Something Is Awakened

"W-Wait!" I blurted out, my hands slick with cold sweat. Atticus turned toward me, his expression calm and patient.

"He wouldn't tell you anything, even if it meant death. I know him," I said, swallowing hard. "But I can talk to him, ask about what happened. But you have to promise me one thing in return."

Atticus sighed and nodded, signaling me to continue. "Alright. What's your condition?"

Desperation seized me as I clasped my trembling hands. "You must promise not to harm him or take him after he confesses. Just take me instead."

"We can make that deal, but only if he tells the truth. Then we'll decide what to do next," Atticus said reasonably. "But I'm not the one to decide."

I furrowed my brow. "What do you mean?"

"This isn't something I have the authority to handle. The Elites will decide what happens." He paused, his tone softening. "But don't worry. They may consider your offer if they find him remorseful."

"But I'm already taking the blame for him—why does that matter?" I asked, confusion clouding my mind.

"That's the point. Rules are rules. All you can do is get your friend to admit the truth. If it's resolved, he'll be free."

My knees felt weak, unable to fully process his words. Had everything I'd done to protect Lukas been in vain? "What's so important about the item he stole? Why is all of this so complicated?" I asked, frustration slipping into my voice.

Atticus, however, remained patient. "What your friend stole is called the Nightwarden Vessel. It's no ordinary artifact. Inside it holds a dangerous source of darkness that could consume all life. It was banished from Aerion long ago, hidden away so it could never again see the light of day. But something has awakened it."

He sighed deeply. "That's why it's so important that your friend speaks the truth about who's behind it. If it falls into the wrong hands—not only will Aerion be at risk, but your world as well."

I absorbed his words, my mind spinning. "The Elites… are they born with powers?"

"They're more than just powerful elites," Atticus replied. "They were once princes and princesses of the five kingdoms, and it's their duty to protect peace above all else."

That made sense. Their presence, their auras—these weren't just ordinary people. I needed time to process everything. My veins seemed to pulse against my skin, and my breathing grew heavier. I was just a mortal.

"If they're that powerful, why can't they just use their abilities to figure out who's behind all of this?" I asked, trying to steady my nerves.

"That's exactly why Calen brought you here. If your friend hadn't asked for your help, he would have figured it out on his own," Atticus explained, his gaze sharp as if searching my thoughts. "There are mortals like you, rare individuals who possess the ability to shield. No magic, no immortality—just strength and protection."

I went still, trying to comprehend his words. "Should I be happy to know this? It still feels pointless. No matter how much I protect him, it won't stop you from punishing him."

"It could be your way to make a deal with them, if you're willing to listen," Atticus replied, his tone meaningfully serious.

A glimmer of hope flickered inside me. "What kind of deal? What do I need to do?"

"You have a rare gift," he said, his eyes locking with mine. "There are only three others like you in Aerion, training to hone their skills."

"To do what?" I asked, intrigued.

"Because of your ability, you can create a barrier that protects not just the people you love but an entire kingdom. It depends on your strength and determination."

My brow furrowed in confusion. "So, you're saying if I train to hone this shield gift, I could make a deal with the Elites?"

Atticus smiled softly. "Only if you're willing to do whatever it takes to save your friend. And I think you're already preparing yourself for it."

"I could make any deal if I do it?" I asked carefully.

"Anything," he answered.

I hesitated for a moment, but thoughts of Lukas, his family, and my promise to my grandfather flooded my mind. My conscience wouldn't let me rest knowing I had the chance to help him. After all, Lukas had only been trying to make money for his family.

"Whatever it takes," I whispered absently. But then, a thought crossed my mind, and I looked up at Atticus, uncertainty clouding my expression. "What if I'm not strong enough to create the shield you're talking about?"

"There's always room for growth in those who want to protect their loved ones," Atticus said gently. "True strength doesn't come from physical power alone. It comes from how big your heart is and how deeply you can love."

"I don't really understand what you mean," I said, shrugging.

He smiled knowingly and stood up. "I don't think you're lacking in strength. Otherwise, the Nightwarden Vessel wouldn't have reacted to you." He paused. "Calen mentioned that you were holding the artifact when it glowed."

"But does that mean—?"

"You have something powerful inside you, child," Atticus said, his voice low with gravity. "It's not a coincidence. The Nightwarden Vessel responded to you, which means you have the strength—whether it's darkness or the power of your gift. We still don't know for sure, but that's why you were brought here."