away.

    The ground quivered, heat rippling through the air as a swirling black inferno erupted, twisting into a tornado of searing flame.

    The onlookers gasped softly, some shifting uneasily as the firestorm raged.

    And then¡ªit vanished.

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    Where the fire had once been, a figure now stood.

    A perfect silhouette of Caelan.

    Except¡ªit wasn''t him.

    Its form was cloaked in absolute darkness, like a void given shape.

    And its eyes¡ªunnatural, glowing with a piercing violet light¡ªstared straight into Caelan''s own.

    Black flames engulfed Cassius, and in an instant, he vanished¡ªreappearing on the grand seat beside his wife. The only thing left behind was the Ethera lantern, still glowing faintly.

    As the lantern touched the ground, the shadowed figure of Caelan lunged forward.

    It moved with unnatural speed, its violet eyes glowing eerily, its blade flashing as it rushed into the attack.

    Caelan remained composed, weaving through the relentless flurry of strikes.

    "Precise. Unforgiving. Just like my own."

    The shadow moved with perfect technique, mirroring Caelan''s combat style with frightening accuracy.

    Then¡ªa powerful overhead slash.

    Caelan drew his sword in one swift motion, steel meeting steel with a resounding clash.

    The force of the impact sent vibrations up his arm, the air between them rippling from their combined Etherea.

    Locked in the struggle, Caelan''s eyes narrowed.

    "This thing isn''t just a copy. It''s adapting."

    He opened his left palm, conjuring a roaring sphere of black fire.

    Without hesitation, he thrust it forward.

    The fireball slammed into the shadow''s chest, sending it flying backward.

    But even as it was thrown through the air, the shadow''s blade lashed out¡ª

    A black flame slash tore toward Caelan.

    Caelan reacted instantly.

    Etherea surged to his legs, his muscles coiling before he launched sideways, dodging just in time.

    The flaming slash carved into the stone behind him, leaving scorched marks in its wake.

    He didn''t stop.

    "Don''t give it room to breathe."

    Caelan closed the distance, his blade now wreathed in dark fire.

    With a single fluid motion, he swung his sword, ready to cleave through his reflection.

    At that exact moment, the shadow stabbed its blade into the ground.

    A shockwave of fire exploded outward, forming a wall of black flames between them.

    Caelan skidded to a halt.

    His eyes flickered with intensity, scanning for an opening.

    Then¡ªhe dashed sideways, circling the wall to strike from the flank.

    His blade cut through the air, sending a wave of fire slashing forward.

    It tore through the darkness¡ª

    ¡ªhitting nothing.

    Caelan''s instincts flared.

    He snapped his gaze upward.

    Above him¡ªthe shadow was already descending, its blade poised for a lethal strike.

    "It baited me."

    Caelan reacted without thinking.

    He slammed his sword into the ground, carving a burning arc of black fire at his feet.

    The flames erupted, forming a wall of fire that launched the shadow backward mid-air.

    Its weapon was knocked loose, tumbling away in the opposite direction.

    Caelan exhaled, his stance steady.

    For the first time, the shadow was off balance.

    "Now¡­ it''s my turn."

    The audience watched in awe, their gazes locked onto the battle unfolding before them.

    Caelan Vaelgrim¡ªthe eldest son of the main bloodline, the future of House Vaelgrim.

    Everything about him aligned with their expectations.

    "Big Brother Caelan is so fast!" Xander gasped, his onyx eyes wide with admiration.

    Their mother chuckled softly, placing a gentle hand on Xander''s head.

    "If you train well, you can be just like him one day."

    Xander beamed at the praise, his excitement brimming. But then, his gaze shifted¡ªthis time, to Revan.

    "Why have I never seen you use black fire?"

    Revan froze.

    Xander''s innocent curiosity hit deeper than it should have.

    "Because I''m not an Etherean."

    The words left Revan''s lips before he could stop them, his voice carrying a hint of bitterness.

    Xander tilted his head, confused.

    "But¡­ you''re part of House Vaelgrim too, right? Teacher Durrand told me all noble houses have Ethereans. He said it''s in our blood."

    Revan''s throat tightened.

    "How do I explain this?"

    His younger brother didn''t mean harm¡ªhe was just a child, curious and unaware of the weight behind his words.

    But to Revan, that question was a knife buried deep into an old wound.

    He parted his lips, ready to answer¡ª

    "I''m not the only one who doesn''t¡ª"

    "Focus on your brother, Xander. He is in the middle of his High Moon Trial."

    Their father''s voice cut through the conversation, final and absolute.

    Xander frowned slightly, disappointed that his question had been left unanswered.

    "Alright¡­" he mumbled, shifting his attention back to the battle, though his expression still held lingering curiosity.

    Revan exhaled slowly, pushing down the storm of emotions that threatened to surface.

    His eyes turned back toward the battlefield, but his mind was elsewhere¡ªlost in unanswered questions, buried in unspoken pain.

    "Why am I the only one?"

    He clenched his fists.

    Then¡ªsomething shifted in the battle.

    A barrage of black fireballs soared across the battlefield.

    The shadowed figure threw them in rapid succession, each projectile burning through the air like streaks of void.

    Caelan moved with precision, his body coated in Etherea, his movements like a shadow weaving through the storm.

    He dodged, sidestepped, and leaped, each motion executed with calculated grace.

    But then¡ªthe shadow thrust both hands to the ground.

    A low rumble vibrated through the training field.

    Dark flames coiled around the shadow''s arms, crawling up its body like living tendrils.

    Caelan''s eyes locked onto the movement, his senses heightened.

    Then¡ªhe saw it.

    The way the shadow rooted itself in place, its stance firm, its focus shifting to gathering power rather than defense.

    A brief opening.

    "I got you."

 4. Gilded Arrival

    With one swift slash, the shadow''s head flew into the air, severed clean from its body.

    Its lifeless form collapsed to the ground, motionless.

    Then¡ªthe darkness began to dissolve.

    The shadow''s body ignited in black flames, burning away into nothingness before it could even touch the earth. The severed head followed, disintegrating in the same eerie fashion.

    Caelan exhaled sharply, lowering his blade.

    But before he could steady himself¡ª

    A black sigil burned beneath his feet.

    The flames flared violently, swirling into a vortex of Etherea¡ª

    Then¡ªan explosion.

    A shockwave erupted from the ground, launching Caelan backward with tremendous force.

    The entire chamber held its breath.

    For a moment, silence.

    Then¡ªa stir.

    Caelan moved.

    His fingers tightened around his sword as he pushed himself up, struggling against the pain.

    Slowly, he rose to his feet, using his blade for support. His breathing was heavy, his body marked with fresh wounds, but¡ªhe was still standing.

    From above, Cassius Vaelgrim rose from his seat.

    With a single leap, he descended from the grandstand, landing in front of his son.

    The impact of his landing sent a powerful gust of wind rippling through the hall, extinguishing some of the lingering flames.

    He gazed at Caelan for a long moment¡ªthen, a proud smile crossed his face.

    "You did well, my son."

    Caelan let out a tired chuckle, shaking his head.

    "Yeah¡­ but I''m sure he''ll say I could''ve done better."

    He flicked his gaze toward Revan, who was watching silently from the stands.

    Cassius smirked.

    "You still have time to train with him before leaving for the Academy. But for now¡ª"

    He turned away, facing the gathered spectators.

    "Caelan Vaelgrim has passed the High Moon Trial!"

    His booming voice echoed through the hall.

    And then¡ªa roar of applause.

    The crowd rose to their feet, cheering in celebration.

    Caelan stood in the center of it all, watching as House Vaelgrim''s warriors, nobles, and retainers honored his victory.

    Later that night, the celebration moved to a grand banquet hall, filled with tables overflowing with food and fine drinks.

    The soft melody of a string ensemble filled the space, the musicians playing from the corner of the room.

    Everywhere, people laughed, talked, and celebrated.

    At the head of the room, Cassius and his wife stood engaged in conversation with distant relatives and high-ranking family members.

    It was a night of revelry. A night of victory.

    Yet¡ª

    Through the glass doors leading to the balcony, one figure stood apart from it all.

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    Revan.

    He leaned against the railing, his gaze fixed upon the moonlit mountains beyond the estate.

    There was a distant look in his onyx eyes¡ªone of reflection, contemplation¡­ perhaps something deeper.

    "You''re really going to spend the whole night out here?"

    A familiar voice.

    Revan turned, finding Caelan standing at the entrance to the balcony.

    Though now dressed in Vaelgrim''s formal attire, the bandages peeking from beneath his shirt betrayed the toll of his trial.

    Revan smirked.

    "No. I just don''t want to fall asleep from overeating this time."

    Caelan chuckled.

    Then, after a pause¡ªhis tone shifted.

    "Tell me honestly. What did I do wrong?"

    Revan''s smirk faded.

    "You did well."

    Caelan narrowed his eyes.

    "Be honest now."

    A sigh.

    Then¡ªRevan answered.

    "You rely too much on close combat. You could''ve finished the fight with a ranged black flame slash. But you chose direct contact instead."

    Caelan chuckled, reaching out to ruffle his younger brother''s hair.

    "Sometimes, you''re too smart for your age."

    Revan rolled his eyes, leaning away from his brother''s hand.

    "You''re still a kid yourself."

    Caelan smirked.

    "Maybe, but next week, I''ll be leaving for the Academy."

    He crossed his arms, his onyx gaze sharp with expectation.

    "And from then on, you should start preparing for your own High Moon Trial."

    At those words, Revan''s expression dimmed slightly.

    His gaze shifted downward, his hands curling loosely at his sides.

    "You''re still thinking about that nonsense?" Caelan frowned.

    Revan exhaled.

    "I''m not an Etherean. I can''t use black fire. Do you really think Father would let me take the High Moon Trial?"

    Caelan''s face darkened.

    Without warning, he grabbed Revan by the ear and twisted.

    "Ow¡ªOW! What the hell, Caelan?!"

    "Of course, you''re going to take the trial, you idiot!" Caelan scolded. "Do you really think something as trivial as that excuses you from it?"

    His grip tightened slightly.

    "It''s your duty as a son of House Vaelgrim."

    Revan gritted his teeth, swatting Caelan''s hand away.

    "Fine, fine! I get it! Just let go already!"

    Caelan released him, looking somewhat satisfied with himself.

    Just then¡ª

    The doors swung open.

    A small figure stepped through, struggling under the weight of an absurdly large pile of sweet bread.

    Xander.

    His arms barely wrapped around the mountain of pastries, his face nearly hidden behind them.

    "You guys aren''t leaving me out again, are you?"

    Revan raised a brow.

    "Could you at least set that down first? It''s like I''m talking to a stack of bread."

    Xander peeked from behind his mountain of sweets, his onyx eyes serious.

    "I have to eat a lot so I can be as strong as Brother Caelan!"

    Before either of them could respond¡ª

    A loud announcement echoed from the castle courtyard.

    "King Alistair Marvilion has arrived!"

    The three brothers immediately stepped toward the balcony''s edge, their gazes locking onto the scene below.

    A luxurious carriage rolled through the castle gates, its frame adorned with the crest of House Marvilion and the banner of Teleria Kingdom.

    The horses were flawless, their coats pristine.

    A squadron of Telerian royal guards followed behind, their armor reflecting the moonlight in perfect symmetry.

    Then¡ªthe king emerged.

    A man with golden hair so lustrous it shimmered like woven silk stepped down from the carriage.

    His presence was imposing yet regal, his every movement exuding authority.

    Beside him walked his queen¡ªgraceful, poised, her long silver hair cascading like a waterfall of light.

    Her features were striking, her resemblance to the Solfyr lineage unmistakable.

    "Who''s that?" Xander whispered.

    Caelan didn''t take his eyes off the king.

    "That''s King Alistair Marvilion. He''s the Minister of Military for the Arcadian Empire."

    He crossed his arms.

    "Before he became king, he was a member of the Divine Vanguard. He crushed multiple rebellions that could have torn the Empire apart."

    Xander nodded slowly.

    "Okay."

    Revan and Caelan exchanged glances.

    They both knew that "okay" meant Xander didn''t understand a single word of what was just said.

    Caelan refocused on the royal entourage.

    "What do you think he''s here for?"

    Revan''s gaze sharpened.

    He pointed toward a man trailing behind the royal couple¡ªa servant carrying a large, ornate gift box.

    "See that? Looks like a gift." He smirked. "If I had to guess, it''s probably for you."

    Caelan raised an eyebrow.

    "But that raises a better question¡­ why isn''t that annoying prince here?"

    Revan leaned casually against the railing, a smug grin forming.

    "He''s only annoying to you because Lady Brielle Sylthorn spent all night talking to him at your birthday banquet."

    Caelan stiffened and grabbed Revan''s ear again.

    "Shut up!"

    "Ouch¡­ ouch¡­ I''m sorry!"

    "The three brothers of the night¡ªchirping away at this hour, are we?"

    The three turned toward the voice. Standing nearby was a boy dressed in formal Telerian royal attire, his golden hair gleaming under the soft banquet lights.

    "Prince Theodore," Caelan greeted, bowing respectfully.

    "Lord Caelan," the prince replied, returning the gesture with equal formality.

    "You''ll be my junior at the Academy this year," Theodore continued, a confident smirk on his lips. "Looking forward to seeing you there."

    "The pleasure is all mine," Caelan responded smoothly.

    "Yeah, right," Revan muttered under his breath.

    Caelan elbowed him in the ribs.

    Just then, the glass doors of the banquet hall swung open. A small girl, no older than six, stepped out. Her golden hair was neatly tied back, her delicate features and radiant golden eyes unmistakably marking her as a Marvilion.

    "We have to wait for Father and Mother before entering," she chided gently, her tone carrying a natural authority.

    Caelan and Revan instinctively turned toward her, momentarily caught off guard by her graceful presence. Meanwhile, Xander was far too busy stuffing sweet breads into his mouth to notice anything else.

    Then, the golden-eyed girl shifted her gaze toward Caelan.

    Next, she turned to Revan¡ª

    And stopped.

    Their eyes locked.

    Something unspoken passed between them, something neither of them could name.

    And for the first time¡ª

    The world stood still.

 5. Shadows in the Moonlit Garden

    "Let me introduce my younger sister, Luna."

    Theodore gestured toward the young girl beside him.

    Luna lifted the hem of her dress slightly, offering a graceful bow, her movements fluid and refined.

    "My name is Caelan Vaelgrim," Caelan responded, bowing in return.

    "Revan Vaelgrim," his brother followed, his tone calm yet measured.

    A brief silence settled over them.

    All eyes turned toward Xander¡ªwho was completely preoccupied with devouring a pile of sweet bread, seemingly oblivious to the introductions.

    Revan smirked.

    "And this one here¡ªHouse Vaelgrim''s most decorated warrior, Xander."

    His voice was laced with mock seriousness, causing Caelan to chuckle and Luna to let out a soft giggle.

    Xander, however, remained unfazed¡ªhis attention fully dedicated to his food.

    Theodore shook his head in amusement before turning back to Caelan.

    "I wanted to congratulate you on successfully passing the High Moon Trial."

    "Thank you," Caelan nodded. "Why didn''t you bring Luna to my birthday banquet?"

    A flicker of hesitation crossed Theodore''s face before he responded.

    "She¡­ wasn''t feeling well. This relentless summer heat hasn''t been kind to many."

    Caelan studied Theodore for a moment, his onyx gaze calculating.

    Then, he simply shrugged.

    "It can''t be helped, I suppose."

    "I apologize for missing it," Luna said, lowering her head slightly.

    "It''s no big deal. Don''t mind it," Caelan replied smoothly.

    Inside the grand banquet hall, the air shifted.

    The main doors swung open, revealing King Alistair Marvilion.

    The moment he stepped inside, all eyes turned toward him.

    The atmosphere thickened, a palpable sense of royal presence sweeping through the room.

    Cassius immediately approached the king, lowering his head in a respectful bow.

    "Welcome to Nightveil, Your Honor."

    Alistair let out a hearty laugh, his golden hair shimmering under the chandeliers.

    "Cassius, what is this? Bowing to me? Have you forgotten how many rebellions we crushed together?"

    Cassius smiled but remained composed.

    "I must still set an example for my children in proper etiquette."

    Alistair grinned, grasping Cassius''s hand before pulling him into a brief embrace.

    "Ah, and of course¡ªYour Grace, Queen Helena."

    Cassius turned toward the silver-haired queen, offering her the same deep bow.

    "My Lord," Helena responded gracefully, returning his greeting.

    Alistair''s gaze swept across the hall, his expression filled with curiosity.

    "So, where is your son¡ªthe one who conquered the High Moon Trial?"

    Cassius glanced toward the balcony, where his children stood conversing with Theodore and Luna.

    "It seems he is currently welcoming his own guests."

    The king followed his gaze and smiled knowingly.

    As a servant arrived, offering drinks to the royal couple, Alistair gave a casual wave to his attendants.

    Immediately, one of the royal staff stepped forward, carrying a large ornate box before handing it over to a House Vaelgrim attendant.

    "I brought an Ether Stone for him¡ªit should aid his training. He''ll be attending the Academy this year, won''t he?"

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    Cassius inclined his head.

    "You are too generous, Your Grace."

    "Nonsense," Alistair waved dismissively. "Consider it an investment in Arcadia''s future."

    Then¡ªhis demeanor changed.

    The air grew heavier.

    His usual charismatic warmth dimmed, replaced by something more serious, more urgent.

    "Cassius, we need to talk."

    Cassius''s expression hardened instantly.

    "Understood. Come with me."

    Without another word, the two men left the banquet hall, stepping into the corridors beyond.

    The room fell into a momentary hush, guests exchanging curious glances.

    After all¡ªwhy would the host of the banquet leave his own celebration?

    Sensing the shift in mood, House Vaelgrim''s Matriarch stepped forward, her voice smooth and commanding.

    "And now, esteemed guests, we present the renowned Bard Rosemary for tonight''s performance."

    At once, the tension in the hall eased.

    Excited murmurs rippled through the crowd as guests gathered in a circle, anticipation gleaming in their eyes.

    Moments later, a young woman carrying a finely crafted guitar stepped onto the center stage.

    Then¡ªshe played.

    The first notes rang out, gentle yet captivating.

    The melody swelled, rich and enchanting, filling the hall with a song that seemed to carry both history and sorrow.

    The audience swayed, entranced, some raising their glasses in appreciation.

    But while the rest of the hall drowned in the music, the Matriarch of House Vaelgrim moved with quiet precision.

    With deliberate steps, she slipped away from the crowd and approached Queen Helena.

    Standing beside the queen, she offered a subtle smile.

    Helena returned the gesture, her silver eyes glimmering.

    "That was quick thinking, Lady Elsara."

    Elsara''s lips curled slightly.

    "I''ve been covering for him since day one. Let''s just say I''m well-trained for this."

    Helena let out a small, knowing laugh.

    "How was your journey, Your Grace?" Elsara asked, her tone polite yet firm.

    Queen Helena offered a gracious nod.

    "It was peaceful and uneventful. Some of your soldiers even escorted us from the Duchy''s border all the way here."

    Elsara smiled faintly.

    "I hope you find your stay here comfortable."

    "Thank you. Now, shall we gather the children inside?" Helena suggested.

    With that, they made their way toward the balcony, weaving through the gathered guests who were still captivated by Bard Rosemary''s performance.

    By the time they arrived, the tension in the air was unmistakable.

    Caelan and Theodore stood face-to-face, their gazes locked in an unspoken challenge.

    Luna held onto Theodore''s arm, whispering for him to stop, while Revan stood between them, his hand pressed firmly against Caelan''s chest to hold him back.

    Behind Caelan, Xander clung onto his older brother''s coat, as if trying to physically anchor him down.

    The hostility between the two noble heirs was palpable.

    Caelan''s smirk was sharp, his tone edged with annoyance.

    "Even if I am a year younger than you, I am certain I am far stronger than you, my prince."

    Theodore smiled back, but his expression was tight with irritation.

    "Is that so? Then why don''t you prove it? Unless, of course, you''d rather just apologize to my sister."

    Caelan tilted his head, his onyx eyes gleaming.

    "An apology? For what exactly?"

    "Enough."

    Revan''s voice cut through the tension, his patience wearing thin.

    "Caelan, you''re still covered in bandages. Do you really think this is the best time to pick a fight?"

    "I''m fine," Caelan insisted.

    "Just leave it," Luna pleaded, pulling at Theodore''s sleeve.

    Before either of them could speak further¡ª

    "What is the meaning of this?"

    A sharp, commanding voice broke the moment.

    Both boys immediately turned, only to find two women standing before them.

    Their mothers.

    Elsara and Queen Helena wore identical expressions¡ªdisapproval mixed with quiet fury.

    "He started it!" Caelan and Theodore blurted at the same time.

    Elsara sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. Then, without warning¡ª

    She grabbed Caelan by the ear.

    "Is this how a host treats his guests?" she scolded.

    Xander and Revan immediately released their hold on Caelan, knowing better than to interfere.

    "Ouch¡ªouch¡ªMother! He started it!" Caelan protested.

    Theodore grinned smugly¡ªuntil Helena seized his ear just as tightly.

    "And is this how a prince behaves in the home of his host?"

    "Ow¡ªow¡ªMother, that hurts!" Theodore whined.

    "Then perhaps you should reconsider your actions."

    The cold finality in Helena''s voice left no room for argument.

    Still gripping her son, she turned to Elsara.

    "Shall we?"

    Elsara nodded, her own Etherea fluctuating in the air¡ªcold and unyielding, a reminder of her Glacivarn lineage.

    "Revan, could you keep Luna company for a while? I need to have a word with my eldest."

    "Of course," Revan replied smoothly, though his eyes flickered toward Caelan briefly.

    With that, the two women led their sons away from the balcony, leaving behind a rather stunned Luna, a mildly amused Revan, and a very confused Xander.

    "Well, I suppose you''re stuck with us now," Revan said, exhaling lightly.

    He motioned toward the garden below.

    "Come on, I''ll show you around the castle."

    Luna hesitated for a brief moment before nodding.

    Together, they descended the steps from the balcony into the castle''s vast, moonlit garden. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the faint scent of night-blooming flowers. Some of the blossoms glowed softly under the moonlight, their petals shimmering like stardust.

    They walked in silence, a strange, lingering awkwardness between them.

    Eventually, they neared a large koi pond.

    Xander, who had been trailing behind, suddenly dashed forward.

    "This is where you fell in when you tried to walk on water using Etherea," Xander declared, pointing dramatically at the deep end of the pond.

    A mischievous grin spread across his face as he recalled the memory.

    "You sank so fast it was like watching a rock drop!"

    Revan sighed, rubbing his temples.

    Luna, meanwhile, covered her mouth as she tried to suppress a laugh.

    "You''re enjoying this, aren''t you?" Revan muttered, shooting a glance at her.

    "Just a little," she admitted, her eyes twinkling.

    "If I recall, you fell too, Xander."

    "Yeah, but I am seven! What''s your excuse?" Xander shot back, bursting into laughter.

    Just as Revan opened his mouth to retort¡ª

    A rustle. A shadow.

    Then¡ªa hooded figure burst from the bushes.

    In an instant, a gloved hand clamped over Xander''s mouth. A dagger pressed against his throat.

    The air turned deadly still.

    Revan''s instincts screamed. His sword was in his hand before he even realized it. With his free arm, he grabbed Luna, pulling her close to his side.

    She gasped, startled, her fingers clutching the fabric of his sleeve.

    But Revan didn''t even blink.

    His eyes were locked onto the intruder.

    "Damn it," he thought. "I can''t sense their Etherea."

    "Don''t move," the hooded figure ordered.

    Their voice were low and sharp.

 6. Taken

    The hooded figure held Xander tightly, pressing a dagger firmly against his throat. The boy barely moved, his breath shallow, his wide eyes locked onto Revan. The air was thick with tension, every second stretching endlessly.

    ¡®Where did they come from?¡¯ Revan¡¯s mind raced as he studied the figure before him. ¡®How did they slip past the guards and get through the Vaelgrim Guard?¡¯

    But now wasn¡¯t the time for questions.

    ¡®That doesn¡¯t matter. Right now, I have to save Xander.¡¯

    Revan¡¯s grip tightened around his sword as he analyzed the situation. Something felt off. The figure had no Etherea. No energy, no presence¡ªjust an empty void where there should have been power. It was unnatural.

    ¡®Is that even possible? Can someone truly have no Etherea?¡¯ His muscles tensed. ¡®I can¡¯t afford to act recklessly. I need an opening, just a small distraction.¡¯

    A soft whisper broke through his thoughts. ¡°I can distract them.¡±

    Revan turned slightly. Luna stood behind him, her expression calm but unwavering.

    He gave a small nod before whispering back, ¡°Good. On your mark.¡±

    Luna raised her left hand, her palm glowing faintly as she aimed at the hooded figure. But before she could act, the intruder¡¯s voice cut through the air, sharp and commanding.

    ¡°Lower your hand, or this boy dies.¡± Their grip on Xander tightened, the dagger pressing deeper against his skin.

    Revan forced his expression to remain neutral. ¡°What do you want?¡± His voice was steady, but his mind was already preparing for the worst.

    The hooded figure tilted their head slightly, as if weighing their answer. ¡°That girl.¡± Their voice was cold, devoid of hesitation. ¡°Give her to me, and your brother will live.¡±

    Revan¡¯s stomach twisted, but he kept his expression unreadable. His eyes flicked toward the small girl behind him¡ªher fragile form trembling, yet her gaze remained locked on the figure.

    ¡°What do you want from her?¡± His tone was edged with suspicion.

    ¡°That is not your concern,¡± they replied. ¡°Just hand her over.¡±

    Revan barely breathed. His mind was already calculating his next move.

    ¡®Now¡¯s my chance.¡¯ He leaned in ever so slightly and whispered, ¡°Are you ready?¡±

    Luna didn¡¯t answer, but her hand glowed brighter in response. A split second later, she unleashed a blinding flash of light. The explosion of brightness engulfed the area, forcing the intruder to flinch. Their hooded heads jerked to the side as they instinctively raised an arm to shield their eyes.

    Revan didn¡¯t hesitate. He lunged forward, closing the distance in a heartbeat. With one powerful motion, he drove his sword into the ground just inches from Xander¡¯s feet, then seized the figure¡¯s wrist¡ªthe one gripping the dagger. His body moved on instinct as he summoned Etherea into his legs, channeling its power before launching himself into the air.

    His foot connected with brutal force against the intruder¡¯s face. A sharp crack echoed as they were sent sprawling backward.

    By the time the hooded hit the ground, the dagger was no longer in their possession.

    Revan now held it firmly in his grasp. His grip tightened as he turned to Xander, his voice firm but reassuring.

    ¡°Get behind Luna,¡± he instructed, tossing the dagger toward his brother.

    Xander caught it with shaky hands, stepping quickly toward Luna as Revan turned back to face their enemy.

    Revan yanked his sword from the ground and quickly turned to check on Xander and Luna. His heart pounded as his sharp eyes scanned them, making sure they were safe.

    Behind him, the hooded figure groaned and pushed themselves up, blood dripping from their nose. Under the moonlight, their features became clearer¡ªa middle-aged man with short hair and a rough goatee.

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    ¡°Call the guards!¡± Revan shouted.

    Luna knelt beside Xander, gently holding his face between her small hands. ¡°Run and scream for help. I¡¯ll stay here in case your brother needs me.¡±

    Xander hesitated for only a second before nodding. Then, taking a deep breath, he sprinted toward the banquet hall, his voice echoing through the garden.

    ¡°HELP! THERE¡¯S AN INTRUDER IN THE GARDEN!¡±

    His footsteps grew fainter as he disappeared into the distance, leaving Revan and Luna alone with the enemy.

    Revan stepped forward, his small fingers tightening around the hilt of his sword. ¡°I¡¯ll ask one last time. Who are you?¡±

    The hooded man clicked his tongue in annoyance. ¡°Tch¡­ What makes you think I¡¯d tell you, kid?¡±

    Without waiting for a response, he reached into his cloak and pulled out a strange, tube-like device with a glowing Ether Stone in its center. The contraption looked hastily assembled, wires sticking out at odd angles. With a sharp press of a button, five orbs of Etherea materialized around them, pulsing with unstable energy.

    Then, in an instant, the orbs burst like bubbles¡ªeach revealing a hooded figure armed with swords, now surrounding Revan and Luna.

    Luna instinctively turned her back to Revan, standing close as fear flickered in her eyes. She wasn¡¯t used to fighting, at least not like this.

    ¡®So that¡¯s how they got in¡¯, Revan thought, his pulse steady but his grip firm.

    ¡°How well can you fight?¡± he asked, keeping his voice calm.

    Luna exhaled, trying to steady her nerves. ¡°I can manage,¡± she said, though her hands trembled slightly. A blade of pure light materialized in her grip, flickering with energy.

    The bloodied man wiped his nose with his sleeve and smirked. ¡°Careful. These two are Ethereans.¡±

    One of the new attackers lunged at Luna, attempting to grab her. Without thinking, Revan moved. His sword slashed through the air, and in a single stroke, the enemy¡¯s hand hit the ground.

    Luna gasped, her breath catching in her throat. It was the first time she had seen something so¡­ real. Blood stained the grass, the severed hand twitching slightly.

    Revan didn¡¯t stop. He surged forward, driving his sword deep into the attacker¡¯s shoulder, forcing them back with a cry of pain.

    Another enemy charged toward Revan, sword raised high. Luna, still shaken, reacted purely on instinct. She swung her light-forged sword, meeting the attacker¡¯s steel weapon mid-air.

    The moment they connected, Luna¡¯s glowing blade sliced through the enemy¡¯s steel sword like a hot knife through butter.

    The man staggered back, staring in disbelief at the cleanly severed stump where the top half of his weapon used to be.

    The bloodied man cursed. ¡°Use Etherea, you fools!¡± he barked at his subordinates.

    ¡°Flash!¡± Revan shouted, squeezing his eyes shut.

    Luna reacted instantly. Light burst from her palm, blinding everyone in an instant.

    Revan didn¡¯t waste a second. He dashed forward, grabbed the sword that had been knocked loose earlier, and channeled Etherea into his hands. With a swift motion, he hurled the blade straight at one of the attackers.

    The sword flew with deadly precision, piercing through their skull.

    ¡®Three left.¡¯

    Revan turned and lunged at the closest enemy, his small frame moving faster than they could react. His blade sank into their chest, right where the heart should be.

    ¡®Two.¡¯

    ¡°Flash!¡± he commanded again, shielding his eyes.

    Another burst of blinding light erupted, sending the remaining enemies into a panicked daze.

    ¡°Damn it! Grab the girl, now!¡± the bloodied man growled, still covering his eyes.

    The two remaining swordsmen swung wildly, their movements frantic and unfocused.

    Revan exhaled, feeling the Etherea wrap around his entire body. In one swift motion, he dashed past them. His sword slashed cleanly through their necks.

    The fight was over before they could even scream.

    Their heads fell to the ground, their bodies collapsing moments later.

    Revan flicked his sword, trying to shake off the blood. He turned to Luna, who was still standing there, her body trembling.

    She had never seen anything like this before.

    Before either of them could speak, the bloodied man suddenly rushed forward, pulling a small, disk-shaped device from his cloak. The Ether Stone embedded in its center pulsed erratically.

    Revan reacted immediately, his instincts kicking in. He dashed forward, his sword thrusting straight into the man¡¯s chest.

    But it was too late.

    The disk in the man¡¯s hand lit up, and in an instant, an orb of Etherea formed around them.

    A moment later, it burst like a soap bubble¡ªtaking them along with it.

    Revan barely had time to process what had happened before he felt the ground shift beneath him. The familiar cool air of the garden was gone. The scent of grass and flowers had vanished.

    He looked around.

    They were no longer in the garden.

    Instead, they stood inside a dimly lit room with no windows, the only light coming from flickering Ether Lanterns hanging on the walls.

    The bloodied man coughed weakly, blood trickling from his mouth as he chuckled.

    ¡°Heh¡­ I got the girl.¡±

    Then, with one last breath, he collapsed to the floor, unmoving.

    Revan and Luna exchanged glances, their hearts pounding.

    Wherever they were, they were trapped.

 7. When the Garden Fell Silent

    In the vast chamber, where the air carried the weight of authority, every detail exuded power and command. At the center stood a large wooden desk, its polished surface gleaming under the dim glow of Ether Lanterns. Behind it sat a grand leather chair, towering in stature, exuding power. In front of the desk, two smaller leather chairs faced it¡ªless imposing, yet still refined.

    This was no ordinary room¡ªit was an office of the patriarch of House Vaelgrim

    Not far behind those chairs, Cassius and Alistair were seated on opposite ends of a long sofa. Between them lay a table covered in documents, maps, and books. A large map of the capital was sprawled across the surface, several areas circled in deep red ink.

    Alistair¡¯s gaze remained on the map as he spoke. ¡°In multiple locations around the capital, Imperial patrols have been attacked by unknown assailants. I received reports that the attackers had no Etherea.¡±

    Cassius raised an eyebrow. ¡°You mean they weren¡¯t using Etherea, or they don¡¯t have Etherea at all?¡±

    ¡°They don¡¯t have Etherea,¡± Alistair confirmed.

    Cassius frowned, his fingers tapping against the armrest of the sofa. ¡°No one is born in this world without Etherea. There has to be another explanation. Have you managed to capture any of the attackers?¡±

    ¡°I deployed several Imperial squads to set a trap, but they strike without warning and vanish just as fast. This is more in your area of expertise,¡± Alistair admitted.

    Cassius leaned back, exhaling slowly. He pinched the bridge of his nose, calculating his next move. His expression darkened.

    ¡°Why are you handling this personally?¡± he asked. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t the Mayor of the Imperial Capital be dealing with something like this?¡±

    Alistair hesitated, inhaling deeply before answering.

    ¡°The Mayor is preoccupied with¡­ other matters at the moment,¡± he said carefully.

    Cassius sighed, running a hand through his shoulder-length black wavy hair. His mind was already racing through the implications.

    ¡°Fine,¡± he finally said. ¡°I¡¯ll send a few people to investigate. But don¡¯t expect a large unit. You know what¡¯s brewing in the Empire right now.¡±

    Alistair nodded. ¡°I understand. Even a small unit will be a great help. Thank you, Cassius.¡±

    Cassius smirked slightly. ¡°It was my pleasure. Let¡¯s head back to the party.¡±

    Both men rose from their seats and moved toward the door. Just as Cassius reached for the handle¡ª

    A sharp, ringing bell shattered the quiet.

    They both froze.

    Then, in perfect sync, they spun toward the large window overlooking the gardens.

    Outside, Vaelgrim soldiers were moving swiftly between several unmoving bodies scattered across the courtyard. The torches cast flickering shadows over the fallen figures.

    Cassius didn¡¯t hesitate. His body vanished in an instant, engulfed by dark flames as he teleported to the scene.

    Beside him, Alistair¡¯s form dissolved into shimmering light particles, reforming moments later right at Cassius¡¯s side.

    Cassius¡¯s voice was sharp as a blade. ¡°What happened here?¡±

    One of the soldiers, clad in the distinct black armor of the Vaelgrim Guard, straightened and saluted. It was Captain Lars¡ªthe same man who had welcomed Revan and Xander at the Hall of Shadows.

    ¡°My Lord, there were five intruders,¡± Lars reported, his voice steady but urgent.

    Cassius¡¯s golden eyes flicked over the fallen bodies. Some were motionless. Others barely stirred.

    ¡°We found them like this,¡± Lars continued.

    Cassius¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°Dead?¡±

    ¡°All but one,¡± Lars replied. He turned and motioned toward two guards.

    They dragged forward a hooded man, his robes stained with blood. His left arm was missing below the elbow.

    One of the guards pulled back the hood, revealing an older man with a thick mustache and beard. His bald head gleamed under the torchlight, deep wrinkles marking his aged face.

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    ¡°Tend his wounds and interrogate him,¡± Cassius ordered.

    ¡°At once, my Lord,¡± Lars responded, signaling his men.

    Cassius nodded in approval. ¡°Good work, Captain Lars.¡±

    Lars hesitated, shifting slightly. ¡°There¡¯s¡­ one more thing, sir.¡±

    Cassius turned to him sharply.

    ¡°We cannot locate Young Lord Revan and Princess Luna.¡±

    Silence.

    Alistair¡¯s expression twisted with alarm. ¡°What?!¡± His voice was sharp with barely contained anger.

    Cassius¡¯s jaw tightened, but he forced himself to remain composed. His fists clenched at his sides.

    Lars continued, ¡°Young Lord Xander may be able to provide more information.¡±

    <hr>

    Inside Cassius''s office, a room carved from authority and silence, young Xander now sat quietly in his mother¡¯s lap on a long leather sofa. In his small hands was a cup of warm milk, the steam rising gently as he held it close. His face was pale, his eyes unfocused¡ªstill shaken by the ambush in the garden.

    Surrounding him were the core members of House Marvilion and House Vaelgrim. Standing watch, Captain Lars kept his position near the window, while two Vaelgrim soldiers guarded the door, their expressions sharp and unreadable.

    ¡°Xander¡­¡± Cassius¡¯s voice was low, calm. ¡°Can you tell us what happened in the garden?¡±

    The boy swallowed, his grip tightening around the cup.

    ¡°Someone came from behind,¡± he said quietly. ¡°They covered my mouth and pressed a dagger to my neck¡­ Then Luna made a bright light, and Revan attacked¡ªhe kicked the man in the face.¡±

    Elsara, seated beside him, leaned in gently. ¡°What¡¯s the last thing you remember, dear?¡± she asked in a soft tone.

    Xander paused. ¡°Luna told me to run and scream.¡±

    Then, his eyes widened. A memory sparked.

    ¡°I looked back¡­ and I saw glowing orbs. They popped¡ªlike bubbles¡ªand people with swords came out of them.¡±

    Cassius and Alistair exchanged a quick glance. No words were needed. The tension in their expressions said enough.

    ¡°Is that all?¡± Cassius asked.

    ¡°Oh¡ªon my way to the banquet hall, I met Captain Lars,¡± Xander added.

    Cassius turned to Lars, who gave a firm nod to confirm the boy¡¯s account.

    ¡°Please take Xander to his room,¡± Cassius said to his wife.

    Elsara gave a reassuring smile, setting the cup aside. She stood, gently lifting Xander into her arms before carrying him toward the door.

    ¡°Captain Lars, escort House Marvilion to their chambers,¡± Cassius added.

    ¡°At once, my lord,¡± Lars replied.

    The two guards at the door opened it promptly. Outside, four more guards stood in formation, two on each side. As Elsara and Xander passed through, two of the outer guards fell into step behind them.

    House Marvilion followed, guarded front and back¡ªwith Captain Lars close behind.

    Inside the office, only Cassius and Alistair remained.

    ¡°It¡¯s them,¡± Alistair said firmly.

    ¡°I know,¡± Cassius replied.

    He stood, walked toward the massive desk, and reached beneath its surface. With a quiet click, he pressed a hidden button.

    One of the tall bookshelves across the room slid aside with a soft mechanical hum, revealing a concealed space. Within it stood a caged perch, the door already open. Resting inside was a mechanical raven, its white Ether Stone eyes glowing faintly.

    Alistair stood, frowning.

    ¡°What are you doing, Cassius? My daughter is missing. We don¡¯t know what they¡¯re planning to do to her!¡±

    Cassius didn¡¯t answer. He retrieved a small scroll, scribbled something swiftly, then rolled it tight. With a tap to the raven¡¯s back, a chamber opened in its body. He inserted the scroll inside.

    Then, raising his arm, he offered it to the bird. With a soft metallic click, the raven stepped out of the cage and onto his wrist.

    ¡°Cassius, you have to act now. If you won¡¯t, I¡¯ll summon the entire Imperial Legion to search for her,¡± Alistair snapped, his patience wearing thin.

    ¡°The Emperor won¡¯t allow that,¡± Cassius replied evenly.

    ¡°I¡¯m not bluffing.¡±

    Still calm, Cassius walked to the window and released the raven into the night sky. Its wings extended, and with a sudden burst of motion, it vanished into the distance.

    ¡°Cassius!¡± Alistair shouted, frustration boiling over.

    ¡°I¡¯m doing something,¡± Cassius said quietly, his eyes following the bird until it disappeared from view.

    Alistair scoffed, frustration sharpening his voice. ¡°You sent a mechanical bird. That¡¯s it? What now?¡±

    Cassius¡¯s gaze remained fixed on the sky. ¡°Now¡­ we wait.¡±

    Alistair turned to him, incredulous. ¡°We wait? That¡¯s your plan?¡±

    ¡°Charging in blindly could make things worse,¡± Cassius replied calmly. ¡°Better to let them handle it.¡±

    ¡°Them?¡± Alistair¡¯s eyes narrowed, suspicion creeping into his tone.

    Cassius finally turned, offering a faint, knowing smile.

    ¡°We don¡¯t even know where they are,¡± Alistair pressed.

    Cassius gave a casual shrug, his smile lingering. ¡°I had a hunch.¡±

    Alistair let out a sharp breath, shaking his head. ¡°Gods¡­ you Vaelgrim and your damn secrets.¡±

    <hr>

    High above the Empire, the mechanical raven soared with unmatched speed. It cut through the night sky, passing over forests, rivers, and mountain ridges with ease¡ªfaster than any living bird.

    Eventually, its flight slowed as it reached the mouth of a dark cavern.

    Hovering for a moment, the raven let out three sharp caws, echoing into the hollow.

    Then it landed¡ªgracefully¡ªon the arm of a figure cloaked in shadow.

    She wore matte-black armor that reflected no light. A hood concealed most of her face, and a dragon-shaped mask hid the rest. Behind her stood six more figures, their forms silent and still beneath the dim canopy of the cave.

    The woman touched the bird¡¯s back. A compartment opened, revealing the scroll. She took it, unrolled it, and read.

    The raven fluttered up and settled onto her shoulder.

    ¡°We have a mission,¡± the woman said, her voice low beneath the mask.

 8. Steps in Silence

    In a dimly lit room, illuminated only by the soft glow of an Ether Lantern, Revan knelt beside a body that was quickly growing cold. His eyes were calm, but focused, studying every detail.

    He reached down and picked up a tube-like device, its Ether Stone core still glowing faintly. After examining it briefly, he slipped it into one of the inner pockets of his tunic.

    "Have you ever killed someone before?" Luna''s voice broke the silence behind him.

    Revan didn''t turn to look at her. "No," he answered plainly.

    "You seem... calm."

    Revan stood and walked to the door. He gripped the handle and turned it slowly, peeking out through a narrow crack. Outside was a long hallway lined with identical wooden doors on both sides.

    He scanned the corridor, eyes sharp and alert. Once satisfied that it was empty, he closed the door again quietly.

    "Vaelgrim children are trained to spy and kill by the time we turn eight," he said. "Are you alright?"

    "I think so," Luna replied softly. But the images were still fresh in her mind¡ªthe severed hand, the fallen bodies, the chaos in the garden.

    "Let''s move," Revan said.

    "Are you sure? There might be more of them out there."

    "Staying here won''t change anything."

    Luna hesitated. "Okay¡­ but I''m not sure I''ll be much help now," she admitted, her voice tinged with guilt.

    Revan glanced back at her, a small smile forming. "Hey, without your help, I wouldn''t have even taken down one of them back in the garden."

    Luna blinked, surprised. Then she smiled back, the tension in her shoulders easing slightly. She took a deep breath.

    "Alright."

    "Let''s go," Revan said again, holding out his hand.

    Luna hesitated for a heartbeat, then took it.

    "Stay close," he whispered.

    With that, Revan eased the door open, and the two of them slipped into the corridor¡ªmoving swiftly but silently, their footsteps muffled against the cold stone floor.

    At the far end of the hallway, a switchback staircase curved downward. They descended halfway before pausing at the landing.

    Revan leaned forward and peered around the corner. Below was a wide hall, dimly lit by flickering Ether Lanterns. Several long tables filled the space, and seated at them were figures clad in the same dark robes worn by the attackers from the garden.

    Luna crept beside him, her breath catching as she spotted the robes.

    Then¡ªa sudden sound.

    A door creaked open above, followed by the unmistakable echo of footsteps.

    Without hesitation, Revan grabbed Luna''s hand and pulled her down, slipping into the deep shadows beneath the staircase. The light above flickered across the stone as the footsteps grew louder, each one hammering like a drumbeat in their ears.

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    Their hearts pounded. Revan''s breath slowed; Luna''s did the opposite.

    She inhaled sharply¡ªtoo sharply¡ªand a faint whimper escaped her throat, unintentional but piercing in the silence.

    The footsteps stopped.

    Right above them.

    Revan acted on instinct. He reached out, gently but firmly covering Luna''s mouth, drawing her into his arms. His eyes never left the gap in the stairwell above, muscles tense, ready.

    Then¡ªa shadow. A figure leaned over the railing, peering down.

    "I heard something," one of them muttered, voice cautious. "From under the stairs."

    Luna''s eyes widened in panic. Revan could feel her heartbeat thudding against his chest, fast and frantic. He leaned in, whispering just above her ear.

    "We''re okay," he breathed, barely audible.

    Gradually, Luna''s breathing slowed. Her body, still trembling, began to settle in his arms.

    A second voice replied from the stairs, scoffing. "No way anyone else is down here, idiot. You''re still drunk?"

    A rough laugh followed. "Hah! Get lost."

    "Just don''t lose the main gate key again," another chimed in, chuckling. "Lord Cervarin''ll have your head¡ªHAHAHAHA!"

    Their footsteps continued, descending the rest of the stairs. Revan and Luna remained frozen as the group crossed the hall and joined a cluster of robed figures at one of the long tables.

    Silence returned.

    Slowly, Revan lifted his hand from Luna''s mouth. She exhaled softly.

    "House Cervarin," she whispered.

    "You know them?" Revan asked.

    "The Duke of Thalenwood," Luna replied, eyes still fixed on the stairwell.

    Revan''s brow furrowed. "Are we in Teleria?"

    "I''m not sure," Luna murmured, her voice low. "But we need to get outside. If I can see the stars... or the terrain, I might be able to figure out where we are."

    "You can do that?" Revan whispered, surprised.

    "Well, Teleria has a few iconic volcanoes," Luna explained. "My father took me and my brother to visit all of them. If I can spot even one, I''ll have a good idea of where we are."

    Revan nodded, impressed. "Alright. Let''s get out of here. Stay alert¡ªwe still can''t sense their Etherea."

    He took her hand again, and together they slipped out from under the stairs, their footsteps quiet and calculated.

    The hallway was filled with the sound of muffled laughter and casual conversation coming from the nearby hall¡ªmasking the soft tap of their feet.

    They crouched low behind one of the long tables, inching forward until they could see more of the room.

    It was a dining hall, dimly lit, with a rustic warmth that clashed with the tension tightening in their chests. At the far end stood a small bar counter, partially cluttered with empty mugs and bottles.

    Moving carefully, they made their way toward it.

    Just as they reached the bar, a figure suddenly rose from behind it. The man hadn''t noticed them¡ªhis attention still focused downward, clearly searching for something.

    Revan and Luna instinctively pressed their backs against the side of the bar, holding their breath, barely daring to move.

    Up ahead, directly past the bar, was a wide open doorway leading into a larger chamber.

    "Damn it... where do they keep the booze in this place?" the man muttered, oblivious.

    Taking the chance, Revan tugged Luna''s hand and guided her forward, slipping silently into the next room.

    It was a grand hall, much taller than the last, with two curved staircases that wound up toward a balcony overlooking the space.

    And above the balcony, framed between elegant pillars, stood a large ornate door¡ªits gilded frame catching the lantern light.

    Luna''s eyes lit up with cautious hope. "Do you think that''s the exit?"

    Revan studied the grand door in silence, uncertainty flickering in his eyes¡ªbut hope held stronger.

    "It has to be... right?" he whispered.

    Without waiting for an answer, he led Luna forward by the hand, moving steadily toward the staircase. Every few steps, Revan glanced over his shoulder, making sure they weren''t being followed.

    "You''re really good at this," Luna whispered.

    "At what?"

    "Being sneaky," she replied with a faint smile.

    Revan gave a soft chuckle. "You kind of have to be... if you ever want to steal sweets from the Vaelgrim kitchens."

    Luna stifled a laugh, her nerves easing just a little.

    They reached the base of the staircase and began climbing, step by careful step, until they stood before the towering, ornate doors.

    Revan reached out, placing his hand on the massive handle¡ª

    And the door suddenly swung open from the other side.

    They both froze.

    Standing before them was a man, equally startled. His eyes widened for a brief moment before narrowing, the shock quickly replaced by something colder.

    He was older¡ªhis short, neatly styled brown hair streaked with white lines of age at the temples. A well-groomed beard framed his jaw, partially hiding the twitch of a smirk beneath.

    He wore noble attire, tailored and regal, with the crest of a stag and grand antlers emblazoned on his chest¡ªthe symbol of House Cervarin.

    A slow smile curled across his lips, both amused and predatory.

    "Well, well¡­ what do we have here?" he said, his voice smooth with menace.

 9. Bind

    Revan¡¯s hands hovered near the hilt of his sword, his body tense, ready. Luna, without a word, stepped forward and placed herself between him and the man at the door.

    Revan blinked, caught off guard by her sudden movement.

    ¡°L¨CLord Cervarin,¡± Luna said, her voice unsteady but brave.

    The man smiled, cold and amused. ¡°I take it the mission was a success.¡±

    Before Revan could respond, Lord Cervarin reached out and grabbed Luna¡¯s wrist, his grip tightening.

    ¡°Flash,¡± came a soft whisper from behind Luna.

    She reacted instantly. Her palm tilted upward, light gathering in her hand¡ªand in a sudden burst, a blinding beam of radiance exploded toward Lord Cervarin¡¯s face.

    He recoiled, covering his eyes with a growl.

    Revan surged forward, Etherea flooding his limbs¡ªbut just as his hand reached for his blade, his eyes caught something horrifying.

    Lord Cervarin¡¯s body began to change.

    With a grotesque twist of flesh, a pair of massive, shattered antlers burst from his forehead. His muscles swelled beneath his clothing, fur sprouting across his arms and chest. His eyes gleamed, and his growl deepened to something bestial.

    In a blur, the transformed noble charged forward¡ªan explosion of Etherea propelling him like a cannon.

    Revan had no time to dodge.

    He was slammed across the room, his small body crashing into the far wall with a thunderous crack. The stone behind him split, fragments falling around him as he crumpled to the ground.

    The sound echoed through the halls.

    In the dining hall beside the room, the robed figures sprang to their feet and rushed toward the commotion. As they entered the grand hall, they found a boy¡ªbarely conscious¡ªslumped against a shattered wall. Across the room stood a towering, half-stag creature, clutching the arm of a golden-haired child.

    ¡°Lord Cervarin¡­¡± one of them gasped.

    ¡°Take the boy to the dungeon,¡± the creature growled. ¡°I¡¯ll bring Young Lady Marvilion to the lab myself.¡±

    Revan¡¯s vision blurred. Darkness crept in from the edges, but before the world slipped away, he saw one last thing¡ªLuna struggling in Lord Cervarin¡¯s grip, trying desperately to break free on the balcony above.

    <hr>

    Slowly, Revan¡¯s senses returned.

    The first thing he saw was the cracked stone ceiling, dim and lifeless, barely illuminated by a flickering light somewhere beyond the bars.

    Revan sat up slowly, groggy and disoriented. A dull throb pulsed in his skull. As he looked around, reality settled in¡ªa small, cold cell, no larger than four by four meters. Iron bars lined one side. The walls were solid stone, rough and uninviting. There were no windows. No sign of time passing. Just stillness.

    As he pushed himself to his feet, a sharp jolt of pain surged through his side. He winced, instinctively clutching his ribs.

    Under his tunic, he felt tight bandages, wrapped firmly around his torso.

    ¡®Ouch.¡¯

    He checked his belt¡ªgone. Then his pockets¡ªempty.

    ¡®Of course they took everything.¡¯

    He stood and gripped the rusted bars, shaking them gently. Across from him, he could make out three other cells, though only two were visible. They were empty.

    Then something else caught his attention.

    A heavy metal band wrapped around his right wrist. It resembled a thick bracelet, made of dark steel with a keyhole on top.

    ¡®What is this?¡¯

    He swung his arm and slammed it against the bars.

    Clang. Clang. Clang.

    The sound echoed down the stone corridor.

    Moments later, the iron door at the far end creaked open. A hooded figure entered, stepping into the light with a slow, deliberate gait. Weapons hung from their belt¡ªa sword, a dagger¡ªand a ring of keys jingled from a chain at their side.

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    ¡°Stop making noise, brat.¡±

    ¡°Let me out of here!¡± Revan snapped.

    The figure chuckled. ¡°Yeah? Should I make you dinner too while I¡¯m at it?¡±

    Revan clenched his fists, drawing in a breath as he tried to summon Etherea. But something was wrong.

    Nothing flowed.

    It was like trying to breathe with no air. His power was there¡ªsomewhere¡ªbut it was sealed.

    He looked down at his hands, stunned.

    The figure grinned behind the shadows of their hood. ¡°Don¡¯t even try it, boy. You can¡¯t use your power here.¡±

    With a final glance, the stranger turned and left, the heavy metal door slamming shut behind them.

    Revan waited a beat, then pulled off his belt. He unrolled it carefully on the floor and flipped it over. Hidden beneath the inner lining were several small compartments, almost invisible to the untrained eye.

    He opened one, pulled out a tiny bobby pin, and bit it gently between his teeth before refastening the belt around his waist.

    He turned his attention to the metal cuff clamped tightly around his right wrist. He tried probing it¡ªlooking for seams, hinges, anything resembling a standard locking mechanism¡ªbut it didn¡¯t respond like a typical restraint.

    ¡®Damn it¡­ this needs a special key.¡¯

    Shaking his head, he moved to the cell door. He inserted the bobby pin into the old iron lock. A few practiced twists.

    Click.

    The lock gave way. Revan slowly swung the gate open, making sure it didn¡¯t creak.

    ¡°You¡¯re quite handy, kid.¡±

    A voice echoed softly behind him. Revan spun around.

    In the next cell, stood a gaunt man, tall and ragged, his face half-hidden behind a tangled beard and long, unkempt hair. Despite his filthy and torn clothing, there was something unmistakably noble in the cut of the fabric¡ªsomething a commoner couldn¡¯t afford.

    On the man¡¯s right wrist was the same kind of iron cuff Revan wore.

    Revan stepped closer, studying him carefully from head to toe.

    ¡°Do you know how to get out of here?¡± he asked.

    ¡°That depends,¡± the man replied, tilting his head. ¡°Can you get me out too?¡±

    Revan hesitated, eyes flicking to the heavy door at the end of the corridor.

    ¡®I can¡¯t get out of here alone¡­¡¯

    He turned back, weighing his options.

    ¡°You can trust me, Vaelgrim,¡± the man added with a slight smile.

    That made Revan pause. ¡°What gave it away?¡±

    ¡°The black clothes. The brooding. It¡¯s a very specific vibe,¡± the man grinned.

    Revan didn¡¯t respond, but stepped to the man¡¯s cell and picked the lock. A few turns of the bobby pin, and the cell creaked open.

    ¡°What¡¯s the plan?¡± Revan asked.

    The man didn¡¯t answer immediately. He strode past Revan, heading straight for the iron door at the end of the room. Just before reaching it, he turned back with a smirk.

    Then, without warning, he slammed the metal cuff on his wrist hard against the door.

    The clang rang through the dungeon like a bell.

    ¡°What are you doing?!¡± Revan hissed, alarmed.

    The man didn¡¯t answer. Instead, he pressed his back to the wall, just beside the doorway.

    The door burst open. The same hooded guard from before stormed inside, eyes locking instantly onto Revan standing free in the middle of the corridor.

    ¡°What the¡ªhow the hell did you get out?!¡± the guard growled, reaching for his weapon.

    Revan dropped into a ready stance, preparing to fight.

    But before the guard could take another step, the prisoner struck.

    With a swift motion, he swung his cuffed wrist, smashing the back of the guard¡¯s head. The man collapsed instantly, blood spreading across the floor beneath him.

    The prisoner turned to Revan with a crooked grin.

    ¡°That¡¯s the plan,¡± he said.

    Revan approached the collapsed guard and crouched down, carefully unhooking the ring of keys dangling from the man¡¯s belt. He returned to his cell, trying each key in the lock of the metal cuff on his wrist, one by one.

    Meanwhile, the prisoner had retrieved a sword from the guard¡¯s gear and was fastening it to his own belt. He glanced over at Revan with an amused smirk.

    ¡°You won¡¯t get that off with those keys,¡± he said casually.

    Revan paused and looked up. ¡°How do you know?¡±

    The man chuckled. ¡°Do you really think this is my first attempt?¡±

    Revan let out a quiet sigh and gave the cuff one final, futile tug before rising to his feet. He reached down, retrieving the dagger from the fallen guard¡¯s belt, and slipped it into his own.

    Stepping through the now-open iron door, he found himself in a narrow corridor. Just outside stood a small wooden desk and a rickety chair, both worn with age. A single Ether Lantern cast a soft, flickering glow over the space.

    On the desk lay an unfolded letter, its edges yellowed and slightly curled

    Revan picked it up and held it closer to the light.

    Suddenly, the prisoner snatched the letter from his hands.

    ¡°This won¡¯t help us escape,¡± he said, folding the letter with practiced ease before tucking it inside his coat.

    ¡°Then what will?¡± Revan asked.

    ¡°Follow me.¡±

    Without another word, the man turned and started up a staircase just beyond the corridor. Revan followed, boots soft on stone, the air growing cooler and less stale as they ascended from the depths of the dungeon.

    ¡°For the past five years, I¡¯ve tried to escape this place more times than I can count,¡± the prisoner said over his shoulder. ¡°And every time, I¡¯ve been stopped by one thing.¡±

    ¡°The stag-man?¡± Revan asked.

    The man let out a quiet laugh. ¡°No. Don¡¯t be ridiculous,¡± he replied, almost offended. ¡°I could¡¯ve gotten past him even without my power.¡±

    Revan narrowed his eyes. ¡°So¡­ you¡¯re an Etherean.¡±

    The man glanced back at him with a raised brow. ¡°You knew that the moment you saw the cuff.¡±

    ¡°Yeah,¡± Revan muttered. ¡°So what¡¯s the thing that keeps you in here?¡±

    They reached the top of the stairs. The prisoner halted and raised his hand, pointing toward the far end of a narrow chamber.

    ¡°That,¡± he said simply.

    Revan stepped forward, his eyes narrowing. ¡°That¡¯s it?¡±

 10. Levers and Locks

    Before them stood a double iron door, with a lever on each side.

    It looked... surprisingly ordinary.

    ¡°This is what¡¯s been keeping you trapped here?¡± Revan asked, skepticism dripping from his voice.

    The man just smiled and walked over to one of the levers, placing both hands on it.

    ¡°Whenever you¡¯re ready.¡±

    Revan exhaled slowly, approaching the opposite lever. It was mounted a little too high for his reach.

    ¡°Ready?¡± the man asked.

    ¡°Yep,¡± Revan muttered, bending his knees, preparing to jump.

    ¡°Three¡­ two¡­ now.¡±

    Revan jumped, grabbing the lever mid-air while the man pulled his own.

    A deep clunk echoed behind the walls, followed by the sound of grinding gears.

    Moments later, the iron doors creaked open.

    Beyond them lay a stone staircase winding upward, and from above, a faint glow of Ether light spilled down, warm and inviting.

    ¡°This dungeon doesn¡¯t exactly scream ¡®impenetrable fortress,¡¯¡± Revan muttered.

    ¡°This used to be an Imperial base,¡± the man replied. ¡°Back then, it would¡¯ve been crawling with guards.¡±

    ¡°Well now, there¡¯s just one.¡± Revan smirked. ¡°Didn¡¯t they think two prisoners might be able to figure something out?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s the thing about arrogant people,¡± the man said as he stepped onto the stairs. ¡°They underestimate others. In this case... they underestimated you.¡±

    Revan narrowed his eyes slightly, watching the man with growing curiosity.

    ¡°You know a lot for a prisoner.¡±

    The man let out a low chuckle. ¡°You Vaelgrim never stop watching, do you?¡±

    He started up the stairs ahead of Revan, without looking back.

    Revan waited a beat, then jogged after him, falling into step behind.

    ¡°You know who I am,¡± Revan said. ¡°So what do I call you?¡±

    The man glanced over his shoulder, offering a grin.

    ¡°You can call me Oliver.¡±

    Silence settled between them again, only broken by the sound of their footsteps echoing off stone as they climbed toward the stairs.

    At the top of the stairs, they emerged into the grand hall.

    The first thing Revan saw was the cracked wall across the room¡ªthe very spot where he had been thrown by Lord Cervarin. Directly opposite stood the balcony, with a towering ornate door behind it, gleaming faintly in the ambient light.

    In front of them was an open, doorless archway leading into the dining hall.

    Revan¡¯s eyes scanned the space, tension creeping into his posture. He remembered this place all too well. This was where he had been defeated¡ªeasily¡ªby Lord Cervarin.

    ¡°There,¡± Oliver said, pointing toward the grand door atop the balcony. ¡°That¡¯s the way out.¡±

    Revan glanced down at the metal cuff still clamped around his wrist. ¡°We¡¯ll need to remove these first, won¡¯t we?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re right,¡± Oliver replied. ¡°Follow me.¡±

    He led Revan to the wall just beneath the balcony, pressing his palm flat against the stone. Then he began feeling along the surface, running his fingers across its texture and leaning in to press his ear to it.

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    Revan raised an eyebrow. ¡°What are you doing?¡±

    ¡°Hold on,¡± Oliver muttered.

    After a few moments of scanning, his hand stopped at a spot near the base of the staircase, slightly recessed.

    ¡°Here it is,¡± he said with a grin, pressing firmly.

    A quiet click sounded, and part of the wall shifted inward. A hidden staircase revealed itself, leading down into the depths.

    Without hesitation, Oliver began descending.

    ¡°Wait,¡± Revan said. ¡°I need to get my friend.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not alone?¡±

    ¡°No.¡±

    Oliver paused. ¡°What happened?¡±

    ¡°Long story short,¡± Revan said, ¡°they were after her. I got caught in the middle. Then we got¡­ teleported here.¡±

    Oliver chuckled. ¡°Yeah¡­ that is the short version.¡±

    ¡°We have to find her.¡±

    ¡°We will,¡± Oliver said, holding up his cuffed wrist and giving it a shake. ¡°But first¡ªthis.¡±

    Revan nodded and followed him down the hidden stairwell.

    At the bottom, they entered a brightly lit chamber. Strange mechanical devices lined the room, many of them powered by scattered Ether Stones glowing softly across the workbenches.

    The stone walls were etched with runes, their meanings unknown.

    Oliver moved to a nearby table cluttered with documents, flipping through them quickly before setting them aside.

    Revan scanned the room, wide-eyed. He¡¯d never seen anything like this. In one corner, he noticed half-built mechanical beasts, some scorched, some in pieces¡ªlike experiments abandoned mid-process.

    His eyes landed on something sitting on a workbench: a key, carved entirely from Ether Stone.

    He picked it up and instinctively pressed it into the lock on his wrist. With a low click, the metal cuff released and fell to the ground with a heavy thud.

    Revan rubbed his wrist, the skin beneath slightly red and sore.

    On the other side of the room, Oliver was still scanning the documents. He pulled a few aside, folded them carefully, and tucked them into the inside pocket of his coat.

    ¡°Hey,¡± Revan called out.

    Oliver looked up just as Revan tossed him the Ether Stone key.

    He caught it with ease, unlocked the metal cuff from his wrist, and placed the key down on the table with a soft clink.

    ¡°Appreciate it,¡± he said, flexing his wrist briefly.

    Then he gave the scattered papers one last glance, as if committing them to memory, before turning back to Revan with a sharp nod.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go get your friend.¡±

    Revan¡¯s expression sharpened. ¡°You know where she is?¡±

    ¡°Of course,¡± Oliver replied, patting the inside pocket of his coat where the folded papers were tucked.

    ¡°Those papers¡ªdid they say something about her?¡± Revan asked, eyes narrowing.

    Oliver simply smiled. ¡°Follow me.¡±

    He offered no answer, ignoring the question entirely as he turned and headed back toward the grand hall, Revan trailing close behind.

    Before them loomed the familiar cracked wall, a reminder of Revan¡¯s earlier defeat. To the right of it stood the archway leading down to the dungeon. On the left, another archway opened into the dining hall.

    But just beside the dungeon archway, almost hidden in plain sight, was a narrow door blended into the stonework.

    Without hesitation, Oliver approached it and gave it a gentle push. It swung open easily.

    To their right, a corridor stretched out, leading toward a larger room at the end.

    From the distance, they could make out that the space was divided by a glass wall, with a glass door in the center. Inside, the room resembled an observation chamber, dimly lit by Ether Lanterns. Several hooded figures stood at the far end, gathered near the glass, focused on whatever lay beyond it.

    Oliver moved quietly toward the chamber, stopping just before the threshold. He leaned casually against the corridor wall, watching.

    Revan joined him, pressing his back to the opposite wall, directly across from him.

    ¡°Let¡¯s observe for now,¡± Oliver said in a low voice.

    ¡°I can¡¯t see anything from here,¡± Revan whispered.

    Oliver didn¡¯t respond. His eyes stayed fixed beyond the glass.

    Revan followed his gaze.

    At the far end of the chamber, a large stone table stood beneath a floating golden sheet of parchment, glowing faintly with etched runes.

    A raised circular platform sat in the center of the room beyond, shaped like a plate, with four curved pillars rising from its edges. The pillars weren¡¯t upright¡ªthey arched inward, all glowing with the pale white light of Ether Stones.

    Suspended above the center of the platform was a young girl with golden hair¡ªLuna.

    She hovered, unconscious, her body limp.

    She wasn¡¯t alone.

    Standing near a console of strange instruments was Lord Cervarin, flanked by a pair of individuals in long white coats. They moved quickly, adjusting dials and studying data as glowing symbols shifted on the panels.

    ¡°Ah,¡± Oliver murmured. ¡°I see now.¡±

    ¡°What do you see?¡± Revan asked urgently.

    ¡°They¡¯re trying to extract your friend¡¯s power.¡±

    ¡°WHAT?!¡±

    Revan¡¯s voice cracked the silence.

    The figures inside the chamber turned¡ªevery head snapping in their direction. Then, all at once, the hooded figures reached for their weapons.

    Revan¡¯s eyes widened.

    They¡¯d been spotted.

 11. Watch and Learn

    Revan drew his dagger and slipped into a ready stance, his body low, eyes sharp.

    The hooded figures across the room burst into laughter¡ªmocking him and his small blade.

    But Revan didn''t flinch. He let the Etherea surge through him, flowing into every muscle and nerve. He was ready.

    One of the figures lunged forward, sword raised high.

    Revan sidestepped, letting the blade crash into the floor with a metallic clang. In a blink, he drove his dagger upward, straight into the attacker''s neck.

    The man crumpled.

    Without hesitation, Revan snatched up the fallen sword and turned just in time to parry another strike. Steel clashed against steel. Sparks scattered.

    His opponent snarled, pushing against him. Another figure rushed in from the side, blade swinging.

    Before it could connect¡ªa second sword intercepted it.

    Revan''s eyes flicked to the blade, then followed it up to its wielder.

    Oliver.

    He stood beside him, calm and composed, meeting Revan''s stunned expression with a raised brow.

    In one fluid motion, Oliver channeled Etherea into his blade and dispelled the attacker''s strike, sending the enemy stumbling backward.

    Then, with a grunt, Oliver grabbed Revan by the collar and yanked him out of the fray, tossing him behind. Revan hit the ground hard, landing on his rear.

    "Stay down," Oliver muttered, stepping forward.

    The figure Revan had just fought charged at Oliver with a furious roar.

    Oliver slashed his blade¡ªa brilliant white arc of Etherea cut through the air, slicing cleanly across the enemy''s torso. The man dropped without a sound.

    Oliver glanced back at Revan. "You''re not an Etherean?"

    Revan used his sword as support to push himself up, a question he''d heard too many times. He steadied his breath and took his stance again, Etherea flowing through his body once more.

    "No," he said firmly. "But I can still fight."

    Oliver blinked, then chuckled. "Life hasn''t been kind to you, has it?"

    His gaze softened¡ªa look of empathy, even familiarity, flickering beneath the rugged edge of his expression.

    He turned back to the room, raising his hand. His palm glowed a searing red, like molten steel.

    Without warning, a torrent of fire erupted from his hand, sweeping across the floor like a storm.

    Flames surged through the chamber, crashing against the walls, licking the ceiling. They washed over the hooded figures, who screamed in panic¡ªsilhouettes twisting in agony before disintegrating into ash.

    The inferno roared, a wall of living flame. Revan watched, wide-eyed, as the fire consumed everything in its path. The glass wall cracked and darkened, blackened by the heat, until nothing remained of the figures but embers and soot.

    Then¡ªsilence.

    The fire subsided. Smoke lingered in the air, swirling above the scorched floor. The chamber was unrecognizable¡ªblackened walls, ruined ceiling, the glass barrier now a canvas of ash.

    Revan let out a breath he hadn''t realized he was holding. The Etherea flowing through him faded. His body finally relaxed.

    He looked at Oliver with a mixture of awe and disbelief.

    "You''re a Solfyr¡­" he whispered.

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    Oliver met his gaze and offered a quiet, knowing smile from behind his thick beard.

    "Just go," Oliver said, his voice low but firm. "You can''t beat the stag-man."

    "No." Revan''s voice was calm, unwavering. "I need to save my friend."

    Oliver stepped in front of him. "Listen to me. You''ll only get in the way¡ª"

    "Shut up," Revan snapped, cutting him off.

    Oliver blinked, caught off guard.

    Revan''s lips curved into a small smile. "Didn''t you say arrogant people tend to underestimate others?"

    He turned his gaze to the blackened glass wall ahead, the faint glow of fire still flickering across its edges. Then, without waiting for a response, he strode toward the charred glass door.

    Oliver watched him go, a grin forming beneath his beard. "They won''t see you coming, kiddo," he muttered, following behind.

    Revan pushed the door open. Beyond it, several white-coated researchers were already detaching Luna from the Ether platform.

    At the center of the room stood Lord Cervarin, tall and imposing, his back turned as he examined the floating golden parchment above the stone table.

    "It reacts well to the Marvilion girl''s light affinity, just as we predicted," he said to no one in particular. "But it yields no effect. I believe we must first understand what this scripture says before we can harness its power."

    "Go to your friend," Oliver whispered from behind.

    Revan broke into a run, sword in hand, moving swiftly toward the four researchers surrounding Luna. His steps were steady, precise.

    Before he could reach them, four streaks of flame blazed past him¡ªsmall fireballs, fast and deadly.

    Each one pierced a researcher cleanly through the chest.

    The moment they fell, Luna''s body began to drop.

    Revan flung his sword aside and dived forward, catching her in midair.

    The four bodies crumpled to the ground as Revan cradled Luna in his arms.

    Lord Cervarin spun around, eyes wide with fury. "I should''ve killed you when I had the chance," he snarled.

    His body began to twist and morph¡ªantlers tore from his forehead, fur burst across his limbs, and his frame thickened with muscle.

    Cervarin dropped to all fours like a beast, his hooves clattering against the floor. Etherea surged through him, coating his body in radiant white energy.

    But just as he lunged, a wall of fire erupted, separating him from Revan and Luna.

    "Your fight is with me, Lando," Oliver said coolly, stepping into view.

    Cervarin¡ªnow fully transformed¡ªrose on two legs. His antlers scraped against the ceiling.

    He chuckled. "My prince."

    "So this is what you''ve become?" Oliver asked, a hint of disgust in his voice. "Using what''s left of the rebellion to kidnap noble children? What''s next, Lando¡ªalchemy and puppet shows?"

    "The rebellion is over, Your Highness," Lando replied with a smile. "Scattered. Hiding. Starving for purpose. Sometimes¡­ all they need is the right motivation to keep going."

    Oliver''s eyes flicked to the glowing parchment above the table. His voice sharpened.

    "Where did you learn about the Scripture of the Presence?"

    "That," Lando growled, "is none of your concern."

    Then, with a bestial snarl, he dropped back to all fours again, white Etherea coating his entire body¡ªpulsing, radiant, wild.

    Oliver turned slightly, addressing Revan behind the wall of flame.

    "Watch closely, kid. This is how you fight using nothing but raw Etherea."

    Lando charged forward, leaping from point to point in a zigzag blur. His movements were fast¡ªalmost beastlike¡ªas his antlered head lowered, glowing with a coat of dense Etherea.

    Oliver remained still. Calm.

    He slid his sword back into its sheath, then clenched his right fist at his side.

    In an instant, Etherea surged over his arm, wrapping it in a radiant, metallic platinum sheen that gleamed under the light¡ªhis entire forearm transformed into something between armor and weapon.

    Lando closed the distance fast, aiming his Etherea-coated antlers directly at Oliver''s chest.

    Just as impact seemed inevitable¡ªOliver jumped.

    With a swift twist of his body mid-air, he brought his platinum-armored fist crashing down onto Lando''s head.

    A shockwave exploded through the room. The floor beneath them cracked and caved inward, a spiderweb of fractures spreading across the stone.

    Lando''s head slammed into the floor, hard. His eyes rolled back, pupils vanishing, and his massive, fur-covered body collapsed in place.

    He didn''t move.

    He was out cold.

    Oliver landed softly beside him, straightening his coat with casual precision.

    "See? Easy," he said with a smile.

    Revan stood frozen, still holding Luna in his arms. "How did you do that?" he asked, wide-eyed.

    "It''s called Ether Armament," Oliver said as he approached, the faint glow of power still lingering along his arm. "You''ll learn to use it. In time."

    Then, as if responding to his calm, the metallic sheen faded, peeling away like silk curling in fire, vanishing without a trace.

    Before Revan could reply, a new sound interrupted the silence¡ªfootsteps, echoing from the corridor beyond. Slow. Steady. Purposeful. And drawing closer with every beat.

    A figure emerged.

    A woman clad in a dark, hooded cloak stepped into view. A dragon-shaped mask covered her face. Ethereal light shimmered faintly across her robes.

    Oliver''s arm once again ignited with platinum energy, the metallic glow extending as he drew his sword. The same light surged from his hand and flowed across the blade like liquid metal.

    The figure halted at a safe distance.

    "High Prince Oliver Solfyr," she said calmly.

    "Wrath," Oliver replied with equal calm.

    She didn''t remove the mask. "The base is surrounded. Durnhold Kingdom''s forces have locked down the entire perimeter. Let the children go."

    "He''s not¡ª" Revan started.

    Oliver raised a hand, silencing him without looking.

    "A deal, then?" he said coolly. "I walk out freely¡­ and they return to you unharmed."

    "And if we say no?"

    Without hesitation, Oliver turned his left hand toward Revan and Luna. Flames erupted, swirling around his palm with terrifying ease.

    "They die," he said, voice like stone.

 12. From Flame to Sunlight

    The masked woman stood still, her posture unreadable¡ªyet not a single opening could be seen in her stance.

    ¡°You were exiled,¡± she said calmly.

    ¡°I promised I would leave them unharmed,¡± Oliver replied.

    Without a word, the woman reached behind her back and drew a slender blade. It had no guard. The hilt was square, the blade narrow and straight¡ªalmost like a polished steel needle.

    Suddenly, that same platinum gleam of Etherea ignited around her hand, then spread seamlessly across the blade she held.

    With her other hand, she pulled out a small, rectangular blue Ether Stone, encased in copper¡ªa rare device.

    She tossed it toward Oliver.

    The flames in Oliver¡¯s left hand vanished. He caught the stone effortlessly.

    ¡°One-way trip,¡± she said. ¡°Sunderstone Island.¡±

    Oliver stared at the device in his palm, expression shifting. Then his gaze lifted back to her. A faint smile played on his lips¡ªbut his eyes were heavy with something else.

    ¡°You¡¯ve been holding onto this all this time?¡±

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter,¡± she replied, her tone flat.

    Oliver gave a dry chuckle, shaking his head. Then, wordlessly, he slid his sword back into its sheath. The Ethereal glow across his arm faded like mist in the morning sun.

    He focused his energy into the Ether Stone.

    A glowing runic circle appeared beneath his feet¡ªfilled with intricate symbols and shifting light.

    He turned to Revan.

    ¡°I expect great things from you, Revan,¡± he said with a small smile.

    Revan blinked. ¡°How do you know my na¡ª?¡±

    Before he could finish, a burst of brilliant white light erupted from the circle below Oliver.

    In the next instant, the light swallowed him whole¡ªand he was gone.

    A soft exhale slipped from behind the woman¡¯s dragon mask.

    She quietly sheathed her blade, and the platinum glow of her Ether Armament faded from her hand like mist retreating from morning light.

    Without a word, she stepped forward, her boots light against the scorched floor.

    Revan instinctively tightened his hold on Luna. His entire body lit with Etherea, a white-silver aura flowing across his frame in silent warning.

    The woman paused a few steps away, then slowly reached up and removed her mask.

    Revan froze.

    Then¡ªhis eyes lit up, his lips parting in disbelief and joy.

    ¡°Aunt Vanya!¡± he cried.

    Luna stirred in his arms, her body shifting weakly. Her eyelids fluttered open. The first thing she saw was Revan¡¯s smiling face, so close¡ªso warm.

    Being in his arms¡­ was strangely comforting. Peaceful.

    A soft, unfamiliar ache bloomed in her chest. Longing. Safety.

    Then reality settled in¡ªand with it, heat flushed across her cheeks.

    Her heart pounded wildly.

    Vanya glanced down, her expression amused. Luna was clearly awake now, her red face half-buried in Revan¡¯s chest, trying to hide.

    Vanya chuckled softly. ¡°Well, look who¡¯s awake.¡±

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    Revan looked down, meeting Luna¡¯s wide, flustered eyes. His smile grew brighter.

    With a gentle laugh, he hugged her closer¡ªrelieved, overjoyed.

    Then he pulled back, hands on her shoulders, and extended a hand forward, still grinning.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go outside,¡± Vanya said with a soft smile. ¡°Oh¡ªand hold her hand. We wouldn¡¯t want to lose her.¡±

    ¡°Okay,¡± Revan replied instantly, reaching out and gently taking Luna¡¯s hand in his.

    Vanya smirked, glancing at Luna before giving her a playful wink.

    Luna quickly looked away, pretending to be more interested in the corridor around them. Her face flushed, but she said nothing.

    Vanya approached the glowing parchment. She took it carefully, the light pulsing against her fingers, then rolled it with practiced ease and slipped it beneath her cloak¡ªtucking it into the hidden compartment of her black armor.

    Then she turned toward the corridor, leading the way. Revan and Luna followed closely behind, their footsteps echoing faintly in the ruined hall.

    Eventually, they reached a large exit¡ªan ornate double door scorched by flame and battle.

    As the doors creaked open, bright sunlight poured through the gap, hitting their faces with sudden intensity. Both Revan and Luna instinctively raised their arms to shield their eyes, blinking against the brilliance after so long underground.

    Outside, on the steps just beyond the doors, sat six masked figures, each wearing a different animal motif:

    Lion. Wolf. Bear. Ram. Snake. Boar.

    They turned toward the sound of the door, their masks catching the light.

    Behind them, the aftermath of a battle was unmistakable¡ªdozens of bodies lay strewn across the ground, masked soldiers lifeless in the dirt, their armor scorched and battered. The inner walls of the base were crumbling, shattered by the force of overwhelming power.

    Vanya stepped forward and placed her dragon mask back over her face.

    ¡°Situation?¡± she asked, her tone crisp.

    ¡°All clear,¡± said the figure with the lion mask. ¡°King Valior Gildarion¡¯s troops will arrive any minute.¡±

    Vanya turned and knelt in front of Revan.

    ¡°We¡¯ll be leaving soon,¡± she said gently. ¡°But we¡¯ll stick around¡­ just to make sure you both get home safely.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± Revan asked, brows furrowed.

    Vanya gave a light laugh. ¡°It¡¯s complicated. Let¡¯s just say¡­ it¡¯s better this way.¡±

    Then, her voice softened playfully. ¡°But¡ªyou two can keep a secret, right?¡±

    Revan nodded, a smile tugging at his lips. Luna nodded too, her expression calm and composed.

    Vanya rose to her feet, ruffling Revan¡¯s hair fondly as she stood.

    ¡°Until we meet again.¡±

    Suddenly, Etherea flared around the seven masked figures, surrounding their bodies in radiant white aura. Then, in a blur of motion, each of them leapt away¡ªvanishing in different directions, moving too fast for Revan¡¯s eyes to follow.

    Silence returned.

    Revan and Luna turned toward the shattered main gate, now blown open completely.

    In the distance, two riders approached on horseback. One was a young boy, around Revan¡¯s age. The other, a tall young man in polished armor.

    Behind them came a flood of soldiers¡ªtwo full companies, two hundred strong, their banners fluttering in the wind.

    As the vanguard entered the ruined base, the two riders dismounted and strode toward Revan and Luna. Fifty soldiers followed closely, forming into a precise formation behind them. The rest remained stationed outside the perimeter walls.

    Revan¡¯s eyes scanned their armor.

    Each soldier wore a polished cuirass marked with a sigil: a circle within a triangle¡ªthe symbol of gold and mines, representing the wealth and legacy of House Gildarion, one of the ten Great Houses of the Arcadian Empire.

    The two figures at the front stopped just a few feet away.

    The younger one, a boy about Revan¡¯s age, had deep maroon hair and eyes that were bright like molten lava.

    The other was a young adult man, tall and confident, with shoulder-length black hair and a noble bearing. Both wore the shining armor of House Gildarion.

    The black-haired man stepped forward and offered a respectful bow to Revan and Luna.

    ¡°My Lord, My Lady¡ªI am Darian of House Ferros,¡± he said with calm dignity. Then, with a graceful gesture, he motioned to the boy beside him. ¡°And this is Prince Richard of House Gildarion.¡±

    Revan returned the bow, placing his right hand over his heart.

    ¡°I am Revan of House Vaelgrim.¡±

    Luna followed his lead, bowing politely.

    ¡°Luna of House Marvilion.¡±

    ¡°I thought as much,¡± Darian said with a warm smile. His eyes scanned the ruined courtyard. ¡°Do either of you know what happened here?¡±

    Revan shook his head. ¡°No. When we got outside, it was already like this.¡±

    ¡°Is there anyone still inside?¡±

    Revan¡¯s expression sharpened, as if suddenly recalling something.

    ¡°There¡¯s one man still unconscious down below. I think he was the one trying to kidnap Luna.¡±

    ¡°Lord Cervarin,¡± Luna added quietly.

    Darian turned his head slightly, addressing the soldiers behind him. ¡°First and Second Squad¡ªsecure the base.¡±

    Immediately, two columns of ten soldiers each broke formation and advanced into the ruins with swift discipline.

    As they moved out, Prince Richard stepped forward, brushing past Revan without a glance. He reached for Luna¡¯s hand, gently taking it from Revan¡¯s grasp. His eyes were locked on hers, ignoring the boy standing beside her.

    ¡°This is the first time we¡¯ve met,¡± he said with a soft smile. ¡°I¡¯m Richard¡­ your future husband.¡±

 13. The Hero She Saw

    Luna yanked her hand away from Richard''s grip and instinctively stepped behind Revan, peeking out with a furrowed brow.

    "What do you mean, future husband? I''m nine!" she protested, her voice sharp.

    Richard raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Your father never told you? Huh. Strange." He offered a smug smile. "Well, I guess you know now."

    Luna''s scowl deepened.

    Richard turned his gaze to Revan, barely giving Luna a second glance. "As the heir of House Gildarion," he said with a practiced air of nobility, "I thank you for protecting the future queen of Durnhold."

    Revan hesitated, unsure how to respond to any of this. "It was¡­ my pleasure," he said politely, though his brows furrowed slightly.

    "I''ll take care of things here, my prince," Darian stepped in smoothly. "You may return to the camp."

    Richard gave a small, royal nod. "Bring the carriage."

    "At once." Darian turned and whistled sharply through his fingers.

    Moments later, an ornate carriage pulled by two pristine white horses rolled into view. Golden trim glinted in the sunlight, the Gildarion crest emblazoned on the side. The coachman hopped down and opened the door with a deep bow.

    "Princess," Richard said, gesturing to the open door as if expecting obedience.

    Luna hesitated. "I think I''ll stay with Revan," she mumbled, half behind him again.

    Richard''s smile didn''t budge. "You''ve been through so much. You need comfort. And protection." He glanced pointedly at Revan. "Proper protection."

    "I''m fine," Luna muttered, frowning.

    Revan leaned down toward her. "It''s okay. We''ll be home soon," he whispered gently.

    After a reluctant sigh, Luna stepped toward the carriage. Revan walked beside her, but just as he reached the steps, Richard''s hand suddenly landed on his chest, stopping him.

    "You can take my horse," Richard said, tone clipped and final¡ªlike an order, not an offer.

    Before Revan could reply, Richard stepped into the carriage and pulled the door shut behind him.

    The coachman returned to his seat, snapped the reins, and the carriage rolled forward, carrying Richard and Luna away.

    The carriage rolled steadily away from the ruined base, flanked on each side by a squad of ten soldiers. Their armor gleamed under the sun, marching in perfect formation.

    Revan approached one of the horses that had been left behind, gently stroking its neck before climbing into the saddle with practiced ease.

    "I''ll take my leave now, Lord Darian," Revan said, nodding politely.

    "Have a safe journey, young lord," Darian replied with a warm smile.

    Revan urged the horse forward, following the carriage at a steady pace from behind. As he rode, his eyes drifted upward toward the clear sky. The clouds moved lazily across the blue, calm and unbothered by the chaos that had unfolded just hours earlier.

    His thoughts drifted¡ªback to the way Oliver had wielded raw Etherea, striking down Lord Cervarin with a single blow.

    ''It''s possible for me to become strong.''

    A small smile tugged at Revan''s lips.

    Then, a thought crossed his mind¡ªsharp and sudden. His brow furrowed.

    ''Now that I think about it¡­ who even is Oliver? And why does Aunt Vanya hate him so much?''

    He frowned deeper, replaying the exchange between them. There was history there¡ªtense and complicated.

    After a moment, he let out a long sigh, then laced his fingers behind his head and leaned back in the saddle.

    "I''ll just ask Father when I get home," he muttered to himself, half in defeat, half in curiosity.

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    Meanwhile inside the carriage. The interior was lined with velvet cushions and polished wood, softly rocking with every turn of the wheels.

    The gentle sway of the carriage made the silence inside feel heavier.

    Luna sat with her knees tucked up on the plush seat, her chin resting on her arms as she leaned against the small window. Her eyes hadn''t left the rear view¡ªthe boy on horseback, following them at a quiet distance. Revan. The way he sat in the saddle, the wind catching his dark hair, the way he looked up at the sky every now and then¡­ made something stir in her chest.

    She didn''t understand it.

    But it was warm. Quiet. Like safety.

    Across from her, Richard had been watching her for a while.

    "Why isn''t he riding with us?" Luna asked, still watching Revan through the glass.

    Richard leaned back slightly. "Because I didn''t invite him," he said simply, as if that explained everything.

    Luna blinked and turned toward him. "What?"

    "My father told me I should spend time with the future queen," Richard said with a faint smile. "So. That''s what we''re doing."

    Luna raised an eyebrow. "My father never told me anything about that."

    Richard shrugged. "Well¡­ now you know."

    Luna blinked, then looked away, her lips pressing into a thin line.

    Richard tilted his head slightly. "You seem really focused on him."

    Luna flinched. Just a little. "He''s my friend."

    "Hm." Richard''s tone turned casual, but there was something sharp behind it. "What do you think of him?"

    Luna didn''t answer right away. Her eyes drifted back to the window, where Revan still rode behind the carriage. He was adjusting the reins, his posture steady, his expression calm¡ªlike he belonged out there, with the wind and the sky.

    "He''s¡­ brave," she said softly. "Kind. Strong. Smarter than he lets on." A small smile crept across her lips before she could stop it.

    Richard scoffed lightly. "He''s not that strong, you know."

    Luna turned toward him, puzzled. "What do you mean?"

    Richard''s grin widened with satisfaction. "Oh. So you don''t know."

    "Don''t know what?"

    "He''s not even an Etherean," Richard said, smugness clear in his voice.

    Luna''s eyes widened in quiet surprise. Her thoughts flashed back¡ªRevan shielding her in the garden, kept trying to save her even after being knocked down. She slowly turned and sat properly across from Richard, her gaze dropping to her hands.

    "¡­Yet he still tried to protect me," she murmured, a gentle smile tugging at her lips. There was something warm about that¡ªsomething real.

    Richard''s smile faltered slightly, though he quickly tried to recover. "He''s just playing hero."

    Luna looked up at him. Her voice stayed calm, but firm.

    "That''s what my father always says," Richard continued, straightening his collar. "The weak pretend to be heroes so they can feel strong."

    Luna didn''t respond. She simply stared at him for a moment, then turned back to the window, her expression unreadable.

    But inside¡­ something about Richard''s words didn''t sit right with her.

    Silence fell between them, thick and awkward. Richard opened his mouth to say something else, but paused.

    His eyes wandered to Luna again. The way the sunlight hit her hair, how quiet she''d become. There was something about her now that made him lose his words.

    "You¡­ you look prettier than most girls our age," he blurted suddenly.

    "Hmm?" Luna glanced over her shoulder, not quite catching it.

    "N-nothing," Richard said quickly, turning his face toward the opposite window. He suddenly looked more confused than proud, like even he didn''t know why he''d said it.

    Luna gave him a strange look, then shook her head and returned her gaze to the trees outside. Leaves rustled past, and birds flew in the distance. The world beyond the glass felt quieter than the world inside.

    They rode in silence for a long while¡ªuntil a soft knock tapped against the side of the carriage, signaling their arrival.

    The coachman''s voice came from outside as he dismounted. A moment later, the carriage door swung open, letting in sunlight and fresh air.

    At the top of the hill ahead stood a grand tent, its banners flapping in the breeze.

    Richard stepped out first, then turned and offered a hand toward Luna.

    But she ignored it, gripping the carriage door herself, lifting the hem of her dress slightly as she stepped down with practiced grace.

    As Luna stepped down from the carriage, her gaze drifted toward the rear¡ªwhere Revan was already off his horse, gently running a hand along the animal''s neck. There was a quiet calm in the way he moved, as if nothing could shake him.

    She lingered without realizing it, her eyes drawn to him.

    Then Revan looked up and noticed her watching.

    He smiled¡ªsoft, warm, effortless.

    Luna quickly looked away, but not before a faint blush crept across her cheeks.

    ''What was that?'' Revan blinked, trying to make sense of the moment.

    He shook the thought from his head and started walking toward Luna and Richard, raising a hand in greeting.

    But before he could say a word¡ª

    Someone was hurled from the grand tent.

    A massive hand¡ªformed entirely of molten lava¡ªhad flung the man like a ragdoll, his body trailing black smoke as it crashed across the ground.

    Instinctively, Revan stepped in front of Luna, pulling her behind him. His arm rose in a protective stance, Etherea flaring to life across his body in a white-silver aura.

    "Behave yourselves," Richard said coldly, barely glancing at the chaos as he addressed Revan and Luna.

    The tent flap burst open.

    A towering figure stepped into the sunlight, nearing forty, his presence commanding and unmistakably noble. Broad-shouldered and muscular, his powerful frame was wrapped in richly tailored garments bearing the golden crest of House Gildarion.

    Fiery red hair crowned his head, swept back in thick waves, and a matching beard framed a strong, square jaw. Atop his brow sat a golden crown, ornately forged and adorned with gleaming rubies that caught the light like flame.

    But it was his eyes that struck like lightning¡ªburning with the color of molten lava, alive with heat and fury. Each step he took radiated strength and authority, the kind that silenced rooms and bent lesser wills.

    Both of his arms blazed with flowing lava, dripping onto the scorched earth below, steam rising from every step.

    "Get me back my Ether Stones¡ªnow!" he roared, his voice like thunder rumbling through molten rock.

 14. A Kingdom Between

    "Father," Richard said, dropping to one knee before the towering figure.

    The man¡ªKing Volcaz Gildarion¡ªlooked down at his son, then slowly shifted his gaze toward Revan and Luna. His presence alone was suffocating, the heat of his authority felt without a word.

    "Kneel," Richard muttered sharply, casting an irritated glance at Revan and Luna.

    Revan dispelled the Etherea coating surrounding his body¡ªthe white-silver aura fading into nothingness. With a moment''s hesitation, he lowered himself to one knee. Luna followed his lead, kneeling quietly behind him.

    The molten glow along Volcaz''s arms faded. The flowing lava receded, revealing flesh¡ªthick, scarred, and powerful, like cooled stone beneath the surface of a volcano.

    Volcaz strode forward with slow, deliberate steps. He stopped directly in front of Revan, towering over him. His gaze bore down like a weight.

    "Do you know who I am?" he asked coldly. His voice rumbled like distant thunder¡ªcalm, but full of restrained force.

    Revan looked up. "King Volcaz Gildarion."

    "Good," the king said flatly.

    Then, without looking back at Revan or Luna, he turned his head toward Richard. "Take them to their tent. Then come see me."

    He pivoted and walked back into the grand tent, the heavy flap falling shut behind him like the final beat of a war drum.

    Richard stood. A moment later, Revan and Luna rose to their feet in silence.

    "Shall we?" Revan said quietly, breaking the tension in the air.

    "Follow me," Richard replied, turning on his heel.

    They walked behind him, taking in their surroundings. The camp resembled a small forward base¡ªtemporary, but fortified. Wooden palisades and several watch posts circled the perimeter. Dozens of crimson and black tents filled the area, bearing the unmistakable colors of House Gildarion.

    Soldiers in gleaming armor moved about the camp, many marked with the Gildarion sigil. Some stood guard, others stirred steaming cauldrons over open flames, while a few paused to glance at the newcomers with vague curiosity.

    "There are a lot of soldiers here," Revan noted, eyes sweeping over the armed ranks.

    "We''re hunting," Richard said flatly. "Someone stole a cache of Ether Stones. My father intends to deal with them¡­ personally."

    Luna looked up. "How long have we been gone?"

    "Three days," Richard replied without missing a step.

    "Three days?!" Revan blinked in disbelief. "Well, I hope the food at my brother''s party hasn''t gone cold."

    Luna chuckled softly beside him.

    Richard slowed his pace just enough to glance over his shoulder at Revan, a smug smile curling at the corner of his lips.

    "You could''ve escaped sooner¡­ if you were an Etherean."

    The words hit Revan like a flaming dagger. His chest tightened. His expression shifted, shadowed by a quiet sting of helplessness. Without a word, he lowered his gaze and followed, his steps a little heavier.

    Beside him, Luna noticed the change. Her hand moved, reaching toward him on instinct¡ªbut she hesitated mid-motion, unsure. After a moment, she pulled it back.

    Silence trailed them the rest of the way as they arrived at a larger tent flanked by two smaller side tents. Richard led the way inside.

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    Two maids awaited them, dressed in red and black¡ªHouse Gildarion''s signature colors.

    The tent itself was modest but refined, prepared with clear intent to host important guests. At the center stood a round table set with a variety of warm dishes. Against one wall sat two neatly made beds, each with a trunk placed at its foot.

    "See to our guests," Richard said curtly to the maids. "I need to report to my father."

    Then he turned to Luna, softening his voice only slightly. "I hope you enjoy your stay."

    His gaze shifted coldly to Revan. "Don''t get too comfortable. Someone will escort you home."

    And with that, he turned and walked out.

    The two maids approached and gently guided Revan and Luna into the smaller side tents. There, warm water and fresh clothes awaited them.

    When they emerged sometime later, both had changed.

    Luna wore a noble dress in Gildarion''s signature red and black¡ªelegant, yet modest. The house crest was subtly embroidered near her shoulder. Her golden hair, usually untamed, was tied into a neat bun. She looked¡­ composed. Regal. Beautiful.

    Across from her, Revan stood dressed in fresh Gildarion-tailored attire. It fit perfectly, almost uncomfortably so¡ªlike it was trying too hard to make him belong somewhere he didn''t. A quiet contrast to his worn Vaelgrim leathers.

    They stood in silence for a moment, eyes meeting¡ªneither quite knowing what to say.

    ''The future queen of Durnhold Kingdom¡­ huh?''

    The thought slipped into Revan''s mind uninvited. It left a strange, bitter taste behind.

    His vision blurred¡ªjust briefly¡ªand Luna noticed.

    She took a step forward, her tone soft. "Are you tired?"

    Revan blinked, refocusing. He forced a smile. "I''m fine. Let''s eat."

    They made their way to the round table at the center of the tent. Revan sat first, helping himself to some roasted meat, his motions quiet and precise.

    Luna followed, choosing a portion of steamed vegetables and a bit of the same meat. The clinking of cutlery was the only sound for a few moments.

    "How are you feeling?" Revan asked, breaking the silence.

    Luna paused with her fork midair. "Strange thing is¡­ I don''t feel any different," she said. "Like nothing happened."

    "That''s good," Revan murmured, a sigh of relief slipping past his lips.

    There was a brief smile from Luna. "Lucky your aunt showed up when she did."

    Revan hesitated, his eyes drifting to the side of the tent¡ªthe archways leading to the smaller chambers.

    "Not exactly," he said.

    Luna blinked. "What do you mean?"

    Revan raised a hand slightly, gesturing for her to wait. Just then, the two maids reappeared from either side, each carrying bundles of soiled clothing.

    "We''ll take care of the laundry," one said with a courteous smile. She placed a large silver bell on the table near the exit. "Please ring if you need anything."

    They slipped out of the tent, the flap falling closed behind them.

    Only then did Revan lean in slightly, lowering his voice.

    "I met someone while you were unconscious. Down in the dungeon."

    Luna tilted her head. "Who?"

    "He said his name was Oliver. A Solfyr."

    Luna''s eyes widened. "A Solfyr? My mother''s one¡ªI might know him."

    "He didn''t look like a high prince of flame," Revan said, half-laughing. "More like a drunk beggar with a sword. But when he moved, when he fought¡­ he took down Lord Cervarin in a single hit. Just¡ªgone."

    He paused, as if replaying the moment.

    "He burned down the entire room. Every hooded figure in that place."

    Luna blinked. "All of them?"

    Revan nodded.

    She leaned back slightly, visibly stunned. "And then he just¡­ left?"

    "He gave me and you a way out. Then my Aunt Vanya, teleported him away using a stone. She didn''t seem happy about it."

    Luna frowned, thoughtful. "Why would a Solfyr help us¡­ and then just vanish?"

    Revan gave a helpless shrug. "No idea."

    After a pause, he glanced at her. "Do you¡­ have an uncle named Oliver?"

    Luna''s brows pulled together. "I don''t think so. I''ve never met anyone by that name¡ªand I don''t remember Mother ever mentioning an Oliver in her family."

    "What about a branch family?" Revan asked. "Maybe someone distant?"

    "Hm¡­ maybe," Luna said slowly. "But if he is, I''ve never heard about it."

    Revan leaned back, his thoughts still spinning. "Anyway¡­ those people¡ªCervarin and the others¡ªthey were trying to use your power for something. It had to do with this glowing parchment."

    "Glowing parchment?" Luna echoed, confused. "What were they trying to do with it?"

    "I don''t know," Revan admitted, shaking his head. "They said something about it reacting to your light affinity¡­ but it didn''t do anything. Like they were missing a piece of the puzzle."

    Luna''s gaze drifted downward. Her voice dropped to a murmur, almost to herself. "They''re going to come after me again, aren''t they?"

    There was a flicker of fear in her eyes¡ªquiet, but real.

    Revan sat up a little straighter. "Your father''s probably already putting half the empire on alert," he said, trying to sound reassuring. "And you''ve got a whole army watching your back now."

    He hesitated, then added with a wry smile, "Well¡­ two kingdoms army, technically."

    There was a hint of bitterness in Revan''s voice, but he masked it with a quiet chuckle.

    Luna didn''t miss it.

    Her eyes stayed on him, studying his face. Something flickered there¡ªsomething he wasn''t saying. But before she could ask, Revan rose from his seat, brushing off his hands.

    "The sun''s still out," he said, his voice lighter now. "Wanna look around the camp?"

    Luna blinked, surprised¡ªbut then a warm smile bloomed on her lips.

    "Sure," she replied, a bit more cheerfully than she meant to.

 15. Twilight

    Revan and Luna strolled quietly through the heart of the camp, moving past watch posts and rows of red-and-black tents. Though they walked side by side, Revan was always a half-step ahead¡ªhis eyes scanning the grounds, hers¡­ occasionally drifting toward him.

    The camp wasn¡¯t crowded¡ªmost soldiers were busy with their routines, sharpening blades, tending fires, exchanging quiet words. The air smelled faintly of smoke and warm iron.

    Luna hesitated before speaking, her voice barely above a whisper.

    ¡°I heard¡­ you¡¯re not an Etherean.¡±

    Revan¡¯s steps slowed. He let out a long breath before glancing back at her with a small, easy smile.

    ¡°Yep.¡±

    He kept walking. Luna followed, biting her lip slightly, unsure if she¡¯d said too much.

    She rubbed the back of her neck, nerves flickering across her features.

    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean I can¡¯t fight,¡± Revan added after a moment, almost casually.

    ¡°Thank you.¡±

    His brow arched slightly. ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°I never really got to thank you,¡± Luna said, her voice softer now. ¡°For trying to protect me.¡±

    When Revan turned, he found her cheeks tinged with color, her gaze lowered. She was fidgeting¡ªtracing circles with her fingertip across her palm, glancing up at him only in quick, shy moments.

    There was something fragile and sincere in it.

    Revan gave a light laugh. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it. I mean, I was the host, right? It''s only fair I make sure my guest is safe and¡­ somewhat alive.¡±

    ¡°No,¡± she said firmly. ¡°I mean it.¡±

    He blinked, a little taken aback. ¡°I really didn¡¯t do much. It was that Oliver guy who saved us.¡±

    Luna stepped past him, turning to face him directly. She took a small step forward¡ªcloser.

    ¡°Without your strength, I might not be here,¡± she said softly. ¡°So¡­ thank you.¡±

    Her smile was gentle, and the sunlight spilled over her face like morning light through a window. For a moment, Revan forgot to breathe. The girl in front of him¡ªglowing in the warmth of day¡ªlooked radiant. There was something in her presence: a calm, a comfort, something quietly beautiful.

    He didn¡¯t know what to say.

    ¡°Oh! There¡¯s a training field up that way,¡± Luna said suddenly, pointing toward a small, fenced-off clearing nearby. ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡±

    Before he could respond, she was already running ahead¡ªlight on her feet, hair catching the wind. Her laughter echoed faintly as she moved, every step full of life.

    Revan watched her go, awestruck for a beat too long.

    ¡°What strength¡­?¡± he whispered to himself.

    Still smiling, he followed.

    The training field was simple¡ªa rough square enclosed by wooden posts and rope, clearly built in haste for temporary drills. Off to one side stood a straw dummy dressed in mock armor, holding a wooden sword and shield.

    Luna grabbed two wooden swords propped against the fence and tossed one to Revan.

    ¡°Teach me some swordsmanship,¡± she said with a grin.

    Revan caught the sword with ease but raised an eyebrow. ¡°You can¡¯t even move in that dress.¡±

    Luna looked down at herself, pouted, then squared her shoulders.

    ¡°Then teach me how to fight anyway.¡±

    Revan exhaled a soft laugh, stepping into the field. ¡°Alright. But don¡¯t blame me if you trip over your skirt.¡±

    ¡°I won¡¯t,¡± she said confidently, but there was a flicker of nervousness in her eyes.

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    He approached slowly, wooden sword in hand, and stood across from her. The sun filtered through the gaps in the camp¡¯s trees, casting warm light over the practice field. For a moment, it was quiet¡ªjust the rustle of wind and the distant clang of armor from the main camp.

    ¡°Okay,¡± Revan said gently. ¡°Start with your stance.¡±

    Luna tried to mimic him¡ªfeet apart, sword raised¡ªbut her posture was stiff, unsure. Revan circled around her, adjusting her arms carefully.

    ¡°Not so rigid,¡± he said. ¡°You¡¯re not a statue.¡±

    His hands brushed lightly over her elbows as he corrected her form. Luna¡¯s breath caught for just a second¡ªnot from fear, but something else. Something quieter. Warmer.

    ¡°There,¡± he said. ¡°Better.¡±

    They faced each other now, swords raised.

    Revan tapped her blade with his. ¡°Ready?¡±

    Luna nodded, determination flaring in her eyes.

    They moved slowly at first¡ªstep, swing, block. Revan guided her gently, correcting her grip, timing, footwork. Luna listened closely, focused, her brows furrowed in concentration.

    Minutes passed. Then more.

    They weren¡¯t speaking much¡ªbut something was being said in the way they moved. In the way Luna¡¯s laughter slipped out when she stumbled, and Revan¡¯s quiet smile followed it. In the way their blades touched, again and again, but never with force. Just rhythm. Trust. A silent understanding.

    And when Luna finally managed to land a soft tap on his shoulder, she gasped in surprise, eyes wide with victory.

    ¡°I did it!¡±

    Revan blinked, mock shocked. ¡°I have been defeated.¡±

    She laughed¡ªgenuinely¡ªand he smiled back.

    In that moment, the world beyond the training field melted away. There were no royal duties. No titles. No armies. Just two kids, standing in the golden afternoon, learning how to fight¡ªand perhaps, unknowingly, learning what it meant to stand by someone.

    ¡°Ooh! What about that glowing energy thing you do?¡± Luna asked eagerly, her eyes wide with curiosity.

    ¡°You mean the Etherea coating?¡± Revan replied, amused.

    ¡°Yeah, that!¡± she said, bouncing slightly on her feet.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that hard,¡± Revan explained. ¡°You just¡­ feel the Etherea inside you. Let it flow¡ªimagine it spreading through your whole body, like a second skin.¡±

    ¡°Okay, I¡¯ll try.¡±

    Luna took a stance, her wooden sword held steady in front of her. She closed her eyes and focused.

    A moment later, a soft glow began to shimmer across her body¡ªwhite-silver Etherea flaring to life in a delicate pulse.

    She opened her eyes and gasped. ¡°I did it!¡±

    Revan grinned. ¡°You¡¯ve got talent. With a bit more training, you can learn to shift the coating¡ªto concentrate it where you need it most.¡±

    He raised his left arm, letting the Etherea wrap tightly around it. Then, like water moving through a channel, the energy shifted down to his legs, before returning smoothly to his hand.

    ¡°Or,¡± he added, lifting his sword, ¡°you can use it to enhance your attack.¡±

    The glow of Etherea crept along his arm and into his blade. Then, with a swift flick, he slashed through the air.

    A crescent-shaped arc of Etherea shot forward, slicing across the straw dummy in a clean diagonal line, leaving a glowing cut through the mock armor.

    ¡°Now you try,¡± he said, releasing the energy from his arm.

    Luna raised her sword, channeling the Etherea into it. The glow wasn¡¯t as sharp or vivid as Revan¡¯s¡ªbut when she swung, a smaller arc burst forth, striking the dummy with a satisfying thud.

    The second slash met Revan¡¯s at the center, forming an "X" across the dummy¡¯s chest.

    Luna beamed with pride. Her face lit up, not with magic¡ªbut with the joy of growth, of doing something she hadn¡¯t known she could.

    She stepped forward, lowering her sword, the Etherea coating around her body flickering out gently.

    ¡°Thank you¡­ for teaching me,¡± she said, quieter now.

    Revan looked at her, his voice soft. ¡°I¡¯d do it again.¡±

    Their eyes met, and something passed between them¡ªsomething too young to name, but old enough to feel.

    ¡°It¡¯s getting dark,¡± Revan said, glancing toward the horizon where the sun was melting into gold and crimson. The quiet moment between them faded gently, like the last light of day. ¡°We should head back to the tent.¡±

    He walked over to Luna, took the wooden sword from her hands, and returned it to the rack near the fence. The warmth of her grip lingered on the hilt, but Revan said nothing.

    They made their way back along the dirt path that ran beside the grand tent, the ground crunching softly beneath their steps.

    Then they saw it.

    Just outside the tent, Dorian knelt before King Volcaz¡ªhis posture rigid, formal. Behind him, flanked by ten armed soldiers, Lord Cervarin sat down on his knees. Heavy metal cuffs bound both wrists, and silver chains coiled tightly around his bruised, battered body like vines of judgment. His face was bloodied, swollen from a savage beating.

    The camp had grown darker now, twilight slipping into night. All around them, soldiers moved to light torches¡ªsmall blooms of fire flickering to life, casting long shadows against the tents.

    Without thinking, Revan reached for Luna¡¯s hand and pulled her down beside him behind a stack of crates. She let out a small gasp, startled¡ªbut didn¡¯t pull away. Her gaze flicked down to his hand holding hers¡ªsteady, warm, and¡­ comforting. A faint blush touched her cheeks.

    They crouched there together in silence, watching, hidden in the flickering gloom.

    Dorian rose to his feet and stepped aside, giving the king a clear view of the prisoner.

    Volcaz stood like a mountain, unshaken and unforgiving.

    ¡°Where is the parchment?¡± the king demanded, his voice low but carrying like rolling thunder.

    Lord Cervarin lifted his head, blood crusting along his jawline. Even through the pain, he managed a cruel smile.

    ¡°I knew it,¡± he rasped, his voice laced with dark amusement. ¡°This isn¡¯t about the stolen Ether Stones, is it?¡±