THE_WORDSMITH

In this world, some say, the truth and the legends are the same. One such legend belonged to the protagonist, Valerian.

Valerian was an orphan, a boy blessed with a beautiful face, and everyone around him, could not help but want to play with him, till one day a prophet passing through their town pronounced him to be cursed. 

Since that day, the destiny of the boy seemed to have changed completely, he was shunned by everyone around him, and the gazes that were earlier filled with love and affection, now brimmed with disgust and hatred. 

The constant shunning and humiliation made the cheerful child grow up to be bitter and inexpectant. On his seventh birthday, things changed once again. 

This time, it was not the people around him who went through a change, but himself. As he grew up, Valerian became a legend in his own sense. 

The people sang of a boy, who could not speak, they shed tears for a boy, who could not grieve. He came from nowhere yet he was known everywhere. 

Would you like to know this legend? A story where a curse can become a blessing? A story of sacrifice, betrayal, determination, and secrets.

Valerian, The Legendary

Akra clenched his jaw but did not let even a whimper escape his mouth. Valerian smiled and said, "You are a tough one. What I did just now was channeling fire mana through your nose and charring it completely so that it crumbles away."

Akra did not reply. He could not answer because he was at risk of showing weakness in front of his enemy. Valerian did not stop at this. He took a small hand mirror from his magic pouch, which belonged to Valerie, and said, "Look into the mirror, Lord Akra. See, if you are still yourself?"

His words made Akra subconsciously look at the reflection in the mirror, and his eyes widened while his pupils constricted. His nose was missing, leaving two obscure pits in the place. Akra was scared of his appearance more than he was frightened of Valerian.

The young monk smiled and asked, "How do you like it? Does your new appearance match your true nature?"

The Real Threat.