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(The Legend Who Fight in the Abyss)
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Far within the Underworld, where the atmosphere was heavy with despondency and the heavens blazed in a perpetual scarlet radiance, a single warrior wearing a rogue's outfit stood before the dark throne. He was not a common mortal-he was a legend, a swordmaster and a master of every spell, a fighter who had challenged the gods and the monsters both. He had walked among the living's lands, slain abominations, and beaten fate itself. And now he had come to confront the font of all horrors-Hades, the Demon King.
The Underworld shook as the two giants stood face to face. Hades, a creature of unimaginable evil, towered over him, his presence suffocating, his aura deforming the very essence of existence. Shadows crawled at his feet, whispering curses older than time itself. With a voice that boomed through the abyss, Hades spoke.
"You have traveled far, mortal. But your rebellion ends here. This world will be your grave."
The warrior gripped his sword tightly, his other hand sizzling with raw magic. His breathing was controlled, his eyes unyielding.
"I have stood before death many times than I can remember," he stated calmly but firmly. "But as long as I stand alive, I will not allow your darkness to seep into the world above."
Hades released a deep, rumbling laugh. "Foolish warrior. You battle alone, while I am the void itself. But what chance do you have?"
The warrior smiled, cleaning blood from his lip. "Hope?" he repeated. "Hope is for those who wait and I didn't arrive here to hope-I arrived here to end you just to save the humanity."
The fight broke out like a tempest released. Metal collided with claw, magic hurled against the accursed void. The Underworld itself seemed to weep as the two fighters fought war, their blows shattering the earth itself beneath their feet. The myth marched with perfect fluidity-one moment slicing with a blade surrounded by flames, the next casting holy seals to repel the void.
But Hades did not relent. He was no tyrant-he was destruction personified. For every blow the hero struck, Hades struck back with sheer force. For every spell thrown, the Demon King retaliated with power that defied mortal understanding. The warrior fought with all his might-his training, his expertise, his will. And still, the darkness would not give way.
Time was lost meaning in all that endless battle. The hero was bleeding, his body battered, his magic dwindling. But still he fought. Still he stood. Until the moment arrived-the instant when fate brought its cruel judgment.
Hades struck him with his weapon. A killing blow.
The fighter stumbled, blood pouring onto the accursed earth. His eyes grew dim, his power ebbing. Yet still, even as his flesh weakened, his spirit did not. With all the remaining might in him, he thrust his sword into the very heart of the Underworld, casting forth one final incantation-a last resort to hold back the darkness, though for only an instant.
As his body plunged into the chasm, the world above was secure. at least for now.
In his last moments, as the shadows gathered around him, he sighed and whispered, "I may fall today. but one will rise tomorrow. And when they rise, your demise will begin, Hades."
The legend was lost. His name, his tale, would be whispers between mortals. But in the echoes of the Underworld, in the silences that never dared speak his name, his last battle would never be forgot. For even in death, he remained unforgiving. Even in the depths, he fought to the end.
And somewhere, out of the subsequent silence, even the darkness wept.
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In the world of Tenaria, the world of humanity, darkness has taken over. A terrible force called the Shadow of Terror spreads fear and destroys everything in its path. Once, the kingdoms worked together to fight this evil event, but now they fight each other over source, land, and power. Old friendships are broken, and even small arguments lead to violence and death.
Cities and towns are no longer safe. Many are in ruins, and the people who lived there are either gone or hiding. Kindness and hope have disappeared, replaced by anger and sadness. The darkness doesn't need to attack to win, but they spread by filling hearts with fear and despair.
The people of Tenaria are losing their fight. The city of Marcliff fell when shadow creatures attacked, burning it to the ground and leaving nothing but ashes. In Duskwoods, brave warriors tried to fight back but were defeated, their courage stolen by the whispers of the shadows. Even the Acinar kingdom kept in balance, the strongest fortress, was destroyed by a giant demon, leaving survivors to flee into the wilderness.
With each loss, the shadows grow stronger and spread over humanity. The world of Tenaria is falling apart, and the future looks hopeless.
But humanity has unique hidden talents and powers
Each kingdom or group of warriors in Tenaria has unique powers and abilities to face the darkness, though their differences often drive them apart.
Knights are noble warriors clad in heavy armor, wielding swords and shields to protect the weak and fight with honor. They are known for their courage and unshakable will in battle.
Mages harness the power of magic, casting spells to unleash destruction or provide healing. Their knowledge of the arcane arts makes them both feared and respected.
Assassins move in the shadows, striking swiftly and silently. They are experts in stealth and precision, capable of taking down enemies before they even see them coming.
Brawlers rely on their fists, kicks, and raw strength, using martial arts techniques to overpower their foes. Their speed and agility make them deadly in close combat.
Gladiators are fierce fighters who thrive in the arena of battle. They are skilled in using a variety of weapons and possess incredible endurance, often fighting for glory and survival.
Summoners call upon otherworldly beings to aid them in battle. They can summon powerful creatures to fight alongside them, turning the tide of even the most desperate conflicts.
Rangers are masters of the wild, skilled in archery and survival. They move quickly through forests and mountains, striking from a distance with deadly accuracy.
Aquari are warriors connected to water. They use the power of rivers, oceans, and rain to fight, creating waves and torrents to sweep away their enemies.
Though these warriors have the strength to fight the shadows, their distrust of one another has kept them divided. If they could unite, perhaps there would still be hope for Tenaria.
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But the real question is..
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Will anyone rise to fight the darkness, or will the shadows prevail?
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Will a chosen hero sacrifice themselves to save humanity?
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The fate of Tenaria hangs by a thread, and time is running out.
(Beginning)
Once in a world of kingdoms and great adventures to every place.
In a distant land, two Eternal kingdoms each celebrated the birth of a child destined for greatness. In the first kingdom, a 4 years old girl named Irena was born to the King Icarus and Queen Ileria in Aurelia Kingdom. It was foretold that she would grow up to become a noble warrior. The Aurelia kingdom rejoiced in the hope she represented, despite being weaker than their formidable enemies.
The kingdom of Aurelia, average power than the others, remained abundant because its people were bonded. Everywhere was life, the strength and comradeship of those living there. In the fields, farmers work side by side, hands blistered from the sun and labor, spirits high, singing songs of strength. Blacksmiths hammered nonstop in forges, building tools and weapons, not for their profit but to protect their fellow neighbors. The borders were patrolled by soldiers with alertness scanning the horizon born out of love for the homeland.
The streets of Aurelia were alive with the hum of community. A group of children playing through the market, their laughter mingling with the calls of merchants. An elderly man sat carving small wooden figurines, handing them to passing children who eagerly clutched the tokens of his craft. Everywhere one looked, there was a sense of unity-a kingdom that stood together, no matter the odds.
As the sun setting, setting hues to the entire sky in oranges and red, a sense of excitement ran throughout the crowd. A silver-clad, blue-robed royal messenger was standing at the top of the steps of the Aurelia stage inside the crowded square. "Citizens of Aurelia, stand up immediately! Sir Jace has something significant to announce!"
The crowd moved in and gathered as it filled the square with eager faces. From the Aurelia's stage, Sir Jace stepped in, the most loyal captain and respected knight of the kingdom. Though his armor told the tale of thousands of battles it had seen, it shone with a brilliance that mirrored the unwavering strength of his spirit. He swept his eyes across the gathered people, then raised a hand to silence the murmurs.
"People of Aurelia," Sir Jace began, his voice rich and commanding. "Today is no ordinary day. But today, we celebrate the 4th birthday of our princess, Irena!-a child already born under a blessed light, destined to bring strength and hope to our beloved kingdom."
The crowd exploded into applause, their cheers bouncing off stone walls.
With a raised hand, Sir Jace voice was now laced with warmth. "King Icarus and Queen Ileria have decreed tonight that we gather not as strangers, nor as mere subjects, but as one family, one people. I invite each and every one of you to join us for a grand feast at the castle grounds! Let us honor this day together, as Aurelia has always done with unity, joy, and pride!"
The crowd roared its approval, with many wiping tears of happiness from their eyes. Families embraced each other, neighbors clasped hands, and children jumped excitedly at the prospect of the feast.
One man in the crowd was a farmer whose hands were toughened by calluses. He reached out to his wife. "The princess is about to give another big day," he said, "and yet she's brought so much hope. Since past." His voice broke with emotion.
A young woman shouted another cry, "For Aurelia! For the princess!" And that cry got picked up by others until the square was filled with cries of loyalty and love.
As the crowd began to disperse in preparation for the feast, Sir Jace lingered for a moment, his eyes fixed on the horizon. The hope in the people's hearts was clear, but he knew the challenges ahead would not be easy. Yet as he gazed upon the sea of smiling faces, he felt a surge of pride.
Aurelia wasn't a light and steel kingdom; it was a people's kingdom with unbreakable trust and love bound them to one another. And as night began to crease the skies with stars, every person knew what was to happen: the light of the small princess held tightly within the walls of the castle would shine above any obstacles in the future.
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By that night, the grand halls in Aurelia castle transformed with a taste of celebration. Tables full of long lengths adorned by golden candles were lined along a very wide dining hall filled with many dishes available within the kingdom's borders. Wafts of baked breads with roasted meat plus spiced wines floated and dessert's decorations in this dance and chanted tune given off in minstrel play floated inside.
The entire kingdom seemed to have assembled within the castle walls. From noble knights in gleaming armor to farmers in their simplest tunics, all stood side by side, united in celebration. Laughter echoed off the high ceilings as children weaved through the crowd, their eyes wide with wonder at the grandeur of the occasion.
At the top of the hall, King Icarus and Queen Ileria sat upon their thrones, their faces radiant with pride and happiness. Queen Ileria held their 4-year-old daughter, Irena, in her arms. The girl's blonde hair glowed in the light of the chandeliers, and her bright green eyes shone with wonder as she see the festive feast before her.
Leaning close, the queen spoke in a hushed tone to her daughter, her voice gentle and full of awe.
"My little Irena," she said, gently pushing aside a stray lock of hair that clung to the girl's cheek.
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"Yes, Mama?" Irena gazed up at her, her tone as delicate as the petals of a spring flower.
The queen's eyes shone. "You are the light of this kingdom... the hope of our people."
Irena leaned back her head and smiled shyly. "Will I be a good princess, Mama?"
Queen Ileria's heart filled with emotion. "Of course, you're the very best," she vowed, her lips tracing a soft kiss to Irena's forehead.
At the feast's peak, King Icarus stood up, his towering form drawing the hall's instant attention. The chattering crowd subsided, only the warm crackle of the giant fireplace remaining.
"People of Aurelia!" the king bellowed, his deep, resonant voice ringing out through the great hall. "Tonight we do not gather for a mere feast, but also to celebrate the future of our kingdom - my daughter, your princess, Irena."
A wave of cheers ran through the large room, but it silent once more as the king held up his hand for silence.
"She is not only my daughter," he went on, looking down at Irena with a smile, "but the very heart of Aurelia. A reminder of our strength, our unity, and the hope that lights our way through the darkest of times."
He stepped forward from the dais, offering his hand to his daughter. Irena leaped off from her mother's lap and grasped her father's hand with both her little hands. The scene gained warm whispers from the audience.
"Come, little one," said King Icarus, holding her up so she could look above the gathered guests. He held her high with pride.
"This," he declared, his voice swelling with pride, "this is the princess who will carry our dreams forward. May her life be filled with courage, wisdom, and compassion, and may she lead Aurelia into a brighter future!"
And with that, the crowd erupted into cheers, the voices a wave of joy and devotion. Some raised their goblets high to toast the princess and others bowed down in respect. Mothers held close their children and whispered prayers for blessings on the baby girl. Fathers clasped their hands together, their hearts swelling with renewed hope.
Queen Ileria watched the scene unfold, her heart full to bursting. She looked at her husband, proud and tall with their daughter in his arms, then at the crowd, their faces alight with love and loyalty. A tear slipped down her cheek, not out of sorrow but sheer gratitude.
"This is our family," she whispered to herself, one hand over her heart. "And this is our future."
The celebrations went late into the night, filling every corner of the castle with music and laughter. The people of Aurelia, who suffered so much beyond the castle walls, rejoiced in the warmth of the moment. They danced, sang, and feasted with unbridled joy, their spirits lifted by the presence of their 4 years old princess.
Beneath the flickering candlelight in that grand hall and under the watchful eyes of their king and queen, the people of Aurelia finally felt something they hadn't felt for years-a feeling of hope that brighter days lie ahead.
In her father's arms, Irena gazed out at the smiling people in the crowd. She waved a small hand, prompting another cheer. Then, hesitantly, she leaned into her father's shoulder, slowly smiling, and held on tight to her father's finger, as if holding on to her future.
The night wore on, and the party inside the castle walls became more boisterous. Children ran and played between tables as adults shared stories and raised their glasses to toast not only the princess but also the unity of the kingdom. A group of knights, led by Sir Jace, performed a ceremonial dance, their swords glinting in the light of the chandeliers, drawing cheers and applause from the crowd.
Minstrels sang ballads of Aurelia's strength and victories, their voices weaving tales that brought tears to the eyes of the older villagers. Others joined in the singing, their voices blending into a harmonious chorus that echoed through the grand halls.
King Icarus and Queen Ileria walked through the crowd, greeting their guests personally. Hearty laughter filled the air as the king shook hands with a rough-looking farmer who presented a basket of fresh harvest fruits to use for the banquet. "Your strength is Aurelia's strength," the king said, his voice gruff with sincerity.
Meanwhile, the queen knelt down beside a timid little girl, who offered her a jasmine flower, and gently stroked her head. "Thank you, sweet one," she whispered, placing the bloom in her hair and giving a radiant smile from the child.
As the candles continued to burn out, marking the final hours of the celebration, King Icarus stood up at the front of the hall again, his voice strong and laced with feeling over the continuing conversations.
"My people," he added something, voice even but cracking in emotion, "this evening, we did not only celebrate the birthday of a child, but the very essence of our kingdom. It is your love, your bravery, and your unity that make this kingdom what it is - a family. And it is together that we will create a future worthy of our children."
The crowd hushed, listening to every word.
"I thank you all, for participating in Aurelia's 4-year-old daughter" he continued, his eyes sweeping over the gathered faces. "For your unwavering loyalty, for your hard work, and for the love you have shown my family tonight. Know that we are nothing without you. Together, we will face any challenge, any obstacles, and we will always prevail."
Her Majesty Ileria moved forward, her voice soft but resonant. "Tonight, when I glance at all of you, I see not simply people but friends, neighbors, and kindred spirits. You have filled this castle with laughter, joy, and hope. For that, I thank you all from the depth of my heart. May we stand together forever, not only as a kingdom but as a family."
The crowd broke into applause, some shouting words of heartfelt gratitude. "Long live the king and queen!" one voice cried out, followed by many more. "And long live Princess Irena!"
As the crowd began to scatter, many stayed behind to express warm words with one another. "Tonight, it felt like a dream," an elderly woman said, clasping her hands tightly in prayer. "Our kingdom feels hope again."
"Princess Irena is truly a blessing of light," said a young man, his voice filled with admiration. "She will grow to bring light to Aurelia's future."
The last of the guests had left and the castle had grown quiet once more, though the warmth of the celebration still lingered in its halls. King Icarus and Queen Ileria were both weary, yet content as they carried their daughter to her small, bed in her room.
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The room was simple but beautiful, and the walls were clothed in silks and gold. Soft light from the moonlight spilled across through the tall window, illuminating the room in a gentle silver color. Queen Ileria sat at the edge of the bed, tenderly brushing her daughter's golden hair as little Irena burrowed into the soft blankets, her green eyes drooping with sleep.
Standing close by, King Icarus observed them, a rare softness in his eyes, "She's always perfect," he murmured.
Queen Ileria smiled, her face glowing even in the long day. "Of course, she's always our hope, Icarus. A gift from the gods. For her... we always stand stronger than ever."
The king nodded, his hand placing lightly on his wife's shoulder. "For her and for Aurelia. No matter what challenge comes, she'll have a future worth living for."
They stood there in silence for a moment, watching their daughter's peaceful sleep. The soft breathing of her small chest seemed to echo the steady heartbeat of the kingdom itself.
Finally, the queen spoke, her voice barely above a whisper. "Goodnight, my sweet Irena. Sleep well, for tomorrow is your another good day, just as you've inspired us tonight."
Hand in hand, King Icarus and Queen Ileria sat on the edge of the bed, while Icarus slowly closed the door behind them.
King Icarus said "I am very happy that we have a great daughter. Since, she's now 4 years old." Small tears in his eyes.
Queen Ileria had tears in her eyes, and replied. "Yeah, i am very happy too, a noble child."
King agreed on what Ileria said. "Mhm, I really wish that she will grow up into a brave noblewoman that will lead our kingdom."
The grand hall of the Aurelia palace was immersed in the soft glow of moonlight filtering through tall stained-glass windows. The King and Queen's faces immersed in joy and hope.
Queen Ileria smiled weakly, but a shiver of apprehension danced across her eyes. "You know what," she said softly, "I pray only that the world does not suffer her down before she can face the world's real life. To lead, to protect, to bring peace... It is a brave destiny for such small hands."
King Icarus nodded in agreement.
Outside, the distant rumble of thunder hinted at an approaching storm, but within the palace, warmth and love triumphed over the foreboding night.
Little Irena's voice, soft and uncertain, breaking her sleep. "Mama... is the storm coming to get us?"
Queen Ileria leaned down, kissing her daughter's forehead. "Oh, no, no, my love. It's just the wind playing in the sky. You're safe here, always."
King Icarus knelt on the floor beside them, holding Irena's small hand in his calloused one. "You're stronger than any story, little one."
Irena nodded a little hesitantly, her hand gripping his finger tight. "Hmmmm. I don't like the noises..."
"We'll send the noises away, dear," the Queen promised, wrapping the blanket tight around her. "Your father and I are always here."
The wind shrieked through the outside corridors, causing the upper windows to shake, and for an instant the candle flames swayed. King Icarus's eyes snapped toward the blackened window, and his face clouded. "Do you sense it?"
The wind outside grew strong, whistling through the great high towers of the palace.
King Icarus glanced up towards the window and for a moment his face curious. "Do you think they tested us already?" he asked. "The storm approaches, as though the gods themselves mark this night with significance, but i think so."
Before Queen Ileria could answer, the room seemed to darken a little, as if a shadow passed through the very walls. Both parents instinctively turned their gaze toward the cradle. Irena remained fast asleep, her tiny chest rising and falling peacefully. But a sudden chill crept into the air, causing the Queen to shiver.
"Do you feel it, Ileria?" the King asked again, his voice lowering.
She nodded, hugging her arms from shiver. "Yeah, yeah..... A strange cold, like a whisper on the wind."
A knock at the door startled them. A royal guard entered, his face pale and his armor glinting faintly in the dim light. "Your Majesties," he began, his voice trembling, "the High Priestess of the Sacred Divine requests an urgent audience. She says... she felt a disturbance."
King Icarus and Queen Ileria looked at one another worriedly before nodding. "Bring her in," King Icarus ordered.
Then they go to the large hall's, and they didn't wait long. The elderly High Priestess appeared, a glow with a flickering flame standing at the head of her staff. Her face was etched with lines of age, but her eyes would burn with intensity. She moved toward the cradle with a deep face.
Little Irena squirmed to her blanket, looking over at the tall figure stood the hall. "Mama... who's that old woman?"
Queen Ileria smiled tenderly at her daughter. "Um... Just someone here to send you good news, my love."
"The birth of your daughter has not gone unnoticed," she declared, her voice ringing with an almost ethereal quality. "I fear that her destiny, though great, has already drawn the attention of the shadowed forces that lurk beyond the veil."
The King stiffened. "What do you mean?"
But just as the guard was about to leave, Queen Ileria raised her hand. "Wait, hold on."
The knight stopped and turned to Ileria. "Is something you want, Majesty?" he asked.
"Please bring Miss Callie as well. I think she's in the servants' quarters." she said with a worried looked.
The guard paused for just a moment before bowing again. "Right away, my Queen."
King Icarus glanced her a curious look.
"I can't have Irena in this hall while we talk about the darkness that's going to happen," Ileria whispered.
The guard hurried off, and within a minute, he returned with Miss Callie - a gentle woman with kind, watchful eyes and streaks of gray in her hair. Even though she was a servant, she was cherished in Atlon, having cared for generations of royal children.
"Your Majesties," Callie said softly, bowing her head.
Queen Ileria managed a weary smile. "Callie, please take Irena to the bedroom for a bit. Keep her warm and calm."
"Of course, my Queen." Callie's gaze flickered briefly to the restless child, her heart swelling with affection. "Come along, my little," she said gently, extending her hand.
Irena rubbed her eyes and peeked up. "Where are we going, Miss Callie?"
Miss Callie cast a worried glance toward the King and Queen as the High Priestess spoke. She had been quietly at the hall with little Irena, humming a soft tune to her, watching the tension in the hall thicken like a brewing storm.
Queen Ileria knelt beside her daughter. "Irena, my sweet, why don't you go with Miss Callie for a little while? She'll take you to the bedroom and tell you one of your favorite stories."
Irena rubbed her eyes, sensing the unease but too young to grasp it. "But... Mama, why are you and Papa worried? Is something bad happening?"
Ileria smiled gently, brushing her fingers through her daughter's hair. "Oh, oh, It's nothing for you to worry about, dear. Just grown-up things. Now go on, be a good girl for Mama."
Miss Callie stepped forward and took Irena's small hand in hers. "Let's go, my little one. We'll find your warm bed and hear about the brave swan of Atlon, shall we?"
Irena hesitated, glancing between her parents, then gave a small nod. "Okay.... but you'll sleep with me later, Mama?"
"Of course, I promise," Queen Ileria murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to her daughter's forehead.
With that, Callie quietly guided Irena toward the bedroom, carefully shutting the door behind them. The room was left with just the soft flicker of candlelight and the distant wail of the wind.
King Icarus turned to the High Priestess, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Now... tell everything with us."
The Priestess closed her eyes, and the flame on her staff died down, letting a breath as she spoke. "Tenebrous, the shadow demon who preys upon the innocent and curses the children of light, has turned his gaze toward Aurelia. His malice is ancient, his power vast. But your kingdom, protected by the Sacred Divine, has kept his wrath at bay for generations."
Queen Ileria gasped, clutching Icarus's arm. "You mean to say... Irena is in danger?"
The Priestess opened her eyes, a tear slipping down her weathered cheek. "Yes.... And tonight, the storm carries more than rain. Tenebrous's forces gather in the shadows, waiting for the veil between realms to thin. His abyssal army will come to test Aurelia's strength and to claim the child's prophecy."
As the words resounded over them, the large hall lit up briefly by the lightning, and before anyone could regain their breath a crack of thunder was so hard it seemed as if the roof shook off.
King Icarus stands up, "Then we should protect her and we should prepare Aurelia."
Queen Ileria steps forth with a decision similar to her husband. "Our daughter's life, hope that she promises worth even sacrifice."
The Priestess nodded gravely. "Yes... But for now, prepare yourselves, because this night will be a trial of both strength and faith. The storm will not break easily, but neither shall you."
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And so, as the thunderstorm grew stronger, Aurelia's soldiers were called, and the kingdom prepared for battle. The night would bring not only rain but blood, as the forces of light prepared to face the encroaching shadow. In the nursery, as the storm raged outside, little Irena stirred in her sleep, a faint glow emanating from her tiny form and as though the gods themselves had blessed her against the darkness to come.
The first clash of steel and shadow flared beneath the torrential downpour, lightning racing across the blackened sky. Aurelia's grand walls stood firm, their golden banners drenched and whipping wildly in the storm winds. Along the battlements, the soldiers of Aurelia wait with steady swords and spears held tight, eyes on the horizon.
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Then, they came.
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Out of the edge of the darkened forest, the shadowed army of Tenebrous emerged like an ink stream that was spilling into the world. Twisted demons and spectral warriors poured forward and their crimson eyes glowed fearly through the rain. They moved unnaturally, silent and swift, their presence wrapping air like a cover of despair.
"Hold the line!" roared King Icarus above the howling of the tempest. Standing tall on the battlements in silver armor bearing the Sacred Divine upon his chest, he held his hand to the rain-wet banners: "For Aurelia! For the kingdom!"
The soldiers echoed his cry, their voices shaking yet firm. Archers drew their bows, and the arrowheads caught fleeting sparks of light as they were released into the night. The arrows arised like fleeting fireflies before finding their marks, piercing the advancing shadows. Many creatures dissipated into dark mist, but for each one felled, more rose to take its place.
In front of the enemy lines, the generals of Tenebrous stood out-a towering form of men with their armor drenched in shadow. The weapons forged in black steel that seemed to swallow the light moved with a horrible purpose and brought a reminder that the demon was reflected in the air.
"Release the Sacred Divine!" Queen Ileria commanded from the safety of the mid castle's balcony where you can see the battlefield outside, her voice steady despite the fear consuming at her heart. She clutched her protective charms and prayers. Her mind never left the bed where her daughter lay, glowing faintly as if the infant contained the light of the heavens within her.
Upon her word, the high towers of Aurelia flared to life with blazing, golden fire. The Sacred Divine, the kingdom's strongest defense, blazed bright against the night, compelling the shadowed creatures to retreat. The heat of the divine cut through the storm, casting a fleeting hope over the battlefield.
The enemy would not be swayed.
Tenebrous had not yet appeared, but his presence was felt. The rain started getting heavier, as if it was molten lead, and the wind howled with voices speaking of despair and ruin. The soldiers fought bravely, and their hearts never wavered, but one could sense that this battle would test Aurelia's very soul.
The ground beneath the walls shook. A crack opened near the gates, and from it rose a towering form-Tenebrous's chosen avatar in the distant, a creature of pure darkness with glowing red veins coursing through its massive frame. Its voice echoed like a thousand whispers overlapping.
*Demonic laugh* "Your divine will falter. Your hope will crumble. And the child will be mine," it bellowed.
King Icarus spoke to his captain, his jaw set. "Open the inner gates! We need the Divinebearers on the field now!"
"On my way, Sir." Captain Jace salute in courageous. And proceed to open the inner gates inside the castle's basement.
The Divinebearers were elite warriors from Aurelia who had been trained to wield the Sacred Divine in combat. As they charged into the fray, their torches blazed with a light greater than the stars. Their flames carved through the darkness, sending the creatures fleeing with every swing.
Lightning struck the main tower, and in a flash of brilliance, it lit up the battlefield. Queen Ileria clutched a radiant necklace in her shaking hand and whispered a prayer. "O gods, protect us. Protect my daughter. Let the light of Aurelia never fade."
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Meanwhile in the bedroom
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The wind whispered fiercely against the tall windows, and the flickering light from a stood candle swayed, casting restless shadows on the walls. Little Irena laid on the bed, her tiny hands gripping the blanket tightly.
She could hear muffled voices filtering through the thick stone walls - voices laden with fear, sharp commands, and something even more sinister. A chilling whisper, like a chorus of a hundred voices, slithered through the cracks.
Irena's lips quivered. "Miss Callie... what's going on? I... I can hear them."
Miss Callie settled beside her, wrapping an arm around the child's shoulders. "Shh, it's nothing, little one. It's just the wind," she whispered, though her heart raced in her chest. She felt it too-a presence, like a cold breath brushing against her neck.
"I want Mama... and Papa," Irena said softly, her voice tight yet brave.
Callie placed a hand over her heart and closed her eyes for a brief moment. "Oh heaven ones... protect us from evil," she murmured, almost too quietly to hear.
Then, letting the warmest smile as she could, she gently squeezed Irena's hand. "They'll be here soon, my dear. They love you more than all the stars in the sky. And they'll chase away any shadow that dares to come near you."
Irena nodded, her eyes shimmering but determined not to cry.
Callie glanced toward the door, concealing her worry behind a calm facade. "How about a story while we wait, hm? One about the golden swan who sang to the moon."
Irena clutched Callie's hand tightly. "Okay... but don't leave me."
"Never, I promise," Callie vowed.
And outside, lightning split the sky once more.
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The dark forces were surging again in the distance, their cries joined with the thunder. The battle for Aurelia had really begun, and the kingdom's fate was precariously hanging in the balance.
The battle raged on, fierce and unyielding. Aurelia's forces held their ground, lit up by the Sacred Divine lighting against the oppressive night. But even the holy divine's brilliance seemed dim against the vast tide of Tenebrous's shadowed army. For every demon cut down, two more emerged, their forms twisting and reforming as though drawn from an endless abyss.
King Icarus fought at the front, sword of silver with holy flame, slaying all, cutting through even the darkest corners of night into his weary day. He looked around at the glorious men of Aurelia who resisted, their great cries lost among the sound of the storms.
And then, as if in an instant, a stillness spread over the battlefield. The rain kept falling, and thunder growled softly in the distance, but the clashing of steel and the roars of battle stopped. The air grew heavy, the kind of weight that pressed down on the soul. Soldiers froze in their tracks, their weapons slack in their hands. Even the demons halted, their glowing eyes fixed on the distant forest.
From within the shadows of the treeline, there came this mighty, towering figure to materialize. The very air would recoil and take a step back as he stepped into view.
Tenebrous, the shadow demon lord, rose in his full form and a tall, hooded humanoid entity draped in flowing black shadows that shifted as if alive. His eyes glowed with a sickly, burning crimson, and his voice, when it came, echoed across the land like a thousand voices speaking in unity, each filled with malice.
"Kingdom of Aurelia," Tenebrous intoned, his voice cutting through the storm like a blade. "You defy me with your flames, your light, and your hope. But no flame burns forever."
Captain Jace and the soldiers of Aurelia faltered, many of them trembling at the turn presence of the demon lord. Even King Icarus felt an icy chill creep into his heart, though he stood firm, his sword raised.
"You will not take Aurelia!" he bellowed, his voice a defiant roar. "And you will not harm my daughter and my kingdom!"
Tenebrous chuckled, a deep, demonic sound that seemed to rattle the earth itself. "Your daughter?" he hissed, his glowing eyes narrowing. "Ah, yes, the child born beneath the darkness. She radiates with a light that defies even my sight. Let me guess, is she a piece of hope... or a seed of ruin?"
Queen Ileria felt her heart drop as she heard the faint, trembling voice of her daughter echoing through the stone halls. She tore her gaze away from the battlefield, her pulse racing in her throat. "Irena..." she whispered, then turned sharply toward the archers above.
"Hold your fire!" she commanded, her voice sharp and unwavering. "Stop at once! The demon speaks harmful words meant to unsettle us. Don't give in to his cursed words!"
The abyssal creatures stopped as if under some unseen command, their grotesque forms shifting to face Aurelia's walls in eerie unison. Even the storm outside seemed to pause, because of a heavy tension settling over the kingdom like a dark shroud. Tenebrous's words lingered in the air, and Ileria felt a chill run down her spine, as if the very darkness was pressing against her.
She grabbed a guard passing by. "I'm going to my daughter, just command others if tenebrous started once again - understood!" she ordered. "And lock the main doors."
The guard salute courageously "Understood, your Majesty." Then he hurried to go outside.
Without waiting in the outside balcony, Ileria dashed through the halls, her silk skirts whispering against the cold stone. The storm raged outside, but inside the palace, it was eerily quiet, save for the distant, cruel laughter of the demon lurking beyond the walls.
His voice rose again, dripping with malice, cursing them. The abyssals twitched again, inching closer to the gates, just like predators waiting for the signal to attack.
Callie sat at the bedside, holding Irena's trembling hand as thunder struck and shook the window. The little girl's eyes were wide, her face pale in fear but brave. Callie stayed calm for her sake, softly humming an old lullaby, but worried on her face from the outside.
"Mama... Papa..." Irena whispered, her voice trembling a bit.
"Don't worry, I'm here," Callie soothed, though she wasn't the one the child truly needed.
Ileria didn't hesitate. She burst into the bedroom, and there was little Irena and Callie on the bed, her small frame tense as she clutched the hem of her blanket with white-knuckled hands.
Miss Callie knelt beside her, her weathered face calm, though her eyes revealed her concern.
Irena looked up, her eyes glistening with fear. "Mama... who's that scary voice?"
Ileria's throat tightened. She forced a smile and knelt beside them. "It's nothing, my brave girl. Just the wind playing tricks on us."
Callie placed a comforting hand on Irena's, her voice gentle yet firm. "The gods are watching over you, little one. No darkness can touch you here."
Ileria wrapped her arms around Irena, pulling her close and feeling the tiny heartbeat flutter against her chest. In that moment, Ileria noticed the warmth of her child was the only light that mattered. Tenebrous's cruel words still echoed beyond the walls, sending a chill down her spine. She pressed her lips to Irena's temple, whispering a prayer that only the gods could hear. For just a fleeting moment, the child's faint, unnatural glow shimmered, like a spark of defiance against the encroaching darkness.
Outside, Tenebrous's laughter faded into a low growl. The abyssals began their slow walk toward the Aurelia's gates, like shadows slinking across the ground - a wicked game starting up again at their master's command.
But in that room, Queen Ileria clung to hope. Even if it was just the last flicker left.
Queen Ileria, holding Irena close within the safety of the inner keep, felt her blood run cold at the demon's words. She clutched her child closer, whispering prayers under her breath. The infant stirred slightly, her faint glow intensifying for a moment before settling again.
While little Irena, goes silent as she heard the distant voice of the demon. But didn't understand a thing. Only scared by the demon's tone.
Tenebrous raised his arm, and the shadows around him lurched, curling and stretching towards the sky. "Aurelia!" he boomed now, making the earth itself tremble, "fight me tonight and survive maybe. But you will not escape to my curse."
The storm raged on as Tenebrous's power became at its peak. Lightning flashed in blinding shots across the sky, illuminating his towering form. He stretched his clawed hand into the kingdom, and in his voice, the dark power echoed.
"From this night forth, every child's birthday celebrated under the light of Aurelia's flame shall always bear my mark," Tenebrous announced. "A shadow that consumed within them, every time they get old, waiting to devour their light. Your legacy will fall from within, and hope will drained by your own blood."
A wave of hopelessness washed over the battlefield. Men dropped to their knees, faces white with terror. Even the Sacred Divine trembled, as if the darkness itself tried to close it.
King Icarus stood forward, his voice trembling but unyielding. "We shall not yield to your darkness, Tenebrous! Aurelia's light will never fall!"
Tenebrous cocked his head to one side, his voice dripping with mirth. "Then try resisting it, king of a dying light. But remember this: my curse is endless. No power can cut it or no prayer can undo it. You have defied me, and so your kingdom will pay the value."
With a final, thunderous roar, Tenebrous dissolved into the shadows, and his army retreat with him into the night. However, the air was heavy still with his last malice, and the storm showed no signs of mitigate.
The battlefield fell silent once more, and the soldiers of Aurelia gazed at their king, whose face was marked with despair. King Icarus turned to the palace, his heart heavy, knowing that this victory was only the beginning of a far darker struggle.
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Sunrise rose over Aurelia
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The dawn came slowly, as if even the sun itself was hesitant to rise over the kingdom of Aurelia. The storm had left its mark, and the land lay drenched in an eerie silence. The battlefield was shed with the leftovers of the night: ash scattered here and there where the shadow creatures had been brought down, and blood-stained on ground where courageous soldiers had died.
Inside the palace hall, King Icarus and Queen Ileria sat with the High Priestess and their council, faint-faced and tired-eyed. In a bed lay the little Irena, still sleeping, watched over by Miss Callie sat beside her bed and two Divinebearers standing guard with cautious care at the room's door.
The voice of King Icarus cracked the silence, heavy with grief. "Tenebrous has cursed us. I don't know what time it takes, But not just my daughter, but every child born in Aurelia's light. A shadow that grows within them... waiting."
His hand ran through his hair in distress, his strength failing him momentarily. "What does it mean? How do we fight something so mysterious?"
The High Priestess tightened her grip on her staff. "The curse is ancient and powerful," she said gravely. "But it's not unbreakable. Such dark curse always has its roots. Tenebrous's strength lies in his connection to the Underworld Realm. If we destroy that connection, the curse will weaken. But such a task would demand sacrifices beyond imagining."
Queen Ileria, her face still streaked with tears, spoke up. "What about Irena? Will her light protect her? She glowed in her bed last night, as though the gods themselves shielded her from the darkness."
The Priestess nodded slowly. "She is singular, a child born under divine favor. Her light may delay the curse... perhaps even resist it. But she cannot carry this burden alone. The kingdom must prepare, not just for her sake, but for all the children who will experience this shadow."
Icarus slammed his fist on the table, spilling anger and helplessness. "Tenebrous has declared war on our legacy, on our future. But we cannot let this happen. We need more allies, and reinforcements or anyone who will stand with us against this demon."
A council member leaned forward. "The Atlon Kingdom, Your Majesty. They have always stood as our brothers in arms. King Nalon would not refuse us aid in our darkest hour."
Icarus nodded grimly. "Then send a message to Atlon at once. Let them know of the curse, and let them understand the stakes. We cannot afford hesitation."
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Morning in Atlon Kingdom
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The second kingdom named Atlon kingdom also started to celebrate a birthday: a 5 year old child named Nathan, and King Nalon wanted to wish that Nathan will grow as a strongest noble knight, destined to both defend and lead their powerful kingdom. It's a big day for Atlon, but a strange mystery hung beyond their lives.
The grand hall of Atlon Castle was sound with joy, the sounds echoing beneath its high, arched ceilings. The banners of royal black and gold rippled with ease in the evening breeze, and the sweet smell of roasted meats and honeyed pastries filled the air. In the center of all this lay Nathan, a bright-eyed five-year-old prince, his laughter so innocent it carried over the festivities.
King Nalon stood tall beside him, his deep voice echoing as he spoke to the crowd. "Today, we celebrate not just my son's birthday but the promise he brings to our kingdom! Nathan is destined for greatness, and I know he will grow to be a noble knight who will lead Atlon with strength and honor!"
The guests erupted into cheers, lifting their goblets high. "To Nathan! The future of Atlon!"
Nathan grinned up at his father, then at his mother, Queen Rhea, who sat gracefully nearby. Her gentle smile reassured him as she nodded her approval. Despite the festive air, a flicker of worry crossed her features, her motherly instincts sensing a weight in the room that others hadn't noticed.
As the evening progressed, Nathan's laughter echoed as he darted between the tables, showing off the carved wooden sword gifted by Sir Galen. "Look, Mother! I'll be the strongest knight, just like my Father!" he exclaimed, swunging the small weapon with all the courage his tiny frame could lay.
Queen Rhea extended her arms for him, pulling him into a kind embrace. "Yes, dear," she said softly, the voice barely holding steady. "But remember that a true knight not only protects himself with strength, but also does so with kindness and justice of heart."
The celebration continued, but as the night wore on, King Nalon noticed a figure slipping through the crowd, a Herald, faint-faced and urgent. The man's armor bore signs of a long journey, mud splattered on his boots. Nalon stepped aside to hear him speak, and as the Herald's whispers reached his ears, his expression darkened.
The music lagged. Each guest individually began to notice a change in the personality of their king. Queen Rhea stood up from her chair, her hand automatically falling upon Nathan's shoulder.
"What's wrong, Nalon?" she asked softly but with an edge of fear in her voice.
The king's eyes swept the room, taking in the hopeful faces of his people, their celebration unsteady on the edge of something darker. He turned to the Herald. "Speak, so all may hear."
The man moved forward, his voice shaking but strong enough to carry across the room. "News from Aurelia, Your Majesty. Last night, their kingdom was invaded by Tenebrous, the shadow demon. Though they held off his forces, he has left a curse, one that threatens every child born under the light of Aurelia."
The gasps rolled through the hall, and the joyful atmosphere shattered like glass. A noblewoman clutched her young daughter protectively, while knights exchanged grave looks.
"A curse?" Queen Rhea whispered, her hand tightening on Nathan's shoulder.
The Herald continued, his words weighed with dread. "The curse is ancient and mysterious. Tenebrous has sworn that shadows will grow within the children of Aurelia, corrupting them from within."
Nathan looked up at his mother, confusion clouding his innocent face. "What's a curse, Mother? Is it bad?"
Rhea knelt before him, gently brushing his hair back. Her smile was forced, her voice trembling as she tried to reassure him. "It's nothing for you to worry about, my dear. Your father will make sure everything is all right."
King Nalon's voice cut through the growing murmurs. "Tenebrous has declared war, not just on Aurelia, but on the future of all kingdoms. This darkness will not stop at their borders. We cannot allow such evil to fester."
"But what will we do?" one of the nobles called out. "Can we even fight against such a curse?"
Nalon's jaw clenched, his eyes blazing with resolve. "Aurelia has called for our aid, and we will answer. Prepare the soldiers. I will lead the army myself to join King Icarus. Together, we will face this darkness."
The hall was silent for a moment before a knight stepped forward, his voice steady. "For Aurelia and Atlon, we will stand. Tenebrous will not claim our children."
The room erupted into a mixture of anxious whispers and determined voices. Mothers clutched their children, fathers spoke of courage, and knights began to discuss their plans.
Queen Rhea watched it all, her heart heavy. She turned to Nalon, her voice barely above a whisper. "Be careful, Nalon. This is no ordinary battle. This... this is war against something far greater than us."
Nalon laid a hand over hers, softening his features. "I know, Rhea. But we cannot just sit while our allies fall. Nathan's future, the future of our kingdom, stands on what we do now."
As the celebration faded, the guests left with heavy hearts, their minds consumed by the looming shadow of Tenebrous. Nathan, too young to fully grasp the weight of what had happened, hold on to his wooden sword, his small voice echoing in the quiet hall. "Don't worry, Father. I'll grow strong and fight the shadows with you one day."
Nalon knelt before his son, pulling him into a tight embrace. "And when that day comes, Nathan, you will be ready."
The storm of war was approaching, and the halls of Atlon were no longer filled with music but with the murmurs of preparation and prayers for the light to hold against the encroaching darkness.
As the celebration subsided, the weight of the herald's words hung in the air, replacing joy with an uneasy tension. Guests departed with hushed whispers, their minds racing with questions and fears.
In the quiet hall, King Nalon sat beside Queen Rhea near the hearth, the flickering flames casting long shadows on the walls. Nathan had fallen asleep in his mother's lap, clutching his wooden sword tightly, as though even in dreams he sought to protect those he loved.
Queen Rhea stroked Nathan's hair, her voice soft but laced with worry. "What kind of curse could leave such devastation behind? And why the children? Why infect it with its terror?
Nalon looked into the fire, his face grim. "Tenebrous does not try to conquer land or kingdom, as mortals have their enemies do. He lives on despair and breaking the people's will to resist. If he can take the children from them, that is a strike at the future."
Rhea shivered, huddling against Nathan. "But if Aurelia was against him, why would he retreat? A demon of his caliber would not leave easily unless..." She hesitated and didn't complete her sentence. Her unspoken fear hung there like a fog that refused to clear.
"Unless it's all part of the plan," Nalon filled in, his voice heavy with the weight of understanding. "He left behind something. A shadow meant to grow unnoticed until it's too late."
A soft knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Sir Galen entered, his armor faintly glinting in the firelight. He bowed low. "Your Majesties, the people are restless. They whisper of omens and dark portents. Some claim to have seen shadowy figures near the woods, while others speak of strange dreams. The mood is... unsettled."
Nalon nodded, his face unmoving. "We cannot let them fall prey to fright. We must spread the word that Atlon watches. Let them be told they are safe within our walls."
Galen paused a moment before he asked, "And the curse? Do we tell to the people of Atlon?"
Rhea looked up, the words sharp despite her fear. "Yes. Secrets make people panic. They have the right to know what they're facing, so they can ready themselves."
The knight bowed again and left the hall, his footsteps echoing softly.
As the door closed, Nalon turned to his wife. "Why now? Tenebrous has been a name in forgotten legends for centuries. Why would he return?"
Her eyes dart toward the shadows in the wall and she speaks quietly, barely heared. "Maybe we forget him, but he does not forget us. And maybe the dark has been with us all this time, and has grown by degrees while our faces are avoided."
Nalon rose, pacing slowly. "If that is true, then it may already be too late. But we cannot act blindly. We'll send envoys to Aurelia to learn the truth of what happened. Only then can we understand what we're truly up against."
Outside, the wind howled, carrying with it a distant echo and an unnatural sound that sent shivers down the spines of those who heard it. Within the castle, the royal family sat in uneasy silence, the flickering firelight doing little to chase away the encroaching shadows.
Far from the delight of the day's celebration, a new sense of foreboding settled over Atlon. The cloud stretched on heavy with the unknown as the kingdom held its breath against whatever might come with the dawn.
The castle of Atlon rested uncomfortably under the storm's fury. Lightning burst into the halls, curtains shadows dancing along the walls. Rain fall on the windows with a relentless drumbeat, while thunder rumbled in the distance, shaking the very stone castle.
Inside the royal chambers, King Nalon and his knights planned strategies in tense murmurs, their voices blending with the storm. Queen Rhea sat nearby, her fingers interlocked in silent prayer. Yet amidst the weight of their worries, they had no idea of the strange encounter awaiting their son during the storm.
In his small room, Nathan knew nothing of strategies or wars. To him, the storm was just another backdrop to his adventures. His wooden sword clashed valiantly against an imaginary foe, the stuff dummy in his corner serving as a stand-in for evil knights and wicked creatures.
"Take that, evil knight!" he cried, spinning in a clumsy circle. "You'll never defeat me, Nathan of Atlon!"
The dummy fell over as he swung with all his might. Nathan jumped up in triumph, his laughter echoing off the walls. "Ha! Another victory for the bravest knight in the land!"
Just as he threw his arms up in triumph, the storm strikes back. A deafening crack of thunder rattled the room, and the window burst open with a violent gust. Cold wind rushed in, sending the curtains into a frantic dance. Nathan froze a mid-step, his wooden sword slipping from his grip.
His chest rose and fell rapidly as he stared at the open window. The storm outside roared louder now, its voice like a beast growling in anger. "It's just the wind," he whispered to himself, his voice barely audible over the chaos. "Knights aren't scared of storms."
Summoning all the strength he had, Nathan went to the window. He fumbled with his small hands in an attempt to close it. The wind closed it back on him, but still he pushed hard and slammed the window shut. He pressed his chest against the frame, his whole body shaken, breathing in relief.
Next he felt it-a touch, cold and soft, leaning against his shoulder.
Nathan's breath caught in his throat. He turned slowly, his heart pounding like a war drum. There, standing in the corner where the shadows seemed unnaturally deep, was a figure. A woman.
Her beauty was haunting, her long black hair falling like a river of darkness. Light, if dim, poured faintly over her pale, expressionless face. Her eyes were two burning embers that seemed to pierce right through him, and she smiled; it was a gentle one, but it sent a chill all the way down Nathan's spine.
"Such a bravery child" she said, her voice smooth and melodic, like the first note of a haunting lullaby. "Such strength for one so young."
Nathan stumbled back, his back pressing against the wall. "Wh-who are you?" he stammered, his voice a fragile whisper.
"Oh, don't worry little guy, I am Lilith," she said, her steps fluid and silent as she moved closer. "I watch over children who dream of greatness. And you, Dear Nathan, dream with a heart so bright it shines even through this storm."
Nathan's fear wavered, replaced by a flicker of curiosity. "You... you know my name? How?"
Lilith sank down to his level, her cloak spreading around her like liquid night. "Of course I do. You are no ordinary child. Your destiny is written in the stars."
Nathan swallowed hard, his eyes wide. "What do you want?
"I want to give you something," Lilith said, her smile softening. She extended her hand, revealing a small object wrapped in black silk. "A gift for your courage and a token of the greatness that lies within you."
Nathan hesitated, his thin fingers trembling as he reached out to touch the silk. Unwrapping it with the utmost care, he revealed a medallion unlike anything he had ever seen in his life. It shimmered faintly in the dim light, its surface inscribed with fiery canescent, swirling patterns that seem to move and shift as he stared.
"Whoa..... It's warm," he whispered, holding it close. The medallion pulsed faintly, as if it had a heartbeat.
Lilith's smile grew wistful. "Keep it close, Nathan. One day, you will understand its purpose."
"Why are you giving it to me?" Nathan asked in a whisper barely audible.
Her gaze grew distant, her ember-like eyes dimming slightly. "Because even the bravest knights must sway burdens they cannot yet see. Remember, little one, that strength is not just in the sword but in the heart that wields it.
A lump formed in Nathan's throat. There was something sorrowful in her voice, something that made his chest ache in a way he didn't understand. "Will I... will I see you again?"
Lilith smiled, and a tear caught in her eye as lightning flashed. "Perhaps. But for now, rest, little knight. Your journey is only beginning."
Another clap of thunder lit up the room and, when its light faded away, Lilith vanished into thin air leaving Nathan alone. The shadows had returned to normal stillness again in the corner, and so had the stillness of the room.
He looked at the medallion with wide eyes and faint warmth comforted him within its confines. Cautiously, he sat onto the bed, and taking the little wooden box he used for treasure, opened it, gently put the medallion inside, then closed it up and tucked it under the bed.
He lay awake for a long time, grasping his wooden sword in his hands, staring up at the ceiling of his bedroom. The storm still raged on outside, but inside, in the castle, there was total silence.
He felt the weight of the medallion within himself, and also the weight of Lilith's words. Not understanding anything at all, but knowing for a fact that something had shifted, something that only the rain would have managed.
The storm outside was not easing off. Rain pummeled the castle walls harder and louder, while thunder rumbled in a way that seemed almost to have life of its own. In the royal chambers, Queen Rhea halted her silent prayer, her hands faltering as her heart suddenly clenched. She had thought she heard something amidst the storm-a sound, faint but distinct, from Nathan's room.
Her maternal instincts honed, she stood, leaving King Nalon and the knights mid-discussion. She moved swiftly through the halls, her soft slippers muffling her steps. When she reached Nathan's door, another loud clap of thunder echoed through the castle, and this time she was sure. It sounded like it had come from within his room.
"Nathan?" she whispered softly, opening the door. The vision that met her eyes pierced through her chest.
Nathan sat up in his bed, his legs drawn tight to his chest and his wooden sword clutched in his tiny hands. His wide, blank stare froze upon the ceiling, but though he never said a word, the shuddering of his body did not go unnoticed.
"Nathan, my sweet boy." Rhea's voice was soft as she closed the door behind her. She crossed the room and knelt by his bedside, pushing his damp hair away from his forehead. "Why didn't you call for me?"
Nathan looked at her, the lip quivering. "I... I wasn't scared," he whispered, his voice barely audible. But tear streaks on his cheeks betrayed his bravery.
Rhea's heart broke at the sight. She gently set his wooden sword aside and pulled him into her arms. "It's all right, darling. Even the bravest knights need someone to hold them sometimes."
Nathan buried his face in her shoulder. For a moment, he allowed himself to feel the fear that he'd been so working at preventing. The warmth of his mother's embrace melted the tension in his small body. "The thunder was so loud," he admitted, his voice muffled. "And..... and the wind made the window fly open."
She pulled him tight and gently rocked him. He felt he was again the baby boy and in her bosom. "The storm could be scaring you, but here nothing is going to do that. Your castle is great, and your mother is. And you're much more braver than you ever imagined as a little knight," she would kiss on the forehead.
As he clung to her, the warmth of her words chased away the cold left by the storm-and by the strange encounter that he did not know how to mention. He wanted to tell her about Lilith, about the medallion hidden now in his chest; but something held him back. Maybe it was the weight of Lilith's words, or the strange feeling in his heart that told him this was his secret.
She stroked his hair, humming softly a lullaby she used to sing to him when he was a baby. "When the storm seems too loud, remember that it always passes. And I will always be here for you, Nathan. Always."
Her words wrapped around him like a shield, and for the first time that night, Nathan allowed himself to relax. He leaned into her warmth, his eyes growing heavy as the storm's rage softened to a distant roar.
As he drifted off to sleep, Queen Rhea stayed by his side, her hand resting on his back. She watched over him, her heart aching with a mixture of love and worry. She couldn't shake the feeling that the storm had unsettled more than just the weather.
But for now, her son was safe in her arms, and that was all that mattered.
Nathan lay in his small bed, the warmth of the blankets cocooning him as the storm outside raged on. The rhythmic patter of rain against the window created a soothing melody, but his mind filled with thoughts of the strange woman and the medallion now hidden beneath his bed. He clutched his wooden sword tightly to his chest, as if it were a talisman of protection.
Queen Rhea sat by his side, her soft, soothing touch upon his hair with slow, gentle motion. "The storm will be over soon, my love," she whispered gently, her voice soft and assuring. "You are safe here."
Nathan looked over at her, wide eyes showing not only the strange fear but the comfort that the presence of the queen brought to him. "Do storms frighten knights as well, Mother?" he whispered softly.
Rhea smiled, pushing a loose strand of hair back from his forehead. "Even the bravest knights can be frightened, Nathan. But do you know what makes them strong?""When the storm seems too loud, remember that it always passes. And I will always be here for you, Nathan. Always.
He shook his head, his curiosity momentarily overshadowing his fear.
Rhea continued, her tone warm and soothing. "Even when their hearts race and their hands tremble, but they stand tall. And you, my little knight, are braver than you think."
Nathan's hand on the wooden sword relaxed by a little bit. "But..... What if the storm's not just the storm?" he ventured, casting a sideway glance to the window.
Rhea followed his gaze, her smile faltering for a moment before she composed herself. "Then you remember this," she said, placing a hand over his heart. "You carry a light within you, stronger than any darkness. No storm, no shadow, can ever take that away."
Her words settled over him like a warm blanket. He nodded, the corners of his lips curving into a small, hesitant smile. "I'll remember it, Mother."
Rhea leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to his forehead. "Good. Now close your eyes and rest. Tomorrow will bring a new day, and you'll need your strength for all the adventures waiting for you."
Nathan burrowed deeper into the blankets, his small frame finally relaxing. "Goodnight, Mother," he mumbled, his voice slurring drowsily.
"Goodnight, my little knight," Rhea whispered softly, her hand lingering on his as his breathing slowed, showing that he was falling asleep.
She stayed there another moment, watching her son as he lay fast asleep, and her heart clutched tightly at the strange unease gripping it. Something was amiss outside, because the storm thundered and cracked with an unearthly intensity-the roar almost loud enough to have carried inaudible whispers it could not.
She shook off the thought and quietly rose from her bed, adjusting the blankets around Nathan one last time before slipping out of the room. But as she closed the door behind her, her gaze lingered for a moment, her heart silently praying for his safety against whatever unknown problems the future might hold.
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In the Morning
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The morning in the castle of Atlon began under clear skies, the storm from the previous day now a distant memory. The scent of freshly baked bread, cakes, and brewed tea filled the air in the royal dining hall as King Nalon and Queen Rhea sat together, discussing the day's plans over breakfast.
Nathan, however, sat quietly at the table, his plate barely touched. His parents exchanged glances, concerned by their son's unusual silence.
"Nathan," Rhea said gently, "aren't you hungry, my love? You've hardly eaten."
"I'm not that hungry," he said, taking one piece of bread and munching on it dully. His mind wasn't on food-it was on the medallion. The visit of the strange woman and the mysterious gift kept pulling at his thoughts.
"Well, if you feel hungry later, don't hesitate to call for the kitchen," King Nalon said, furrowing his brow slightly. "A knight needs strength to face the day."
Nathan nodded silently, stepping away from the dinner table after eating his bread.
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Private Playing Room
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Hidden away in a secured corner of the grounds, the private playing room was Nathan's sanctuary. Wooden swords lined the room and wooden shields stood in rows all prepared for dummies of battle. Here is where Nathan of Atlon can freely fight imaginary wars and emerge victorious every time.
Today, though, something was off. Nathan pushed the door shut behind him and reached beneath his bed, where he'd hidden the small chest the night before. As he opened it, his heart skipped a beat to see the sapphire medallion inside. It shone softly in the sunlight streaming through the window, its patterns swirling faintly, as if they were alive.
Curiosity was stronger than serenity. He grasped the medallion with his hand and felt its heat throb softly. "What are you?" he whispered, holding it up.
As if responding to him, a weak aura began to surround the medallion, spreading a bright shine that caught Nathan off guard. His eyes went wide. "Whoa...What is this?"
He turned toward one of the wooden swords lying nearby and an idea formed in his mind. Cautiously, he leaned forward and pressed the medallion to the hilt of the sword. In the very moment when two touched each other, the medallion's aura transferred to the blade, filled it in a faint and glowing light.
Nathan was beginning to get excited. "This.....this is amazing!" he exclaimed, gripping the sword tightly. His small hands trembled under the weight of this newfound power.
He stepped toward the nearest dummy, raising the sword high above his head. "Take that, dark knight!" he yelled as he slashed down with all his might.
The blade cut cleanly through the dummy, the vibrant aura slicing not just the first but the dummy behind it as well. Both figures collapsed to the ground with a loud crash, the sound echoing through the room.
Nathan's mouth dropped open in shock, his chest heaving. "I... I did that?" he mumbled, staring at the dummies on the floor. He looked down at the sword, the glow already fading as if the energy had drained.
The door to the playing room burst open suddenly, and two knights rushed in, their swords drawn. "Prince Nathan!" one of them called. "We heard a loud noise-what's going on?"
Behind his back, Nathan rapidly hid the medallion while his mind rushed. "Uh... I uh nothing, i just" He looked at the fallen dummies before pausing. "I just... hit them really hard this time. I guess I'm getting stronger!"
The knights exchanged skeptical glances but couldn't help laughing. "The young prince is already practicing like a true warrior," one of them said, sheathing his sword."
"Be careful, my prince," the other knight added. "Even wooden swords can cause a mess if you swing too hard!"
Nathan nodded quickly, forcing a grin. "I will! Promise!"
As the knights left, shaking their heads in amusement, Nathan let out a sigh of relief. His gaze returned to the medallion, now hidden once again in his small chest. He knew he couldn't tell anyone-not yet. This was his secret, his mystery to uncover.
But as he looked at the broken dummies, and felt a long warmth from the medallion in his hand, he knew he could feel the weight of its power. "What's really on you?" he whispered, his voice wondered and laced with a touch of fear.
Outside, the world went on with its routine and inside the chest of a young boy, however, something strange had started. Something that would change not only his destiny but for the kingdom.
Nathan stood in the silent playing room, the broken dummies scattered around him like fallen soldiers on a battlefield. He couldn't tear his eyes away from the small chest where he had placed the medallion. His fingers still felt the warmth of holding it, as if it had left an imprint not just on his skin but on something deeper-his very soul.
He walked over to the dummies' remains, crouching to inspect the clean cuts. The wood was split with unnatural precision, as if a blade is far sharper than his simple wooden sword had done the damage. His heart pounded in his chest, a mixture of fear and excitement coursing through him.
"I don't understand..." he murmured. "How can something so small have so much power? Even though I'm weaker"
He looked out the window, where the morning sunlight covered the castle grounds in a golden glow. The world outside seemed so normal, so untouched by the strange and mysterious gift he had received. Yet within him, a storm of questions shifted in.
Nathan picked up his sword again, feeling its familiar weight in his hand. It felt ordinary now, without the glow, without the aura. He swung it halfheartedly at a remaining dummy, the wood bouncing harmlessly off. A sigh escaped him. Whatever the medallion had done, it was something far beyond his understanding.
"Am I supposed to do something with this?" he asked aloud, his voice echoing faintly in the empty room. "Or... is it just a trick? Or a dream?"
The medallion's faint pulse in his chest whispered otherwise. It wasn't a trick. It wasn't a dream. It was real and it was waiting for him to figure it out.
Nathan straightened, sweeping dust off his tunic. "Okay," he said, his voice all young determination but somehow much more ancient than the years. "I don't know what you are, but I will learn no matter what. I will."
He placed his sword back in its rack and took one last look at the fallen dummies before heading toward the door. His hand paused on the doorknob, a thought nagging at the back of his mind.
"Maybe... maybe this is why she gave it to me," he whispered. "Because I'm supposed to find the answer on my own."
With that, he stepped out into the castle courtyard, where the sun was warm on his face. The weight of the medallion was still there, hidden away but ever-present. And though he was just a boy, playing in the shadow of a great castle, Nathan couldn't shake the feeling that his journey and the one that would one day will shape his destiny, but it had already begun.
"If i grow up...I will find a way to realize my mortality."
"But for now, many questions that are unsolved." - Nathan
Now, the blue light from his strange medallion has vanished from his soul. Perhaps his soul was being controlled by it, which would explain why he's become so mature despite being only 5 years old.