Chapter 9: The Dawn of Awakening

While exploring the vastness of their historic library, they were met with a somber silence. All motion seemed to be a shadow of the past, illuminated by Solenne's magic. Air grew heavier, carrying an inexhaustible force that rippled through their bodies.

It was unbearable for Arian to feel under scrutiny. With his sword in the air, he examined the darkness for any signs of movement. "We are close," mumbled, his voice low but firm.

Aldric walked by him, his trademark grimace in sight, but with those sharp eyes there was something very rare. "What's the matter with you?". Knowledge? Power? Could it be a trap? He quipped, his voice delicate but restrained. ".

Bringing up the back I say to Seris, she said: "Aldric, can you take something seriously?". This is not a game. ".

"Life's a game, that'll make me happy," Aldric said softly. "But the stakes are higher.".

They felt a great sense of tension when they reached an ornate, massive door, adorned with intricate runes and the royal family's symbol, which was resembled by ash. The sight of it left Arian feeling uneasy.

Upon moving forward, Solenne had her fingers running over the runes. "This is all finished.". The final chamber. The source of the Crown's creation is situated beyond here.

Arian's breath took a chill out, his eyes fixed. "Now we proceed.". Together. ".

The runes burst out and illuminated the room as he placed his hand on the door. It was like seeing fireworks from heaven. A squeaky, circular chamber was illuminated with an eerie glow as the door opened. The door closed. A base was positioned, and above it lay an age-old book wrapped in delicate silver.

The individuals walked with caution, keeping an eye on the chamber for any potential danger. Opening the book, Solenne reached for it first on the pedestal with her hands shaking in unease. The pages were alive, with the runes inscribed on them pulsating like wild birds.

With a sense of wonder, she whispered: "This... this is the Codex of Eternity, where the Crown was created, its power and purpose is revealed.".

As Arian approached, he gazed at the twinkling stars. His body froze in place as he felt a sudden surge of energy while attempting to touch the page.

The emptiness of his mind was filled with thoughts of an unnamed war, kingdoms that were on the brink of collapse, and the Crown itself, which could be a force for good or evil.

The words from Seris, "Arian!" brought him to the present moment.

He stumbled, his breath in a screeful state.'

"I saw it, " he stated, his head shaking. "The Crown... it's more than just a weapon.".

It is a force of change, created and destroyed by its possessor.'". The Hollows would be granted.

With a smile on his face, Aldric proceeded to say, "They will not let them." He then turned away.

The room trembled with fear before anyone could respond. The air became chilly, and an overwhelming darkness filled the space.

The sword was drawn by Seris, who then hissed "They are here."".

Shadows emerged, their shapes obscured by the black mist.. A massive, imposing figure stood at the center, his armor shining with an unnatural light.'...

With a grinning voice, the figure declared: "You've made it to this point, but your journey is only half finished.".

The Codex is not for us, and Arian stood up with his sword pointed at it. If you want it, you must pass us.'

A shiver ran down his face as the figure laughed, sending a chill. "It's okay.".

The subsequent battle was a combination of might and mayhem. In a battle with the Hollow's minions, Seris and Aldric engaged in precise movements.

With Solenne's attention on protecting the group, her magic created protective walls that shone through undertheath the dark energy.

The leader was confronted by Arian, whose blades clashed in a display of steel and spark. With every strike, his determination was undone.

The leader of the Hollows sneered. "You're strong, boy. But strength alone won't save you."

"The strength is not the sole focus, Arian asserted, his voice was unfalteringly silent. It's the determination to safeguard what matters.".

He infused his blade with light and transformed it into the force of the Codex. The leader of the Hollow was sent shivering as he launched his attack, giving them an advantage.

Despite their victory, the Hollows were battered as they withdrew. The group emerged victorious. Secrets were kept at the Codex for now.

Using his sword, Arian felt pained in both body and soul. He declared, "This is not over yet, Mr. Hollow.". Their strength will increase in the upcoming time.

Aldric clapped him on the shoulder, his smirk returning. "Then we'll just have to be stronger too."

The group exchanged weary but determined glances. Together, they had faced the darkness and emerged victorious. But the battle for the Crown and the fate of the world was far from over.

Arian was convinced that this was just the start, as they prepared to exit the room. The Hollows were adamant, and the Crown's power was both advantageous and disadvantageous.

In the interim, they were successful. And that was enough.