Chapter 11: Embers of Growth

The echoes of the prologue's chaotic events had finally dissipated, creating a sense of calmness that was almost surreal. Arian stood at the edge of vast training grounds near the royal palace, staring into the horizon where morning sun cast gold and crimson. This was a new beginning, the start of his journey to prepare for what lay ahead.

His thoughts were consumed by memories of his encounter with the Hollow, the battle with that ancient dragon and the all-powerful Codex of Eternity. Arian experienced a new sensation in his mind, which was an intense longing for purpose. His role as the passive third prince had diminished and he was no longer in evidence. The fate of the kingdoms was in his hands.

"You're not positioned correctly," he exclaimed with a sharp voice, breaking his silence.

Princess Seris was standing behind Arian, with her arms clasped and a blank stare from the audience. Her uniform was a practical yet stylish choice for training, with her silver hair braided back into gleaming waves.

"You've been gazing at the sky for fifteen minutes," she muttered, heading towards him. "Daydreams are futile against the Hollow.".

Arian grimaced gleefully. "I was simply reflecting on the events.".

Seris replied, "You can't just sit and wait for the moment to happen.".

She threw him the wooden training sword, explaining that survival requires concentration. We kick off your sword training today. No excuses.".

The sword was grasped by Arian, who felt its weight in his palm. It was lighter than the real thing, but he didn't find it to be familiar. This new world of discipline demanded him to embrace his past life without the luxury of swords or combat.

Seris began basic exercises as they drew closer to the heart of the training facility. She was a fluid and precise individual. Arian attempted to imitate her, but his strikes were not very precise, and his footwork was a challenge.

You are wrong again,' Seris said, stepping behind.

He gripped the sword in his hand, with a firm yet patient expression. "You're holding it too tightly.". Adjust your grip and let the sword run through your movements, not against you.

Arian nodded, adjusting his stance. His pace shifted gradually as the morning went on and into afternoon. He intensified his strikes and exhibited more deliberate behavior.

Arian was sweating heavily and his arms were sore from the exhaustion. They took a break. As Seris gave him a water flask, he rested on limbs and held his breath.

"You're thriving," she stated, gesturing towards him.

"Thanks to your merciless teaching," Arian responded with a drink.

Seris gave a shrug. "At least wait for Aldric to take charge, otherwise this is cruel.".

Upon arriving at the training grounds, Aldric gave off a mischievous and uncharacteristically playful expression. This scheming genius was an illusion, a combination of jocular arrogance with absolute power. His platinum hair glowed with brightness in the sunlight, and his diamond-blue eyes shone with laughter.

With a handshake, Aldric exclaimed: "Very well, guys. We're like good friends.".

Makes me feel left out.".

"What are you asking Aldric?" Seris asked, rolling her eyes.

"I'm here to introduce the boy to something a bit more exciting," Aldric said grimacefully.

The orb that Arian had used to secure the dragon's power in their previous battle was retrieved by him from his pocket.

The orb was tossed in the air before Aldric caught it. "It's time to learn how to harness its power." Another participant commented on the Codex and its potential applications. What are these possibilities?

Despite being worn out, Arian stood up in silence for the moment. The Codex of Eternity was a puzzle that he desperately wanted to solve. He was both intrigued and terrified by the pulsating, dark energy it provided.

"What are you going to do?" Arian muttered.

"Let me be known," Aldric said with a grim expression.

The trio proceeded to the underground chamber of the palace, which was kept hidden by layers of magical sanctuaries. They descended, the air becoming colder as the stone walls were lit up by the flickering of enchanting torches.

When they reached the heart of the chamber, Aldric waved his hand and the room was filled with swirling runes & glyphs. ". The orb was situated on a pedestal in the center of the chamber, and its dark energy pulsed like pulsing. It was placed directly under the ground.

Aldric commenced his exploration of the Codex's secrets by starting with this.

Beware, Arian: This isn't just about power. The Codex will test you. Both physically and mentally, it will challenge you to your limits.

With a fixed gaze, Arian moved towards the orb. His hand touching it caused him to experience a surge of energy, and his surroundings appeared altered. The Codex and his own memories were encircled in a vacuum, where they could be found lying motionless.

In the absence of it all, Aldric's voice echoed, "You must maintain your concentration and manage the flow of energy.".

Allow it to steer your path, but avoid being overwhelmed by it.

Closed eyes, Arian held his breathing steady.... Darkness and light collided within him like a tide.' His determination and willpower were tested by the Codex, which seemed to be alive.

Upon opening his eyes, he was back in the room with shaking but undisturbed. As it moved above his head, the orb's vibration echoed in sync with his own.

"You've taken the first step." Aldric congratulated him, saying, "Good to go.

The orb left Arian in a state of both admiration and determination. He acknowledged that this was just the starting point..

As they left the chamber, the three of them shared a rare moment of camaraderie. Seris teased Arian about his clumsy swordsmanship, while Aldric regaled them with exaggerated tales of his past exploits. For the first time in what felt like forever, Arian felt a sense of belonging, a bond that gave him strength.

But even as they laughed, Arian couldn't shake the feeling that this newfound peace was fleeting. The shadows of the Hollow loomed ever closer, and the path ahead was fraught with danger.

He tightened his grip on the orb, his resolve firm. He would train, he would grow stronger, and he would be ready for whatever lay ahead. The Ember Throne was his destiny, and he would rise to claim it.