Chapter 24: Aren’s Inevitable Retribution

The soft hues of dawn painted the sky in delicate shades of orange and gold as we departed from Eldoria. The rhythmic clatter of hooves echoed through the cobblestone path, mingling with the gentle rustle of the wind. Despite the scenic beauty, the weight of recent events lingered heavily in my mind.
Father had remained behind, citing matters of imperial duty. A predictable excuse. The Wolfhart family name often carried obligations that demanded his presence elsewhere. I neither resented it nor cared for it—his absence was simply another calculated move in his endless political schemes.
Beside me, Sylvie rode in silence. Her gaze was fixed on the horizon, lips pressed into a contemplative line. The elegant crest of the Wolfhart family shimmered on her cloak, a reminder of her role and the mysterious connection that had recently come to light.
The conversation with High Priest Malrik replayed in my mind like a persistent echo.
------
The memory was vivid, etched into my mind like a scar.
Malrik leaned forward, his voice dropping to a grave tone. "That phenomenon typically only occurs with fairies Or dragons "
"What does that mean for her?" I asked.
Malrik's expression was grave. "It remains to be seen. But if her connection to the Dracwyn Sovereignty is true, it will alter the course of her fate—and perhaps empire as well."
Father's expression remained impassive, but I could sense the weight of his thoughts.
As I left the chamber, only one conclusion formed in my mind: I would uncover the truth, no matter what it took.
----
That night, after the conversation with Malrik and Father, I had found myself drawn to the grand temple of Eldoria. The towering statue of Goddess Arcana stood at its heart, illuminated by the pale glow of moonlight. Her serene face seemed to watch over the world, offering both solace and silent judgment.
I knelt before the statue, placing my hand on the ancient runes etched into its base. The ritual was simple—channel mana and await the revelation of one’s elemental affinity.
A surge of power coursed through me, and the air crackled with energy. Fire, water, wind, earth and ice --five elements responded to my presence. Their energies swirled around me, vibrant and fierce.
But there was more.
Dark tendrils of shadow flickered at the edges of my vision, twisting and writhing like living entities. The darkness was cold, oppressive, and yet... familiar.
A rare combination—unheard of in the Avalon Empire.
I clenched my fist, steadying my breath. This was a power I would keep hidden for now.
Just as I was about to rise, a faint sound caught my attention. My eyes snapped to the door, which creaked slightly ajar. Moonlight spilled through the gap, but no figure stood there.
Someone had been watching me.
I rose to my feet, my senses on high alert. But the presence was gone, leaving only the faint echo of footsteps.
----
[ Present ]
I exhaled slowly, pushing the memory aside. There would be time to dissect its implications later. For now, I had other matters to attend to.
Sylvie's voice broke the silence. "I guess it'll just be the two of us this time."
"Indeed," I responded, my tone indifferent.
She hesitated before speaking again. "You know... I never properly thanked you for what happened at the Mana Affinity Rite."
"No need," I said curtly. "I simply did what was necessary."
Her brows furrowed, but she didn’t argue. Sylvie was perceptive enough to understand that gratitude held no value for me.
We continued in silence for a while until she glanced at me thoughtfully. "Do you think there's more to what happened at the rite? Like something we missed?"
I met her gaze briefly. "It’s not something you need to worry about."
Her expression faltered. "But—"
"It's better if you remain unaware for now," I cut her off, my voice colder than I intended.
Sylvie blinked, clearly taken aback, but she didn't press further. She had no idea about the High Priest's revelation or the hidden connection to ancient magic and far-off lands. That knowledge was mine to bear alone—for now.
We rode in silence, the towering walls of Wolfengarde gradually coming into view. But my thoughts were already elsewhere.
I tightened my grip on the reins, cold determination settling within me. "Now is the time to deal with Baron Thalos."
Sylvie glanced at me, puzzled by my sudden intensity.
I tightened my grip on the reins, a cold determination settling within me. "I'll leave no room for mercy."
To be continued...