Amon stood in the clearing, his breath coming in shallow gasps as the darkness receded, retreating to the depths of his mind where it had always lurked. The weight of his father's words still hung heavy in the air, echoing in the silence of the ancient forest.
"This is only the beginning," Malachi had said, his voice steady, but Amon could sense the tension beneath his father's calm demeanor.
Amon wanted to speak, to ask more questions, but his throat felt tight, his mind still grappling with the revelation of what his powers truly were. His abilities weren't just dangerous—they were catastrophic, a force that could unravel the very souls of those he loved.
"You did well today," Malachi continued, stepping closer, his gaze piercing. "But the real test is yet to come. Controlling the darkness when you're calm is one thing, but when your emotions take over—anger, fear, love—that's when your control will be tested."