Soiree night in the palace

The clergyman placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You defended yourself and others from those who meant you harm. There is no sin in that. The gods granted you that power for a reason, and tonight, you used it justly."

Outside, the escorts finished their grim task and returned to their positions. The carriage lurched into motion once more, continuing its journey towards Malmure Pasture.

As they travelled, the clergyman spoke quietly to the young man, offering words of comfort and guidance. He spoke of the responsibilities that came with such power and of the great destiny that surely awaited one so blessed by the gods.

The young man listened in silence, his mind awhirl with conflicting emotions. Part of him was exhilarated by the power he had wielded, proud of how he had protected himself and others. But another part was terrified—of the power itself, of the expectations now placed upon him, of the changes that were surely coming to his life.