CHAPTER 15 — The Trial Master

The massive doors of the dungeon-like gate closed behind them with a resonant thud, echoing through the cold stone corridor. Ivan’s heart pounded, the air thick with anticipation and the faint scent of magic.

A shadow moved from the darkness, and a familiar voice rang out, calm and commanding:
“You have finally arrived, Ivan.”

Ivan froze, eyes narrowing as recognition dawned. His pulse quickened. “…You… you’re the one from before,” he said, voice trembling slightly but firm.

The man stepped forward, silver hair catching the dim light, gray eyes sharp as steel. His presence radiated authority and control, yet there was an undeniable calm in the way he carried himself.
“I am Darian Valtheran, Master of this trial,” he said, his tone measured, yet firm. “Do not think this will be easy. The trial will test your strength, your patience, and your heart. Are you prepared?”

Ivan’s jaw tightened. “I’m ready. I want to be strong—for her. For Elen.”

Darian’s lips quirked faintly, an expression of amusement and curiosity mingled with seriousness. “Hmmm… Not just strength. You must learn patience and control. You will have three days to ready yourself before the trial truly begins.”

Kael twirled his spear with a grin. “Even the Master says it—you can’t rush it, kid. Take your time.”

Liora’s voice was soft but firm. “Listen to him, Ivan. You cannot fight what you do not understand.”

Ivan clenched his fists, determination burning in his eyes. “I’ll wait… but only as long as I must. I want to be ready. I want to survive—so nothing can ever separate us again.”

Darian’s gray eyes studied him, piercing and calculating. “Very well. Rest, train, prepare. When you are ready, the trial will begin. But remember… rushing is a weakness, and impatience can kill even the strongest.”

Ivan’s gaze didn’t waver. “I’ll do whatever it takes.”

The Master nodded slightly, then stepped back into the shadows, leaving Ivan and his guides to the three days of preparation that would test not only his body, but his resolve, and his heart.