Flames of Destiny

Chapters

Ch.1 A New Dawn (Desmond Knightdom young hero)
Ch. 6 Convenience not love
Ch. 2 Dragonspire Royal academy
Ch. 3 The Demon of Dragonspire
Ch. 4 Trials and Tribulations
Ch. 5 Dragonkinght
Ch.7 The Dungeon

Ch.1 A New Dawn (Desmond Knightdom young hero)

The world is quiet now.

I can hear the faint beeping of machines fading into the distance, a heartbeat monitor struggling to keep up with my fading pulse. It’s strange, really—how everything feels both distant and sharp. Like I’m teetering between worlds.

I never thought I’d die like this.

It started just like any other miserable day. Another argument with my family. Another reminder of how much of a “mistake” I was. My father’s voice—booming and dismissive—echoed through my head even now.

"Why can’t you just do what you’re told? Why do you always have to be such a disappointment?"

I’d heard it so many times, I could recite it in my sleep. My siblings chimed in occasionally, their laughter like knives to my ears. To them, I wasn’t a person—I was a failure who couldn’t fit into the perfect family image they wanted to project.

But none of that matters now.

What matters is the boy.

He couldn’t have been more than seven or eight years old, wandering into the street, his attention glued to a toy car. I’d seen the headlights long before he did. My legs moved before my brain even registered it. One second, I was watching him, the next, I was shoving him out of the way.

The truck didn’t even slow down.

I remember the sound—the sickening crunch of metal meeting flesh. The sharp, searing pain that coursed through me. And then... darkness.

But the darkness didn’t last.

Now, I’m floating above it all. I can see my body lying there, broken and lifeless, surrounded by people who care more about the spectacle than the tragedy. The boy I saved is crying, his mother holding him close and thanking the heavens. At least he’s alive.

The paramedics are working on me, their movements frantic. I want to tell them to stop—that it’s okay, that I made my choice—but I can’t speak.

And then I see them.

My family.

They’re standing outside the hospital room, their faces twisted in something that looks like annoyance rather than grief. My father shrugs. My mother mutters something about “finally being rid of the burden.” My siblings laugh.

Laugh.

At my death.

A part of me shatters in that moment—a part I didn’t even know I still had. But it’s not anger or sadness I feel. It’s relief. Relief that I won’t have to see their faces again. Relief that this miserable existence is finally over.

A blinding light cuts through the scene, and for the first time in years, I feel... warm.

When I open my eyes, the first thing I notice is how heavy my body feels—how small and fragile. My vision is blurry, but I can make out shapes, silhouettes moving around me. Voices filter through, soft and unfamiliar.

“Push, madam! One more push!” a gentle but firm voice says.

A sharp cry pierces the air, and it takes me a moment to realize that it came from... me. My lungs burn as I take my first breath, and everything feels strange. The warmth I felt earlier is everywhere now, wrapping me like a blanket.

“Congratulations, my lady,” the same voice says. “You have a son.”

I’m being passed to someone—a pair of arms far softer than anything I’ve known before. I blink up at the face looking down at me. It’s the face of an angel, glowing with love and relief, tears streaming down her cheeks.

“Welcome to the world, my beautiful baby boy... my beautiful Sean,” she whispers, her voice trembling with emotion.

Sean.

I don’t know what’s happening. I don’t know where I am. But for the first time, I feel something I’ve never felt before: wanted.

And so begins my second chance.

The door to the small, cozy room swung open with a creak, revealing a towering figure who nearly filled the entire doorway. His broad shoulders were barely contained by the simple, worn shirt he wore, and his boots thudded heavily against the wooden floor as he rushed to the bedside.

“Amara!” he exclaimed, his deep, rumbling voice laced with both worry and relief. “Amara, are you alright?”

The woman on the bed, her long auburn hair clinging to her sweat-drenched face, smiled up at him through her exhaustion. “I’m fine, Darian,” she said softly, her voice hoarse but filled with joy. “Come meet our son.”

Darian Desmond crossed the room in two long strides, kneeling beside the bed and taking his wife’s hand in his much larger one. He pressed a kiss to her forehead before turning his attention to the tiny bundle cradled in her arms.

“He’s perfect,” Darian said, his voice trembling with emotion as he leaned closer. “Just like his mother.”

Amara laughed lightly, a sound that carried warmth even in her weariness. “He’s strong, just like his father,” she teased, glancing up at him with tired yet bright eyes.

Darian’s calloused fingers reached out hesitantly, brushing against the baby’s soft cheek. The tiny infant stirred in response, his cries having subsided into quiet murmurs. Darian looked almost awestruck, his rough exterior melting as he gazed at the child. “Sean,” he whispered, testing the name his wife had chosen. “Sean Desmond. A strong name for a strong boy.”

The midwife, a small woman with graying hair and a kind smile, approached with a cloth to clean Amara’s face. “He’s a fine lad,” she said approvingly, glancing between the parents. “And healthy, too, from what I can see.”

Back in the baby’s mind, the scene felt like a fever dream.

What’s happening? the infant thought—or rather, tried to think. The haze of disorientation clouded everything, and the sensations were overwhelming. The warmth of the blankets, the faint smell of wood smoke in the air, the muffled voices around him—it all blended into a cacophony of sensory overload.

I was dead, he thought, trying to make sense of it. I’m sure of it. But now...

His thoughts were interrupted as the midwife gently took him from Amara’s arms. The sudden shift in perspective was jarring, and his small body tensed instinctively.

“Let’s have a proper look at you,” the midwife said, carrying the baby to a small wooden table near the bed. A man in a simple coat—a doctor, though far less polished than what the baby had known in his previous life—stood waiting with a warm, reassuring smile.

“Don’t worry, Amara,” the doctor said as he began his examination. “Just a routine check to make sure he’s fit and well.”

Sean squirmed as he was placed on the table, his tiny limbs flailing weakly. The midwife cooed softly, trying to calm him. “There, there, little one. It’s alright.”

The doctor’s hands were gentle but firm as he examined the baby, checking his reflexes, listening to his heartbeat, and peering into his eyes. Sean’s new, underdeveloped body instinctively reacted to the pokes and prods, but his mind reeled in protest.

Why can’t I move properly? Why can’t I speak? His frustration bubbled beneath the surface as he struggled to process the situation. The world around him was alien yet strangely familiar.

The midwife hummed a soothing tune as she bundled him back into the blankets. “Healthy as a horse,” she declared with a smile. “He’ll grow up strong, no doubt about it.”

Amara let out a relieved sigh, sinking back into the pillows. “Thank you, Doctor Ellis,” she said, her voice heavy with gratitude. “And you too, Agnes.”

The doctor nodded, wiping his hands on a cloth. “He’s a fine boy,” he said. “But make sure you rest, Amara. Childbirth takes its toll.”

Darian returned to Amara’s side, his large hand resting protectively on her shoulder. “She’ll rest,” he promised. “I’ll make sure of it.”

Amara smiled up at him, though her gaze lingered on the baby in her arms. “Sean,” she whispered again, her voice full of love. “Welcome to the world, my little miracle.”

Back in Sean’s mind, the word miracle felt like a cruel irony.

Miracle? he thought bitterly. I died saving a boy no one else would’ve cared about. My family hated me. And now I’m... this?

His confusion deepened as the midwife handed him back to Amara, who cradled him close. The soft warmth of her embrace, the gentle rhythm of her heartbeat—it was all so foreign yet comforting. He could feel her love, so genuine and unwavering, and it left him conflicted.

For now, though, exhaustion overtook his confusion, and his small body relaxed in his mother’s arms.

I don’t understand what’s happening, he thought, his mind growing hazy. But maybe... just maybe... this isn’t so bad.

As his tiny eyelids drooped, the last thing he heard was his father’s deep, steady voice murmuring, “We’ll give him the best life we can, Amara. No matter what it takes.”

8 YEARS LATER

Eight years had passed since the day Sean Desmond entered this world, reborn into a life that was both humbler and richer than anything he could have imagined. The sun's golden rays streamed through the modest window of the small hut, illuminating shelves lined with books that had clearly seen better days. Sean sat cross-legged on a simple wooden chair, a tome about Equestrian history resting on his lap. His emerald eyes scanned the text with an intensity that belied his age, his small fingers tracing words as he quietly mouthed the sentences.

The hut creaked softly with the gentle movements of the wind outside. It wasn’t much—a single-story house made of sturdy stone and timber, built by his father’s hands—but it was home. The smell of bread baking in the hearth mingled with the earthy scent of freshly tilled soil that drifted in through the window. Outside, the fields stretched out in every direction, a patchwork of greens and golds framed by distant mountains and the shimmering expanse of the Everfree Forest to the north.

Sean’s gaze lifted from the book, drawn to the window. He pushed the glass open, letting the warm breeze wash over him as he rested his elbows on the sill. Below, his siblings played near the well—Barbara, six years old and feisty as a wildcat, was chasing their younger brother, Tadeus, around with a stick. Their laughter carried up to him, light and carefree.

His lips curved into a small smile as he watched them. Then, his expression grew thoughtful.

"My name is Sean Desmond. I am the son of Darian and Amara Desmond. My father is the lord of this land—a small knightdom known as the Desmond Estate. It’s nothing grand. Just a few farms, a mill, and a smithy, but it’s ours. My father wasn’t always a farmer, though. Before the war ended eight years ago, he was a Dragonknight, one of the most elite warriors in the kingdom of Draconia. They were the kind of soldiers who could take down entire battalions on their own, mounted on their dragons and wielding weapons imbued with ancient magic. He served under the great Dragon Lord Rubelle herself, fighting in the Equestrian Campaigns against the Griffon Tribes."

Sean’s gaze drifted to a worn suit of armor mounted on the wall across the room, its once-brilliant shine dulled by time. The sigil of the Dragonknights—a roaring dragon encircled by flames—was etched into the breastplate.

"When the war ended, the Dragon Lord granted my father a peerage and this land to develop. It’s not much, but my parents have built a life here. My mother is the heart of our home, and my father... well, he’s a legend to everyone except me. To me, he’s just Dad."

Sean’s gaze returned to the fields, where his father’s massive frame could be seen tilling the soil. Even from this distance, he could hear the rhythmic thud of the plow cutting through the earth.

"I’m the eldest of three children. My sister Barbara is six, a firecracker of a girl with more energy than sense. She’s already shown signs of having magic—a gift everyone in our world values above all else. And then there’s Tadeus, only three years old but already showing promise. Me? I’m underwhelming at best."

Sean’s hand drifted to his chest, where he could feel the faintest trace of something inside him, like an ember that refused to catch fire.

"Magic isn’t just important in this world—it’s everything. It’s woven into the very fabric of Equestria. Those who possess it are the builders, the warriors, the scholars, and the leaders. It’s what allows the great cities to float in the sky and powers the shields that protect the land from the monsters of the Everfree. Without magic, you’re... expendable. It’s no wonder my lack of aptitude has been a source of quiet disappointment for my parents, though they’d never say it out loud."

He looked down at the book in his lap and sighed.

"The only things I’m good at are reading and learning. I devour books the way Barbara devours pies. But knowledge doesn’t till the fields or defend the village. Still, my father insists on training me, and I help in the fields like everyone else. I’ve learned to swing a sword and use a bow, though I doubt I’ll ever be a warrior like him."

Sean rested his chin in his hand, his expression softening.

"I don’t remember much about my past life—just bits and pieces. Faces, feelings, fragments of a world that feels more like a dream than a memory. But I know one thing: compared to that life, this is so much better. I have a family that loves me. I have a purpose, even if it’s a small one. And for now, that’s enough."

“Sean!”

His mother’s voice pulled him from his thoughts. Amara stood in the doorway, her auburn hair tied back with a faded scarf. Her apron was dusted with flour, and a warm smile lit up her face.

“Lunch is ready, sweetheart. Go call your father and siblings, will you?”

“Yes, Mama,” Sean replied, setting the book aside and hopping off the chair.

As he passed her, Amara reached out and gently ruffled his hair. “You’ve been reading all morning again, haven’t you? You’ll wear your eyes out.”

“I was reading about the founding of Equestria,” Sean said, looking up at her. “Did you know the Windigos almost destroyed everything before the three tribes united?”

Amara laughed. “You and your books. Go on, now. Your father will be upset if his stew gets cold.”

Outside, Sean called out to his father and siblings, his voice carrying over the fields. Barbara waved enthusiastically, dragging Tadeus along as they ran toward the house. Darian followed at a slower pace, his powerful stride confident despite the limp he’d earned from an old war injury.

As Sean watched them approach, he couldn’t help but feel a pang of longing.

"This world runs on magic, and I’m stuck in a gear that doesn’t turn. But maybe... just maybe, there’s more to me than meets the eye. At least, I hope there is."

He turned and headed back inside, the smell of stew and fresh bread drawing him in. Little did Sean know, his unremarkable life was about to take a turn that would change everything.

5 YEARS LATER

The Desmond Estate had changed drastically in the last five years. What was once a modest settlement of around a hundred people had exploded into a thriving village of over a thousand. The sudden growth had been driven by the population surge in the Dragonlands’ capital, Magmapolis, where the resurgence of the Military Academy had drawn countless hopefuls from across the kingdom. Many of these students came from poor regions, granted scholarships that offered them a chance at a brighter future. However, unable to afford the high costs of living in Magmapolis itself, they brought their families to the nearest welcoming settlement: the Desmond Knightdom.

The village had quickly expanded, with new homes, workshops, and even a small market square springing up. Sean’s family, too, had experienced an influx of wealth. With the increase in population came an increase in trade, and Darian’s reputation as a former Dragonknight brought respect and opportunities. The humble hut they once lived in had been replaced by a proper estate—a sturdy stone manor with enough rooms to house their growing family and even a few guests.

Sean sat at the long dining table, absently stirring his spoon in a bowl of thick stew. His younger siblings, now eleven and eight, chattered animatedly on either side of him. Barbara, ever the firecracker, was telling Tadeus about her plans to join the Military Academy when she came of age. Tadeus, meanwhile, seemed more interested in the prospect of taming a dragon someday.

“You can’t just tame a dragon, Tadeus,” Barbara scoffed, rolling her eyes. “You need a bond. It’s sacred.”

“I can bond with a dragon!” Tadeus shot back, puffing out his chest. “I’m brave enough!”

“Enough, you two,” Amara interjected gently, placing a loaf of freshly baked bread on the table. Her hands were calloused from years of work, but her movements were graceful as ever.

Sean glanced toward his father, who sat at the head of the table, staring into his bowl with a furrowed brow. The lines on Darian’s face seemed deeper than they had been just a year ago, his once fiery red hair now streaked with silver. He looked up as if sensing Sean’s gaze, offering his eldest son a small smile.

“Eat up, Sean,” Darian said. “You’ve been working hard. You need your strength.”

Sean nodded, taking a bite of his bread, but the tension in the air was palpable. His father’s worry was like a storm cloud hanging over the table.

Later that evening, Sean found his father in the study—a room lined with maps, ledgers, and reports. Darian sat at his desk, his large hands rubbing his temples as he studied a piece of parchment.

“Father?” Sean asked hesitantly, stepping into the room.

Darian looked up, his expression softening. “Sean. Come in, son.”

Sean approached the desk, glancing at the parchment. It was a ledger, detailing the village’s crop yields—or lack thereof.

“Is it bad?” Sean asked, already knowing the answer.

Darian sighed, leaning back in his chair. “Bad winter. Worse summer. Most of the crops failed, and the granary is nearly empty. We’ve taken in so many people, Sean. So many mouths to feed, and not enough to go around.”

Sean hesitated before speaking. “Could we ask the Dragonlands for aid? Magmapolis isn’t far...”

Darian shook his head. “We could, but the capital has its own troubles. They’re preparing for war again, and resources are tight. Besides, this village is my responsibility. I gave my word that I’d look after these people, and I’ll find a way to do it.”

The determination in his father’s voice was unshakable, but Sean could see the weight it carried. Darian had always been a kind and just leader, treating the villagers like family. He knew every name, every face, and every story. The thought of failing them was tearing him apart.

“We’ll get through this,” Sean said, surprising even himself with the conviction in his voice.

Darian looked at his son, a hint of pride in his weary eyes. “You’ve grown into a fine young man, Sean. I see so much of your mother in you.” He paused, then added with a small smile, “And a bit of my stubbornness too.”

Sean chuckled softly, though his mind raced with thoughts of how he could help.

The next day, Sean walked through the village, taking in the sights and sounds of a community that was both bustling and struggling. The market square was busy, but the goods on display were meager. Children played in the streets, their laughter masking the worry etched on their parents’ faces.

He stopped to speak with Mr. Tinker, the blacksmith, who was hammering away at a broken plow.

“Morning, Mr. Tinker,” Sean greeted.

“Morning, lad,” the blacksmith replied, wiping sweat from his brow. “What brings you out this early?”

“I wanted to see how things are going,” Sean said, glancing at the tools scattered around the workshop. “The harvest season must’ve been rough on you.”

Tinker nodded grimly. “Aye. Been repairing tools left and right. Folks can’t afford new ones, and with the crops failing... well, you know how it is.”

Sean frowned. “If there’s anything we can do to help, let us know.”

Tinker smiled faintly. “Your father’s done more than enough, lad. Don’t you go worrying yourself. You’re a good boy, Sean. Just like your old man.”

As Sean made his way back home, he spotted his mother and a group of women handing out loaves of bread to a line of villagers. The sight filled him with a strange mix of pride and sadness. His family was doing everything they could, but it wasn’t enough.

He clenched his fists, determination hardening in his chest.

"I don’t have magic. I may not be strong like my father or clever like my siblings. But I’ll find a way to help. This is my home, and these are my people. I won’t let them down."

THAT NIGHT

The dim light of a flickering candle illuminated Sean’s father’s study as the young man leaned over the desk, surrounded by a sea of papers and maps. Every report, ledger, and map in the room was spread out before him, each one carefully studied and cross-referenced. Sean’s emerald eyes, sharp with focus, darted across the figures and annotations, trying to make sense of it all. His mind was a storm of thoughts, ideas, and possibilities.

"There has to be a way," he thought, frustration simmering beneath his determination. "I’ve done this before—back in... back in..." His thoughts faltered, the memories of his past life just out of reach. He shook his head, forcing himself to focus.

From the shelves of the family library, Sean had gathered every book he could find about agriculture, harvests, and irrigation. He lugged them into the study in armfuls, creating teetering stacks around the desk. His father’s meticulously kept maps were unrolled, and Sean traced the village’s layout, the surrounding farmland, and the roads leading to and from the settlement. Every piece of information could hold the key to saving the village.

The hours passed in silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of paper or the scratch of Sean’s pen. His mind worked tirelessly, dissecting every detail. The soil composition here is too rocky for root vegetables… the stream’s flow could be redirected… the northern fields are underutilized…

His thoughts raced, pulling from half-remembered knowledge and an unrelenting determination. Back in his previous life—however long ago that was—he’d been given impossible tasks, challenges that others thought couldn’t be overcome. And yet, he always found a way. This was no different.

The candle burned low, its wax pooling at the base. Sean’s body ached from hours hunched over the desk, but he didn’t stop. He couldn’t.

By the time the first rays of dawn crept through the study window, Sean’s head was buried in his hands, exhaustion tugging at his consciousness. He’d barely registered the sound of footsteps until the door creaked open.

“Sean?”

The voice of his father, deep and commanding yet laced with concern, startled him. Sean looked up, blinking against the morning light. Darian and Amara stood in the doorway, their expressions a mix of confusion and exasperation.

“What are you doing?” Amara asked, stepping into the room. Her gaze swept over the mess of papers, maps, and books, her hands resting on her hips. “Have you been up all night?”

Sean straightened, rubbing the back of his neck. “I… I was just—”

“Just what?” Darian interrupted, his voice sterner now. “This isn’t a game, Sean. You’re not supposed to work yourself to the bone like this.”

For a moment, Sean faltered, unsure of how to explain. Then he met his father’s eyes, and something in his expression—something fierce and determined—made Darian pause.

“I’m trying to help,” Sean said simply.

Amara’s frown softened as she stepped closer, placing a hand on his shoulder. “Sean, we know you want to help. But staying up all night like this isn’t good for you. You’re still just a boy.”

“No, I’m not,” Sean replied, his voice steady. “I’m not a child anymore. I can do this.” He gestured to the papers spread across the desk. “Please… let me try.”

Darian exchanged a look with Amara, his stern expression giving way to reluctant understanding. With a sigh, he nodded. “Fine. But you get some rest tonight. Understood?”

Sean nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Understood.”

Two days passed in a blur of work. Sean barely left the study, pouring over the reports and experimenting with new ideas. His parents allowed him his space, though Amara frequently brought him food and made sure he took breaks.

Then, on the third night, it happened. Sean leaned back in his chair, his tired eyes widening as he stared at the papers before him. The pieces finally fit.

“There,” he whispered to himself, his voice barely audible. “Three solutions…”

The next morning, he called his parents into the study. Darian and Amara sat across from him, their curiosity piqued. Sean had prepared the desk meticulously, arranging his findings into neat piles.

“Alright, Sean,” Darian said, crossing his arms. “What do you have for us?”

Sean took a deep breath, his hands steady despite his nerves. “I’ve found three solutions. The first one is immediate, the second is experimental, and the third… well, it’s ambitious.”

He began with the first solution, pointing to a map of the village and surrounding farmland.

“We need to improve our irrigation system and optimize our agricultural layout,” Sean explained, tracing lines on the map. “Certain crops—like barley, wheat, and potatoes—would do better in the northern fields, where the soil is richer. Meanwhile, the southern fields, which are closer to the stream, could be used for water-intensive crops like cabbage and beans. It’s not a permanent fix, but it would maximize our yield.”

Amara nodded thoughtfully. “That makes sense. What about the second solution?”

Sean hesitated briefly before continuing. “The second is an experiment. We could try crop rotation and soil enrichment using methods described in these books.” He gestured to a stack of agricultural texts. “It’s risky and might take a few seasons to show results, but it could improve soil fertility over time.”

Darian nodded slowly. “Alright. And the third solution?”

Sean’s heart raced as he reached for another map. He laid it out on the desk, showing the village’s proximity to the Everfree Forest and the Lava Peak Caverns.

“We request a license to establish an adventurer’s guild,” Sean said, his voice steady.

Both his parents stared at him, stunned.

“A guild?” Darian repeated, his tone incredulous. “Sean, that’s nearly impossible to get. Licenses are rare and heavily regulated.”

“I know,” Sean said quickly, “but hear me out. We’re the closest settlement to the Everfree Forest, which is rich with resources and untapped potential. The Lava Peak Caverns are a known dungeon system. Adventurers would flock here, bringing trade and income. And with the road connecting us to Magmapolis, we’re in a prime location.”

Sean went on, presenting his case like a seasoned scholar. He explained how they could position their request to the kingdom, emphasizing the safety of the village and its potential as a hub for adventurers. By the time he finished, his parents were staring at him in awe.

Darian was the first to break the silence. He stood, a wide grin spreading across his face. “Sean, you might just be a genius.”

Amara reached across the table, taking her son’s hand in hers. “We’re so proud of you,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.

Sean blinked rapidly, a single tear escaping before he quickly wiped it away. “Thank you,” he said softly.

As they stood to leave, Amara noticed another stack of papers on the desk. “What about those?” she asked.

Sean glanced at them briefly. “Those? Oh, they’re just for an experiment,” he said dismissively.

Amara raised an eyebrow but didn’t press further.

As the door closed behind his parents, Sean allowed himself a small smile. For the first time in his life, he felt truly seen—and he wasn’t about to waste the opportunity.

The door clicked shut behind his parents, leaving Sean alone in the study. He leaned back in the chair, staring at the stacks of papers and maps. The plan was in motion, and now it was up to his parents to secure the adventurer's guild license in Magmapolis. But Sean wasn’t about to sit idle.

Rising to his feet, he grabbed a fresh sheet of parchment and began scribbling notes. His mind wandered back to the village’s resources, particularly the items that had remained consistent even during the worst of times. Milk, cheese, butter, eggs, mushrooms, potatoes, and salt—all staples that were still readily available despite the poor harvests.

If we can’t rely on grains and meat, we’ll rely on what we have, he thought.

He’d spent the last few days researching recipes in the family library, piecing together ideas from scraps of culinary texts. One dish stood out—a simple yet hearty creation that combined their available ingredients into something greater than the sum of its parts.

He glanced at his notes, his emerald eyes glinting with determination. “Let’s see if this works.”

Sean made his way to the market square, a bustling hub of activity in the heart of the village. Stalls lined the cobblestone paths, their owners hawking wares ranging from fresh produce to handmade tools.

Sean approached the vegetable vendor first, a middle-aged woman named Gerda who always wore a bright red scarf.

“Morning, Sean,” Gerda greeted warmly. “What can I get for you today?”

“I’ll need potatoes and mushrooms,” Sean said, counting the coins in his pouch.

Gerda raised an eyebrow. “Mushrooms? Didn’t peg you for a stew-maker.”

“Something like that,” Sean replied with a small smile.

After gathering the vegetables, he moved on to the dairy stall, run by a burly man named Otto.

“Sean! Haven’t seen you here in a while,” Otto said, wiping his hands on his apron. “What’ll it be?”

“Milk, butter, and cheese,” Sean replied, placing his coins on the counter.

Otto frowned as he handed over the goods. “You sure about this? That cheese is strong—most folks can’t handle it.”

“I’m sure,” Sean said, tucking the items into his satchel.

Finally, he stopped at the spice vendor, where he bought a small bag of coarse salt. His pouch was significantly lighter by the time he returned home, but he felt a sense of satisfaction.

Sean set the ingredients on the kitchen counter, rolling up his sleeves. The house was quiet except for the distant sounds of Barbara and Tadeus playing outside. Taking a deep breath, Sean began peeling and slicing the potatoes, layering them in a large ceramic dish. He sautéed the mushrooms in butter, their rich aroma filling the kitchen, and added them to the layers of potatoes.

Next came the milk and eggs, whisked together to form a creamy mixture that he poured over the dish. He grated the strong cheese Otto had warned him about, sprinkling it generously on top.

Sean stood back, wiping his brow. “Almost done.”

He stepped outside and called for Barbara. She came running, her fiery red hair bouncing in the sunlight. “What is it, Sean?”

“I need your help,” Sean said, leading her to the kitchen. “I need you to use your fire magic to melt the cheese and create a crust on this.”

Barbara’s eyes lit up with excitement. “You’re letting me use magic? Really?”

Sean nodded. “Just be careful. We don’t want to burn it.”

Barbara raised her hands, her small fingers glowing with a soft orange light. With practiced precision, she directed the flames over the dish, evenly distributing the heat. The cheese began to bubble and brown, creating a golden crust that smelled heavenly.

“Perfect,” Sean said, patting her shoulder. “Thanks, Barb.”

Barbara grinned. “You’re welcome! Can I have some when it’s done?”

“Of course,” Sean replied, his lips curving into a rare smile.

As Sean set the dish on the dining table, the front door swung open. Darian and Amara entered, their faces beaming with joy.

“We did it!” Darian announced, his voice booming with pride. “The license is secured! It’ll arrive tomorrow.”

Amara clasped her hands together, her eyes shining. “This is going to change everything, Sean. Your plan… it’s brilliant.”

Sean’s heart swelled at their praise, but he quickly busied himself by arranging plates on the table. “That’s great news. To celebrate, I made something for dinner.”

Darian raised an eyebrow, his gaze shifting to the dish. “You… cooked?”

Amara looked equally surprised. “Sean, you’ve never cooked before.”

“I figured it was time to try,” Sean said, shrugging. “It’s nothing fancy, but it should be good.”

The family gathered around the table, eyeing the dish warily. The golden-brown crust glistened in the light, its rich aroma filling the room.

Barbara was the first to grab a spoonful, her adventurous spirit overcoming any hesitation. She took a bite and froze, her eyes widening.

“This is amazing!” she exclaimed, shoveling another bite into her mouth.

Encouraged by her reaction, the rest of the family followed suit. Darian took a cautious bite, his expression softening into one of pure delight.

“Sean,” he said, his voice filled with awe, “this is incredible.”

Amara nodded, her eyes glistening with tears. “You’ve outdone yourself, Sean. It’s delicious.”

Sean’s chest tightened as he watched his family enjoy the meal. For the first time in a long time, he felt truly appreciated.

Darian clapped a hand on his shoulder. “You’ve given us hope, son. This is just the beginning.”

Sean blinked rapidly, a single tear escaping before he quickly wiped it away. “Thanks, Dad.”

Amara’s gaze fell on a stack of papers on the counter. “What about those?” she asked.

Sean glanced at them briefly. “That is the recipe, for this dish, I was planning on giving it to Yoveil and Bertha to create for the inn, we are about to get many more new faces around here,” he said.

“Oh, and what is the name of this delicious dish?” she asked

“Gratin,” Sean said with a smile.

Three Months Later

The transformation of the Desmond Knightdom into a thriving village was nothing short of miraculous. What had once been a small agricultural settlement struggling to survive had blossomed into a bustling hub of activity. Adventurers from across the kingdom flocked to the newly established guild, lured by the promise of riches from the dangerous nearby dungeons and the untapped resources of the Everfree Forest.

Sean’s solutions had worked. The fields, now replanted according to his instructions, were showing signs of recovery, with healthier crops beginning to sprout. The new irrigation system had maximized the land’s potential, and the experiment with crop rotation was already improving soil fertility.

Even more astonishing was the impact of the adventurer's guild. The influx of adventurers brought steady trade, money, and excitement to the village. The guild itself, named the Dragon’s Respite, had become the heart of the community, its large wooden building a beacon for travelers and adventurers alike.

The success of the guild and the revitalization of the village didn’t go unnoticed. A royal envoy arrived from Magmapolis three weeks after the guild opened, bearing a decree from Dragon Lord Rubelle herself.

Sean’s father, Darian, was officially promoted from knight to baron, and the Desmond Knightdom was elevated to a barony. With the promotion came increased responsibilities, including managing a larger territory and dealing with more complex political matters. Sean’s family found themselves navigating the uncharted waters of nobility.

Sean’s culinary creation, the creamy, savory dish he’d made months ago, had also gained fame. Yoveil and Bertha, the innkeepers, were overjoyed when Sean shared the recipe with them. The dish quickly became the inn’s most popular menu item, drawing praise from locals and travelers alike.

“Sean, my boy!” Yoveil would often exclaim, clapping him on the back whenever he visited the inn. “You’ve got the hands of a farmer, the mind of a scholar, and now the touch of a master chef. If you ever tire of the noble life, there’s always a place for you here.”

Sean would laugh it off, though the pride he felt was undeniable.

Not all changes were easy to accept, however. Sean and his siblings began to notice the darker side of nobility. Their family’s rise in status brought new challenges, including political alliances and the expectations placed on them as the children of a baron.

One evening, the family was gathered in the study. The atmosphere was unusually tense, and Sean could tell something significant was about to happen. His mother, Amara, sat at the desk, her expression calm yet serious.

“Barbara,” she began, her voice gentle but firm, “we’ve received a proposal for your hand in marriage.”

The room fell silent. Barbara, now eleven, blinked in surprise. Sean’s stomach dropped.

Amara continued, sliding a letter and a small portrait across the desk. “The family is from Manehattan. They’re wealthy and well-connected, and their eldest son, Peter, is a promising young man. He’s three years your senior. The match would strengthen our family’s position and secure your future.”

Barbara picked up the portrait, her cheeks flushing slightly as she examined the boy’s image. “He’s… handsome,” she said, a small smile tugging at her lips.

Sean frowned, his brows knitting together. “She’s only eleven,” he said, his voice low but edged with anger. “She’s too young for this.”

Amara’s gaze softened as she turned to her eldest son. “Sean, this is how it works in our world. The betrothal is an agreement, not a marriage. They won’t wed until Barbara is of age.”

“But still,” Sean argued, “it feels wrong to decide her future for her.”

Barbara placed the portrait down and looked at her brother, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Sean, it’s okay. I think… I think I’m happy about this. Peter looks kind, and if it helps our family, I want to do it.”

Sean’s shoulders sagged, his resistance faltering at her words. He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “If you’re happy about it, I won’t argue. But if he ever treats you poorly, he’ll have to answer to me.”

Barbara giggled. “You’re so protective, Sean. I’ll be fine.”

Amara smiled at the exchange, though her expression grew thoughtful as she turned her attention to Sean. “That brings me to another matter.”

Sean raised an eyebrow. “What now?”

“I think it’s time we started looking for a match for you,” Amara said, her tone light but firm.

Sean’s eyes widened in disbelief. “What?”

“You’re thirteen,” Amara said, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. “It’s common for young nobles to attend matchmaking meetings at your age. I’ve already received a few inquiries—”

“I’m not interested,” Sean interrupted, his tone sharper than he intended.

Amara blinked, surprised by his reaction. “Sean—”

“I’m serious,” he said, crossing his arms. “I have no intention of marrying, and I won’t attend matchmaking meetings.”

Darian, who had been quietly observing the conversation, chuckled. “You’re as stubborn as your mother, Sean.”

Amara sighed, her lips curving into a wry smile. “Fine. I won’t force you. But don’t think you can avoid it forever.”

Sean gave a small nod, relieved but wary.

The study quieted as the discussion ended, but the weight of their new responsibilities lingered in the air. Sean looked at his family—his father, proud yet burdened; his mother, determined and shrewd; and his siblings, each navigating their own paths.

This is the world we live in now, Sean thought, his resolve hardening. And I’ll do whatever it takes to protect them.

The Desmond family's study shook with the force of a distant explosion, the windows rattling in their frames. Sean, Barbara, and Tadeus froze as the deep, resonating boom echoed through the air. Amara rushed to the window, pulling back the curtain just in time to see the village square in chaos. People were screaming, adventurers and villagers alike running in every direction. Smoke and fire rose in the distance, painting the evening sky an ominous orange.

“What in the Dragon Lord’s name is happening?” Amara whispered, her face pale.

Darian was already on his feet, his chair clattering to the floor as he grabbed his sword from its place by the mantle. “Stay here,” he commanded, his voice sharp with urgency. “Lock the doors and don’t come outside.”

“But Father!” Sean protested, already moving to follow him.

“Sean, no!” Amara grabbed his arm, her eyes filled with fear. “Stay with us. Please.”

Darian placed a hand on Sean’s shoulder, his grip firm. “I’ll handle this, son. Protect your mother and siblings.”

With that, he was gone, the heavy door slamming shut behind him. Sean watched him disappear into the night, his heart pounding in his chest. But as the sounds of destruction grew louder, he couldn’t ignore the pull to do something.

“I’m sorry, Mother,” he muttered, slipping free of her grasp. Before she could stop him, he darted out the door.

The scene outside was worse than Sean could have imagined. Flames engulfed several buildings, their flickering light casting eerie shadows across the cobblestone streets. Adventurers were everywhere, some helping civilians to safety, others shouting orders and trying to organize a defense.

“Get to the guild hall!” one shouted to a group of villagers. “It’s reinforced—it’ll hold!”

Sean ducked under a low-hanging beam of smoke and ash, his eyes scanning the chaos for his father. As he reached the center of the village, he saw Gerda running toward him, her red scarf fluttering behind her.

“Gerda!” he called, stopping her in her tracks. “What’s happening?”

“It’s the dragons!” she cried, her face streaked with soot. “They came from the caves—two of them! They’re fighting over food, and the adventurers accidentally led them back here. Your father—he’s fighting them alone!”

Sean’s heart sank. “Where is he?”

She pointed toward the outskirts of the village, near the fields leading to the Everfree Forest. “Out there, by the fields! He told us to run, but he’s—”

Sean didn’t wait for her to finish. He ran as fast as his legs could carry him, his breath coming in sharp, ragged gasps. The distant roars of the dragons grew louder with every step, shaking the ground beneath his feet.

When Sean reached the fields, the destruction was overwhelming. The tall stalks of wheat and barley were trampled and scorched, the earth torn apart by massive claws. In the middle of the chaos, he saw his father—a lone figure facing two massive dragons.

One was green, its scales cracked and bleeding, its wings tattered and useless. The other was a hulking purple beast, its eyes glowing with a predatory gleam as it circled its weakened opponent. With a roar, the purple dragon lunged, slamming the green dragon into the ground with a sickening thud.

Darian charged forward, his sword flashing in the dim light, but he was no match for the creatures’ sheer size. The purple dragon swiped at him with its tail, sending him flying into a hay cart with a crash. His sword clattered to the ground, landing just a few feet from Sean.

“Father!” Sean shouted, running toward him.

Darian groaned, trying to push himself up, but his body wouldn’t obey. “Sean, get back! It’s too dangerous!”

Sean ignored him, his eyes fixed on the sword. He grabbed it with trembling hands, the weight unfamiliar but reassuring. When he looked up, the purple dragon had turned its attention to the village, its massive wings beating as it prepared to take flight.

“No!” Sean shouted, his voice cracking. “You’re not going anywhere!”

The purple dragon paused, its glowing eyes narrowing as it turned to face him. Sean’s heart pounded in his chest, but he tightened his grip on the sword and pointed it at the beast.

Before the purple dragon could move, a low, guttural voice rumbled through the air. “Human boy…”

Sean blinked, looking around for the source. His eyes fell on the green dragon, lying motionless on the ground, its eyes half-lidded with exhaustion.

“You… can hear us,” the green dragon rasped, its voice weak but clear. “A rare gift…”

Sean approached cautiously, the sword still clutched in his hands. “What are you talking about?”

The dragon’s golden eyes met his, filled with both pain and a strange sense of peace. “You are destined… to bear our power. Take it… and end this.”

Before Sean could respond, the green dragon’s body began to glow, its form disintegrating into shimmering green light. The light swirled around Sean, enveloping him in warmth. He felt a surge of energy, unlike anything he had ever known, coursing through his veins.

The green dragon’s voice echoed one last time in his mind. “Protect them… for us.”

The glow faded, and Sean turned to face the purple dragon, his body trembling with newfound strength. The beast roared, lunging toward the village. Sean gritted his teeth and chased after it, his feet moving faster than they ever had before.

“Stop!” he shouted, his voice resonating with power.

The purple dragon landed in the center of the village, its claws tearing through the earth. It turned to face Sean, its gaze full of disdain. “You dare challenge me, whelp?” it snarled.

Memories of Sean’s past life flooded his mind—the pain, the rejection, the struggle to prove his worth. Anger boiled within him, mixing with the green flames that now licked at his arms and legs.

“Leave them alone!” he screamed, his voice shaking the air.

The flames erupted, engulfing his entire body and spreading to the sword in his hands. The sheer force of the energy brought the purple dragon to its knees, its eyes wide with fear.

“You… you are not human,” the dragon stammered, its voice trembling.

It bowed its head, its body glowing with a faint purple light. “Take my power… and end this.”

With a roar, Sean swung the sword, and the purple dragon’s form disintegrated into light. The energy surged into Sean, and his body began to change. Purple scales spread across his skin, his green flames swirling around him in a controlled, harmonious dance.

Sean looked down at his transformed body, his breath coming in short gasps. He turned to see his father running toward him, his expression a mix of awe and fear.

“Sean…” Darian whispered, his voice barely audible.

Sean’s vision blurred, and the last thing he saw was his father’s outstretched hand before darkness claimed him.

Ch. 6 Convenience not love

The grand hall of the Dragonspire Academy was filled with Dragonknights, students, and villagers who had gathered to witness a monumental event. The banners of the Dragonknights hung proudly, their sigils glowing faintly in the morning light. At the front of the hall stood the Dragonlord, Rubelle, her presence commanding despite the lines of age etched into her face. Beside her was Prince Tarus, resplendent in ceremonial armor, his expression stoic but proud.

Sean, Gregory, Maria, and Cynthia stood before the Dragonlord, their expressions ranging from pride to uncertainty. Each wore the ceremonial green cape of a Dragonknight, though Sean’s bore an additional golden trim, denoting his status as a full Dragonknight.

Dragonlord Rubelle raised her hand, and the crowd fell silent. Her voice rang clear and authoritative. “Today, we honor four brave individuals who stood against the forces of chaos and protected the innocent, even at great personal risk.”

She turned her gaze to Sean first. “Sean Desmond, for your unparalleled courage and tactical brilliance, you are granted the title of Hero of the Flame. You embody the ideals of a Dragonknight in every way.”

A faint murmur rippled through the crowd as Rubelle turned to Gregory. “Gregory Garretson, for your unyielding strength and loyalty, you are granted the title of Shield of the Weak. Your steadfast resolve is an inspiration.”

Next, her eyes fell on Maria. “Maria Maar, for your quick thinking and selflessness, you are granted the title of Beacon of Hope. Your light guided those lost in the darkness.”

Finally, she addressed Cynthia, who stood with her usual confident smirk. “Cynthia Calego, for your determination and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds, you are granted the title of Flame’s Resolve. Your passion burns brightly.”

The crowd erupted into applause, and the four newly minted heroes bowed before the Dragonlord. Rubelle raised her hand again, and the hall quieted.

“And now,” she said, her voice softening, “it is time for me to step down. The time of my reign has ended, and it is with great pride that I pass the mantle of Dragonlord to my son, Prince Tarus.”

The hall erupted again in cheers as Prince Tarus stepped forward, kneeling before his mother. Rubelle placed a ceremonial crown on his head, and as he rose, the crowd shouted their approval. Tarus turned to Sean and the others, a faint smile breaking through his stoic demeanor. “Congratulations to our heroes,” he said. “Your deeds will not be forgotten.”

3 Months Later

The headmaster’s office at Dragonspire Academy was a stark contrast to the grand hall, filled with shelves of ancient tomes and maps. Sean, Gregory, Maria, Cynthia, Elizabeth, and Thomas sat around a long table, their expressions ranging from curious to concerned. At the head of the table sat the headmaster, an older woman with sharp eyes and an air of authority. Beside her were several high-ranking Dragonknights, including Captain Dorian Flaylock, who still bore a slight limp from the zealot incident.

The headmaster tapped a finger on a report in front of her. “Thank you all for coming. We’ve gathered to discuss the final findings from the incident with the zealots.”

Sean leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. “What did you find?”

The headmaster adjusted her spectacles. “One of the zealots who survived long enough to be questioned said something... unusual before his death. According to our interrogators, he claimed that they found an altar inside a dungeon near the village.”

The room fell silent. Gregory frowned. “A dungeon? There weren’t any dungeons in that area.”

“That’s what we thought,” the headmaster said, her tone serious. “The zealot refused to elaborate. Instead, he recited some cryptic prayer before succumbing to his injuries.”

Sean crossed his arms, his mind racing. “What was the prayer?”

The headmaster read from the report. “‘Through the forgotten gate, beneath the shattered stone, the Flame shall rise anew.’”

Maria shivered. “That’s... unsettling.”

“Cryptic nonsense,” Gregory muttered, though his voice betrayed unease.

Sean ignored him, focusing on the headmaster. “Were there ever dungeons in that area?”

The headmaster frowned, flipping through a ledger on her desk. “Not for decades. Most of the maps from that region were rendered obsolete after the war fifty years ago.” She paused, then added, “There was one recorded dungeon in the area, but it was cleared and destroyed by Dragonknights long before any of us were born. Its entrance was supposedly collapsed.”

“Supposedly?” Cynthia echoed, raising an eyebrow.

The headmaster nodded. “Supposedly. There’s no record of anyone finding the entrance since.”

The headmaster closed the ledger and leaned back in her chair. “We’ll need to investigate further, but for now, I’m dismissing this as speculation. There’s no concrete evidence to support the zealot’s claim.”

Sean frowned. “With respect, Headmaster, if there’s even a chance that dungeon still exists, it could be dangerous. If the zealots found it…”

The headmaster raised a hand to silence him. “I understand your concerns, Sean, but until we have more information, we can’t act recklessly. I’ll have my scholars and scouts look into it. You’ve all done more than enough.”

Reluctantly, Sean nodded, though the unease in his chest remained. The group was dismissed, and they filed out of the office, their conversations subdued.

As they walked through the academy’s halls, Cynthia nudged Sean with her elbow. “You’re not going to let this go, are you?”

Sean gave her a sidelong glance. “You know me too well.”

Cynthia smirked. “If there’s a forgotten dungeon out there, I wouldn’t mind tagging along. Just saying.”

Gregory grunted. “If it involves smashing zealots, I’m in.”

Maria sighed. “You guys are going to drag me into this, aren’t you?”

Thomas and Elizabeth exchanged a glance before Elizabeth spoke. “If it’s real, it’s worth investigating. We’ll help.”

Sean looked at his companions, a small smile breaking through his serious demeanor. “Then it looks like we’ve got a plan.”

The group continued down the hall, their laughter and banter echoing through the academy. But in the back of Sean’s mind, the zealot’s prayer lingered, a whisper of danger that refused to fade.

Through the forgotten gate, beneath the shattered stone…

Something was coming, and Sean knew it was only a matter of time before they would face it head-on.

2 MONTHS LATER

The sun shone brightly over the Dragonspire Academy as Sean and his friends prepared to leave for the Adventurer’s Guild. Their conversations were lighthearted, with Gregory joking about how much dust they’d find on the old records and Maria rolling her eyes in exasperation.

As they reached the academy gates, the sharp voice of the headmaster stopped them in their tracks. “Sean Desmond! A moment, please.”

Sean turned, his brow furrowed in confusion. “What is it, Headmaster?”

The headmaster approached, a young girl trailing behind her. The girl couldn’t have been more than thirteen, with vibrant pink hair tied in twin braids and bright green eyes that sparkled with a mix of awe and nervous energy. She wore the standard academy uniform, her small hands gripping the hem of her skirt.

“This is Mina Dorenthall,” the headmaster said, her tone formal but kind. “Mina, introduce yourself.”

Mina stepped forward, her cheeks flushed. She bowed slightly, her voice trembling with excitement. “I-it’s an honor to meet you, Sean Desmond. I’m Mina, and I already know who you are!”

Sean blinked, caught off guard. “Uh… nice to meet you, Mina.”

Mina’s face turned even redder as she straightened, her hands clasped tightly together. “You’re the hero who saved me at Brairstone! I’ve heard so much about you!”

Sean scratched the back of his head, visibly uncomfortable. “I was just doing what anyone else would’ve done.”

At that moment, Cynthia approached, her sharp ears picking up the conversation. “What’s going on here?” she asked, her tone light but with an undertone of suspicion.

The headmaster explained, “Mina is one of our newest students. She passed the entrance exam with full marks—just like you, Sean. Her magic points are in the 200s, which is exceptionally rare for someone her age. She’s here on a scholarship.”

Mina beamed, the blush on her cheeks returning. “I’ll do my best to live up to the academy’s standards!”

The headmaster turned back to Sean. “I’d like you to give her a tour of the academy grounds and show her to the female dorms. It’ll help her get acclimated.”

Sean opened his mouth to protest, but before he could say anything, Cynthia cut in, “Actually, Headmaster, I’ll join him. I wouldn’t want Mina to feel overwhelmed.”

Sean glanced at Cynthia, his expression a mix of exasperation and suspicion. He knew that tone.

As the three of them walked through the academy, Sean did his best to explain the layout. “This is the main courtyard,” he said, gesturing to the wide-open space filled with students practicing magic and sparring with wooden swords. “Most of the physical training classes happen here.”

Mina’s eyes widened with awe as she took it all in. “Wow, it’s so much bigger than I imagined! Do you train here too, Sean?”

“Sometimes,” Sean said, his tone nonchalant.

“Oh, I’d love to see you train!” Mina exclaimed, her hands clasped in front of her. She leaned closer to him, her excitement palpable. “You must be amazing!”

Cynthia’s eyebrow twitched, and she stepped between them, her smile overly sweet. “Sean’s so amazing that he’s always busy, Mina. He might not have time to show off for you.”

Mina blinked, confused. “Oh, I didn’t mean—”

Sean sighed, rubbing his temples. “Let’s keep moving.”

They arrived at the training wing, where students practiced advanced spells under the watchful eyes of their instructors. Mina gasped as she saw a student summon a small dragon made of fire.

“This is where the magic classes happen,” Sean explained, gesturing to the rows of training rooms. “You’ll spend a lot of time here.”

Mina turned to Sean, her eyes shining. “What kind of magic are you best at, Sean?”

“Fire,” Sean said simply.

“Oh, of course! The green flames!” Mina said, practically bouncing. “That must be so cool! I hope I can see them someday.”

Cynthia stepped closer, placing a hand on Mina’s shoulder. “You know, Sean’s flames are really dangerous. It’s not something you just casually watch.”

Mina looked up at Cynthia, her brows furrowing slightly. “I think I can handle it.”

Cynthia’s smile turned icy. “Oh, I’m sure you can.”

Sean groaned under his breath. “Can we move on before this turns into a duel?”

Next was the library, a massive room filled with towering shelves and the faint scent of old parchment. Mina looked around in wonder, her voice a hushed whisper. “This is amazing.”

Sean nodded. “If you’re looking for information or study materials, this is the place.”

Mina leaned closer to him, her voice conspiratorial. “What’s your favorite book here, Sean?”

Sean shrugged. “I don’t really have one.”

Cynthia stepped forward, her arms crossed. “Sean doesn’t read much for fun. He’s too busy being a hero.”

Mina tilted her head. “Then what does he do for fun?”

Before Sean could answer, Cynthia smirked. “He avoids people.”

“Hey!” Sean shot back, glaring at her.

Mina giggled. “Well, I hope I’m not someone you avoid.”

Sean hesitated, caught between wanting to escape and not wanting to hurt Mina’s feelings. “Let’s keep going.”

Finally, they arrived at the female dorms, a sprawling building surrounded by gardens. Mina turned to Sean, her expression earnest. “Thank you for showing me around, Sean. It means a lot.”

Sean scratched the back of his neck. “No problem. If you need anything, just ask.”

Mina’s cheeks flushed again. “I will!”

Cynthia, who had been uncharacteristically quiet, finally spoke up. “You’ll do great here, Mina. Just remember to stay focused on your studies.”

Mina smiled sweetly. “I will. And I’ll try to be as amazing as Sean someday.”

Cynthia’s smile faltered, and Sean groaned. “Okay, tour’s over. Let’s go.”

As they walked away, Cynthia leaned closer to Sean. “She’s… enthusiastic.”

“She’s a kid,” Sean muttered. “She’ll settle down.”

Cynthia crossed her arms, a sly smile playing on her lips. “Or she won’t. And then you’ll have two people chasing after you.”

Sean sighed. “Please don’t start.”

But Cynthia just laughed, her jealousy momentarily forgotten as the two of them headed back to rejoin their friends.

Sean and Cynthia made their way back to the main courtyard where Gregory, Maria, Elizabeth, and Thomas were waiting. Gregory was leaning casually against a tree, tossing a coin in the air, while Maria stood nearby, her arms crossed in her usual no-nonsense stance. Elizabeth and Thomas sat on a low wall, quietly talking to each other.

When Sean and Cynthia appeared, Gregory grinned. “Took you long enough. What happened? Did Cynthia drag you into another duel?”

Cynthia shot him a glare. “No, Gregory, we were giving a new student a tour.”

Maria raised an eyebrow. “Let me guess—Sean’s new admirer?”

Sean sighed, rubbing his temples. “Can we not?”

Elizabeth smirked. “I heard about her from the headmaster. Mina, right? The girl you saved back in Brairstone?”

Thomas chuckled. “Seems like she’s eager to repay the favor.”

Cynthia crossed her arms and muttered under her breath, “She’s a bit too eager.”

Gregory laughed, clearly enjoying the tension. “Sounds like you’ve got your hands full, Desmond. Better watch out—Cynthia might set that girl’s dorm on fire.”

“Gregory,” Maria said sharply, though there was a hint of amusement in her tone.

Sean ignored them, focusing instead on the path ahead. “Are we heading to the Adventurer’s Guild or standing around all day?”

Elizabeth hopped off the wall, her tone teasing. “Someone’s eager to avoid the conversation. Let’s go.”

The Adventurer’s Guild was bustling with activity when the group arrived. Adventurers of all shapes and sizes milled about, sharing stories of their exploits or examining the quest board. The faint smell of ale and roasted meat lingered in the air, mixing with the scent of old parchment from the guild’s records room.

Sean led the group inside, heading straight for the records desk. The guild receptionist, a middle-aged woman with sharp eyes and a no-nonsense demeanor, greeted them with a curt nod. “Back again, are you?”

Sean nodded. “We’re still looking into the forgotten dungeon near Brairstone.”

The receptionist raised an eyebrow. “You’re not letting that go, huh? Well, good luck. The archives are in the back, same as before.”

As they made their way to the archives, Gregory leaned over to Maria. “Do you think Sean’s ever gonna stop digging into this?”

Maria shook her head. “Not until he finds answers.”

The group spent hours poring over old maps and records. Sean’s sharp eyes scanned each page with methodical precision, his mind piecing together fragments of information. Cynthia, despite her usual bravado, was surprisingly focused, though she occasionally glanced at Sean when she thought he wasn’t looking.

Elizabeth pointed to a section of an old map. “Here. This area used to be a forest fifty years ago, but now it’s farmland.”

Thomas frowned. “If the dungeon entrance was destroyed, maybe it was buried under the farmland.”

“That’s possible,” Maria said, rubbing her chin. “But why would zealots care about a forgotten dungeon?”

Gregory shrugged. “Maybe it wasn’t completely destroyed. Maybe something was left behind.”

Sean tapped the table, his expression thoughtful. “Or maybe the dungeon isn’t entirely dead. If they found an altar, there’s a chance the dungeon core is still active.”

The group fell silent at his words. Dungeon cores were powerful magical entities that served as the heart of a dungeon. If one had survived, it could explain the zealots’ obsession.

Elizabeth finally spoke. “If that’s true, then we need to find it before anyone else does.”

As the group exited the guild, the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the cobblestone streets. Sean was lost in thought, his mind turning over the possibilities they’d uncovered.

“Sean!” a familiar voice called out.

He turned to see Mina running toward them, her pink braids bouncing with each step. She skidded to a stop in front of him, clutching a small book to her chest. “I… I was looking for you.”

Cynthia groaned audibly, but Mina seemed oblivious. She held out the book to Sean, her cheeks pink. “This is a beginner’s guide to dungeon research. I thought it might help you.”

Sean took the book, his brow furrowed. “Thanks, but you didn’t have to go out of your way.”

Mina beamed. “It’s no trouble at all! Anything to help.”

Gregory smirked, clearly enjoying the scene. “Well, looks like you’ve got your own personal assistant now, Sean.”

Cynthia shot him a withering glare before stepping between Sean and Mina. “We were just about to head back. You should probably get to your dorm, Mina. It’s getting late.”

Mina hesitated, her smile faltering. “Oh, right. Of course. I’ll see you tomorrow, Sean!” She waved and ran off, her enthusiasm undimmed.

Cynthia watched her go, her arms crossed and her expression stormy. “She’s persistent.”

Gregory laughed. “Jealous much?”

“Shut up, Gregory,” Cynthia snapped.

Sean sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Can we just get back to the academy?”

The group set off, their banter continuing as they walked. Despite the humor, a sense of unease lingered in the back of Sean’s mind. The forgotten dungeon was more than a mystery—it was a threat. And Sean had a feeling that their journey was only just beginning.

The next morning, Sean and his friends gathered in the headmaster’s office, their expressions serious as they laid out their findings. Sean stood at the forefront, his voice calm but firm as he spoke. “Headmaster, we believe the zealots discovered a dungeon core near Brairstone. The altar they mentioned is likely tied to it.”

The headmaster frowned, tapping her chin thoughtfully. “A dungeon core… it’s a compelling theory. If true, it would explain their obsession and their rituals.”

Elizabeth chimed in, “It’s also possible that the core’s magic has been influencing the area for years, even if the dungeon was thought to be destroyed.”

The headmaster nodded. “Very well. I’ll authorize a patrol to investigate the area further. You’ll leave tomorrow.”

Just as Sean and his friends started to relax, a knock on the door interrupted the moment. A messenger entered, bowing low before addressing Sean. “My Lord Desmond, an urgent message from your estate. You and Lady Cynthia are requested to attend a meeting at the Calego manor immediately.”

Cynthia raised an eyebrow, her expression curious. “What could this be about?”

Sean’s stomach twisted. “I have a bad feeling about this.”

The Calego manor was an imposing structure, its high stone walls and towering gates exuding power and wealth. Sean and his friends arrived in a small carriage, stepping out to find a line of armored guards waiting to escort them. Cynthia seemed unbothered, her usual confidence on full display, but Sean’s unease only deepened.

As they entered the grand hall, Sean’s parents, Darian and Amara Desmond, were already seated alongside Armand and Lucille Calego. Armand, a hulking man standing at 6’10”, towered over everyone else in the room. His muscular frame and permanent scowl made him look as though he was ready to crush anyone who dared look at him the wrong way. Lucille, by contrast, was graceful and composed, her sharp gaze scrutinizing Sean as he entered.

“Ah, there he is,” Armand said, his deep voice rumbling through the hall. “The young man of the hour.”

Sean’s heart sank. This is bad.

Sean and Cynthia were ushered to the center of the room, their friends trailing awkwardly behind. Darian cleared his throat, his expression apologetic. “Sean, we’ve been invited here to discuss a matter of great importance.”

Armand folded his massive arms, his gaze piercing. “You’re going to marry my daughter.”

Sean blinked, stunned into silence. “Excuse me?”

Armand’s scowl deepened. “Don’t play dumb, boy. Cynthia kissed you. By Dragonlands law, that makes her your woman.”

Cynthia nodded, stepping forward with a faint blush but a confident smile. “It’s true. This union would be beneficial for both of our families. My father agrees, as do your parents.”

Sean turned to his mother, Amara, who gave him an encouraging smile. “It’s a good match, Sean. Cynthia comes from a powerful family, and the alliance would strengthen both houses.”

Darian added, “And rejecting this could bring your manliness into question. You wouldn’t want to tarnish the Desmond name, would you?”

Sean rubbed his temples, his patience wearing thin. “She kissed me, not the other way around.”

“That’s irrelevant,” Armand said, his tone leaving no room for argument. “The law is the law. She’s yours now.”

Cynthia stepped closer to Sean, her expression softening. “Sean, I know this is sudden, but… I believe this is for the best. We’ve been through so much together. Don’t you think it makes sense?”

Sean turned to her, his frustration evident. “Cynthia, you don’t just decide something like this on a whim. Marriage isn’t a joke.”

“I’m not joking,” Cynthia said, her voice firm. “You’re strong, smart, and dependable. I couldn’t ask for a better partner.”

Gregory, who had been standing awkwardly near the door, leaned over to Maria and whispered, “I feel like we shouldn’t be here for this.”

Maria rolled her eyes. “You think?”

Sean looked around the room, searching for a way out. His friends avoided his gaze, clearly unwilling to get involved. His parents and the Calegos stared at him expectantly, their combined pressure bearing down on him like a mountain.

Finally, Sean sighed, his shoulders slumping in defeat. “Fine. I’ll agree to the engagement.”

Armand’s scowl softened slightly, and Lucille smiled with satisfaction. Cynthia beamed, stepping forward to take Sean’s hands in hers. “You won’t regret this, Sean.”

“Yeah, sure,” Sean muttered, avoiding her gaze. “Let’s just get this over with.”

As they left the manor, Sean’s friends walked in silence, clearly unsure of what to say. Gregory was the first to break the tension, his tone light. “Well, at least now we know Sean can handle dragons and marriage proposals.”

Maria smacked him on the arm. “Read the room, Gregory.”

Cynthia, who was walking beside Sean, leaned closer and whispered, “Thank you for agreeing. I promise I won’t make you regret it.”

Sean glanced at her, his expression unreadable. “We’ll see.”

As the group continued toward the carriage, Sean couldn’t shake the feeling that his life had just become infinitely more complicated.

It took less than a day for the announcement of Sean and Cynthia’s engagement to become the hottest topic in the Dragonlands. Whispers filled the halls of the academy, spilling over into the streets of Magmapolis and even reaching the courts of nobility.

Sean’s name was on everyone’s lips, no longer just as the hero of Brairstone but now as the fiancé of one of the most influential noble daughters in the region. Some lauded the union as a brilliant political alliance; others gossiped about Cynthia’s boldness in securing her partner through the kiss that started it all.

Sean, meanwhile, was finding it hard to even step outside his dorm without being swarmed by curious students and opportunistic nobles eager to curry favor. Gregory, Maria, Elizabeth, and Thomas often acted as his informal bodyguards, cutting through the crowds and deflecting questions.

“This is insane,” Sean muttered as he ducked behind a pillar to avoid another gaggle of gossiping students. “How does anyone live like this?”

Gregory smirked. “Welcome to high society, Desmond. Get used to it.”

News of the engagement reached the ears of Dragonlord Tarus within hours of its announcement. He paced the grand hall of the royal palace, his expression dark with concern. “This complicates things,” he muttered.

Elizabeth, who sat nearby sipping tea, raised an eyebrow. “Why? Cynthia is strong and capable, and Sean is… well, Sean.”

Tarus turned to his daughter, frustration evident in his tone. “That’s precisely the problem. Sean’s engagement to the Calego family strengthens their political influence. If Armand is truly behind the separatist movement among the nobles, this could give him the leverage he needs to challenge the throne.”

Elizabeth frowned. “You think Armand is using Cynthia and Sean as pawns?”

“It’s possible,” Tarus said, running a hand through his hair. “But it’s also possible that this is just a coincidence.”

Elizabeth set her teacup down with a soft clink. “So, what do we do?”

Tarus sighed. “We wait. If this engagement truly is a power play, Armand will show his hand soon enough. Until then, we keep our eyes open.”

Back at the academy, Sean and his friends were disheartened to learn that their investigation into the forgotten dungeon was being postponed. The headmaster had called them to her office, her expression serious as she addressed the group.

“With Sean’s engagement now a matter of public interest, it would be unwise to send you into dangerous territory,” she explained. “The risk is too great.”

Sean clenched his fists, frustration simmering beneath his calm exterior. “But we’re so close. We’ve already uncovered enough to know this dungeon could be a threat.”

The headmaster shook her head. “And that’s precisely why I’m postponing this mission. If something were to happen to you or Cynthia, it would ignite a political firestorm. We’ll resume the investigation after the marriage ceremony.”

Cynthia, sitting beside Sean, placed a hand on his arm. “It’s only temporary, Sean. We’ll get back to it soon.”

Sean exhaled slowly, forcing himself to nod. “Fine.”

The following weeks were a blur of engagement parties, fittings for ceremonial attire, and constant interruptions. Sean’s once-quiet life was now filled with endless meetings and events, many of which he barely tolerated. Cynthia, on the other hand, seemed to thrive in the spotlight, her charm and confidence shining through.

One evening, as Sean sat alone in his room, he found himself staring at the green flames dancing on his palm. He was so consumed with his thoughts that he didn’t hear Gregory enter.

“Hey,” Gregory said, leaning against the doorframe. “You doing okay?”

Sean extinguished the flames and sighed. “Not really. This whole engagement thing… it’s not me.”

Gregory chuckled. “You’re handling it better than I expected. Cynthia’s a lot, but she’s not a bad match for you.”

Sean shot him a look. “You think so?”

Gregory shrugged. “She’s strong, smart, and clearly cares about you. You could do worse.”

The night before the ceremony, the group gathered in the academy gardens. Cynthia was unusually quiet, staring at the moonlit sky. Sean sat beside her, their friends giving them space.

“Tomorrow’s the big day,” Cynthia said softly.

Sean nodded. “Yeah.”

She glanced at him, her usual bravado absent. “Are you… okay with this?”

Sean met her gaze, his expression thoughtful. “I don’t know. But I’ll make the best of it.”

Cynthia smiled faintly. “That’s all I can ask.”

From a distance, Elizabeth watched the two of them, her expression unreadable. “Whatever happens next,” she murmured to herself, “I hope they’re ready for it.”

As the night deepened, the group quietly enjoyed the moment of peace, knowing it wouldn’t last. The storm was coming, and they would face it together.

The wedding day arrived with all the pomp and ceremony befitting a noble marriage. The Desmond and Calego estates were bustling with activity as guests arrived in droves, their carriages lining the cobblestone streets leading to the cathedral. The building itself was a magnificent structure, its soaring spires adorned with banners bearing the crests of both houses. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers and polished wood, the pews filled with nobility and influential figures from across the Dragonlands.

Sean stood near the altar, clad in ceremonial armor of black and green, accented with silver trim. Despite the grandeur of his appearance, his face betrayed no excitement, only calm resignation. Beside him, Gregory adjusted his cape, muttering, “You’d think this was a coronation with how many people showed up.”

Sean didn’t reply, his gaze fixed on the ornate doors at the far end of the cathedral. Behind them, Cynthia was preparing to make her grand entrance.

The orchestra began to play, the hauntingly beautiful melody filling the cathedral as the massive doors swung open. Cynthia stepped inside, her presence commanding every eye in the room. She wore a shimmering gown of deep crimson, the color of her family’s crest, with silver accents that matched Sean’s attire. Her hair was styled in an intricate braid adorned with pearls, and her confident smile shone brighter than the jewels.

Sean’s breath caught for a moment, but he quickly composed himself. Convenience, not love, he reminded himself.

As Cynthia walked down the aisle, escorted by her towering father, Armand Calego, her eyes never left Sean’s. She had heard his words before, and they only fueled her determination. I’ll make you love me, Sean Desmond. Just wait.

When she reached the altar, Armand handed her over to Sean with a firm handshake, his grip a subtle reminder of his expectations. “Take care of her,” he said, his voice low and gruff.

Sean nodded. “I will.”

The priest began the ceremony with the traditional blessings, invoking the ancient dragon gods of the land to watch over the union. When it was time for the vows, Sean and Cynthia turned to face each other.

Sean’s voice was steady, though devoid of warmth. “Cynthia, I vow to protect you and honor the responsibilities of this marriage.”

Cynthia’s smile didn’t falter as she spoke her vows with genuine emotion. “Sean, I vow to stand by your side, to support you, and to make this union something neither of us will regret.”

The guests murmured quietly, their whispers filling the air. Among them, Mina sat near the back, her hands clenched in her lap. Her green eyes burned with jealousy as she watched Cynthia’s confident demeanor. She doesn’t deserve him, Mina thought. I’ll find a way to make him mine too.

The priest stepped forward, holding the platinum rings on a small velvet cushion. Sean slid the first ring onto Cynthia’s finger, the metal gleaming under the soft light of the cathedral. When it was Cynthia’s turn, she carefully placed the matching ring on Sean’s finger, her touch lingering for a moment longer than necessary.

Elizabeth, seated in the front row beside Thomas, leaned over and whispered to Maria. “Platinum rings,” she said, her tone thoughtful. “They symbolize a political marriage, not one based on love.”

Maria glanced at her. “And the usual gold?”

“Love,” Elizabeth said, holding up her hand to reveal her own double-ringed finger. One ring was gold, the other platinum. She smiled at Thomas, who returned the gesture by kissing her hand. “But sometimes, a marriage can be both.”

The priest declared, “You may now seal your union with a kiss.”

Cynthia stepped forward without hesitation, leaning up to press her lips to Sean’s. It was a brief kiss, formal and restrained, but Cynthia’s determination shone through. Sean didn’t pull away, but his expression as they parted was unreadable.

As applause erupted around them, Cynthia whispered so only Sean could hear, “This might be convenience now, but I’ll make you love me. Even if it’s the last thing I do.”

Sean’s eyes flickered with something unspoken, but he said nothing, turning instead to face the crowd.

The reception was held in the grand ballroom of the Calego manor, its high ceilings adorned with glittering chandeliers. Tables laden with fine food and drink filled the room, and a live orchestra provided a lively backdrop to the festivities.

Sean found himself surrounded by well-wishers offering congratulations, though he hardly heard their words. Cynthia was in her element, mingling effortlessly with the guests and charming everyone she spoke to.

Mina, meanwhile, lingered near the edges of the crowd, watching Sean with an intensity that bordered on obsession. She clutched a glass of sparkling cider, her mind racing. I need to show him that I’m different. That I can make him happy in ways Cynthia never could.

Later in the evening, Sean stepped out onto one of the manor’s balconies, seeking a moment of peace. The cool night air was a welcome relief from the noise and chaos of the reception.

Cynthia appeared moments later, closing the door softly behind her. “Escaping your own wedding reception?”

Sean sighed. “Needed some air.”

Cynthia leaned against the railing beside him, her crimson gown shimmering in the moonlight. “You’re not happy about this, are you?”

Sean didn’t answer immediately. “This marriage is a convenience, Cynthia. It’s not love.”

She smiled, undeterred. “Then I’ll make you love me. Even if it’s the last thing I do.”

Sean turned to her, his expression a mix of exasperation and begrudging admiration. “You’re relentless.”

“I am,” she said, her tone playful but sincere. “And I won’t give up.”

Sean shook his head, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “We’ll see.”

As the reception wound down, Sean couldn’t shake the feeling that his life had taken a turn he hadn’t expected. Between Cynthia’s determination, Mina’s growing obsession, and the looming mystery of the forgotten dungeon, he knew that peace would remain elusive.

But for now, as the night faded into quiet, he allowed himself a moment to breathe. Tomorrow would bring new challenges—and Sean would face them, as he always did.

Ch. 2 Dragonspire Royal academy

3 DAYS LATER

Sean’s eyelids fluttered open, the soft glow of lamplight bathing the room in a warm amber hue. His body felt heavy, as though he’d been asleep for years. The faint scent of herbs and antiseptics filled the air, and the quiet murmurs of voices reached his ears. As his vision adjusted, the first thing he saw was his mother’s face, her eyes red and puffy from tears but alight with relief.

“Sean!” Amara exclaimed, gripping his hand tightly. “You’re awake! Oh, thank the heavens…”

“M-Mother?” Sean croaked, his voice hoarse and weak. He tried to sit up, but his body protested, a dull ache radiating through his limbs.

“Easy, Sean,” a calm, authoritative voice interjected. The doctor—a middle-aged man with silver-rimmed glasses and a neatly trimmed beard—stepped into view. “You’ve been unconscious for three days. Your body is still recovering.”

Sean blinked, trying to make sense of his surroundings. He was lying in a clean, well-lit room in the family estate, surrounded by medical equipment he barely recognized. The doctor gently placed a hand on his shoulder, guiding him back down.

“Rest,” the doctor said firmly. “Your mother has been at your side the entire time, and I’ve been using healing magic to stabilize your condition.”

As the fog in his mind lifted, Sean became acutely aware of a difference in his body. He flexed his fingers experimentally, his hand feeling larger and stronger. He turned his head slightly, catching a glimpse of his reflection in a nearby mirror. His heart skipped a beat.

“Why… am I taller?” he asked, his voice tinged with confusion.

The doctor chuckled. “You’ve undergone quite the transformation, young man. When you collapsed after the battle, your body was… well, not entirely human. Scales covered your skin, and you radiated an energy unlike anything I’ve ever seen.”

Sean frowned, recalling flashes of the fight—the flames, the dragons, the overwhelming power that coursed through him. “The dragons,” he murmured. “What happened to them?”

“They’re gone,” Amara said softly, brushing a strand of hair from his forehead. “Both of them. And yet… their power remains in you.”

The doctor pulled up a chair and sat beside the bed, his expression both serious and curious. “Sean, before I explain further, let me ask you: have you ever heard of the magic point system?”

Sean shook his head slowly. “I’ve read bits about magic levels, but nothing specific.”

The doctor adjusted his glasses, his tone shifting to that of a professor. “Allow me to enlighten you. Magic points—or MP—are the measure of an individual’s capacity for magical energy. Every living being has an MP value, though for most, it’s negligible. Here’s the breakdown:”

0 to 25 MP: Technically non-existent. These individuals cannot perform magic and are considered ‘null.’ This is where most commoners fall.
26 to 100 MP: Minor magical capacity. These individuals can perform simple spells and are typically craftsmen, apothecaries, or healers.
101 to 200 MP: Moderate capacity. These individuals are combat-capable and can learn advanced magic. Most adventurers fall into this range.
201 to 300 MP: High capacity. Rare among the population, these individuals are highly sought after as mages or scholars.
301 to 400 MP: Exceptional capacity. These are the elite, often leading academies or serving royalty.
401 to 499 MP: Legendary capacity. So rare that only a handful exist in recorded history. These individuals can shape the very fabric of reality with their magic.
500 MP: The theoretical limit. No one has ever reached it. Legends suggest this level would grant godlike abilities.

The doctor leaned forward, his eyes locking with Sean’s. “Your MP, Sean, was once a modest 15—barely enough to register. But now…” He paused for emphasis, his voice trembling with awe. “It’s 499.”

Sean stared at the doctor, his mind struggling to process the information. “Four hundred… and ninety-nine?” he repeated, his voice barely a whisper.

Amara gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. “That can’t be possible…”

“It’s not just possible,” the doctor continued, “it’s fact. I’ve tested you repeatedly to confirm it. You are, without a doubt, among the most powerful individuals in existence.”

Sean’s head swam with questions, but the doctor wasn’t finished. “And there’s more. Your power isn’t like that of other Dragonborns. Most Dragonborn form pacts with dragons to use their power in battle, making the dragons their familiars. But you…” He leaned closer, his eyes narrowing. “You control the power of the dragons without forming a pact. That has never been recorded in history.”

Sean’s thoughts raced. “So… what does that mean?”

“It means,” the doctor said gravely, “that you are unlike any Dragonborn who has ever lived. You don’t borrow power. You are the power. The green flames, the purple scales—those are manifestations of the dragons’ essence within you. It’s as though they chose you to carry their legacy.”

Sean’s hands trembled as he stared at them. “Why me?”

The doctor shrugged. “That’s a question only the dragons could answer. But whatever their reason, they have changed your life forever.”

The room fell into silence as the weight of the revelation settled over them. Amara was the first to speak, her voice trembling. “Sean… are you alright?”

“I… I don’t know,” Sean admitted. “This is a lot to take in.”

His mother took his hand, her grip firm but comforting. “No matter what, you’re still my son. And we’ll figure this out together.”

The door creaked open, and Darian entered, his towering presence filling the room. He crossed the space in a few strides, kneeling by Sean’s bedside.

“Sean,” he said, his voice steady but full of emotion. “I heard everything. I want you to know how proud I am of you. What you did… saving the village, standing up to those dragons… it was nothing short of heroic.”

Sean met his father’s gaze, his chest tightening. “But at what cost? I don’t even know what I am anymore.”

“You’re my son,” Darian said firmly. “And no power—no amount of magic—will ever change that.”

As the doctor rose to leave, he turned back to Sean one last time. “Remember this, Sean: great power comes with great responsibility. You’ve been given a gift—or perhaps a curse. How you use it will determine what kind of man you become.”

Sean nodded silently, his thoughts heavy. He didn’t feel like a hero or a legend. He felt like a boy standing at the edge of a vast, unknown path.

A FEW HOURS LATER

The grand hall of Dragonlord Rubelle’s palace shimmered with the golden light of the setting sun, the towering walls adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and battles long past. At the far end of the hall, on a raised dais, sat Dragonlord Rubelle herself, her presence commanding despite her calm demeanor. Her fiery red hair was streaked with silver, her sharp eyes betraying both wisdom and weariness. Beside her stood her eldest son, Prince Tarus Rubelle, a tall, imposing figure with the same fiery hair and piercing gaze.

The doctor knelt before them, his head bowed in respect. Despite his composure, a bead of sweat trickled down his temple. To stand in the presence of the Dragonlord was an honor, but the gravity of what he was about to report made his stomach churn.

“Doctor Gaius,” Rubelle began, her voice measured but firm. “You were sent to oversee the recovery efforts in the Desmond village. Report.”

“Yes, Your Grace,” Gaius replied, keeping his gaze lowered. “I bring good news. Despite the attack, there were no casualties. Only a few minor injuries were sustained by both civilians and adventurers.”

The Dragonlord leaned back in her throne, letting out a sigh of relief. “Thank the heavens. And what of the dragons?”

“They are no more,” Gaius said carefully. “Both were felled during the confrontation.”

Prince Tarus raised an eyebrow, his arms crossed over his broad chest. “Felled? By whom? I wasn’t aware there were adventurers in Desmond capable of such a feat.”

Gaius hesitated, his words measured. “It was not the adventurers who defeated them, Your Highness.”

Rubelle’s sharp eyes fixed on the doctor. “Then who? Speak plainly.”

“It was…” Gaius paused, choosing his words carefully. “The eldest son of Baron Darian Desmond, Your Grace.”

The hall fell silent, the weight of the statement hanging in the air. Rubelle’s expression darkened, her piercing gaze boring into the doctor. “Explain.”

Gaius took a deep breath, his voice steady as he recounted the events. “Sean Desmond—a boy of thirteen—faced the dragons in the heart of the village. He was unarmed at first but retrieved his father’s sword. During the battle, something extraordinary occurred. He manifested the power of the dragons themselves. Green flames engulfed his body, and scales appeared on his skin. He… overwhelmed the dragons, forcing one to flee and defeating the other outright.”

Tarus scoffed, stepping forward. “A boy? Manifesting dragon flames and scales? Doctor, are you certain you haven’t overworked yourself?”

Gaius raised his head slightly, meeting the prince’s skeptical gaze. “I understand your disbelief, Your Highness. But I witnessed the aftermath with my own eyes. And there’s more.”

Rubelle’s expression remained unreadable, but her hand tightened on the armrest of her throne. “Continue.”

“After the battle, I conducted an evaluation of Sean’s condition. His magic points… exploded from a mere 15 to 499. He now stands among the most powerful individuals in recorded history.”

Both royals froze, the gravity of the revelation hitting them like a thunderclap. Tarus’s brow furrowed, his skepticism replaced by cautious intrigue. “Four hundred and ninety-nine?” he repeated. “That’s… impossible.”

“I assure you, it is true,” Gaius said firmly. “And there is more. Sean Desmond does not wield the power of dragons as a typical Dragonborn does. He has no familiars, no pacts. The power is his own.”

Rubelle rose slowly from her throne, her commanding presence filling the hall. “Doctor Gaius, do you understand the magnitude of what you are saying? If this is true, the boy is not just powerful—he is unprecedented. A being like him could reshape the world.”

“I understand, Your Grace,” Gaius replied. “Which is why I deemed it necessary to inform you immediately.”

Rubelle turned to her son, her eyes narrowing. “Tarus, ready the carriage. We leave for Desmond at once.”

The royal carriage, adorned with the sigil of the Dragonlord—a blazing dragon encircled by a crown of flames—sped through the winding roads toward Desmond. Rubelle and Tarus sat inside, the atmosphere tense with unspoken thoughts.

“You believe him,” Tarus said finally, breaking the silence.

Rubelle’s gaze remained fixed out the window, her expression unreadable. “Doctor Gaius is not prone to exaggeration. If he says the boy’s magic points are 499, then I believe him.”

“But a boy? Manifesting the power of dragons without a pact?” Tarus shook his head. “It defies all logic.”

“Perhaps,” Rubelle said, her tone contemplative. “But the world is vast, and there are mysteries even we do not understand. If what Gaius says is true, Sean Desmond may be the key to something far greater than we can imagine.”

“And if he’s a threat?” Tarus asked, his voice low.

Rubelle’s eyes narrowed. “Then we will deal with him. But I will not act without understanding the full scope of his abilities.”

As the carriage approached the village, the signs of the recent battle were still evident. Scorched earth, toppled fences, and hastily patched buildings spoke of the chaos that had unfolded. Yet the village was bustling with activity, the resilience of its people evident in their efforts to rebuild.

Rubelle and Tarus disembarked, their presence immediately drawing attention. Villagers and adventurers alike paused their work, bowing respectfully as the royals passed.

Darian was waiting at the estate gates, his expression a mixture of surprise and apprehension. He bowed deeply as Rubelle and Tarus approached.

“Your Grace,” he said, his voice steady despite his unease. “It is an honor.”

Rubelle nodded. “Baron Desmond, I have come to speak with your son.”

Darian’s jaw tightened. “He is still recovering, Your Grace. But if you wish to see him, I will bring you to him.”

Sean was sitting in the estate’s study, a book open on the desk before him. Despite his best efforts to focus, his thoughts kept drifting back to the battle, the flames, and the power that now coursed through him. When the door opened and his father entered, flanked by two imposing figures, Sean’s heart sank.

“Sean,” Darian said, his tone gentle but firm. “The Dragonlord wishes to speak with you.”

Sean stood, his gaze flickering to the regal woman and the tall, broad-shouldered man beside her. He swallowed hard, bowing respectfully. “Your Grace. Your Highness.”

Rubelle studied him for a long moment, her sharp eyes assessing every detail. “You are Sean Desmond?”

“Yes, Your Grace,” Sean replied, his voice steady despite his nerves.

“I have heard extraordinary things about you,” Rubelle said. “Doctor Gaius tells me you wield the power of dragons without a pact. Is this true?”

Sean hesitated, his mind racing. Finally, he nodded. “Yes, Your Grace. Though I don’t fully understand it myself.”

Rubelle stepped closer, her gaze piercing. “Then let us see this power for ourselves.”

Sean looked to his father, who gave him a small nod of encouragement. Taking a deep breath, Sean closed his eyes and summoned the flames. Green fire erupted around him, swirling in a controlled, harmonious dance. Scales shimmered across his skin, and his eyes glowed with an inner light.

Rubelle and Tarus exchanged a glance, their skepticism replaced by something far deeper—respect, awe, and perhaps a touch of fear.

“You are indeed extraordinary,” Rubelle said softly. “And you may be the most important being in the Dragonlands.”

Sean extinguished the flames, his shoulders slumping as the energy left him. “I’m just a boy,” he said quietly.

Rubelle placed a hand on his shoulder, her touch surprisingly gentle. “You may be a boy now, Sean Desmond. But one day, you will be a legend.”

As Sean extinguished the green flames and felt his body return to normal, a wave of unease settled over him. His heart raced as memories from his past life surfaced—fragments of books and manga he had devoured late into the night. Stories of powerful protagonists thrust into worlds of politics, manipulation, and schemes. He had read about this exact situation countless times: a sudden surge of power drawing the eyes of those in control, eager to use it for their gain.

They’ll try to use me as a pawn, he thought grimly. Just like in those stories.

As his gaze drifted to the Dragonlord and her son, Sean steeled himself. He wasn’t about to let that happen without speaking his mind.

Rubelle turned to Darian, her expression neutral but thoughtful. “Baron Desmond, your son’s power is a blessing, but it is also a responsibility. He must be prepared for the road ahead.”

Before Darian could respond, Sean took a step forward, his voice cutting through the tension. “Your Grace, is it wrong for me to assume you’ve made this trip to gain favor with me and turn me into a political pawn?”

The room fell deathly silent. Darian’s eyes widened in shock, his hand clenching at his side. Tarus raised an eyebrow, his lips curving into a faint smirk. Rubelle’s expression, however, remained unreadable.

“Sean!” Darian barked, his voice stern. “Show respect!”

But Rubelle held up a hand, silencing him. Her sharp eyes locked onto Sean, her gaze piercing but calm. “You’re bold, Sean Desmond. I admire that. But let me make one thing clear.” She stepped closer, her presence towering despite her calm demeanor. “I am not here to manipulate you. If I wished to, you would not have a choice in the matter.”

Sean held her gaze, refusing to back down. “Then why are you here?”

Rubelle studied him for a moment before sighing, the weight of her years evident in her expression. “I am here because your power changes everything. The balance of this kingdom, the strength of our people—it all hinges on how someone like you is guided. That is why I came, not to control you, but to ensure your power does not become a threat.”

Tarus crossed his arms, his expression less diplomatic. “And because if you go unchecked, you could burn the entire kingdom to the ground.”

Rubelle’s gaze softened as she turned to her son. “Sean, there is another reason for my visit. One that directly affects you.”

Sean frowned, glancing at his father, who seemed just as confused. “What reason?”

“I am stepping down as Dragonlord,” Rubelle said simply.

Both Sean and Darian froze, the weight of her words sinking in. Even Tarus seemed momentarily surprised, though he quickly masked it with his usual stoicism.

“You’re… stepping down?” Sean asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

Rubelle nodded. “I have ruled for over three decades. I have seen wars, peace, prosperity, and hardship. But I am old, Sean. Too old to lead this kingdom through what lies ahead. It is time for new blood, new leadership.” She gestured to Tarus. “My son will take my place as Dragonlord.”

Tarus inclined his head, his expression serious. “The transition is already underway. I will officially take the title within the next month.”

Darian, ever the loyal soldier, bowed deeply. “Your Grace, this is an unexpected announcement. But you have always led us with strength and wisdom. The people will honor you.”

Rubelle waved a hand dismissively. “Spare me the flattery, Baron. My concern now is ensuring that this kingdom is prepared for the future. Which brings me back to your son.”

Tarus stepped forward, his commanding presence filling the room. “Sean Desmond, your power is a gift, but it is also a weapon. If wielded poorly, it will bring ruin. That is why you will join the Dragonspire Royal Academy.”

Sean’s eyes widened. “What?”

“You heard me,” Tarus said firmly. “The academy is the only place equipped to train someone of your potential. Whether you like it or not, you’re going.”

Sean bristled, his fists clenching. “You can’t just order me to leave my home.”

“I can,” Tarus replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. “As the future Dragonlord, it is my duty to ensure the safety of this kingdom. Your power is too great to be left untrained.”

“Sean,” Darian interjected, his voice gentler but no less firm. “Listen to him. Being under the Dragonlord’s protection is a good thing. It will keep you safe and help you control this… gift.”

Sean turned to his father, his frustration evident. “What if I don’t want this ‘gift’? What if I just want to live a normal life?”

Darian placed a hand on his shoulder, his gaze steady. “You may not have chosen this, son, but it’s who you are now. And if you don’t learn to control it, others will suffer.”

Sean’s shoulders sagged, the weight of his father’s words sinking in. He glanced at Rubelle, who was watching him with an unreadable expression.

“Will I still be free to make my own choices?” Sean asked finally, his voice quieter.

Rubelle inclined her head. “You have my word. The academy will train you, but your life remains your own. I have no desire to control you, Sean. Only to guide you.”

Sean took a deep breath, his resolve hardening. “Fine. I’ll go.”

Tarus smirked, satisfied. “Good. Pack your things. We leave in two days.”

As the royals departed the room, Sean remained standing, his mind a whirlwind of emotions. His father placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

“I know this isn’t what you wanted,” Darian said softly. “But sometimes, life doesn’t give us a choice. You have a chance to do something great, Sean. Don’t waste it.”

Sean nodded, though his thoughts remained conflicted. As he stared out the window at the village below, he couldn’t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning.

If they think they can control me, he thought, they’ll be in for a surprise.

The ornate carriage bearing the Dragonlord’s sigil rocked gently as it rolled down the road, the soft clatter of hooves and wheels filling the silence. Inside, Dragonlord Rubelle sat across from her son, Prince Tarus, her hands resting on her lap. Despite the serene exterior, her sharp eyes betrayed the storm of thoughts running through her mind.

Tarus leaned back in his seat, arms crossed and a faint smirk playing on his lips. “The boy’s sharp,” he said, breaking the silence. “Doesn’t beat around the bush. Straight to the point. I like that.”

Rubelle raised an eyebrow, her tone measured. “He is certainly not afraid to speak his mind. That much is clear.”

“I respect him,” Tarus continued. “At thirteen, he’s already more perceptive than most of the nobles I deal with daily. He’s my kind of people.”

Rubelle’s lips quirked into a faint smile. “High praise from you, Tarus. But respect alone doesn’t solve the problem he presents.”

Tarus frowned, sitting up straighter. “Problem? What problem?”

Rubelle fixed her son with a pointed look. “Think, Tarus. You’ve just ensured that Sean Desmond will join the Dragonspire Royal Academy. When we announce his presence, we will also have to announce his extraordinary abilities.”

Tarus waved a hand dismissively. “So what? Let the nobles and merchants gawk. It’ll boost morale. The Academy could use a star pupil.”

Rubelle’s voice hardened, a rare edge creeping into her tone. “It’s not just about gaping admiration. Once word spreads that Sean is the most powerful individual to set foot in the Academy—perhaps in all of recorded history—every noble family, every wealthy merchant with ambitions, will see him as a prize.”

Tarus tilted his head, his expression turning serious. “A prize? How so?”

Rubelle sighed, her fingers drumming lightly on the seat. “Dr. Gaius mentioned that Sean’s offspring are likely to inherit his immense power. Do you realize what that means?”

Tarus’s eyes widened slightly as the implications hit him. “It means every noble family will shove their daughters in his face, hoping to marry into the Desmond line.”

“Exactly,” Rubelle said, her tone grim. “They will see him not as a person, but as a means to strengthen their bloodlines. The political chaos that will follow could destabilize everything.”

Tarus leaned forward, his expression darkening. “So I’ve turned the boy into a double-edged sword. Great. Just great.”

“It’s not entirely your fault,” Rubelle said, though her tone suggested otherwise. “This situation was inevitable the moment his power was revealed. But by placing him in the Academy, we’ve made him the centerpiece of a very dangerous game.”

Tarus rubbed his temples, letting out a frustrated sigh. “And here I thought I was doing the right thing by bringing him into the fold.”

“You still are,” Rubelle said firmly. “Sean needs proper training, and the Academy is the best place for that. But we must tread carefully. If he becomes ensnared in petty noble politics, it could hinder his growth—and worse, create enemies where none exist now.”

For a moment, the carriage was silent as both royals contemplated the situation. Finally, Tarus broke the silence, a sly grin creeping onto his face. “Maybe we can turn this into an advantage.”

Rubelle raised an eyebrow. “Go on.”

“Elizabeth,” Tarus said simply.

Rubelle’s frown deepened. “Your daughter is already betrothed to the youngest prince of the Changeling Empire. It was part of the peace treaty.”

“I know that,” Tarus replied, waving off the objection. “But Elizabeth is smart—sharper than most. She could befriend Sean, earn his trust. If she and her future husband keep an eye on him, they can prevent any… unsavory entanglements.”

Rubelle’s eyes narrowed. “You mean use them as shields to ward off the advances of every other ambitious family.”

“Exactly,” Tarus said with a satisfied nod. “If Sean sees Elizabeth and her husband-to-be as allies, he’ll be less likely to entertain offers from others. And if he respects them, he’ll likely listen to their advice.”

“It’s risky,” Rubelle said, her tone skeptical. “Elizabeth’s husband may not take kindly to the arrangement.”

“He’s a Changeling,” Tarus said bluntly. “They’re adept at diplomacy. If anyone can navigate this, it’s him.”

Rubelle considered the idea, her sharp mind weighing the pros and cons. “It’s not a perfect solution. But it may be the best option we have.”

Rubelle leaned back, her gaze distant as she spoke. “We’ll need to tread carefully with this. Sean is no fool. If he senses manipulation, he may reject the Academy entirely.”

Tarus nodded, his grin fading into a more serious expression. “We’ll frame it as a natural friendship. No pressure, no obligations. Just a bond formed over shared values.”

“And what if Elizabeth doesn’t want to do this?” Rubelle asked pointedly.

Tarus chuckled. “She’s my daughter. If I explain the stakes, she’ll understand. She may not like it, but she’ll do it.”

Rubelle sighed, the weight of the situation settling heavily on her shoulders. “Very well. But remember, Tarus, this boy is not a pawn. If we treat him as such, we risk turning him into an enemy.”

“I understand,” Tarus said, his tone unusually solemn. “But if we play this right, he won’t just be an ally. He’ll be a force for good in this kingdom.”

As the carriage continued its journey back to Magmapolis, both Rubelle and Tarus remained deep in thought. The stakes had never been higher, and the future of the Dragonlands now rested on the shoulders of a thirteen-year-old boy with powers that could reshape the world—or destroy it.

For better or worse, Sean Desmond’s journey was just beginning, and the ripples of his actions would soon spread far beyond the borders of his village.

Two days later, Sean stood at the base of a towering archway that marked the main gates of the Dragonspire Royal Academy, his heart sinking as he gazed at the sprawling campus beyond. Majestic spires reached toward the sky, each adorned with banners bearing the sigil of the Dragonlord—a blazing dragon encircled by a crown of flames. Students streamed through the gates, their chatter filling the air. Most of them were clad in opulent robes or polished armor, their confident strides betraying their noble upbringing.

Why me? Sean thought bitterly, adjusting the simple pack slung over his shoulder. His father had explained the culture of the academy: a breeding ground for noble egos, filled with self-centered heirs who cared little for anyone outside their social circle. Sean could already see it—the sidelong glances, the dismissive whispers. He clenched his fists, resolving to keep his head down.

As he scanned the bustling courtyard, two large, armored men approached him, their heavy boots thudding against the stone pavement. Both wore the crest of the academy on their breastplates—a coiled dragon wrapped around a shield.

“Sean Desmond?” the taller of the two asked, his gruff voice cutting through the noise.

Sean nodded, eyeing them warily. “Yeah. That’s me.”

“I’m Charles De Voer, your homeroom teacher,” the man said, his tone clipped but not unkind. He gestured to his companion. “And this is Spencer Alderweilder, your Physical Education and Battle instructor.”

“Pleasure,” Spencer said with a nod, his lighter tone a stark contrast to Charles’s formality. “Come with us.”

Sean glanced around, noticing that no one seemed to be paying attention to the exchange. He was grateful for the anonymity. His father had warned him about the students here—most came from noble backgrounds and were either too arrogant to care about others or too ambitious to approach without a hidden agenda.

“Alright,” Sean said, following the two men as they led him toward a massive building at the heart of the campus.

The grand auditorium was packed with students, their voices echoing off the high, arched ceilings. Sean felt a twinge of discomfort as he entered, the sheer opulence of the space overwhelming. Intricate carvings of dragons adorned the walls, their eyes set with gemstones that sparkled in the light of chandeliers. Rows of seats stretched out before him, filled with young men and women chatting loudly, their entitlement dripping from every word.

“Did you hear? My father bought me a new spellbook. Only 1,000 gold pieces—practically a bargain.”

“Imagine having to share a carriage. I’d rather walk.”

Sean bit back a groan, finding a seat near the middle of the room. He didn’t want to stand out, but he also didn’t want to be too close to the loudest clusters of nobles. As he settled in, he felt a presence beside him. Turning his head, he saw a girl his age with sharp teal eyes and dark blue hair streaked with lighter blue. Her posture was confident, almost regal, and her expression was one of faint amusement. Beside her sat a boy with soft blue hair, and kind, almost apologetic eyes. Sean’s stomach sank as realization dawned.

“You’re Sean Desmond, aren’t you?” the girl asked, her tone casual but edged with curiosity.

Sean stared at her for a moment before nodding. “And you’re Elizabeth Rubelle. Or should I call you Ember?”

Her eyes widened slightly in surprise, but she quickly recovered, smirking. “So, you’ve heard of me.”

Beside her, the boy spoke, his voice calm and measured. “And I’m Thomas Chevalier. Though I suspect you’ve figured that out too.”

Sean nodded again, his gaze shifting between them. “The Dragonlord’s granddaughter and the youngest prince of the Changeling Empire. It’s hard not to.”

Ember leaned back, crossing her arms. “Smart kid.”

“I try,” Sean said dryly, leaning forward slightly. “And you can tell the Dragonlord not to worry. I have no intention of letting anyone control me. I don’t need babysitters.”

Ember’s smirk vanished, replaced by a flicker of irritation. “Babysitters? Do you have any idea—”

“Ember,” Thomas interrupted gently, placing a hand on her arm. She turned to him, her eyes flashing with anger, but his calm gaze seemed to steady her.

Sean watched the exchange with mild interest. Thomas’s expression wasn’t threatening, but there was a quiet authority in his demeanor that gave even someone like Ember pause. She took a deep breath, her jaw tightening.

“Fine,” she muttered, turning back to Sean. Her eyes narrowed as she forced a strained smile. “Friends, then. I’m sure we’ll get along… splendidly.”

Sean raised an eyebrow, unimpressed by her attempt at diplomacy. “Right.”

Thomas cleared his throat, breaking the awkward silence. “For what it’s worth, Sean, we’re not here to interfere with your life. We just… want to make sure things go smoothly.”

Sean tilted his head, his gaze sharpening. “And by ‘smoothly,’ you mean keeping me from becoming a problem.”

Thomas hesitated but didn’t deny it. “Something like that.”

Sean leaned back in his seat, his expression unreadable. “Well, good luck with that.”

The rest of the ceremony passed in a blur of speeches and introductions, none of which held Sean’s interest. His mind kept returning to Ember and Thomas, their presence a constant reminder of the political web he had been thrust into. As the students filed out of the auditorium, Ember shot him a sideways glance, her expression still tinged with annoyance.

“See you around, Desmond,” she said, her tone clipped.

“Can’t wait,” Sean replied, his voice dripping with sarcasm.

Thomas sighed, shaking his head as he led Ember away. Sean watched them go, a faint smirk tugging at his lips.

This is going to be interesting, he thought. But even as he tried to brush off the encounter, a nagging feeling lingered in the back of his mind.

Ch. 3 The Demon of Dragonspire

Sean adjusted the strap of his bag as he approached the massive doors of the Dragonknight Class, his assigned classroom. The polished wood gleamed under the light of the ornate chandeliers above, the doors flanked by two intricately carved dragon statues that seemed to glare down at him. He let out a quiet sigh, pushing the door open and stepping inside.

The room was abuzz with conversation. Students clustered in small groups, their laughter and chatter filling the air. Sean paused in the doorway, his presence immediately noticed. The room fell silent, all eyes turning to him. The weight of their gazes was suffocating, but Sean refused to let it show. He glanced around at the unfamiliar faces, his emerald eyes sharp and unwavering.

“What?” he said, breaking the silence with a snarky edge. “Something on my face?”

For a moment, there was nothing but stunned silence. Then, as if on cue, the students turned away, resuming their conversations—but this time, their words were pointed and hushed, whispers carrying just loud enough for him to hear.

“Is that the baron’s son?”

“Why is someone like him in the Dragonknight Class?”

“I heard he doesn’t even have a proper title.”

Sean rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath. “Just great.”

As he made his way to an empty seat near the back, a girl with striking pink hair and piercing blue eyes stood from her seat, her movements deliberate and confident. Her curvy figure and flawless features drew the eyes of nearly every student in the room, and she clearly relished the attention. She strode toward Sean with a smirk that bordered on predatory.

“Cynthia Calego,” someone whispered. “Cinders. The marquis’s daughter.”

Sean noticed her approach but pretended not to, setting his bag on the desk and sitting down.

“Well, well,” Cynthia began, her voice dripping with mockery. “I didn’t realize the standards for this class had dropped so low.”

Sean raised an eyebrow, finally looking at her. “Oh? And you are?”

Her smirk widened. “Cynthia Calego, daughter of Marquis Calego. You can call me Cinders. I’ve been practicing magic since I was three, and I have 340 magic points. That makes me the most powerful person in this class.”

Sean leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Congratulations. You want a medal or something?”

Cynthia’s smirk faltered, but she recovered quickly. “I don’t expect someone of your… stature to understand what it means to be truly exceptional.”

Sean tilted his head, feigning curiosity. “Truly exceptional? Is that what they’re calling arrogance these days?”

A few stifled laughs echoed from the back of the room, and Cynthia’s cheeks flushed. “Watch your mouth, baron’s son. I’m leagues above you.”

Sean’s expression didn’t waver. “And yet, here you are, wasting your time talking to me. What’s the matter? Nobody else willing to deal with your ego today?”

The laughter grew louder, and Cynthia’s fists clenched. Before she could retort, the door opened with a loud creak, and a deep voice cut through the room.

“Alright, that’s enough,” said Charles De Voer, the towering figure of their homeroom teacher as he stepped inside. His presence immediately commanded silence. His sharp eyes scanned the room, his expression unreadable. “Everyone to the front. It’s time for introductions.”

The students reluctantly filed to the front of the classroom, forming a loose line. Sean stood near the end, his hands shoved into his pockets as he sized up his classmates.

Charles crossed his arms, his imposing figure looming over the students. “This is the Dragonknight Class. The cream of the crop. Only the best and brightest are allowed here, and each of you has something that sets you apart. Now, let’s hear it. State your name, rank, and a bit about yourself.”

The first student, a boy with dark hair and a sharp jawline, stepped forward. “Gregory Hargrove, but most people call me Garble. My family holds a barony near the Iron Hills. I’ve been training with weapons since I could walk.”

Next was a shy-looking girl with glasses. “Maria Valtor. People call me Maar. My family owns a viscounty near the Verdant Plains. I specialize in wind magic.”

Cynthia was next, striding forward confidently. “Cynthia Calego, daughter of Marquis Calego. I’ve been practicing magic since I was three, and my magic points are 340. It’s an honor to lead this class.”

Sean suppressed a groan, but Cynthia’s smirk widened as if she’d already claimed her throne.

The line continued, with students introducing themselves one by one. Elizabeth Rubelle and Thomas Chevalier stepped forward together, drawing murmurs from the class.

“Elizabeth Rubelle,” she said, her voice clear and strong. “Granddaughter of the Dragonlord, daughter of Prince Tarus Rubelle. I look forward to proving myself as a Dragonknight.”

Thomas followed, his calm demeanor unwavering despite the whispers. “Thomas Chevalier. I am of the Changeling Empire.” He raised his hand, summoning green flames that danced in his palm. “And yes, I too am a Dragonknight.”

The room fell silent for a moment before Charles’s voice broke the tension. “Next.”

Finally, it was Sean’s turn. He stepped forward, his expression neutral. “Sean Desmond, son of Baron Darian Desmond. That’s all you need to know.”

Cynthia rolled her eyes, muttering something under her breath, but Charles silenced her with a look.

Once the introductions were complete, Charles addressed the class. “The Dragonknight Class is not for the faint of heart. You are here because you have shown potential, but potential alone is meaningless without discipline and strength. You will be tested—not just academically, but physically and mentally. Only those who excel will remain.”

He glanced at Sean, his gaze lingering for a moment. “And you will be called upon for military maneuvers as part of your training. I suggest you prepare yourselves.”

Sean met his gaze evenly, his expression unreadable.

“Dismissed,” Charles said, turning toward the desk. “Sean, stay behind.”

As the other students filed out, Cynthia shot Sean a withering glare, but he ignored her. Elizabeth and Thomas gave him a brief nod before leaving as well. When the room was empty, Charles approached Sean, his expression unreadable.

“You’ve made an impression,” Charles said, his tone neutral.

“Not sure if that’s a good thing,” Sean replied.

Charles smirked faintly. “Time will tell. Just remember—this class isn’t about where you come from. It’s about where you’re going. Prove yourself, and even the most arrogant noble will have no choice but to respect you.”

Sean nodded, his resolve hardening. “I plan to.”

The Dragonspire Royal Academy training courtyard was an enormous open space surrounded by tall, weathered stone walls. The ground was packed dirt, hardened from years of use, and divided into sections for various combat and magic exercises. At its center stood a row of tall wooden targets, charred and splintered from countless training sessions.

Sean and his classmates gathered in a loose line as Spencer Alderweilder, their Physical Education and Magic Instructor, strode to the front. His muscular frame and sharp eyes gave him the air of a seasoned warrior, and the massive broadsword strapped to his back only added to his intimidating presence.

“Listen up!” Spencer barked, his voice carrying effortlessly over the murmur of the students. The conversations died instantly. “This is the Dragonknight Class, the best of the best. And if you want to keep that title, you’d better learn to fight like it.”

His gaze swept over the students, lingering on a few who looked particularly nervous. “In this world, power isn’t just something you’re born with—it’s something you wield. You think being born into a noble family makes you strong? Think again. Out there, on the battlefield, your bloodline means nothing if you can’t back it up.”

The students shifted uncomfortably, a few muttering under their breath, but Spencer ignored them.

“Magic,” he continued, his tone sharp, “is the lifeblood of combat. It’s not just about how much power you have—it’s about control, precision, and strategy. You can have 500 magic points, but if you can’t hit your target, you’re as good as useless.”

Spencer began pacing in front of the line, his hands clasped behind his back. “Magic is drawn from the energy within us, amplified by the bonds we form with our dragons. Your familiars strengthen your magic, but they also serve as your partners in combat. Together, you and your familiar create a force greater than the sum of its parts.”

He stopped and turned to face the class. “Today, we’re going to see just how strong each of you is. You will step forward, summon your familiar, and demonstrate your best magic spell. Show me what you’ve got.”

The students exchanged glances, excitement and nervousness flickering in their expressions. Spencer gestured to the first student. “Gregory Hargrove. Step up.”

Gregory, known as Garble, stepped forward, his broad shoulders squared with confidence. He raised his hand, and with a burst of energy, a large red dragon materialized beside him, its scales glinting like molten lava.

“Flame Cannon!” Gregory shouted, his voice echoing across the courtyard. The dragon reared back, flames gathering in its maw before it unleashed a torrent of fire at the target. The blast struck with incredible force, scorching the wood black and sending splinters flying.

Gregory turned back to the group, a smug grin plastered across his face. “Too easy.”

Next was Maria Valtor, or Maar, who summoned a sleek white dragon with translucent wings. She raised her staff, and a powerful gust of wind shot forward, slicing through the air and knocking her target over.

One by one, the students stepped up, each showcasing their magic. Cynthia’s performance drew the most attention—her pink dragon, adorned with shimmering scales, unleashed a blinding stream of light magic that obliterated her target in a flash of brilliance.

Cynthia turned to the group, her gaze locking onto Sean. She smirked, tossing her hair over her shoulder. “Think you can top that, baron’s son?”

Sean, who had been staring at a passing cloud with a bored expression, raised an eyebrow but said nothing. He shoved his hands into his pockets, his disinterest only fueling Cynthia’s irritation.

“Sean Desmond!” Spencer called, his voice cutting through the chatter. “You’re up.”

The students turned to look at him, curiosity and skepticism written all over their faces. Sean let out a quiet sigh, stepping forward with his usual nonchalant demeanor.

“No familiar?” Gregory muttered under his breath, earning a few chuckles from the group.

Sean ignored them, his emerald eyes fixed on the target. He raised his left hand, palm open, and exhaled slowly. For a moment, the courtyard was silent.

Then, without a word, green flames erupted from his hand, surging forward in a controlled yet devastating torrent. The flames engulfed the target, consuming it entirely. When the fire finally dissipated, there was nothing left—not even ash.

The courtyard fell deathly silent, the stunned faces of his classmates a stark contrast to Sean’s calm expression. He lowered his hand, turning back to the group.

“Was that good enough?” he asked, his voice tinged with dry humor.

Cynthia’s smirk vanished, replaced by a mix of shock and indignation. “What… what was that?” she stammered. “That wasn’t even… you didn’t summon—”

“I don’t need a familiar,” Sean said simply, cutting her off. “The power is mine.”

Gregory’s jaw clenched, his fists tightening at his sides. “You think you’re better than us because you’ve got fancy flames?”

Sean shrugged. “I don’t think I’m better. I just don’t care about impressing anyone here.”

Spencer stepped forward, his expression unreadable. “Enough,” he said, his voice firm. “Desmond, that was… unexpected.”

Sean raised an eyebrow. “Good or bad?”

Spencer’s lips twitched into the faintest hint of a smile. “Good. Very good. But don’t let it go to your head. You’re still part of this class, and you’ll be held to the same standards as everyone else.”

Sean nodded, stepping back into the line. The students whispered among themselves, their opinions of him shifting in real time.

As the class continued, Sean remained quiet, letting the others stew in their thoughts. He could feel the weight of their gazes, the mix of curiosity, envy, and unease. Cynthia avoided his eyes, her earlier confidence shaken. Gregory glared at him with barely concealed frustration. Maar, on the other hand, seemed intrigued, stealing glances at him when she thought he wasn’t looking.

By the time the session ended, Sean knew one thing for certain: his presence in the Dragonknight Class had already changed the dynamic, and the games were just beginning.

As the class settled down from the shocking display of Sean’s magic, Instructor Spencer stepped forward, his gaze sweeping over the students. His voice carried a serious undertone. “Let me make one thing clear: magic is not infinite. You may feel powerful now, but the moment your magic runs out, you are vulnerable. And in that moment, you will have two choices: fight or run.”

Gregory, standing near the center of the line, scoffed loudly. “Running is for cowards. A true Dragonborn doesn’t run.”

Several students murmured their agreement, and a few clapped, but none louder than Cynthia. Spencer, seemingly impressed, nodded approvingly. “Well said, Hargrove. A true Dragonborn does not shy away from danger.”

Sean’s lips twitched in faint amusement, but he said nothing. His father had taught him that bravery wasn’t about refusing to run—it was about knowing when to stand your ground and when to retreat. Still, he kept his thoughts to himself, observing the others with quiet interest.

Spencer’s booming voice cut through the murmurs. “Let’s see how well you all fight when your magic isn’t enough. We’ll have a series of sparring matches. Magic allowed, but don’t rely on it. Victory will go to the one who outsmarts their opponent.”

He pointed at two students. “Maria Valtor. Elizabeth Rubelle. You’re first.”

The two girls stepped into the circular combat ring at the center of the courtyard, the dirt floor surrounded by their classmates. Maria summoned her sleek, translucent-winged dragon, which hovered behind her, its wings beating softly. Elizabeth stood tall, her confidence unwavering as she called forth her golden-scaled dragon, which radiated a warm, intimidating glow.

Spencer raised his hand. “Begin!”

Maria launched the first attack, her wind magic swirling around her as she directed sharp gusts toward Elizabeth. Elizabeth countered effortlessly, her dragon roaring as a wall of golden light absorbed the wind. Without missing a beat, Elizabeth charged forward, her dragon following suit. Maria tried to create distance, but Elizabeth’s relentless offense left her with no openings. A final burst of golden energy from Elizabeth’s dragon sent Maria stumbling back, disarmed and defeated.

Spencer clapped his hands once. “Winner: Elizabeth Rubelle.”

The class cheered, some genuinely impressed, others muttering about Elizabeth’s noble blood ensuring her victory. Sean noted Elizabeth’s calculated movements and precision—she wasn’t just powerful; she was smart.

Next were Gregory and Thomas. Gregory’s molten-red dragon loomed over the field, its fiery breath making the air around it shimmer with heat. Thomas, calm as ever, summoned his Changeling flames, his pale green dragon exuding a cool, eerie aura.

“Begin!” Spencer shouted.

Gregory charged immediately, his dragon spewing flames that engulfed the battlefield. But Thomas was quick, dodging gracefully and retaliating with bursts of green fire. The class murmured in surprise at Thomas’s agility, his ability to weave around Gregory’s brute strength. However, Gregory’s raw power was undeniable. A powerful swing from his molten-red dragon’s tail sent Thomas sprawling, his flames extinguished.

“Winner: Gregory Hargrove,” Spencer announced, though he added with a nod to Thomas, “Impressive work, Chevalier. Quick thinking.”

Gregory smirked, but Thomas took his defeat gracefully, dusting himself off and returning to the group.

The courtyard buzzed with anticipation as Cynthia stepped forward, her pink dragon glowing brilliantly behind her. She smirked at Sean, who still stood near the back of the group, his hands in his pockets.

“Well, baron’s son,” she called, her voice laced with challenge. “Let’s see if you’re as impressive in battle as you think you are.”

Sean raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable. “Alright,” he said simply, stepping into the ring. The class grew quiet, every eye on him.

“Begin!” Spencer’s voice rang out.

Cynthia wasted no time. “Morph!” she shouted, her dragon dissolving into a shimmering pink light that enveloped her body. In moments, she stood clad in radiant dragon armor, a sword in one hand and a shield in the other. She radiated power, her every movement deliberate and precise.

Sean, however, remained calm. As Cynthia charged, he raised his hand, green flames sparking to life. The flames coiled around him, spreading across his arms and legs as purple scales erupted over his skin. The transformation was instantaneous, and the result was breathtaking.

Sean stood like an otherworldly figure, his flames crackling with an eerie green light. His scales shimmered with a metallic sheen, and his eyes glowed with an intensity that made the students step back involuntarily. Even Spencer’s jaw dropped, and he fell to his knees, murmuring a quiet verse:

“Behold the Embodiment of Power,
The flames that burn but never tire,
The scales of fate, the strength of gods,
A force unyielding, against all odds.”

Only Gregory remained unfazed, his expression hardening. “So, he’s my new rival,” he muttered to himself.

Cynthia lunged, her sword aimed directly at Sean’s chest. The blade struck true—but bounced harmlessly off his scales. She swung again and again, her attacks growing more desperate as they glanced off him without effect. Sean didn’t move, his expression calm as he watched her tire herself out.

“Why… won’t you fight back?” Cynthia panted, stepping back to catch her breath.

“You’re not a threat,” Sean said simply, his tone devoid of arrogance or malice. “But you’re determined. I’ll give you that.”

Cynthia gritted her teeth, rallying her strength for another attack. But as she turned to face him, her heart stopped. Sean was gone.

Her eyes darted around the ring, searching for him. Then, a shadow fell over her. She looked up just in time to see him lunging toward her, his left hand glowing like a green comet, aimed straight for her face. In that moment, she saw only death.

A massive gust of wind hit her, and she closed her eyes, bracing for impact. But nothing came. When she opened her eyes, Sean’s fist was inches from her face, his head tilted slightly as he whispered in her ear:

“Checkmate.”

The word sent a chill down her spine, and her legs gave out beneath her. She dropped to her knees, defeated, her armor dissolving as her magic ran out.

Sean straightened, his flames and scales fading as he stepped out of the ring. The class was silent, every student processing what they had just witnessed. Cynthia sat on the ground, pale and trembling, unable to meet his gaze.

Spencer finally found his voice. “Class dismissed,” he said, his tone shaky. “You’ve all got a lot to think about.”

As the students began to disperse, Elizabeth and Thomas approached Sean. “That was… something,” Elizabeth said cautiously.

“Just another day,” Sean replied, his tone light but his expression serious. He glanced back at Cynthia, who was still sitting in the ring. “She’ll recover. Hopefully smarter.”

Thomas chuckled softly. “You’ve certainly made an impression.”

“Let’s hope it’s the right one,” Sean said, walking away with them. As the three of them left the courtyard, the weight of Sean’s newfound power lingered in the air, a silent reminder of the force he had become.

LATER THAT NIGHT

The warm water of the tub rippled gently around Cynthia as she sat in silence, her pink hair clinging to her shoulders. The heat of the bath didn’t compare to the heat in her cheeks as she replayed the events of the day in her mind. No matter how much she tried to push it away, the image of Sean lunging at her, his body wreathed in ethereal green flames and purple scales, refused to leave her thoughts.

He looked… otherworldly, she thought, biting her lip. The memory of his whispered “Checkmate” sent a shiver down her spine.

Her frustration mounted as she splashed water onto her face, trying to cool the unfamiliar heat that seemed to spread through her. Her mother’s words echoed in her mind, unbidden: “When you find the one, you’ll know. There’ll be signs.”

Cynthia’s eyes widened. Was this what her mother had meant? Her heart raced as realization dawned. No way… Could he be?

Suddenly, a determined smile broke across her face. She stood abruptly, water sloshing over the edges of the tub, and grabbed a towel. “That’s it,” she muttered, her confidence returning. “Sean Desmond, you don’t know it yet, but you’re going to be mine.”

The classroom buzzed with chatter as students filed in for the day. Cynthia paused outside the door, smoothing her uniform and steeling herself. She was determined to make her intentions known, but as she stepped inside, she was met with an unexpected sight.

Everyone’s attention was focused on one side of the room, where Sean stood near the large second-floor windows, looking out at the courtyard below. The sunlight poured through the glass, casting a golden glow around him. His new academy uniform, tailored to fit his frame, accentuated his broad shoulders and muscular build. His expression was calm, almost contemplative, but there was an intensity in his gaze that made him seem untouchable.

Cynthia’s heart skipped a beat. Around her, other girls whispered excitedly.

“He looks like a prince!”
“More like a god… Look at him.”
“I wonder if he has a girlfriend?”

Cynthia’s fists clenched at their comments, a surge of irritation bubbling within her. But when she turned back toward Sean, he was gone. She blinked in surprise, scanning the room, but he was nowhere to be seen. How does he do that? she thought, frustrated.

When Cynthia reached her desk, she found herself in the middle of yet another bizarre scene. Sean was surrounded by classmates, all vying for his attention. Some offered compliments, others tried to boast about their own achievements, and a few subtly hinted at alliances.

Gregory stood off to the side, his arms crossed and his expression serious. “You’re my rival, Desmond. Get used to it,” he declared loudly.

Elizabeth and Thomas, meanwhile, were tucked into a corner, engrossed in their own world. Elizabeth giggled softly as Thomas whispered something into her ear before leaning in to kiss her. Cynthia rolled her eyes at the display but quickly refocused her attention on Sean.

Without hesitation, Cynthia strode across the room, her head held high and her heels clicking sharply against the floor. Ignoring the murmurs around her, she reached Sean, grabbed his wrist, and tugged him toward the front of the class.

“Cynthia, what are you doing?” Sean asked, raising an eyebrow but allowing himself to be pulled forward.

“Just follow me,” she said curtly, her determination unwavering.

The chatter in the room died down as everyone turned to watch. Even Elizabeth and Thomas paused their make-out session, looking on in confusion. The room fell silent as Cynthia stood at the front of the class, Sean at her side.

Taking a deep breath, Cynthia squared her shoulders and announced loudly, “I, Cynthia Elizabeth Calego, daughter of Marquis Armand Calego, have decided that Sean Desmond will be my husband!”

The reaction was immediate and explosive. Gasps echoed through the room, followed by murmurs of shock and disbelief. Thomas and Elizabeth exchanged wide-eyed glances, their moment of intimacy entirely forgotten. Even Gregory, who had been steadfast in his rivalry, raised an eyebrow in surprise.

The loudest reaction, however, came from the homeroom teacher. Charles De Voer, who had just entered the room, dropped his books with a loud thud. “Excuse me, what?” he stammered, his usually composed demeanor shattered.

Sean, meanwhile, remained completely unfazed. He looked at Cynthia with the same calm, unreadable expression he always wore. “Not happening,” he said simply, pulling his wrist free and walking back to his seat.

Cynthia’s jaw dropped as her face turned beet red, her anger bubbling over. “I WON’T GIVE UP!” she shouted, stomping her foot. “I WILL MARRY YOU, SEAN DESMOND!”

The room was stunned into silence once more. Charles rubbed his temples, muttering something about needing a strong drink before continuing the lesson.

Sean sat back in his seat, ignoring the stares and whispers that followed him. Cynthia, still fuming, returned to her seat with a determined glint in her eye, refusing to let his rejection deter her.

Elizabeth and Thomas, now fully engaged in the drama, exchanged amused glances. “Well,” Elizabeth whispered, “this is going to be interesting.”

Thomas smirked. “Very. I almost feel bad for him… Almost.”

As the lesson began, Sean leaned back in his chair, letting out a quiet sigh. This place just keeps getting weirder, he thought, already bracing himself for whatever chaos Cynthia would bring next.

LATER THAT NIGHT

Elizabeth sat in the grand study of Dragonlord Rubelle’s palace, her posture tense as she recounted the day’s events. The room was dimly lit, the flickering light of a single lantern casting long shadows over the shelves lined with ancient tomes and scrolls. Rubelle sat behind a large mahogany desk, her sharp eyes fixed on her granddaughter, while Tarus leaned against the wall, his arms crossed and his expression grim.

“And then,” Elizabeth said, her voice tinged with both amusement and frustration, “Cynthia declared in front of the entire class that Sean would be her husband. She was loud, dramatic, and completely ignored his rejection.”

Rubelle’s gaze darkened, her fingers tapping rhythmically against the desk. “And Sean? How did he respond?”

Elizabeth smirked slightly. “He told her, ‘Not happening,’ and walked away. Honestly, he didn’t take her seriously at all.”

Tarus pushed off the wall, his expression hardening. “That may be true now, but this is far more serious than you realize.”

Elizabeth frowned, tilting her head. “How so? Sean clearly has no interest in her.”

“It’s not about his interest,” Tarus said, his voice low but intense. “It’s about hers. Cynthia Calego isn’t acting on her own whim. Her father, Marquis Armand Calego, is one of the most ambitious men in the Dragonlands. He’s been trying to consolidate power for years.”

Rubelle nodded, her expression grim. “Armand has always resented my decision to invoke the Kravtos Law.”

Elizabeth furrowed her brow. “The Kravtos Law? That’s the one that lets you pass your title to your children, right?”

“Precisely,” Rubelle said. “Before the law, the position of Dragonlord was chosen by the Council of Nobles, a process rife with political maneuvering and corruption. By invoking Kravtos, I ensured that the title would remain within our family, solidifying the Dragonlord as true royalty.”

“And angering the nobles in the process,” Tarus added. “Especially Armand. He’s one of the loudest critics of the decision, though he’s careful to keep his true sentiments veiled. There’s even a rumor that he leads a separatist movement among the nobles.”

Elizabeth’s eyes widened. “Separatists? Are you saying he wants to overthrow the Dragonlord?”

“Not directly,” Tarus said, his tone sharp. “Armand is cunning. He wouldn’t dare act openly unless he had overwhelming support. But if Cynthia somehow managed to marry Sean—or worse, bear his child—it would give him the leverage he needs to rally the nobles behind him.”

Rubelle leaned forward, her voice heavy with concern. “Imagine this, Elizabeth: the Marquis paints Sean as the rightful heir to the Dragonlands, a symbol of unity and strength, someone more ‘worthy’ of the title than your father. With Sean’s unmatched power and the bloodline of the Calegos, the separatist movement would become unstoppable.”

Elizabeth sat back, stunned. “But Sean wouldn’t let that happen. He doesn’t want to be controlled, let alone become a pawn in someone else’s scheme.”

Tarus sighed. “That may be true now, but people change. Armand doesn’t need Sean to agree with him. He just needs a reason to push the narrative. If Cynthia’s involvement gives him that, it could plunge the Dragonlands into civil war.”

Elizabeth’s mind raced as the gravity of the situation sank in. “So… Cynthia’s declaration wasn’t just a schoolyard crush. It was a move on a chessboard.”

“Exactly,” Rubelle said, her tone cold. “And it’s not just Cynthia you need to worry about. Now that Sean’s power is known, every ambitious noble and wealthy agent will be sending their daughters to seduce him. They won’t stop until one of them succeeds.”

Elizabeth clenched her fists, anger bubbling to the surface. “That’s ridiculous! Sean’s not some prize to be won!”

“Tell that to the nobles,” Tarus said dryly. “To them, he’s not a person. He’s a weapon, a key to power.”

Elizabeth’s frustration was palpable. “What can we do? We can’t control who interacts with him, and we can’t stop him from living his life.”

Rubelle’s expression softened slightly. “No, we cannot. But we can guide him. That’s why you and Thomas are there—to be his allies, his friends. You must ensure that he remains grounded, that he doesn’t fall prey to the schemes of others.”

“And if he does?” Elizabeth asked, her voice trembling with uncertainty.

Tarus’s gaze hardened. “Then we’ll have a much bigger problem on our hands.”

Rubelle rose from her chair, her presence commanding as she looked down at her granddaughter. “Elizabeth, this is why we sent you to the academy. You’re not just there to study or to strengthen our family’s bonds with the Changelings. You’re there to protect the future of the Dragonlands.”

Elizabeth swallowed hard, the weight of the responsibility pressing down on her. “I understand, Grandmother.”

“Good,” Rubelle said, her tone firm but not unkind. “Keep an eye on Sean. And remember, his decisions may shape the future of our kingdom.”

As Elizabeth left the study, her thoughts swirled with everything she had learned. The stakes were far higher than she had imagined, and the seemingly simple task of befriending Sean had turned into a complex, high-stakes mission.

When she reached her room, Thomas was waiting for her, lounging on a chair with his usual easygoing demeanor. He raised an eyebrow at her troubled expression. “Rough meeting?”

“You could say that,” Elizabeth muttered, flopping onto the bed. “Apparently, Sean isn’t just some powerful kid. He’s the centerpiece of a political powder keg.”

Thomas tilted his head, intrigued. “Care to elaborate?”

Elizabeth recounted the conversation with her grandmother and father, her frustration spilling out as she spoke. When she finished, Thomas let out a low whistle.

“Well,” he said, “that explains a lot. No wonder Cynthia’s so determined.”

Elizabeth groaned, burying her face in her hands. “This is going to be a nightmare.”

Thomas chuckled, moving to sit beside her. “Look at it this way: at least we’re in the middle of history being made.”

Elizabeth shot him a withering glare. “That’s not comforting.”

Thomas leaned back, his smile softening. “Don’t worry, Liz. We’ll figure this out. Sean’s stubborn, sure, but he’s not stupid. And as long as we’re by his side, we can keep him out of trouble.”

Elizabeth nodded, though her unease remained. Sean Desmond, she thought, you have no idea how much the future depends on you.

Ch. 4 Trials and Tribulations

The class gathered at the edge of the Trial Grounds, a sprawling, enchanted forest that stretched far beyond the academy walls. The morning sun cast long shadows over the trees, their ancient branches twisting like the arms of some slumbering beast. Nervous chatter filled the air as students speculated about what awaited them.

Sean stood slightly apart from the group, adjusting his gloves and leaning against a tree with his usual air of disinterest. His peace was interrupted by the sound of someone clearing their throat.

“Sean?” Cynthia’s voice was softer than usual.

He glanced over to see her holding out a small wooden tray laden with a neatly wrapped sandwich and a flask of water. Her cheeks were pink, but her confident smirk remained firmly in place. “I, uh… thought you might need this. For the trial.”

Sean raised an eyebrow, bemused. “Food? For me?”

“Well, you’ll need energy, won’t you?” she said, shifting her weight slightly. “And besides, someone has to look out for you.”

The class fell quiet as everyone turned to watch. Whispers broke out immediately.

“Did she just—?”
“Wait, is that for Sean?”
“And he’s… smiling?”

Indeed, Sean’s lips curled into a rare smile as he accepted the tray. “Thanks, Cynthia. This’ll come in handy.”

Her heart skipped a beat at the sight of his grin. Before she could fully process the moment, Sean reached into his belt pouch and pulled out a gleaming Dragonclaw dagger, its hilt carved to resemble dragon scales, with a faint emerald glow radiating from the blade.

“Here,” Sean said, holding it out to her. “I made this in forging class. It’s yours.”

Cynthia stared at the dagger, her breath catching. “You… made this? For me?”

Sean shrugged. “Figured you’d like it. It’s good craftsmanship.”

Cynthia’s fingers trembled as she took the weapon. Her voice barely above a whisper, she said, “Thank you, Sean.”

The rest of the class gawked in stunned silence, unable to believe what they were seeing. Even Gregory, who rarely cared about such things, muttered, “What the hell is going on here?”

Elizabeth, standing nearby, narrowed her eyes. “Unbelievable,” she whispered.

The Instructor’s Explanation

Instructor Spencer Alderweilder arrived moments later, his commanding presence silencing the murmurs. He stepped forward, his leather armor creaking as he moved, and addressed the students.

“Listen up!” he barked, his voice sharp and firm. “Today’s trial is a test of your abilities, your wits, and your teamwork—or lack thereof.”

He gestured toward the forest. “The Trial Grounds are enchanted. Inside, you’ll face traps, magical constructs, and puzzles designed to challenge even the most skilled among you. Your goal is to retrieve a relic hidden deep within the grounds and return it here. Simple enough, right?”

The students murmured their understanding, though the tension in the air was palpable.

Spencer raised a hand. “You may choose to go in alone or in groups. Those of you who think you’re strong enough to handle it on your own… be my guest. But remember: overconfidence can be your undoing.”

Sean crossed his arms, glancing toward the forest. Peace and quiet sounds nice right about now.

Meanwhile, Cynthia was barely listening, her attention entirely focused on the Dragonclaw dagger in her hand. She turned it over repeatedly, admiring the craftsmanship and the faint glow of the blade. Her thoughts raced.

Does this mean something? Is this… a gift? Like, a real gift?

Elizabeth Confronts Cynthia

As the students discussed their plans, Elizabeth pulled Cynthia aside, her expression serious. “We need to talk.”

Cynthia blinked, confused. “About what?”

Elizabeth crossed her arms. “About you and Sean.”

“What about us?” Cynthia asked, her tone defensive.

Elizabeth sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. “Cynthia, you’ve got to stop this. The flirting, the gifts, the… whatever this is.” She gestured toward the dagger in Cynthia’s hand. “It’s embarrassing.”

Cynthia’s eyes narrowed. “Embarrassing? For who? You?”

“For you,” Elizabeth snapped. “Sean isn’t interested, Cynthia. He doesn’t care about noble titles or betrothals or any of the nonsense you’re pushing on him.”

“You don’t know that,” Cynthia said defiantly. “He gave me this dagger, didn’t he? That has to mean something.”

Elizabeth groaned. “He gave you the dagger because he’s nice, not because he’s falling for you. Sean doesn’t think like that.”

Cynthia’s grip on the dagger tightened. “You don’t know how he thinks. And I’ll prove you wrong. Sean is different, Elizabeth. He’s special. And I’m not going to give up.”

Elizabeth stared at her, incredulous. “You’re hopeless.”

“Maybe,” Cynthia said, her voice firm. “But I know what I want. And I’ll fight for it.”

Elizabeth shook her head, muttering, “You’re delusional.” She turned on her heel and walked away, leaving Cynthia alone with her thoughts.

Sean’s Decision

Back at the group, Spencer called for volunteers to go in alone. Sean raised his hand, his calm expression drawing immediate attention.

“You’re going solo, Desmond?” Spencer asked.

Sean nodded. “Yeah. I could use the quiet.”

The students exchanged murmurs, some impressed, others skeptical. Gregory smirked. “He’s just trying to show off.”

Maar tilted her head. “Or he’s just tired of all of us.”

Sean ignored them, stepping toward the entrance of the forest. As he passed Cynthia, she called out, “Be careful in there.”

He glanced back at her and gave a small nod. “I’ll be fine.”

Cynthia watched him disappear into the trees, her determination solidifying. I’ll prove myself to you, Sean Desmond. Just wait.

As the trial began, Sean ventured into the forest alone, his mind on the peace and quiet ahead—unaware of the chaos his actions would soon stir.

Sean moved silently through the dense undergrowth, his boots crunching lightly against the forest floor. The air was cool and damp, the faint sounds of birds and rustling leaves creating a deceptive calm. He appreciated the quiet—it was a rare reprieve from the noise of his classmates.

Soon, he arrived at a clearing where a stone pedestal stood at its center. On the pedestal was a carved stone tablet inscribed with symbols that glowed faintly in the dim light. Surrounding the pedestal were six smaller stones, each marked with a similar glowing rune.

Sean approached cautiously, his eyes scanning the setup. A faint hum of magic radiated from the pedestal, confirming his suspicion. “A puzzle,” he muttered to himself. “Figures.”

Engraved on the central stone tablet was a riddle:

"The sun’s rise begins the day,
The moon’s fall lights the way.
Place the runes in proper line,
To unlock the ancient sign."

Sean rubbed his chin, studying the runes on the smaller stones. Each symbol represented a celestial body: the sun, the moon, stars, clouds, and two others he didn’t recognize at first glance.

“Easy enough,” he said, aligning the stones in the order of a typical day: sun, clouds, stars, and moon.

The stones pulsed briefly before a low rumble shook the clearing. The runes glowed brighter, and the pedestal split in half, revealing a glowing path leading deeper into the forest.

“Too easy,” Sean muttered, stepping forward.

As Sean followed the glowing path, the air grew warmer, almost stifling. The faint hum of magic grew louder, and soon he entered another clearing. This one was larger, surrounded by jagged stone spires.

At its center stood a massive magic construct, a hulking beast with the appearance of a dragon. Its body was made of enchanted stone, and glowing runes pulsed along its wings and tail. The construct’s eyes ignited with a fiery glow as it turned its head toward Sean.

“Great,” Sean said, rolling his shoulders. “A fake dragon.”

The construct roared, its sound a cacophony of grinding stone and crackling magic. It lunged at Sean, its claws leaving deep gouges in the earth as it charged.

Sean dodged easily, green flames sparking to life in his hands. With a flick of his wrist, he sent a wave of fire toward the construct. The flames struck its chest, leaving scorch marks but doing little to slow it down.

“Not enough, huh?” Sean muttered, dodging another swipe of its claws.

The construct opened its mouth, unleashing a torrent of magical energy that scorched the ground where Sean had been standing. He leapt to the side, his flames intensifying.

“Let’s see how you like this.”

Sean lunged forward, his fists engulfed in green fire. He aimed for the glowing runes on the construct’s chest, where its core was likely housed. His flames burned brighter as he struck, the impact shattering the stone and disrupting the construct’s magic.

The beast let out a final roar before collapsing into rubble, its magic dissipating into the air.

Sean dusted off his hands, stepping over the debris. “Impressive, but still not enough.”

The path led Sean to the edge of a dense thicket of trees, their branches twisting together to form a tunnel. The entrance radiated an ominous energy, and faint whispers seemed to emanate from within.

Sean hesitated, his instincts warning him of danger. “Now this looks like a real challenge.”

He stepped inside, the temperature dropping instantly. The world around him darkened as the tunnel twisted into a labyrinth of shifting shadows. The whispers grew louder, forming unintelligible words that clawed at his mind.

The first challenge came quickly—a shadowy figure emerged from the darkness, its form constantly shifting and reforming. It lunged at Sean, its movements quick and erratic.

Sean summoned his flames, their light pushing back the shadows. He struck the figure, his fire consuming it instantly. But as soon as it dissipated, another appeared, then another.

“Endless enemies?” Sean muttered, his voice steady. “Fine. Let’s try something else.”

He closed his eyes, focusing on the source of the whispers. His flames dimmed, and his breathing slowed. The shadows pressed in, but Sean remained calm.

A faint glow appeared in the distance—a beacon guiding him through the labyrinth. He moved toward it, ignoring the shadowy figures that tried to block his path. His flames burned only when necessary, their heat keeping the darkness at bay.

As he reached the beacon, the whispers coalesced into a single voice: “Prove your worth, or be consumed.”

The ground beneath him shifted, and a massive shadow dragon rose from the darkness. Its form was monstrous, its eyes glowing with malevolent energy.

Sean’s green flames erupted, enveloping his body and forming a protective aura. “Let’s dance.”

The battle was intense. The shadow dragon was faster and more cunning than the construct, its attacks aiming not just for Sean’s body but his mind. It created illusions of his classmates, his family, and his own death, trying to break his focus.

But Sean held firm, his flames growing brighter with every strike. He aimed for the dragon’s core, a swirling mass of darkness in its chest.

With a final, earth-shaking blow, Sean’s flames pierced the core, shattering the dragon into fragments of light and shadow. The labyrinth dissolved around him, leaving him standing in a serene grove.

At the center of the grove was the relic—a crystalline orb glowing with a soft, golden light.

Sean picked it up, examining it briefly. “Finally.”

Instead of returning to the starting point, Sean looked around the grove, his curiosity piqued. The forest was alive with faint magical energy, and he could sense that there was more to it than the trials.

He pocketed the relic and turned toward a faint glimmer in the distance. “Let’s see what else is out here,” he said to himself, disappearing into the trees.

As he ventured deeper into the forest, the trials behind him, Sean couldn’t shake the feeling that he was being watched—and that the true challenge had only just begun.

Sean walked through the forest, his hands filled with an assortment of flowers and weeds he had been collecting for his Botanist class. The vibrant purples, reds, and greens of the plants added a rare splash of color to the otherwise muted forest, and he carefully tucked each one into his satchel.

The tranquility was broken by a loud boom that reverberated through the air. Sean froze, his senses immediately on high alert. Turning toward the sound, he saw a massive plume of black smoke rising into the sky from a nearby valley. The ground beneath him trembled slightly as another boom echoed.

A chill ran down his spine. That can’t be good.

Abandoning his collection, Sean took off toward the source of the disturbance, weaving through the dense forest with practiced agility. As he drew closer, the sounds of battle reached his ears—shouts, roars, and the unmistakable clash of magic.

The Valley

Sean emerged from the treeline onto the edge of a massive valley. The sight before him made his heart skip a beat.

In the center of the valley stood a Dragyte, a monstrous fusion of a wyvern and a dragon, its decaying flesh and glowing red eyes making it a horrific sight. The beast was enormous, its wings torn but still functional, its body covered in jagged scales and exposed bone. A foul, necrotic energy radiated from it, warping the air around it.

Five of his classmates were scattered across the battlefield. Gregory lay unconscious near a boulder, his dragon familiar shielding him with its battered wings. Maria was on her knees, clutching her side as blood seeped through her uniform. Cyle and Frederick were trying to pull her to safety, their faces pale with fear.

At the center of the chaos stood Cynthia. Her pink dragon familiar circled the Dragyte, blasting it with bursts of light magic, while Cynthia herself wielded Sean’s Dragonclaw dagger, its emerald glow bright against the darkened battlefield. She was battered and bruised, her breathing labored, but she stood her ground, defiance burning in her eyes.

Sean’s stomach tightened as the Dragyte let out a bone-chilling roar, swiping at Cynthia with its massive claw. She dodged, barely, her dagger grazing the beast’s scales but doing little damage.

That thing’s a Calamity SS rank, Sean thought, his fists clenching. Even experienced warriors struggle with something like this.

He hesitated for a fraction of a second, fear tugging at the edges of his mind. But then he saw Cynthia falter, her legs trembling as she barely managed to avoid another strike.

No choice.

Sean summoned his flames, green fire erupting around him as his purple scales returned. The air around him shimmered with heat as he leapt from the edge of the valley, landing between Cynthia and the Dragyte with a thundering crash.

The Fight Begins

Cynthia’s eyes widened as Sean appeared in front of her, his back to her as he faced the towering beast. “Sean?! What are you doing here?”

“Saving your ass, apparently,” Sean said without turning around. His voice was calm, but his flames burned brighter as he stepped forward. “Get the others out of here.”

Cynthia gritted her teeth. “I’m not leaving! I can—”

“You can barely stand,” Sean interrupted, glancing back at her. His emerald eyes were fierce but steady. “Trust me. I’ve got this.”

The Dragyte roared, its red eyes locking onto Sean as if sensing the challenge. It lunged forward, its decaying wings creating a gust of foul wind that knocked Cynthia off her feet. Sean didn’t flinch, raising a hand and blasting the beast with a torrent of green fire. The flames struck the Dragyte’s chest, scorching its decaying flesh and forcing it to stagger back.

“Come on, you overgrown corpse,” Sean muttered, his voice low and steady. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

A Clash of Titans

The Dragyte charged, its claws raking through the air with deadly precision. Sean dodged, his movements fluid and controlled, and countered with a punch that sent a wave of green fire cascading over the beast’s side. The flames burned away more of its rotting flesh, revealing the glowing red runes etched into its bones.

“So that’s what’s keeping you alive,” Sean muttered, his gaze narrowing. “Figures.”

The Dragyte retaliated with a swipe of its tail, the force of the blow creating a shockwave that shook the valley, Sean was sent flying into a nearby hill.

“SEAN!” Cynthia called out

Moments later, Sean staggered out of the crater, he had blocked the attack with his arm, his scales absorbing the impact.

Cynthia, still clutching the dagger, scrambled to her feet. “Sean, watch out!” she shouted as the Dragyte opened its maw, unleashing a blast of necrotic energy.

Sean planted his feet, crossing his arms as a barrier of green flames erupted around him. The necrotic blast struck the barrier, dissipating into harmless wisps of smoke. Sean smirked, lowering his arms. “You’re going to have to try harder than that.”

Sean leapt onto the Dragyte’s back, his flames burning a path as he climbed toward its head. The beast roared in fury, thrashing and trying to dislodge him, but Sean held firm. He reached the base of its neck, where the largest rune glowed ominously.

“This is it,” Sean muttered, his hand igniting with green fire. “Time to end this.”

He drove his fist into the rune, his flames surging into the beast. The Dragyte let out a deafening roar, its body convulsing as the magic sustaining it began to unravel. The runes along its body flickered, then shattered, releasing bursts of dark energy.

The Dragyte collapsed, its massive body crumpling into a heap of lifeless flesh and bone. Sean jumped down, crash landing from the excessive tiredness he was experiencing as the flames around him began to subside.

Cynthia rushed over, her eyes wide with a mix of awe and relief. “Sean… you…”

“I told you I had it,” Sean said, his voice tinged with exhaustion but still steady. He glanced at her, his gaze softening slightly. “Are you okay?”

Cynthia nodded, clutching the dagger tightly. “Thanks to you.”

Behind them, Maria, Gregory, Cyle, and Frederick began to stir, their injuries evident but not life-threatening. Sean turned to the group, his expression firm. “Get them back to the academy. They need medical attention… and get a teacher,”

“What about you?” Cynthia asked.

Sean looked back toward the forest, his expression unreadable. “I’m not done here yet.”

As Cynthia helped the others to their feet, Sean stood over the Dragyte’s crumpled body, he felt something odd—an undercurrent of magic still lingering in the air. It wasn’t coming from the beast itself, but from the shattered runes that had powered it. His sharp green eyes scanned the area, his mind narrowing in on the faint pulse of energy that seemed to stretch out like a beacon, leading deeper into the forest.

Something’s off. That thing didn’t get here on its own.

Pocketing the broken rune he’d retrieved from the Dragyte, Sean followed the magical trail, his movements swift and silent. The deeper he went, the stronger the signal became, tugging at him like an unseen force. After several minutes, he reached a high cliff overlooking a jagged valley. The signal seemed to stop here.

That’s when he saw the figure.

The Hooded Stranger

At the edge of the cliff, a hooded figure stood, their dark cloak billowing in the wind. Sean froze, his instincts screaming at him to be cautious. The figure turned their head slightly, as if sensing Sean’s presence, and then bolted toward the forest edge.

“Oh no, you don’t,” Sean muttered, summoning green flames to his feet and propelling himself forward. He darted after the figure, his enhanced speed narrowing the distance between them.

The chase was intense. The figure was agile, using magic to vault over obstacles and create barriers to slow Sean down. A shimmering wall of force materialized in his path, but Sean blasted through it with a surge of fire, his determination unwavering.

“Stop running!” Sean shouted, his voice echoing through the trees.

The figure responded by casting another spell. Thick vines erupted from the ground, ensnaring Sean’s legs and halting his momentum. He struggled against the bindings, flames erupting from his hands to burn through them, but by the time he broke free, the figure was gone.

Sean stood in silence, his breathing heavy. His fists clenched at his sides as he looked out into the dense forest. Who the hell was that? he thought, frustration gnawing at him. And what were they doing with a Dragyte?

Reinforcements Arrive

Minutes later, Sean returned to the clearing where the Dragyte had fallen. The sound of voices reached his ears, growing louder as he stepped out of the trees. Cynthia was standing with a group of teachers, academy guards, and adventurers, all of them focused on the remains of the beast. Her face lit up with relief when she saw Sean.

“There he is!” Cynthia called, running toward him. “Sean! Are you okay?”

Sean raised an eyebrow, his expression unamused as he gestured to the mud and dirt covering him. “Do I look okay?”

Before Cynthia could respond, the headmaster stepped forward. Lady Sylvara Drakemantle was an imposing woman with flowing silver hair and piercing violet eyes. Her presence commanded respect, and the adventurer’s guild emblem emblazoned on her robes marked her as both the leader of the academy and a legendary S-rank adventurer in her own right.

Sylvara studied the scene with a mixture of confusion and concern. “A Dragyte,” she said, her voice low. “How is this possible? This area of the forest is supposed to be a safe zone.”

One of the teachers, a wiry man with glasses, stepped forward. “It must have been a mistake in the enchantment spells that maintain the safe zones,” he suggested.

Sylvara shook her head. “Impossible. The spells are designed to prevent anything above a C-rank beast from entering. A Calamity SS-rank creature couldn’t have gotten through without external interference.”

Before the debate could continue, Sean walked into the center of the group and tossed one of the broken runes at Sylvara’s feet. The rune glowed faintly, its corrupted energy pulsing with malevolence.

“I think this has something to do with it,” Sean said.

Sylvara picked up the rune, her brow furrowing as she examined it. “This is… unusual. Where did you find this?”

“It was embedded in the Dragyte’s chest,” Sean explained. “I tracked the magic it gave off and found someone—probably the person responsible—near Wyvern Peak. I chased them, but they used magic to slow me down and got away.”

The teachers exchanged uneasy glances, and the guards began murmuring among themselves. Sylvara’s expression hardened, her gaze locking onto Sean. “Describe them.”

Sean shrugged. “Hooded figure, fast, good with magic. Didn’t get much else before they disappeared.”

Cynthia stepped forward, her voice urgent. “It has to be someone powerful if they could control a Dragyte. Sean, did they say anything? Do anything to give us a clue?”

Sean shook his head. “No. Just ran.”

Sylvara straightened, her tone decisive. “We can’t take any chances. Until we determine how this happened, the forest is off-limits to all students.”

The guards and adventurers nodded, their faces grim. One of the adventurers, a burly man with a massive axe, asked, “Should we organize a search party?”

“Yes,” Sylvara said. “I’ll assign an S-rank team to track down the person responsible. In the meantime, I want every trace of magic in this area analyzed. Leave nothing unchecked.”

The adventurers dispersed, their movements efficient and purposeful. Cynthia lingered near Sean, her concern evident. “Are you sure you’re okay? You look like you’ve been through hell.”

Sean smirked faintly. “I’ve been through worse.”

Cynthia bit her lip, holding up the Dragonclaw dagger. “This… really helped. Thank you for giving it to me.”

Sean waved her off. “It’s just a dagger. You did fine.”

Cynthia opened her mouth to respond, but Sylvara’s voice cut through the conversation. “Sean.”

He turned to face the headmaster, her violet eyes sharp. “You handled yourself well today, but this isn’t over. Whoever did this clearly has the means to bypass our defenses. If they’re targeting the academy or the guild, we’ll need to be ready.”

Sean nodded. “I’ll keep my eyes open.”

As the group began to leave the clearing, Sean glanced back at the Dragyte’s remains. The shattered runes and the lingering magic weighed heavily on his mind.

Whoever you are, he thought, I’ll find you. And I’ll find out what you’re after.

When Sean and Cynthia returned to the academy grounds, the air was thick with tension. The usually bustling courtyard was packed with anxious parents, their faces etched with worry as they waited for news of their children. Guards and staff moved swiftly, directing injured students to the infirmary and reassuring frantic families.

Cynthia stuck close to Sean, her usual confidence muted by the gravity of the situation. As they passed a group of parents being led to the infirmary, Cynthia sighed. “This is chaos.”

Sean grunted in agreement, his gaze scanning the crowd. “Not surprising, considering what just happened.”

Near a bench under a large oak tree, Sean spotted Elizabeth sitting with Thomas. She was nursing a small scrape on her cheek but otherwise seemed unharmed. Her father, Prince Tarus, and Dragonlord Rubelle appeared moments later, their expressions a mixture of concern and authority.

“Elizabeth!” Tarus called, rushing over.

Elizabeth stood quickly, offering a reassuring smile. “I’m fine, Father. Thomas made sure of that.”

Rubelle placed a hand on her granddaughter’s shoulder, her sharp violet eyes scanning her for injuries. “Thank the heavens,” she murmured, her usual commanding tone softened by relief. “Are you sure you’re unhurt?”

Elizabeth nodded. “I promise, I’m fine. I didn’t even fight the monster, my injury comes from an arrow in one of the mines.

The Dragonlord’s gaze shifted to Sean, who stood a few paces away, his expression unreadable. Rubelle and Tarus approached him, their towering presence drawing the attention of nearby students and staff.

“Desmond,” Rubelle said, her voice firm but not unkind. “Elizabeth tells us you were at the heart of the incident. What happened?”

Sean straightened slightly, meeting her gaze without hesitation. “We encountered a Dragyte—a Calamity SS-rank beast. It was attacking a group of students before I arrived. The runes on its body weren’t natural. Someone planted them. I tracked the magic and chased the person responsible into the forest, but they got away.”

Tarus frowned, his brow furrowing. “A Dragyte in a safe zone? That shouldn’t be possible.”

“It wasn’t,” Sean said bluntly. “Whoever did this knew exactly what they were doing.”

Rubelle exchanged a look with her son, her expression grim. “We need to speak with Headmaster Drakemantle immediately. Tarus, come.”

The two of them strode away, their regal bearing commanding respect from everyone they passed.

Cynthia watched them go, a faint smirk forming on her lips. “Well, congratulations, Sean. Looks like you’re about to become a celebrity.”

Sean sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Great. Just what I need.”

Before Sean could respond further, the sound of hurried footsteps caught their attention. A tall, imposing man with sharp features and greying black hair stormed into the courtyard, his face pale with panic. Behind him was a regal-looking woman in an elegant dress, her worried gaze scanning the crowd.

“Cynthia!” the man shouted, his voice trembling.

“Father?!” Cynthia turned, startled. Her father, Marquis Armand Calego, closed the distance between them in seconds, pulling her into a tight hug.

“Thank the gods you’re safe,” Armand said, his usually stern voice cracking with emotion. “When we heard about the attack…”

“I’m fine, Father,” Cynthia assured him, patting his back awkwardly. “Really, I am.”

Her mother joined them, wrapping Cynthia in another hug. “Oh, my sweet girl,” she said, her voice soft and soothing. “We were so worried.”

Cynthia gave a sheepish smile. “You don’t have to worry so much. I had help.”

Her father pulled back slightly, his sharp eyes narrowing. “Help?”

Cynthia turned, gesturing toward Sean. “Father, Mother, this is Sean Desmond. He… saved me.”

Her mother’s expression brightened instantly, and she rushed toward Sean, pulling him into a surprising hug. “Oh, thank you, young man! You have no idea how much this means to us.”

Sean froze for a moment, unsure how to react, before awkwardly patting her back. “Uh… it was nothing.”

Armand stepped forward, his expression stern. He clapped Sean on the shoulder, then, to Sean’s surprise, pulled him into a brief hug. “You have my thanks,” he said gruffly.

The moment ended abruptly as Armand stepped back, his sharp gaze locking onto Sean. “Now… what is your relationship with my daughter?”

The question hung in the air like a thunderclap. Cynthia’s face turned bright red, and she opened her mouth to protest, but Sean spoke first.

“Classmates,” he said flatly, his voice devoid of emotion.

Cynthia’s jaw dropped. “Wha—”

“Just classmates,” Sean repeated, ignoring her sputtering protests.

Armand studied Sean for a long moment, his eyes narrowing as if trying to detect any deception. Finally, he nodded curtly. “Good.”

As Cynthia’s parents escorted her to their carriage, she glanced back at Sean, her expression a mix of embarrassment and indignation. He gave her a small nod, then turned and walked away without another word.

Inside the carriage, Cynthia sat between her parents, her hands clutching the Dragonclaw dagger Sean had given her. The silence was broken by her mother’s gentle question.

“Cynthia… are you in love with him?”

Cynthia’s face turned scarlet, and she hesitated before giving a small nod.

Armand’s aura changed instantly, his body tensing as a murderous energy filled the carriage. “No,” he said simply. “Absolutely not.”

His wife sighed, raising a hand. “Armand—”

“He’s a baron’s son!” Armand snapped, his voice rising. “And he’s dangerous! Do you know how strong he is? The kind of trouble someone like him attracts? No. I forbid it.”

Before he could continue, Cynthia’s mother smacked him across the back of the head with surprising force. “Armand, enough. You’re scaring her.”

Armand winced, rubbing his head but muttering something under his breath. Cynthia, though flustered, felt a flicker of hope. Her mother turned to her with a gentle smile.

“If you truly care for him,” she said softly, “then follow your heart. But remember, love isn’t just about feelings—it’s about actions. You’ll have to earn his trust.”

Cynthia nodded, determination shining in her eyes. “I will.”

Her father groaned, burying his face in his hands. “Gods help us all.”

As the Calegos rode off, Sean watched from a distance, his expression unreadable. Things are about to get a lot more complicated, he thought, turning to head back to his dorm.

The night sky stretched above him, but Sean’s mind was far from quiet. Between the hooded figure, the Dragyte, and the growing attention on him, he knew the calm of the academy would soon be shattered.

The Catacombs somewhere else.

Far from the bustling academy, deep underground, a network of winding tunnels stretched endlessly into the darkness. The air was damp and cold, the only light coming from torches mounted sporadically on the walls. Shadows flickered ominously, casting jagged shapes across the ancient stone.

In the largest chamber, a group of hooded figures stood in a loose circle, their faces hidden by deep hoods. In the center of the room, a figure knelt, his hood slightly askew, revealing a sheen of sweat on his brow. His breathing was labored, his cloak tattered and singed.

Before him stood a single, cloaked and masked figure. This individual was different from the others—taller, with an aura of command that seemed to suffocate the room. The mask they wore was intricately designed, resembling the face of a dragon with elongated fangs and glowing red eyes.

The kneeling figure bowed his head low. “Forgive me, Master. The mission… it failed.”

The masked figure’s gaze was piercing, even through the disguise. “Explain.”

The kneeling man took a deep breath, his voice trembling slightly. “The Dragyte was unleashed as planned, but it didn’t go as we expected. The students were caught off guard, and at first, it was going well. They were overwhelmed, just as we intended. But then… a boy arrived.”

“A boy?” The masked figure’s voice was calm but cold, laced with an undercurrent of danger.

“Yes, Master,” the man said, his head bowing lower. “A student from the academy. He… he killed the Dragyte.”

The room went silent. The hooded figures shifted uncomfortably, their unease palpable.

The masked figure tilted their head slightly. “You’re telling me,” they said slowly, their voice now carrying an edge of menace, “that a child killed a Calamity SS-ranked creature?”

The kneeling man nodded quickly, his hands shaking. “Y-yes, Master. He not only killed it—he destroyed it with such ease that I barely had time to react. And when I fled, he pursued me. He was… relentless.”

The masked figure took a step forward, their presence towering over the trembling man. “What do you know of him?”

“Not much,” the man admitted. “He’s young, perhaps a first-year student. He used strange green flames and… scales. Purple scales.”

The masked figure’s red eyes seemed to glow brighter. “Green flames and purple scales…” they murmured, almost to themselves. “A combination like that has not been seen for centuries.”

“I’ve heard of the boy, his name is Sean Desmond, son of Baron Desmond” said another figure

Another hooded figure stepped forward from the circle, their voice gravelly. “Master, if this boy possesses such power, could he not become a threat to our plans?”

“Or an asset,” another interjected, their tone laced with greed. “Imagine what we could accomplish with someone of his abilities.”

The masked figure raised a hand, silencing the group. “Enough.” They turned back to the kneeling man. “You said he pursued you. How did you escape?”

“I… I used the forest’s natural defenses to my advantage,” the man stammered. “The boy is powerful, but he’s inexperienced. He doesn’t fully understand his capabilities yet. I was able to throw him off my trail.”

“Then you were lucky,” the masked figure said flatly. “Because if he had caught you, you would not be here now.”

The man flinched, his forehead nearly touching the ground. “I know, Master. I failed. Please, give me another chance to redeem myself.”

The masked figure stared at him for a long moment before speaking. “You are fortunate that I have need of your skills. But failure again will not be tolerated. Do you understand?”

“Yes, Master. Thank you, Master.”

The masked figure turned to the rest of the group. “This boy… Sean Desmond. He is an anomaly, one we must watch closely. If he continues to grow unchecked, he could become a problem. But until we understand his full potential, we will not act against him directly.”

“Then what do we do?” asked one of the hooded figures.

The masked figure’s voice was icy. “For now, we observe. Place spies within the academy. Track his movements, his habits, his allies. Learn everything about him.”

“And if he becomes too powerful?” another asked hesitantly.

The masked figure’s glowing eyes narrowed. “Then we do what must be done. Even the strongest flames can be extinguished.”

The room fell silent again, the weight of the masked figure’s words pressing down on everyone present.

Ch. 5 Dragonkinght

Author's Note

Yeah, I know, this took a while, but, in my defence, I had to rewrite three chapters and then... I spent too much time playing fortnite... so, sorry abou that.

Ch. 5 Dragonkinght

The next morning, Sean made his way to class, his face set in a grimace. It was as if every eye on campus was trained on him, every whisper directed at his back. As he passed groups of students in the halls, their murmurs grew louder.

“That’s him, isn’t it? The one who killed the Dragyte?”
“Yeah, Sean Desmond. I heard he didn’t even break a sweat.”
“Do you think he really chased the culprit into the forest?”
“He’s so cool!”
“He’s so scary…”

Sean gritted his teeth, his hands clenching at his sides. So much for peace and quiet.

The whispers followed him all the way to the classroom, where the scene was no better. His classmates turned their heads as he entered, their conversations halting briefly before picking up again with renewed vigor. Sean ignored them, his focus solely on his desk.

As he walked past, Gregory and his posse—Cyle and Frederick—stepped into his path. Sean tensed, expecting trouble, but to his surprise, Gregory extended a hand.

“Thanks for saving our asses out there,” Gregory said, his tone serious.

Sean blinked, caught off guard. “Uh… sure.”

“But don’t think this changes anything,” Gregory continued, pulling his hand back. “You’re still my rival, Desmond. Don’t get cocky.”

Cyle nodded in agreement. “We’ll catch up to you one day.”

Frederick smirked. “You just wait.”

The three of them walked away, leaving Sean standing there, thoroughly confused. Rivals? Are they serious?

Before he could dwell on it, a sudden force collided with his side, nearly knocking him off balance. Cynthia had wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug, her pink hair brushing against his chin as she pressed herself against him.

“Sean!” she said, her voice bright and full of relief. “Thank you again for saving me!”

Sean froze, his face turning red as he became acutely aware of her… proximity. More specifically, the pressure of her chest against him. His classmates erupted in whispers and giggles, making the situation all the more unbearable.

“Uh… yeah,” Sean mumbled, his arms awkwardly at his sides. “No problem…”

Cynthia finally broke the hug, smiling up at him. “Seriously, though. You were amazing out there. I don’t know how I would’ve made it without you.”

Before Sean could respond, their homeroom teacher, Charles De Voer, marched over, his expression stern. “Desmond. Calego. With me. Now.”

Sean and Cynthia were led to the headmaster’s office, a grand chamber adorned with banners of the academy and intricate dragon motifs carved into the walls. Behind the massive oak desk sat Headmaster Sylvara Drakemantle, her silver hair gleaming under the morning light streaming through the tall windows.

Sylvara gestured for them to sit, her expression unreadable. “Desmond. Calego. I’ve called you here because of your actions during the Dragyte incident.”

Sean shifted in his seat, glancing at Cynthia, who sat upright, her hands folded neatly in her lap. “We just did what we had to,” Sean said.

Sylvara’s lips quirked into a faint smile. “Modesty is admirable, but let’s not downplay the facts. Desmond, you single-handedly eliminated a Calamity SS-rank beast. Calego, you demonstrated exceptional bravery and skill in holding your ground against overwhelming odds.”

Cynthia’s cheeks flushed slightly, and she glanced at Sean with a small smile.

“Because of this,” Sylvara continued, standing and retrieving two sets of armor from a nearby display case, “it is my honor to promote you both. Sean Desmond, you are hereby recognized as a Dragonknight, the youngest in the academy’s history.”

She placed a set of gleaming green-and-silver armor in front of him, complete with a flowing green cape.

“Cynthia Calego,” Sylvara said, placing a slightly smaller set of armor before her. “You are named a Dragoknight in Training, with the potential to become a full Dragonknight upon further demonstration of your abilities.”

Cynthia’s eyes sparkled as she traced her fingers over the intricate designs on the armor. But her smile faltered slightly when she noticed something missing. “Wait… where’s my cape?”

Sylvara smirked. “Capes are reserved for full Dragonknights. You’ll earn yours when the time comes.”

Sean, who had been examining his own armor, gestured to the green cape draped over his shoulder plate. “Green cape means Greenhorn. Basically, a rookie.”

“Still a Dragonknight,” Cynthia shot back, sticking her tongue out playfully.

The entire academy was called to the grand auditorium later that day for an unexpected assembly. Students filled the massive hall, their excited chatter echoing off the high ceilings. The faculty stood on the stage, their expressions a mix of pride and formality.

When Sylvara stepped forward, the room fell silent. Her commanding presence demanded attention as she addressed the crowd.

“Today, we honor two exceptional students,” she began, her voice carrying effortlessly through the hall. “Sean Desmond and Cynthia Calego have demonstrated bravery, skill, and unwavering resolve in the face of extraordinary danger.”

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause as Sean and Cynthia stepped onto the stage, now dressed in their new armor. Sean’s green cape swayed slightly as he walked, his face stoic despite the overwhelming attention. Cynthia beamed, waving to the crowd with her usual confidence.

“Sean Desmond,” Sylvara continued, “is now the youngest Dragonknight in the academy’s history.”

The applause grew louder, with some students even standing to cheer. Gregory let out a low whistle from his seat. “Looks like my rival’s moving up in the world.”

“Cynthia Calego,” Sylvara said, “has been named a Dragoknight in Training, a testament to her potential and determination.”

Cynthia’s smile widened as she waved again, clearly enjoying the spotlight.

Sylvara concluded the ceremony with a final remark. “Let their achievements serve as inspiration to us all. The path of the Dragonknight is not an easy one, but it is one of honor and sacrifice. May their journey remind us of the greatness we strive for.”

The crowd roared with applause as Sean and Cynthia left the stage, their lives forever changed by the weight of the armor they now wore.

As the students filed out of the auditorium, Cynthia nudged Sean with her elbow, a sly grin on her face. “You’re a celebrity now, Mr. Youngest Dragonknight.”

Sean sighed, his shoulders slumping. “Great. Just what I wanted.”

Cynthia laughed, twirling a strand of her pink hair. “Get used to it. You’ve got a lot of fans now.”

Sean muttered something under his breath, but Cynthia only laughed harder, her lightheartedness a sharp contrast to his brooding demeanor.

Six Months of Trials and Triumphs

The past six months had been a whirlwind for Sean and Cynthia. Their reputations within the academy and the Dragonknight Corps had skyrocketed, each of them proving time and again that their promotions were well-deserved.

Sean had become known for his quick thinking and unmatched combat prowess. On one occasion, during a mission to escort a high-ranking noble through a dense wyvern-infested forest, he single-handedly took down an ambush of six wyverns. His precision and command of his green flames left even the senior Dragonknights speechless.

Cynthia, not to be outdone, had earned her green cape after an intense mission where she led a squad of Dragoknights in Training to fend off a pack of rampaging Dire Drakes that had terrorized a border village. Her strategic coordination and unwavering courage cemented her as a rising star within the corps.

Together, they became a formidable team, often working in tandem to tackle challenges that would have overwhelmed more seasoned fighters. Their classmates, while still catching up, looked to them for guidance as they prepared for their own tests to join the corps.

It was on a brisk morning, as the Dragonknight Seventh Corps gathered in the academy’s main courtyard, that Sean and Cynthia found themselves facing their most difficult challenge yet. The corps had been summoned to address a “religious insurrection” in the nearby Dukedom of Ardenthal.

Captain Dorian Flaylock, a burly man with a thick beard and a reputation for being both fair and unyielding, stood before the assembled knights. His voice boomed as he addressed the group.

“Listen up! We’ve been called to Ardenthal to deal with a delicate situation. A group of extremists, calling themselves the ‘Children of the Eternal Flame,’ have taken over the village of Brairstone. They’ve declared independence from the dukedom and have been attacking anyone sent to mediate. Reports indicate they’ve fortified the village and are heavily armed.”

The assembled knights murmured among themselves. Sean exchanged a glance with Cynthia, her usually confident expression now tinged with unease.

Captain Flaylock continued, his tone grave. “This is no simple bandit raid. These people believe they’re fighting for a divine cause, which makes them unpredictable—and dangerous. Our orders are to secure the village, neutralize any hostiles, and ensure the safety of the remaining civilians. Make no mistake—this will not be easy.”

The journey to the village took two days. Sean rode near the front of the column, his green cape fluttering behind him as he scanned the horizon. Cynthia rode beside him, her Dragoknight armor polished to a shine. Behind them, their classmates chatted nervously, trying to mask their apprehension.

“I don’t like this,” Cynthia admitted quietly, her voice barely audible over the clatter of hooves. “It’s one thing to fight beasts or constructs. But people? What if they’re just scared?”

Sean nodded, his jaw tightening. “I’ve been thinking the same thing. But we don’t know the full story yet. We’ll just have to see how it plays out.”

Their conversation was interrupted by Gregory, who rode up alongside them. “Hey, don’t look so grim, you two. It’s just another mission, right? In and out, like always.”

Sean gave him a sideways glance. “You’ve got a lot of confidence for someone who just passed the Dragoknight in Training test.”

Gregory grinned. “What can I say? I’m a fast learner.”

The village of Brairstone was eerily silent when the Dragonknights arrived. The fields surrounding the settlement were barren, the crops burned or trampled. Smoke rose from several buildings, and the once-bustling streets were now deserted.

Captain Flaylock raised a hand, signaling the column to stop. He turned to address the group. “Fan out and secure the perimeter. Desmond, Calego, you’re with me.”

Sean and Cynthia dismounted, following Flaylock as he led them through the village gates. The atmosphere was tense, every shadow and alleyway a potential ambush.

As they moved deeper into the village, a group of figures emerged from one of the larger buildings. They were dressed in ragged robes, their faces painted with crimson symbols. At the center stood a tall, gaunt man with piercing eyes, his voice carrying an unnatural resonance.

“Who dares trespass in the sacred land of the Eternal Flame?” he called out, his tone a mix of fury and zealotry.

Captain Flaylock stepped forward. “I am Captain Dorian Flaylock of the Dragonknight Corps. This village belongs to the Dukedom of Ardenthal. Surrender peacefully, and no harm will come to you.”

The man laughed, the sound harsh and grating. “Fools! You do not understand the power we wield. The Eternal Flame has chosen us to cleanse this land of corruption. We will not bow to your false lords!”

As Captain Dorian Flaylock confronted the zealot leader, tension crackled in the air. The gaunt man’s laughter echoed through the village, his zealot followers standing ready with weapons and glowing magical sigils etched into their hands.

“You do not understand the power we wield,” the leader said with eerie calm. “The Eternal Flame has chosen us. This land will be cleansed of its corruption, starting with you.”

Before Dorian could respond, the ground shook violently, followed by a series of deafening explosions. Fire and smoke erupted from multiple directions, engulfing buildings and scattering debris. Screams filled the air—agonized cries of both civilians and Dragonknights caught in the blasts.

Sean stumbled as the force of the explosions rattled the ground beneath him. “What the hell—”

More explosions followed, and through the smoke, Sean caught glimpses of chaos: Dragonknights being flung through the air, students scrambling for cover, and zealots charging from hidden positions. The air was thick with acrid smoke and the tang of burning wood.

“Captain!” Cynthia shouted, her voice barely audible over the cacophony.

Dorian turned toward her but didn’t have time to respond. An arrow whizzed through the air, embedding itself in his arm. He cried out in pain, dropping to one knee as blood seeped from the wound.

“Damn it!” Sean growled, his green flames sparking to life around his hands.

A group of zealots charged toward them, weapons raised and eyes burning with fanatic determination. Sean reacted instinctively, unleashing a wave of green fire that swept over the first two attackers, incinerating them instantly. The remaining zealots hesitated, their momentum faltering at the sight of the flames.

“Sean!” Cynthia yelled. “We’ve got to get the captain out of here!”

Sean nodded, his gaze fixed on the approaching zealots. “Can you carry him?”

Cynthia slid her arm under Dorian’s uninjured shoulder, helping him to his feet despite his protests. “I’ve got him. Just cover us!”

Sean turned back to the zealots, who were regaining their nerve. He took a step forward, green flames swirling around his fists. “You want a fight? Come and get it.”

The zealots hesitated for only a moment before charging again, their weapons glinting in the dim light. Sean met them head-on, his flames cutting through their ranks with brutal efficiency. But for every zealot he dropped, two more seemed to take their place.

“Cynthia, move!” Sean shouted over his shoulder. “I’ll hold them off!”

With Cynthia half-carrying Dorian, the two made their way toward the village gates. Sean stayed close, his flames forming a protective barrier around them as they retreated. But the zealots were relentless, their numbers seeming to grow with every passing second.

“Keep going!” Sean barked, his voice strained as he blasted another wave of fire at the advancing zealots.

When they reached the gates, they found their path blocked—the zealots had begun raising the drawbridge, cutting off any chance of escape. Sean cursed under his breath. “We’re not making it out that way.”

Cynthia looked around frantically, her grip on Dorian tightening. “What do we do?!”

Sean’s eyes scanned the area, and he spotted a gap in the village wall where the explosions had weakened the structure. “There! We’ll jump!”

“Jump?!” Cynthia echoed, incredulous. “Are you insane?!”

“Just trust me!” Sean snapped, grabbing her arm and guiding her toward the gap. With a final blast of fire to keep the zealots at bay, he leapt, pulling Cynthia and Dorian with him. The three of them tumbled down the slope on the other side of the wall, landing in a patch of muddy grass.

As Sean helped Cynthia and Dorian to their feet, the sound of the drawbridge slamming shut echoed through the air. Smoke billowed from the village behind them, and the distant cries of battle carried on the wind.

They stumbled toward the rendezvous point outside the village, where the remaining Dragonknights and students were regrouping. The scene was grim—faces were pale, expressions haunted. The once-proud force of 20 Dragonknights was now reduced to 12, and of the 22 students who had joined the mission, only 14 remained.

Sean’s stomach churned as he looked around. The absence of familiar faces was a weight he couldn’t ignore.

Cynthia lowered Dorian onto a makeshift stretcher, her hands trembling as she tore a strip of fabric from her cloak to bind his wound. “We lost so many…”

Sean clenched his fists, his green flames flickering faintly before dissipating. “This wasn’t just a random uprising. They were ready for us.”

One of the senior Dragonknights, a woman named Elyra Veyl, approached with a grim expression. “Captain Flaylock, can you confirm their numbers?”

Dorian winced as Cynthia tightened the bandage. “Too many. And they’ve fortified the village. Explosives, traps… This wasn’t a rebellion. It’s a goddamn war.”

Elyra turned to Sean and Cynthia. “You two saved the captain’s life. You did well, but this is a reminder that the life of a Dragonknight isn’t just about glory. People die. Good people. This mission isn’t over, and it’s only going to get harder.”

Sean nodded, his jaw tightening. “We need reinforcements. If we go back in like this, we’re finished.”

Elyra sighed. “We’ve already sent word to the academy. Reinforcements are on the way, but until then, we hold the line. No one goes back in.”

Sean looked back at the smoldering village, his green eyes narrowing. No one goes back in? We’ll see about that.

The tension among the survivors was palpable. The injured moaned softly on their makeshift stretchers, and the remaining Dragonknights stood in grim silence. Sean paced back and forth, his hands clenching into fists, his mind racing. He couldn’t stop thinking about the missing Dragonknights and students. The image of their terrified faces as explosions rocked the village haunted him.

Finally, Sean stopped and turned toward Elyra. “I’m going back.”

Elyra, who was tending to one of the injured students, looked up sharply. “No, you’re not.”

Sean stepped forward, his voice firm. “We don’t know if the missing are alive or dead. But if they are alive, every second we waste gives those zealots more time to…” His voice faltered, but his meaning was clear. “I’m not sitting here while they suffer.”

Elyra stood, her expression hardening as she closed the distance between them. “You think you’re a hero, Desmond? You think running back into that hellhole is going to fix this?” Her voice rose, anger mixing with desperation. “We’ve already lost too many. I won’t let you throw your life away!”

Sean’s jaw tightened. “This isn’t about being a hero,” he said, his voice steady. “This is about doing what’s right. We don’t leave people behind.”

Elyra’s hands balled into fists at her sides. “And what happens when you don’t come back? What happens when they lose you too?”

Sean stepped closer, his green eyes blazing with determination. “Then at least I’ll know I tried. Sitting here isn’t going to save them. We both know what those zealots will do—alive or dead.”

Elyra’s breath hitched, her composure cracking. The other Dragonknights and students watched the exchange in silence, the weight of Sean’s words sinking in. The faint crackle of fire from the smoldering village seemed louder than ever.

Elyra suddenly grabbed Sean by the shoulders, her nails digging into his armor. She lowered her head, and her voice dropped to a whisper, trembling with emotion. “Please…” Her voice broke, and tears began to stream down her face. “Please… find my husband. His name is Luke Ardenthal.”

The mention of the name hit Sean like a thunderbolt. He froze, his mind racing. Luke Ardenthal? The Duke’s son? If Luke was in the village, he was a priority target for the zealots—if he wasn’t already dead.

Elyra’s grip on his shoulders tightened. “He’s strong, Sean. Stronger than most. But if they…” Her voice trailed off, and she choked back a sob. “Please bring him back.”

Sean reached up and placed a reassuring hand on hers. “I’ll find him,” he said softly. “I promise.”

As Sean turned to head back up the hill, a familiar voice called out behind him. “Sean!”

He turned to see Captain Dorian Flaylock staggering toward him, supported by Cynthia. Dorian’s face was pale, and his arm was still bleeding despite Cynthia’s attempts to bandage it. In his uninjured hand, he held his sword—a masterfully crafted weapon with an intricately designed hilt.

Dorian shoved the sword into Sean’s hands. “Take it.”

Sean stared at the weapon, his fingers curling around the hilt. “Captain, I—”

“Kill as many of those sons of bitches as you can,” Dorian growled, his voice fierce despite his weakened state. “All of them, if possible.”

Sean nodded, the weight of the sword in his hand grounding him. “I will.”

Dorian gave him a grim smile before his knees buckled. Cynthia caught him, guiding him back to his stretcher. “Don’t die out there,” Dorian muttered as he was laid down. “We’re not done with you yet.”

Sean nodded, his expression set in stone. He turned toward the smoldering village and began his ascent, the flames of his determination burning brighter than ever.

Before he could get far, Cynthia jogged up beside him. “Sean,” she called out, her voice firm.

He stopped, turning to face her. “You don’t have to—”

“I’m not going,” she interrupted, her blue eyes locking onto his. “But you’re not leaving without this.”

She handed him a small vial of glowing green liquid. “It’s a concentrated healing potion. Stronger than the standard issue. You’ll need it.”

Sean took the vial, nodding his thanks. “Take care of the others,” he said.

Cynthia crossed her arms, her usual playful demeanor replaced by a rare seriousness. “Just come back in one piece, okay? You still owe me a rematch in sparring.”

Sean smirked faintly. “Deal.”

Sean turned and headed up the hill, his silhouette framed by the faint light of the rising sun. The sounds of the camp faded behind him as he approached the smoldering village gates. The acrid stench of smoke and blood filled the air, but Sean’s focus remained unshaken.

As he stood at the edge of the ruined village, gripping Dorian’s sword tightly in his hand, he whispered to himself: “Hold on, Luke. I’m coming.”

With that, he stepped into the darkness, ready to face whatever horrors lay ahead.

Sean crouched near the hole he, Cynthia, and Dorian had used to escape earlier. The smoke rising from the village obscured his vision, but the distant glow of torches moving through the streets confirmed that the zealots were still patrolling. He pressed himself against the side of a crumbling wall, his breathing slow and measured, his sharp green eyes scanning the area.

A group of zealots passed by, their voices carrying through the quiet night. Sean strained to hear their conversation.

“We’ve found three more stragglers near the southern field,” one of them said, his voice cold and devoid of emotion. “Bring them to the church. The High Flame requires proper offerings.”

A chill ran down Sean’s spine. Offerings? He gritted his teeth, his fists clenching. The flames in his chest threatened to burst forth, but he forced himself to remain calm. Not yet. Stay quiet. One mistake and they’ll bring the whole village down on me.

The group moved on, their footsteps fading into the distance. Sean waited several tense moments before rising from his crouch and approaching the hole. He dropped silently into the cellar below, landing with barely a sound. The faint scent of mildew and damp earth filled the air as he crouched in the shadows, listening for any signs of movement.

Sean moved cautiously through the streets, sticking to the shadows and avoiding open areas. The village was a ghost town now, its once-lively streets filled only with the echoes of the zealots’ chants and the faint cries of those still trapped.

The destruction was worse up close. Buildings were reduced to smoldering husks, their walls blackened by fire. The air was thick with smoke and ash, and the cobblestone streets were littered with debris. Sean’s every step was deliberate, his ears straining for any sound that might indicate danger.

As he turned a corner, his heart skipped a beat. Lying in the middle of the street was a motionless figure clad in the armor of a Dragonknight. Sean’s breath caught in his throat as he rushed forward, his boots barely making a sound on the cobblestones.

Kneeling beside the body, Sean quickly assessed the situation. The armor was battered and scorched, and blood pooled beneath the fallen knight. The face beneath the helmet was pale and lifeless—one of the older veterans, Markus Wundberg. Sean recognized him immediately.

“Markus,” Sean whispered, his voice low and tight. He pressed two fingers to Markus’s neck, but there was no pulse. The sight of the man who had once trained him, lying lifeless in the street, filled Sean with a mix of grief and anger.

He clenched his jaw, forcing himself to focus. I can’t let them use him.

The zealots would likely defile Markus’s body for one of their sick rituals if they found it. Sean scanned the area quickly, spotting a cellar door nearby. He hooked his arms under Markus’s shoulders and dragged him across the street as quietly as he could.

The door creaked softly as Sean pushed it open, revealing a dark and dusty cellar. He lowered Markus’s body inside, resting it gently on the floor. He removed the knight’s nameplate from his chest armor and slipped it into his satchel, a silent promise to bring it back to the others.

“Rest easy, Markus,” Sean murmured. “I’ll make sure this wasn’t for nothing.”

Sean stepped back into the street, his senses on high alert. The faint sound of chanting reached his ears, carried on the night wind. He adjusted the grip on his sword, the weight of it grounding him as he moved toward the sound.

The closer he got to the center of the village, the more the air seemed to thrum with an unnatural energy. The chanting grew louder, mingled with muffled cries of fear and pain. Sean’s stomach churned, but he pressed on, his resolve unshaken.

As he paused to check his surroundings, Sean’s mind wandered briefly to the survivors he had left behind. He thought of Elyra’s tearful plea and the name she had whispered: Luke Ardenthal. The weight of that name pressed heavily on him.

If Luke’s here, he’s their top priority. They’ll either use him as leverage or… worse. Sean’s grip on his sword tightened, the green flames flickering faintly around the blade. I have to find him. And I have to make them pay.

Sean crouched on the roof of a partially burned building overlooking the town square. The acrid smell of smoke and ash filled the air, stinging his nose and eyes. From his vantage point, he had a clear view of the square below, where a large group of survivors—men, women, and children—were shackled and huddled together in fear.

He quickly scanned the group, counting heads. His heart sank as he realized there were still several people unaccounted for. However, his classmates were all there, bound but alive—except for Gregory and Maria. Where the hell are they?

The square was illuminated by torches, their flickering light casting eerie shadows across the scene. At the center stood the gaunt man who had confronted Captain Dorian earlier. He was pacing in front of the prisoners, his voice rising and falling as he delivered a fiery sermon.

“Brothers and sisters of the Eternal Flame!” the man shouted, his voice filled with a mixture of fervor and malice. “Tonight, the false Dragonknights have fallen before our righteous cause! Their arrogance, their blasphemy, has been punished by the Flame’s divine will!”

The zealots surrounding him cheered, raising their weapons in triumph. The prisoners flinched, their faces pale with terror.

The man continued, his tone shifting to one of scorn. “But do not pity these so-called knights, for they were unworthy of salvation. Their strength has crumbled, their bodies lie broken. And yet…” His voice darkened, and his eyes narrowed. “Two. Only two have been accounted for among the dead.”

Sean’s blood ran cold. They’re looking for survivors. And they know there’s at least one Dragonknight still alive in the village.

The man’s pacing stopped abruptly, and he raised his hand, pointing toward the prisoners. “But fear not! We will find the rest. They cannot hide from the Flame’s judgment.”

The zealots cheered again, but the man silenced them with a sharp gesture. He turned toward the crowd, his lips curling into a sinister smile. “Now, bring her to me.”

Two zealots moved to the edge of the crowd, where a young girl with pink hair clung to her mother, sobbing. The mother pleaded desperately, her voice breaking. “Please, no! She’s just a child!”

The zealots ignored her, prying the girl away and dragging her toward the man. She kicked and screamed, tears streaming down her face. “Let me go! Mother!”

Sean’s fists clenched as he watched, his entire body trembling with suppressed rage. I’ll burn every last one of you bastards.

The man spread his arms wide as the girl was dragged to his feet. “Behold! A gift to the Eternal Flame! My own flesh and blood shall become one with the fire, a martyr to light our path forward!”

The girl turned to him, her tear-streaked face filled with horror. “Father, stop this! Please!” she begged, her voice cracking. “You don’t have to do this!”

But the man’s gaze was cold and unyielding. “It is through sacrifice that we achieve purity, child. You should be honored.”

Sean’s knuckles whitened as he gripped the hilt of his sword. His flames flickered to life, threatening to erupt at any moment. I should go down there now and end this…

But the odds weren’t in his favor. Dozens of zealots surrounded the square, and the prisoners were too close to the center. If Sean attacked now, the risk of collateral damage was too high.

The man raised his hands again, his voice booming. “Tonight, the Eternal Flame will claim its rightful place as the guiding light of this land! And my daughter shall lead the way!”

The prisoners were herded toward the massive stone church at the edge of the square. The girl struggled as she was dragged along, but her captors held firm. The man followed, his zealots marching behind him, chanting hymns to their twisted faith.

Sean watched as the church doors slammed shut behind them, the chanting muffled but still audible. The square was left eerily quiet, save for the crackling of the torches.

Sean let out a shaky breath, forcing himself to focus. The church. That’s their stronghold. He knew he couldn’t storm it alone, not with the zealots inside and the prisoners at risk. I need to be smart about this.

He climbed down from the roof, landing silently in the shadows of an alleyway. Moving swiftly, he made his way toward the west side of the village. That’s where he’d last seen Gregory and Maria during the battle. If they were still alive, they’d likely be hiding somewhere nearby.

As Sean crept through the streets, he encountered another corpse—a villager this time, their lifeless body discarded like trash. He knelt briefly, muttering a silent apology before moving on. Every step he took deepened his resolve. I’ll save as many as I can. But that man… he dies tonight.

Sean crouched low as he crept through the west side of the village, his senses heightened. The charred remnants of buildings surrounded him, their walls crumbling and scorched. His sharp eyes caught movement in the distance—six dead zealots sprawled near the wreckage of what appeared to be a storefront.

That wasn’t random, he thought, moving cautiously toward the scene. The bodies bore the marks of an intense battle—slashed throats, broken bones, and burns that didn’t come from fire magic. Sean’s grip on his sword tightened as he scanned the area, his ears straining for any sound.

From inside the store, muffled voices reached him. He couldn’t make out the words, but the urgency in the tones was unmistakable. Friends or foes? He decided not to wait to find out. Taking a deep breath, he moved to the broken window and leapt inside, landing with precision.

The moment Sean landed, a blur of movement charged at him. He barely had time to react as a figure wielding a broken plank lunged toward him with a fierce cry. Sean sidestepped the attack, his instincts kicking in as he extended his leg and tripped the attacker.

The figure hit the floor with a grunt, and Sean’s heart skipped a beat when he realized who it was. “Maria?!”

Maria scrambled to her knees, her wide eyes narrowing in recognition. “Sean?” she whispered, her voice trembling. The tension in her body evaporated instantly, and before he could say another word, she launched herself at him, throwing her arms around his neck in a desperate hug.

“Sean, you’re alive!” she cried, her voice muffled against his shoulder.

Sean hesitated for a moment before gently patting her back. “I could say the same to you. Are you okay?”

Maria pulled back, her face streaked with soot and tears, but her expression was one of relief. “I’m fine. But Gregory—he’s not.”

Sean stiffened. “Where is he?”

Maria stood quickly, grabbing his arm and pulling him toward the back of the shop. “Come on, hurry!”

The back room of the shop was dimly lit, the only light coming from a small lantern that flickered on the ground. Gregory lay on a makeshift bed of burlap sacks, his breathing shallow and uneven. His armor was dented and bloodied, and crude bandages wrapped tightly around his abdomen and left leg.

Sean knelt beside him, his heart sinking at the sight. “What happened?”

Maria knelt opposite him, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. “When the zealots found us, I… I lost my sword. I couldn’t fight. Gregory… he fought them all off. He killed every last one of them.” Her voice broke, and she wiped at her eyes. “But they got him too. He was already bleeding when we ran in here.”

Sean’s eyes darted over Gregory’s injuries. The bandages were soaked through with blood, and his face was pale and slick with sweat. “How long has he been like this?”

“Since the attack,” Maria said, her voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve tried to stop the bleeding, but… I don’t think he’s going to make it.”

Sean’s jaw tightened. “He’s not dying here,” he said firmly, reaching into his satchel.

Sean retrieved the vial Cynthia had given him—the concentrated healing potion that had saved Captain Dorian. Uncorking it, he tilted Gregory’s head back and forced the liquid down his throat.

For a moment, nothing happened. Maria watched anxiously, her hands clenched into fists. “Is it working? Sean, is it—”

Gregory’s body convulsed, and his eyes snapped open as he gasped for air. The pale color in his cheeks returned almost instantly, and his breathing steadied. He groaned as he sat up, clutching his side.

“Gregory!” Maria cried, tears streaming down her face as she threw her arms around him.

Gregory blinked in confusion before wrapping his arms around her. “Maria?” His voice was hoarse but alive. “What… what happened?”

“You’re okay,” Maria sobbed, burying her face in his chest. “I thought I lost you.”

Sean gave them a moment before clearing his throat. “The potion did its job. But you still need to take it easy. You were pretty close to checking out.”

Gregory looked at Sean, a weak grin forming on his face. “You again. Saving my ass, huh?”

Sean shrugged. “It’s starting to feel like a full-time job.”

Gregory winced as he adjusted his position, but his strength was returning. “Thanks, Sean. Really. I owe you.”

Sean waved him off. “Just don’t make it a habit.”

Maria pulled back slightly, her hands resting on Gregory’s shoulders. “You scared me, you idiot,” she said, her voice cracking with a mix of relief and frustration. “Don’t ever do that again.”

Gregory chuckled softly, reaching up to wipe a tear from her cheek. “I’ll try not to.”

Sean stood, scanning the room. “We can’t stay here. The zealots are still searching for survivors. We need to move.”

Gregory nodded, though his expression turned serious. “What about the others? Do we know if anyone else made it?”

Sean hesitated. “Some of the students and Dragonknights are captured. They’ve been taken to the church in the center of town. I haven’t found anyone else yet.”

Maria stood as well, her hands balling into fists. “Then we go there next. We can’t just leave them.”

Sean held up a hand. “We’re going, but we’re doing it smart. Gregory needs a few more minutes to recover, and we need to figure out the best way to get in without getting caught.”

Gregory smirked. “Lead the way, Desmond. You’ve got a knack for getting us out of trouble.”

Sean nodded, determination burning in his eyes. “Stay close. We’re not losing anyone else tonight.”

As Sean, Gregory, and Maria made their way toward the southern gate, the sound of shouting and crashing debris caught their attention. Sean raised a hand, signaling the others to stop.

“Do you hear that?” Maria whispered, gripping her makeshift weapon tightly.

Gregory nodded, his face darkening. “It sounds like a fight.”

Sean moved toward the source of the noise, crouching low and staying in the shadows. The others followed closely, their footsteps barely audible on the cobblestones. When they reached the edge of a small clearing, they peered out and saw two Dragonknights struggling against a group of zealots.

The zealots weren’t wielding weapons but instead hurled rocks, bricks, and debris at the knights with alarming force. The Dragonknights used their shields to deflect the projectiles but refused to strike back.

“What the hell are they doing?” Gregory hissed, his frustration evident. “Why aren’t they fighting back?”

“They’re zealots,” Sean said quietly, his eyes fixed on the scene. “Unarmed civilians, technically. Dragonknights are bound by the code. They don’t attack unarmed enemies.”

Gregory clenched his fists. “Code or not, they’re getting their asses handed to them.”

Sean didn’t respond. Instead, he bent down, picked up a sizable rock, and hurled it with precision. The stone hit one of the zealots square in the forehead, and the man crumpled to the ground, unconscious.

Maria and Gregory exchanged a glance before following Sean’s lead. They each grabbed rocks and began pelting the zealots. Caught off guard, the zealots turned to see their attackers, but before they could react, the onslaught continued. One by one, they fell until all six were either unconscious or groaning on the ground.

Sean, Gregory, and Maria approached the two Dragonknights, who lowered their shields and turned toward them. One of them, a tall man with striking features and a commanding presence, stepped forward. His armor, though scratched and dented, gleamed faintly in the dim light.

“Thank you,” the man said, his voice steady but tinged with exhaustion. “We were pinned down.”

Sean tilted his head. “You’re Luke, aren’t you?”

The man nodded, his expression guarded. “Luke Ardenthal. And this is Rowan Smith,” he added, gesturing to the second knight, a younger man who looked only slightly older than Sean. Rowan had short, messy hair and a nervous energy that made him seem out of place in his Dragonknight armor.

Rowan gave a weak smile. “Not exactly the most dignified situation for a Dragonknight, huh?”

Gregory crossed his arms. “Why didn’t you fight back? You could’ve taken them down easily.”

Luke’s eyes hardened. “We’re Dragonknights. We don’t attack unarmed civilians, no matter the circumstances.”

“Even if they’re trying to kill you?” Gregory shot back.

“It’s not our way,” Luke said firmly. “But thank you for intervening. You saved us.”

Sean waved it off. “We’re not done yet. Is there somewhere safe we can regroup?”

Luke nodded. “There’s a cellar nearby. We’ve been taking shelter there.”

The group followed Luke and Rowan through the winding streets, careful to avoid any patrols. After a few tense minutes, they reached a hidden entrance near a collapsed building. Luke lifted the cellar door, revealing a dimly lit space below.

As they descended, Sean saw that the cellar was filled with people—three more Dragonknights, several villagers, and a handful of frightened children. The air was thick with the scent of sweat and fear. In one corner, the bodies of four fallen Dragonknights were laid out, their armor still bearing the marks of battle.

The other Dragonknights stood as Luke entered, their expressions lighting up with relief. One was a woman with dark, braided hair and a sharp gaze. She nodded at Luke. “Glad to see you made it back.”

“This is Serina Calloway,” Luke said, introducing her. “And over there are Marcus Delane and Alric Thorne.” Marcus was a burly man with a scar running down his cheek, while Alric was lean and quiet, his eyes constantly scanning the room.

Maria gasped softly when she saw the corpses in the corner. “Are those…?”

Luke’s expression darkened. “They were with us when the zealots attacked. We couldn’t save them.”

Rowan added, his voice heavy, “We’ve been trying to protect the villagers, but it’s been… difficult.”

Sean looked around the cellar, his sharp eyes taking in the makeshift camp. The villagers clung to one another, their faces pale with fear. The children were huddled together, their wide eyes staring at Sean and the others with a mixture of hope and uncertainty.

“How many zealots are left?” Sean asked, his voice low.

“Too many,” Marcus grunted. “And they’re using the church as a stronghold.”

Sean exchanged a glance with Maria and Gregory. “The students and Dragonknights they captured are being held there. We’ve got to get them out.”

Serina frowned. “It won’t be easy. They’ve fortified the church. Any attempt to storm it will end in bloodshed—ours.”

Luke stepped forward, his gaze steady. “We can’t abandon them. If we don’t act, they’ll be sacrificed to whatever madness these zealots believe in.”

Sean’s jaw tightened. “We’ll find a way.”

The group gathered around a makeshift table, where Luke unfurled a rough map of the village. He pointed to the church at the center. “This is their stronghold. It’s heavily guarded, but there are weak points we can exploit.”

Sean studied the map, his mind racing. “What about the bell tower? If we can get someone up there, they could create a distraction.”

Maria chimed in, “And if we can take out the guards at the main entrance, the rest of us could slip in through the side.”

Marcus crossed his arms. “It’s risky. But it might be our best shot.”

Luke looked at Sean, his expression serious. “Are you willing to lead this?”

Sean met his gaze without hesitation. “I’ll do whatever it takes to get them out.”

Luke nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. “Then let’s get to work.”

The group began to prepare, their resolve hardening.

Sean crouched low as he approached the church, the imposing structure silhouetted against the smoky night sky. The heavy wooden doors were flanked by two hulking zealots, their sheer size making them seem more monster than man. Sean’s green flames flickered faintly around his hands, casting a ghostly light over his determined face.

He glanced over his shoulder to where Luke had just disappeared into the shadows near the bell tower. A quiet nod between them was all it took to confirm their roles. Sean turned back to the church, his focus narrowing as he prepared for the fight ahead.

Luke moved with the practiced silence of a seasoned Dragonknight, his footsteps barely audible on the cobblestone path. The two guards stationed outside the bell tower stood with bored expressions, their weapons lowered.

With a single fluid motion, Luke drew his blade and struck. The first guard didn’t even have time to cry out before falling, his body crumpling to the ground. The second spun around, eyes wide with surprise, but Luke’s blade silenced him just as quickly. Wiping his weapon clean, Luke ascended the tower’s winding staircase, his muscles tensed with anticipation.

Meanwhile, at the south drawbridge, Marcus, Serina, and Alric led the remaining villagers across the hastily lowered platform. The frightened civilians moved quickly, some carrying children while others helped the injured. The four fallen Dragonknights were carried by their comrades, their bodies a somber reminder of the cost of the night’s chaos.

“Move, move!” Marcus barked, his voice cutting through the noise. “Get to the other side!”

Gregory returned from retrieving Markus Wundberg’s body, his face grim as he handed it off to Alric. “That’s all of them,” he said, glancing back at the village. “Let’s go!”

As the last villager crossed, a deafening roar filled the air. A massive cannonball struck the drawbridge, splintering the wooden structure and sending parts of it crashing into the river below. The sudden destruction sent shockwaves through the group, and the air was filled with panicked screams.

“They’ve spotted us!” Serina shouted, raising her shield as a volley of whistling arrows rained down from above.

From his vantage point in the bell tower, Luke saw the devastation below. Without hesitation, he grabbed the bell’s rope and began ringing it furiously, the sound echoing across the village.

“Fall back!” Luke roared, his voice carrying over the chaos. “Get them out of here!”

The ringing bell drew the zealots’ attention, and arrows began to fly toward the tower. Luke gritted his teeth as he ducked behind a wooden beam, narrowly avoiding being skewered.

Sean glanced toward the bell tower, his heart sinking as he saw Luke pinned down. Damn it, Luke. You’re buying us time, but at what cost?

Sean turned back to the church, steeling himself as he approached the two hulking guards. The men stood like statues, their faces obscured by the shadows of their hoods. When Sean was only a few feet away, they stepped forward in unison, their voices deep and menacing.

“None may enter the house of the Eternal Flame,” one growled.

Sean stopped, his hand tightening around his sword. “You’re in my way.”

The other guard sneered, cracking his knuckles. “You’ll burn like the rest.”

The first guard lunged, his massive fist swinging toward Sean with terrifying speed. Sean dodged to the side, his flames igniting as he retaliated with a sweeping slash. The blade connected, but the man’s thick armor absorbed most of the blow.

The second guard joined the fray, his movements surprisingly fast for someone of his size. Sean ducked under a wild swing and drove his knee into the man’s stomach, but it was like hitting a wall. The guard grunted, grabbing Sean’s arm and flinging him across the courtyard.

Sean rolled to his feet, flames flaring brighter as he adjusted his grip on his sword. These guys are tougher than they look.

The first guard charged again, this time with a heavy mace. Sean sidestepped the attack, his blade slashing across the man’s exposed arm. The guard roared in pain, but before he could recover, Sean unleashed a burst of green fire that engulfed him. The man collapsed, his screams echoing into the night.

The second guard hesitated, his confidence wavering as he glanced at his fallen comrade. Sean seized the opportunity, closing the distance in a heartbeat. His sword flashed in the torchlight, slicing through the man’s armor and bringing him to his knees. With a final thrust, Sean ended the fight.

Breathing heavily, Sean wiped the blood from his blade and turned toward the church doors. He placed a hand on the heavy wood, pushing it open with a grim determination. The air inside was thick with the scent of incense and something far more sinister.

Time to finish this, Sean thought, stepping into the belly of the beast.

Sean slipped silently through the church’s dark corridors, his steps muffled by the thick layer of ash and dust coating the floor. The sound of chanting grew louder as he approached the “inner sanctum.” His heart pounded in his chest, but his grip on his sword was steady. He couldn’t afford to falter now—not with lives hanging in the balance.

He peeked into the sanctum, his sharp green eyes taking in the scene. The pink-haired girl from earlier was tied to a massive wooden pyre at the center of the room. She writhed and screamed, tears streaming down her face as she begged to be released. Her father stood before the pyre, his arms raised in fervent devotion, delivering yet another impassioned sermon to the gathered zealots.

Sean scanned the room quickly. No sign of the other captives, but this is a start.

Then, his gaze caught something above the pyre—a massive, ornate chandelier hanging precariously from the ceiling. The gears in his mind turned, and a plan began to form.

Sean reached into his belt and pulled out a throwing knife. He took a deep breath, steadying his aim, and then hurled the blade with precision. The knife struck the chain holding the chandelier in place, snapping it instantly.

The chandelier plummeted, crashing onto the gathered zealots below. The force of the impact sent shards of metal and glass flying, silencing their chants in an instant. The room erupted into chaos, the air thick with smoke and the acrid stench of burning oil.

Sean leapt from his hiding place, landing gracefully amidst the confusion. He was immediately met by a group of surviving zealots, their faces twisted with rage. They lunged at him, weapons drawn.

Sean’s blade moved like a whirlwind, slicing through the first two zealots before they could react. The third swung a heavy mace at him, but Sean ducked and countered with a vicious upward slash, sending the man sprawling.

Pain exploded in Sean’s side as a dagger found its mark. He gritted his teeth, twisting away from the attacker and dispatching him with a well-placed thrust. Blood seeped from the wound, but Sean didn’t let it slow him down. He fought with ruthless efficiency, his green flames igniting around his blade as he tore through the remaining zealots.

When the last body hit the floor, Sean staggered slightly, his breathing labored. He pressed a hand to his side, feeling the warmth of his blood beneath his armor. No time to stop now.

Sean made his way to the pyre and began cutting through the ropes binding the girl. She sobbed uncontrollably, her hands trembling as she clung to him the moment she was free.

“Thank you,” she choked out. “Thank you.”

Sean gently pried her off him. “You need to go. Hide somewhere safe until this is over.”

“But—” she started, her voice panicked.

“Go!” Sean said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

The girl nodded, tears still streaming down her face, and ran toward the nearest exit.

Sean turned his attention to the side door where her father had fled. The man’s retreat had not gone unnoticed. Sean followed, his steps echoing through the narrow corridors as he descended into the labyrinthine catacombs below the church.

The air grew colder and damper as Sean navigated the maze. His path was repeatedly blocked by zealots lying in wait, their ambushes poorly timed and no match for his skill. Sean dispatched them one by one, though each encounter left him more battered and bloodied.

By the time he reached the heart of the catacombs, he was breathing heavily, his body screaming in protest. But he pressed on, driven by sheer determination.

Sean finally found the man standing before a row of makeshift cells. Behind the bars, he could see the captured students and two Dragonknights, their expressions a mix of fear and relief at the sight of him.

The man turned slowly, his face illuminated by the flickering torchlight. He smiled—a chilling, almost serene expression. “You’re persistent,” he said, his voice calm despite the situation.

Sean leveled his sword at him. “Why?” he demanded, his voice low and dangerous. “Why do all of this? Why sacrifice innocent people? Your own daughter?”

The man tilted his head, his expression unchanging. “The Eternal Flame demands sacrifice. Through fire, we find purity. Through death, we find life.”

“Bullshit,” Sean spat. “You’re nothing but a madman hiding behind a twisted ideology.”

The man’s smile widened, and he dropped his sword and knife, letting them clatter to the ground. “Dragonknight,” he said mockingly. “Bound by your code. You don’t kill unarmed men, do you?”

Sean froze, his grip on his sword tightening. The man’s taunt hung in the air, daring him to act.

The room fell silent, save for the distant drip of water echoing through the catacombs. Sean’s green eyes burned with fury as he stared at the man, his sword trembling in his hand.

“You’re right,” Sean said finally, his voice cold. He stepped forward, allowing his magic to surge through his body. His armor dissolved into green flames, leaving him standing in simple clothing. “Dragonknights don’t kill unarmed men.”

The man’s smug expression faltered as Sean drove his sword into his stomach. The flames around the blade ignited, consuming him from the inside out.

“But I do,” Sean said, his voice like ice.

The man gasped, his eyes wide with shock and pain. He crumpled to the ground as the flames consumed him, his final scream echoing through the catacombs.

Sean turned to the cells, his expression hardening. He used his blade to break the locks, freeing the students and Dragonknights inside. They rushed out, some helping the injured while others looked to Sean for guidance.

“Let’s go,” Sean said, his voice firm despite his exhaustion. “We’re getting out of here.”

As they made their way back through the catacombs, Sean couldn’t help but glance back at the smoldering remains of the man he had just killed. No more sermons. No more sacrifices.

The villagers and the rescued captives from the catacombs huddled together near the southern edge of the village, anxiously watching the makeshift bridge that spanned a shallow but fast-moving river. The remnants of the original drawbridge lay in splinters nearby, a stark reminder of the night’s chaos. Dragonknights and civilians alike worked together to stabilize the hastily constructed bridge as the last of the survivors crossed.

Sean supported Luke, who was limping heavily, his arm draped over Sean’s shoulders. The older Dragonknight’s armor was battered, and blood seeped from a gash in his leg. Despite his injuries, Luke’s resolve hadn’t wavered.

“Almost there,” Sean muttered, gritting his teeth as he helped bear Luke’s weight.

Luke chuckled weakly. “You’re stronger than you look, kid.”

Sean shot him a side-eye. “And you’re heavier than you look.”

They finally stepped off the bridge and onto solid ground. A cheer erupted from the villagers and Dragonknights as Luke and Sean reached the safety of the camp. Sean was about to help Luke to a sitting position when a blur of movement caught his eye.

“Luke!” a voice cried, filled with equal parts relief and desperation.

A woman with dark, braided hair and tear-filled eyes ran toward them, her steps frantic. It was Elyra, Luke’s wife. Before Sean could react, she barreled into Luke, throwing her arms around him in a fierce embrace. She sobbed into his chest, her fingers clutching his armor as if letting go would mean losing him again.

“You idiot!” she cried, her voice muffled. “I thought… I thought I lost you.”

Luke winced slightly at the pressure on his injuries but managed a weary smile. “It’ll take more than a few zealots to keep me away from you.”

Elyra pulled back just enough to cup his face in her hands, her gaze searching his. Then, without a word, she leaned in and kissed him deeply, her tears streaming down her cheeks.

The sight brought a rare, genuine smile to Sean’s face. For the first time in what felt like an eternity, he allowed himself to breathe, the weight of the night’s horrors momentarily lifting.

Sean’s brief moment of peace was abruptly interrupted as he was tackled from the side. A pair of arms wrapped tightly around him, nearly knocking him off his feet. He stumbled, catching himself before they both fell.

“Sean!” Cynthia’s voice was thick with emotion as she buried her face against his chest, clutching him as if her life depended on it. “You’re alive! I was so scared you wouldn’t come back!”

Sean stood frozen, his mind struggling to process what was happening. Is this really happening?

Cynthia tightened her grip, seemingly unaware of Sean’s confusion. “Don’t you dare scare me like that again!” she said, her voice muffled but fierce.

Sean, utterly bewildered, looked around for help. His gaze landed on Maria, who was standing nearby with her arms crossed and an amused smirk on her face.

Maria arched an eyebrow. “What are you waiting for? Hug her back.”

Sean hesitated, his hands hovering awkwardly before he finally placed them on Cynthia’s shoulders. “Uh… okay,” he said, patting her lightly.

Cynthia pulled back just enough to look up at him, her face flushed but determined. Before Sean could say another word, she tightened her grip on him again, her head pressed against his chest.

The tender moment was abruptly interrupted by the sound of approaching hoofbeats and the creak of wheels. Sean turned to see an ornate carriage arriving, flanked by guards. From the carriage emerged the academy headmaster, the Dragonlord, Prince Tarus, and—of all people—Cynthia’s parents.

Sean’s blood ran cold as the group’s collective gaze fell on him and Cynthia. The Dragonlord and headmaster looked relieved, Prince Tarus raised an amused eyebrow, but Cynthia’s father’s expression turned thunderous.

“Cynthia?” her father called, his voice sharp. “What is the meaning of this?”

Cynthia froze, but only for a moment. Her resolve hardened as she turned back to Sean with a determined gleam in her eye. Before he could react, she leaned up on her toes and kissed him full on the lips.

Sean’s eyes widened in shock, his mind blanking as her lips pressed against his. The world seemed to go silent, save for the faint gasp from Maria and the loud splutter from Gregory nearby.

When Cynthia pulled back, her face was a brilliant shade of red, but her expression was triumphant. “He’s my savior, Father,” she declared, turning to face her stunned parents. “And one day, he’ll be my husband.”

The courtyard fell into stunned silence. Cynthia’s mother looked both mortified and delighted, her hand covering her mouth as if to suppress a laugh. Her father, on the other hand, looked as though he was about to explode.

“Cynthia!” he roared, his face turning crimson. “You—he—what—”

The Dragonlord cleared her throat, stepping forward with a regal air. “Perhaps this discussion is best saved for another time,” she said, her tone firm but amused. “Tonight, we celebrate the safe return of our people.”

Cynthia’s father opened his mouth to protest but was silenced by a sharp look from his wife. She stepped forward, her expression softening as she addressed Sean. “Thank you, young man. You’ve saved many lives tonight, including my daughter’s.”

Sean, still reeling, managed a nod. “I just… did what I had to.”

As the chaos subsided and the villagers began to settle, Sean found a quiet spot to sit, his mind racing with everything that had transpired. Gregory and Maria sat nearby, their conversation lighthearted despite the night’s events.

Cynthia approached him, her usual confidence replaced by a rare moment of vulnerability. She sat beside him, her hand resting on his arm. “Thank you, Sean. For everything.”

Sean sighed, his exhaustion catching up to him. “Just… try not to get into too much trouble, okay?”

Cynthia grinned, her playful demeanor returning. “No promises.”

For the first time in what felt like forever, Sean allowed himself to relax, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth as the night finally gave way to the faint glow of dawn.

Ch.7 The Dungeon

3 MONTHS LATER

Sean and his friends stood outside the Headmaster’s office, waiting for the meeting they’d been summoned to. The past three months had been a whirlwind of changes, from Sean and Cynthia’s engagement turning into a full-blown marriage to their group’s investigations being sidelined. Sean had used the downtime to train, study, and adapt to his new life as a married nobleman, but the uncertainty of the forgotten dungeon still gnawed at him.

Cynthia, however, seemed completely at ease. She leaned casually against the wall, her crimson hair tied back and her confident smirk ever-present. When the Headmaster’s assistant called them in, she walked through the door as if she owned the place.

Inside, the Headmaster greeted them warmly. “Welcome, everyone. And Sean, Cynthia—congratulations on your marriage. I trust you enjoyed the honeymoon phase?”

Cynthia’s smirk widened as she glanced at Sean, who immediately stiffened. “Oh, we did,” she said, her tone dripping with implication. “Though I can’t wait for the ground to really start shaking.”

Sean turned beet red, glaring at her. “Cynthia…”

The Headmaster laughed heartily. “Ah, young love. I remember my own honeymoon with my husband and wife. Those were the days.”

Cynthia laughed along with her, while Sean tried his best to disappear into his armor. The rest of the group exchanged amused glances, though Mina, standing near the back, looked more like she wanted to set Cynthia on fire.

The Headmaster quickly turned serious, her laughter fading as she spread a series of maps across her desk. “Enough reminiscing. We have urgent matters to discuss.”

She pointed to a marked area on the map, the region surrounding Brairstone. “Your theory about the forgotten dungeon was correct. Over the past three months, the number of monsters appearing in this area has increased dramatically. Some of these creatures are species we haven’t seen in decades. It’s clear that the dungeon core has reactivated.”

Elizabeth leaned forward, her expression grim. “How bad is it?”

The Headmaster sighed. “Bad enough. Farmers are abandoning their fields, travelers are avoiding the area, and smaller villages have reported attacks. If this continues, the region’s economy and safety will collapse.”

Sean nodded. “What’s the plan?”

The Headmaster straightened. “I’m sending you to investigate and destroy the core. Your team will consist of Sean, Cynthia, Maria, Elizabeth, Thomas, Gregory, Frederick, Cyle…” She paused, a small smile tugging at her lips. “And Mina.”

There was a beat of stunned silence.

“Mina?” Sean asked, incredulous.

The Headmaster nodded. “She’s shown incredible promise these past months. Her navigation skills are exceptional, and she’s already proven herself capable in combat simulations. Now that she’s turned 14, she’s officially eligible to join expeditions as a Dragonknight Greenhorn and team navigator.”

Before anyone could respond, Mina practically burst into the room, her bright pink braids bouncing as she grinned from ear to ear. “I made it!” she exclaimed, rushing over to Sean. Without hesitation, she threw her arms around him in a tight hug. “I’ll do my best, Sean! I won’t let you down!”

Sean stiffened, his hands hovering awkwardly as he glanced at Cynthia. Cynthia’s eyes narrowed, her jealousy practically radiating off her in waves.

“Uh… Mina,” Sean said, gently prying her off. “Good to see you’re… excited.”

Cynthia stepped forward, placing a firm hand on Mina’s shoulder. Her smile was sweet, but her tone carried a sharp edge. “It’s wonderful that you’re joining us, Mina. Just remember, this isn’t a school field trip.”

Mina smiled back, equally sweet but with a spark of defiance in her eyes. “Of course, Lady Cynthia. I’ll follow Sean’s lead in everything.”

Gregory stifled a laugh, whispering to Maria, “This is going to be interesting.”

Maria rolled her eyes. “Interesting isn’t the word I’d use.”

The Headmaster outlined the logistics of the mission, providing each team member with a detailed map, supplies, and enchanted communication crystals. “Your primary objective is to locate and destroy the dungeon core. If you encounter anything unusual, report back immediately. Remember, this is uncharted territory. Stay vigilant.”

As the group left the office, Mina stuck close to Sean, her enthusiasm unflagging. “Sean, where do you think we’ll find the entrance? I’ve been reading about old dungeon designs, and I think it might be hidden under a collapsed structure.”

Sean sighed, his patience already wearing thin. “We’ll figure it out once we get there, Mina.”

Cynthia, walking on Sean’s other side, casually looped her arm through his. “Don’t worry, Mina. Sean and I have plenty of experience with this kind of thing.”

Mina’s cheerful expression faltered for a moment before she quickly recovered. “I’m sure you do, Lady Cynthia. But it doesn’t hurt to have a fresh perspective.”

Gregory leaned toward Maria and whispered, “How long do you think it’ll take before someone explodes?”

Maria smirked. “Not long.”

The group set out the next morning, their convoy of wagons and mounted Dragonknights cutting through the misty countryside. Mina rode beside Sean, chattering about dungeon lore, while Cynthia glared daggers at her from the other side.

Elizabeth and Thomas trailed behind, their hands casually intertwined as they exchanged quiet remarks. Gregory and Maria brought up the rear, keeping a watchful eye on the surrounding terrain.

As they approached the edge of Brairstone, Sean felt a familiar unease settle over him. The quiet village they had fought to save months ago now stood abandoned, its streets eerily silent.

“This is it,” Sean said, his voice low. “The start of another storm.”

Cynthia placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “We’ll get through it. Together.”

Mina leaned forward, her eyes wide with excitement. “And I’ll prove I belong here.”

Sean sighed, glancing between the two women. “Let’s just focus on the mission.”

But even as the group pressed forward, the tension between them crackled like a fire waiting to ignite.

SOMEWHERE ELSE

Deep within the winding catacombs of an ancient fortress hidden beneath the Dragonlands, the secret society convened in their clandestine chamber. The air was thick with the scent of burning incense and the low hum of whispered incantations. Hooded figures surrounded a central stone table, their faces obscured by shadow and elaborate masks.

At the head of the table sat the leader, a tall and imposing figure draped in dark robes embroidered with arcane symbols. His mask, crafted from obsidian, bore the twisted visage of a dragon's maw, its gleaming red eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. The room fell silent as one of the members stepped forward, bowing deeply before speaking.

“The academy has sent the targets to investigate the dungeon near Brairstone,” the figure reported, his voice calm but laced with unease.

The leader nodded slowly, his tone measured. “As expected. The dungeon’s resurgence has served its purpose well. The academy, with its insatiable curiosity and arrogance, couldn’t resist investigating.”

The figure hesitated before continuing, his voice wavering slightly. “But… Sean Desmond is among the Dragonknights they’ve sent. His presence complicates matters.”

The room stirred, quiet murmurs echoing off the stone walls. Another hooded figure spoke, their tone cautious. “Desmond is a known anomaly. His strength and reputation have grown rapidly. His actions at Brairstone proved his potential.”

The leader raised a hand, silencing the murmurs. “Desmond’s strength is not a concern,” he said firmly. “If anything, his presence plays into our favor.”

The hesitant member stepped forward again, bowing his head. “Forgive my boldness, but Desmond’s survival could jeopardize our plans. He is unpredictable and capable of rallying those around him.”

The leader’s voice remained calm, but there was an edge to his words. “And if he dies, protecting his friends and his beloved, who will the people blame? The academy and the new Dragonlord. Desmond’s death would serve as a martyr’s spark, igniting dissent among the nobility and the common folk alike.”

The room fell silent, the implications of the leader’s words sinking in. Another member, a woman with a smooth and calculating voice, stepped forward. “And what of the real targets? Elizabeth Rubelle and Cynthia Calego?”

The leader’s glowing eyes fixed on her, his tone resolute. “They are the key. Elizabeth’s death would destabilize the royal family, creating chaos within the Dragonlord’s court. Cynthia’s loss would cripple the Calego family’s influence, fracturing the noble factions. Together, their deaths will be the catalyst for what comes next.”

The leader leaned forward, his voice cold and commanding. “Contact the team. Ensure they are in position and ready to execute the next phase. The dungeon will serve as their battleground, and its darkness will hide our actions.”

One of the members stepped forward, their head bowed. “As you command, High Speaker. The preparations will be underway within the hour.”

The hesitant member from earlier raised his voice again, though it trembled. “But what if Desmond survives and discovers our involvement?”

The leader turned to him slowly, the red glow of his eyes intensifying. “If Desmond survives, he will find only confusion and misdirection. We have laid our plans carefully, with contingencies for every possibility.”

The hesitant member swallowed hard and nodded. “Of course, High Speaker. Forgive my doubts.”

The leader stood, his presence towering and suffocating. “We are on the cusp of change. The old order will crumble, and from its ashes, we shall rise. The dungeon is but a stepping stone, a distraction to mask our true intentions.”

He raised a hand, and the air in the chamber seemed to vibrate with energy. “Go now. Each of you has your role to play. Do not falter.”

The members bowed deeply as the leader stepped back into the shadows, his figure fading from view. The room buzzed with quiet determination as the society dispersed, each member vanishing into the labyrinthine tunnels.

As the leader retreated to his private chamber, he allowed himself a rare moment of reflection. Sean Desmond was indeed an anomaly, one that could disrupt the delicate balance of their plans. Yet, his survival or death mattered little in the grand scheme. The true targets were in place, and the pieces on the board were moving as intended.

The leader sat at his desk, tracing a clawed finger over a map of the Dragonlands. His eyes lingered on the names etched onto the parchment: Elizabeth Rubelle and Cynthia Calego.

“The flames of revolution need kindling,” he muttered to himself. “And they will burn brightest when fueled by grief and chaos.”

With a final glance at the map, he extinguished the candlelight, plunging the chamber into darkness.

BACK AT THE DRAGONKNIGHTS’ CAMP

The Dragonknight encampment sat perched on a hill overlooking the remnants of Brairstone, its once-thriving streets now overrun with silence and shadows. Sean wandered aimlessly through the camp, his thoughts as restless as the faint winds stirring the tents. The memories of that day were etched deep into his mind—the screams, the chaos, the smell of blood and fire.

Even now, months later, his nights were haunted by the echoes of the battle. In his dreams, the faces of those he couldn’t save merged with the twisted grin of the zealot leader. The nightmares left him drenched in sweat, unable to look at his own reflection without feeling like he’d failed somehow.

He paused near the edge of the camp, staring down at the darkened village below. His hand subconsciously traced the hilt of his sword, a habit he’d developed whenever his anxiety surfaced. The distant ruins of Briarstone seemed to mock him, a constant reminder of the cost of survival.

“Penny for your thoughts?” a familiar voice broke through his reverie.

Sean turned to see Luke Ardenthal, now officially the leader of the regiment stationed at Brairstone. His wife, Elyra, stood beside him, her calm demeanor a steadying presence. Luke’s armor gleamed in the moonlight, though his expression was warm and approachable.

“Not much to say,” Sean replied, forcing a small smile. “Just… thinking.”

Luke raised an eyebrow. “Thinking about the day we fought to keep Briarstone from falling?”

Elyra added gently, “You wear that day on your face, Sean. It’s nothing to be ashamed of.”

Sean looked away, his hand tightening on his sword hilt. “It’s not something I’m proud of either.”

Luke stepped closer, his tone firm but kind. “Listen to me, Sean. That day, you did what no one thought was possible. You saved lives—more lives than anyone else in that village, myself included. If you keep looking back and questioning yourself, you’ll never move forward.”

Elyra nodded, her voice soothing. “We all carry scars, Sean. Some we can see, and others we can’t. But those scars are proof of what we’ve endured, and they make us stronger.”

Sean let their words sink in, though the weight on his chest didn’t lessen. “Thanks,” he said quietly. “I’ll… try to remember that.”

Before the conversation could continue, the heavy clink of armor announced the arrival of two Dragonknights. They were older men, their weathered faces and scarred hands speaking of decades of experience. They approached Luke with the kind of precision and discipline that came only from years of service.

“Sir Ardenthal,” one of them said, his voice gruff but respectful. “We’d like to volunteer for the night patrol.”

Luke studied them for a moment. “Sir Orman and Sir Eldric, isn’t it?”

The taller of the two, Orman, nodded. “That’s correct. We’ve been stationed here long enough to know the drill. The young bloods could use a reminder of what discipline looks like.”

Elyra smirked. “And here I thought you two might want to enjoy some rest.”

Eldric, the shorter but bulkier of the pair, chuckled. “Rest is for those who haven’t earned their scars yet, Lady Ardenthal. Besides, it keeps us sharp.”

Luke hesitated for a moment but then nodded. “Very well. Patrol the western perimeter. Report back at dawn.”

Orman and Eldric saluted crisply before turning to leave. As they walked away, Gregory appeared from one of the nearby tents, having overheard the exchange.

“Old blood showing off again?” Gregory quipped, his grin mischievous. “Can’t let us young ones have any fun, can they?”

Elyra rolled her eyes, but Luke smirked. “They think it builds character.”

Sean, who had remained quiet, finally spoke. “Discipline or not, they’re right about one thing.”

Gregory tilted his head. “What’s that?”

Sean’s eyes remained fixed on the dark horizon. “It’s good to stay sharp. Something about this place… it doesn’t feel right.”

The group exchanged uneasy glances, the weight of Sean’s words settling over them like a cold wind. The scars of Briarstone might have healed, but the shadows still lingered—and Sean knew better than to let his guard down.

The old bloods, Orman and Eldric, moved purposefully along the darkened road, their expressions grim and determined. Once they were certain no one from the camp was following them, Orman pulled a small, enchanted torch from his satchel. A soft blue light flickered to life, illuminating the rugged path.

In moments, six figures emerged from the shadows. Three were seasoned adventurers, their burly forms clad in reinforced leather armor. Each carried an assortment of weapons that bore the marks of countless battles. Beside them stood three A-rank mages, their robes embroidered with sigils of power, faint magical auras shimmering around them.

Orman addressed the group, his voice low but authoritative. “You all know why we’re here. Is everything prepared?”

One of the adventurers, a towering man with a greatsword strapped to his back, nodded. “The lures are in place. Every corner of this wretched place will be crawling with creatures by the time we’re done.”

Orman turned to the mages. “And you?”

The oldest mage, a wiry man with a long silver beard, inclined his head. “The summoning circles are ready to be activated. All we need is the signal.”

“Good,” Orman said. “Let’s get to work. The longer we stay out here, the higher the risk.”

The group made their way toward the mine entrance that served as the dungeon’s hidden gateway. It was an ingenious disguise, the worn timbers and rusted tracks making it indistinguishable from any other abandoned mine in the region.

Orman led the way, his torchlight cutting through the oppressive darkness. The adventurers followed closely, their weapons drawn, while the mages walked in a tight formation, their hands glowing faintly with prepared spells.

The first few floors of the dungeon were eerily quiet, their stale air thick with the scent of mildew. The group moved quickly, setting up lures in strategic locations—magical beacons designed to attract monsters and keep intruders distracted. The mages began their chants, inscribing summoning circles into the stone floors with intricate precision.

Hours passed as they descended deeper into the dungeon, each floor more treacherous than the last. The traps they set were designed to be nearly impossible to navigate, a deadly combination of magical wards, physical obstacles, and summoned creatures.

At last, the group reached the 20th floor—the dungeon’s core floor. In the center of the cavernous space stood the dungeon core itself, a faintly glowing sphere encased in what appeared to be a thick layer of mud and dust.

One of the mages, a younger woman with sharp eyes, approached the core. She studied it closely, her fingers tracing the air as she analyzed its energy.

“It’s faint,” she said. “Barely operating at 35%. No need to worry.”

Orman nodded. “Good. The traps we’ve set will ensure no one gets down here before we’re ready. Let’s move.”

The group began their ascent, their confidence high. But as they climbed higher, a low, guttural roar echoed through the dungeon, freezing them in their tracks.

“What was that?” one of the adventurers muttered, his grip tightening on his weapon.

Another roar followed, louder this time, accompanied by the sound of heavy footsteps reverberating through the stone.

Orman’s face darkened. “The lures… they’ve already started working.”

The group quickened their pace, climbing the spiral staircases and narrow tunnels that led upward. But the further they ascended, the louder the noises became—growls, screeches, and the ominous clatter of bones.

As they reached the 17th floor, a hulking figure loomed before them in the dim light. A massive minotaur, its horns cracked but still deadly, stood blocking their path. Its glowing red eyes locked onto the intruders, and it let out a deafening bellow.

“Damn it!” Eldric shouted. “Fall back!”

The group turned to retreat, but their escape route was quickly blocked. A swarm of undead creatures—skeletons, zombies, and grotesque amalgamations of flesh and bone—poured into the tunnel behind them, their rotting forms illuminated by the faint light of the summoning circles.

One of the adventurers swung his greatsword, cleaving through the first wave of undead. “We’re surrounded!” he yelled.

The older mage’s voice was frantic as he pointed to the summoning circles etched into the floor. “The spells have activated prematurely! The dungeon core must be stronger than we thought!”

Orman’s jaw clenched. “Move! We can’t stay here!”

The group fought their way through the horde, their weapons and spells cutting down monsters with brutal efficiency. But for every creature they felled, two more seemed to take its place.

The minotaur charged forward, swinging its massive axe with devastating force. One of the adventurers was caught in the swing, his body crumpling under the impact. The group’s formation faltered as panic set in.

“We’re not going to make it!” one of the mages cried, his voice trembling.

“Keep moving!” Orman barked, his sword slicing through a skeletal warrior. “We have to reach the next floor!”

But as they ascended, the situation only grew worse. The lures had drawn monsters from every corner of the dungeon, and the summoning circles continued to churn out waves of creatures. The air was thick with the stench of decay and the sounds of combat, punctuated by the screams of those who fell.

By the time the group reached the 10th floor, only a handful of them remained. Bloodied and exhausted, they huddled together as the undead horde closed in from all sides.

Orman stood at the front, his torch raised high. “We’ll hold them here. Give the rest of you a chance to—”

His words were cut off as a massive clawed hand burst through the wall, dragging him into the darkness. The remaining survivors screamed, their resolve breaking as they were overwhelmed.

The dungeon echoed with deafening roars and the horrifying sounds of tearing flesh. And then, as the last torchlight flickered out, only the screams of pain and terror remained, reverberating through the stone halls before fading into silence.

The dungeon was alive. And it was hungry.