Chapter 4 - 4: A Flicker in the Darkness

Weeks passed in the hidden guild. Aiden's body grew stronger and his reflexes sharper. The constant fight to survive made him tougher, but his spirit stayed alive. Every coin he earned went to Lila, so she wouldn't go hungry or cold.Korin watched him closely, both respecting and worrying. "You learn fast. Most boys with your past would have given up."Aiden shrugged. "I don't have a choice."Even as he got used to his hard life, questions kept growing inside him. How long could he keep living like this? How long before the Bureau's cold eyes found him again?One night, after a hard day, Aiden sat alone on the guild roof and looked at the stars shining over Elmsreach. The city was full of secrets, and his own uncertain future seemed wrapped up in them.Suddenly, a soft voice came from behind. "Quiet night to think, huh?"Aiden turned to see Mira, a clever guild member known for her quick sword and sharp mind. Her dark eyes looked at him carefully."Just thinking," he said.She sat beside him. The sounds of the city faded. "You're not like the others. Not just because you have no bloodline. You have something else."Aiden laughed bitterly. "I don't know what that is."Mira smiled. "Maybe you will. One day."Their talk was cut off by quick footsteps. Korin came, face serious. "We have a problem. Some guards in the market are asking questions. They're looking for someone."Aiden's heart beat faster. "Who?""Don't know yet. But if the Bureau is involved, it's bad news. We need to get ready."The guild prepared quickly. They armed themselves and made plans. The fear grew.In the next days, Aiden moved carefully. He felt eyes watching him everywhere. The city he knew was changing. Danger was coming closer.One night, while passing a busy tavern, men blocked his way. Their leader stepped forward. His voice was low and cruel."You're the null-born causing talk. Stay out of things that don't concern you."Aiden faced him steadily. "I'm only trying to live."The leader laughed. "It's expensive to live in Elmsreach."A fight broke out—rough, raw, and fast. Aiden's skill kept him safe, but the fight was a clear warning: danger was near.Later, Korin pulled Aiden aside. "You're causing trouble. Stay quiet, or it'll get worse."Aiden's jaw tightened. "I can't hide forever."Korin sighed. "Maybe one day you won't have to."The fear grew, but so did Aiden's determination. The small flame inside him blazed brighter. Soon, everything would change. For now, he held his secrets close and kept his will strong.