Chapter 8: The Gift of Power
[Alert: The host has entered the magical world of Narnia. Quest Initiated – Conquer Narnia. Reward: 100 EXP Points.]
Magnus frowned. The notification wasn't what unsettled him—it was the chilling realisation that he was alone. The howling blizzard engulfed him in a relentless storm of white, his breath turning to frost as he looked around. Peter, Susan, Lucy, and Matilda were nowhere in sight.
"System," Magnus called out, his voice barely carrying over the wind. "Where is everyone?"
[They were not teleported with you. You have been separated upon entering Narnia.]
Magnus cursed under his breath, wrapping his arms around himself as the cold bit deep into his flesh. The snow piled high, crunching under his boots with each step as he staggered forward. Time passed in an agonising blur, and his body grew weaker. His limbs felt heavy, his vision blurred, and as he finally collapsed into the snow, the last thing he saw was the faint outline of a reindeer with a glowing red nose.
"Rudolph?" he murmured before darkness consumed him.
When consciousness returned, warmth surrounded him. He inhaled deeply, the rich scent of hot chocolate filling his nostrils. Blinking, he found himself inside a rustic wooden cabin, a fire crackling nearby, sending flickering shadows dancing across the log walls. A small elf, no taller than Matilda, placed a steaming cup in his hands.
"Drink up," the elf said, his voice carrying the hint of a northern accent. "You were near frozen when we found you."
Magnus took a sip, the warmth spreading through his body like a comforting embrace. As he savoured the drink, he mentally called upon the system.
"Where am I?"
[Location: The North Pole of Narnia.]
A deep chuckle resonated from the doorway, and Magnus turned his gaze toward the source of the voice. Standing before him was a tall, broad-shouldered man with a long white beard, his presence exuding both wisdom and power.
"You're awake at last," the man said. "I was beginning to wonder if you would ever stir."
Magnus stared, recognition dawning upon him. "You're… Father Christmas?"
The man let out a hearty laugh. "Aye, that I am! Also known as Saint Nicholas, Santa Claus, and a few other names across the realms. I found you collapsed in the Ice Forest three days ago."
Magnus's mind raced. Three days? How long had he been unconscious?
"I also met your siblings," Father Christmas continued, stroking his beard thoughtfully. "Peter, Susan, Lucy, and Matilda. They are safe. I gifted them weapons and tools to aid them on their journey."
Magnus stiffened. "What did you give them?"
"For Peter, a sword and shield. For Susan, a bow and arrows. Lucy received a healing potion and a horn to call for aid. As for Matilda…" He smiled. "She has great potential, that one. I gave her enchanted gloves to strengthen her telekinetic abilities."
Magnus leaned back, digesting the information. His siblings were safe, at least for now. But what about him?
"As for you, Magnus," Father Christmas said, stepping forward, "I have something special."
From within the folds of his coat, he produced a belt—one that made Magnus's eyes widen in recognition. It bore the same intricate design as the Belt of Sun-Lok from The Sorcerer's Apprentice.
"This belt," Father Christmas explained, "allows you to perform the Animation Spell. You can bring dragon-like objects to life, commanding them as real, fire-breathing creatures. With Sympathetic Magic, you may also control creatures you animate."
Magnus reached for the belt hesitantly. The moment his fingers brushed against the leather, a surge of energy rushed through him, igniting a spark deep within his core. He fastened it around his waist, feeling a sense of completeness as it locked into place.
"Thank you," Magnus said sincerely.
Father Christmas gave him a knowing nod. "You will need it, young one. Narnia is at war, and the White Witch will not take kindly to your presence. Use your gifts wisely."
Magnus stood, summoning his Sorcerer's Hat onto his head, the fabric shifting as it adapted to his power. Determination burned in his eyes as he turned towards the door.
"It's time to pay the White Witch a visit."