Velatrix

Beyond Death follows the story of Atreya Kerwin, a 14-year-old boy who is reincarnated into a fantasy world as the heir to a noble family. Living in a floating city of wonders, Atreya is unaware of his own untapped powers and the dark forces gathering around his family. As the kingdom is torn apart by a brutal civil war, Atreya’s life shatters when his parents sacrifice themselves to protect him from a deadly assassination plot. Fleeing through a hidden waterway, Atreya barely escapes with his life, only to be saved by a mysterious 12-year-old princess from a rival kingdom at war with his own.

Thrown into a world of conflict and betrayal, Atreya must unlock the secrets of his powers while struggling to survive in a realm that once seemed like a dream. As the story unfolds, Atreya begins to uncover the truth behind his mysterious reincarnation and the dark purple aura tied to his abilities, hinting at a far greater purpose. But with enemies on all sides, including the enigmatic woman who seems to know him, and the sealed sword that holds a terrifying power, Atreya’s journey is only beginning. Will he rise from the ashes of his family’s downfall or fall to the shadows threatening to consume everything he holds dear?

Beyond Death: the rise of atreya

The tension in the air was unmistakable as Atreya returned to his chambers. The walls of the castle seemed to press in around him, their ancient stones heavy with the weight of countless battles. He stood by the window, staring out at the city below. The streets were alive with activity—knights donning armor, blacksmiths hammering weapons, and messengers darting through the crowds with urgent letters.

Atreya unsheathed the Asura blade, its surface catching the dim light of the setting sun. The sword felt alive in his hands, humming faintly as if sensing the conflict ahead.

A knock at the door broke his reverie. Celeste entered, her emerald cloak replaced with a suit of light leather armor that hugged her frame. She carried two wooden training swords.

"You've been staring out that window for hours," she said, tossing one of the swords to him. "Time to put that anger to use."

Atreya caught the sword with a frown. "You think swinging a stick around will prepare me for what's coming?"

She smirked. "You'd be surprised. Now, stop brooding and fight me."

The training yard was lit by flickering torches, the shadows dancing across the worn stone floor. Celeste stood opposite Atreya, her stance relaxed but her eyes sharp.

"Ready?" she asked, twirling her sword.

Atreya didn't respond. He lunged, his movements fueled by frustration and grief. Celeste sidestepped effortlessly, her wooden blade striking his shoulder with a loud crack.

"Too predictable," she said, circling him. "Again."

Gritting his teeth, Atreya attacked again, this time feinting left before striking right. Celeste blocked the blow with ease, her strength belying her slender frame.

"You're letting your emotions control you," she said, her voice calm. "That's a good way to get yourself killed."

Her words stung, but Atreya knew she was right. He took a deep breath, forcing himself to focus. This time, when he attacked, his movements were more calculated, his strikes sharper.

Celeste smiled as their swords clashed. "Better. But you'll need more than that to survive."

The fight continued until Atreya's arms burned with exhaustion. By the time Celeste called for a break, he was drenched in sweat but felt a flicker of satisfaction.

"You're learning," she said, handing him a water skin. "But you still have a long way to go."

Atreya took a sip, his gaze drifting to the Asura blade resting against the wall. "What if it's not enough?"

Celeste's expression softened. "It has to be. Because giving up isn't an option."

Chapter 18: The Call to Arms