Chapter 11

Echos of the past

In the quiet moments between council meetings and training sessions, Elian delved deeper into his ancestry, seeking answers to questions that had plagued him since the beginning of his journey. In the citadel's library, he unearthed ancient tomes and scrolls that spoke of Arannis, the legendary mage whose legacy had shaped the course of Alverian history.

Through meticulous study and meditation, Elian pieced together fragments of Arannis' life—a tale of courage and sacrifice, of alliances forged and betrayals endured. He marveled at Arannis' mastery of elemental magic, which rivaled even the most gifted mages of their time.

But amidst the tales of triumph, there were whispers of darker deeds—of a forbidden ritual performed in desperation to thwart a cataclysmic threat. The details were vague, obscured by centuries of retelling and myth-making, but Elian sensed a connection between Arannis' actions and the pendant's enigmatic power.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Elian sought out artifacts left behind by Arannis—relics imbued with residual magic that resonated with his own. Each artifact offered glimpses into Arannis' struggles and triumphs, shedding light on the choices that had shaped the destiny of Alveria.

Among the artifacts was a crystal amulet adorned with intricate runes—a gift from the elemental guardians themselves, bestowed upon Arannis in recognition of his valor. As Elian held the amulet in his hands, he felt a surge of ancient energy coursing through him, connecting him to the lineage of guardians who had come before him.

In moments of solitude, Elian communed with the spirits of his ancestors, seeking their guidance and wisdom. They spoke in riddles and visions, their voices echoing through the corridors of time with warnings of impending threats and untold challenges.