Cherreads

Chapter 30 - Ambitious

[ Friday 9 pm ]

Martin : "Welcome, our boy! Tell me what you have achieved."

Rayan began to unveil the skills he had long trained to master. His aura flared to life; first a blaze of fire, then a chilling frost, and finally a shroud of deep, swirling darkness. Martin watched in silence, his eyes gleaming with pride. At last, the moment had come; Rayan was finally able to wield his powers.

Martin : "Good job, boy! now, tell me what happend with you and Lucas"

Rayan told Martin about Zevril, the king of Aetherwyn; a man of great wisdom and kindness, who had seen the hidden fire within Rayan long before he saw it himself. It was Zevril who helped him awaken his true power and guided him through the fierce trials of mastery.

Martin didn't know the king personally, but from what he had heard, he formed a good impression of him, especially of the wisdom behind his decision to train Rayan. Yet now, it was Rayan who turned to Martin, seeking guidance on how to continue his path and master the dark, cold sides of his power.

Martin : "Go home now, boy. Rest, and let this day drift into sleep. We shall continue tomorrow, and I will guide you, so do not worry. All I ask of you tonight is to take a breath, close your eyes, and leave the weight of the day behind."

[ Saturday Morning ]

Rayan awoke to the soft gleam of morning light slipping through the curtains, his eyes reflecting a quiet fire of determination. Today was no ordinary day. It was a day he had resolved to summon every ounce of strength within him, to awaken the dormant powers that lay hidden beneath the surface.

With deliberate movements, he dressed, not as a routine, but as if donning armor before a battle. Each gesture carried purpose, each breath a silent vow. His body pulsed with energy, and his spirit burned with resolve, as though the universe itself was bracing for the force of his will.

Prepared and unwavering, Rayan stepped out into the world, ready to face whatever trials awaited. He made his way to meet Martin, his expression etched with unshakable focus.

Martin gazed into the distance, his voice low but certain."We're going to the palace of Drazan the King of Zenithra."

Rayan turned to him, a flicker of confusion in his eyes."To King Drazan? Why? What business do we have with the ruler of Zenithra?"

A faint smile touched Martin's lips, one that hinted at secrets not yet told."Because the king has a side the world rarely sees...a cold side, yes, but not without purpose. He doesn't show kindness as others do, but he helps those who truly need it. And he will help you, Rayan."

.

[ Drazan Palace ]

Drazan opened his arms in welcome, his voice warm with familiarity:"Welcome, Martin. It's been a while since I last saw you."

Martin offered a faint smile, one that barely touched his tired eyes."I've had my own affairs to tend to. These days, I'm kept rather busy."

Drazan stepped aside, allowing Martin and his companion, Rayan, to enter the grand hall of his palace. The flickering torchlight danced along the stone walls, casting shifting shadows that gave the space a sense of ancient life. With a graceful gesture, Drazan invited them to sit, then took his place across from them, his gaze steady and curious.

So, he began, his voice calm but edged with interest,"what brings you both to my palace at this hour?"

Martin stepped forward, his voice steady but laced with a hint of concern."I've come with a request, Drazan. I want to train Rayan on the Cold Side, but only a little. He carries an integrated side, and I don't want him falling under the effects of the fracture."

Drazan nodded slowly, his eyes locking onto the boy standing quietly behind Martin. A thoughtful silence passed between them, heavy with unspoken understanding. In Rayan's gaze, Drazan saw the shimmer of an old dream; one that dared to imagine a world unbound by darkness.

After a moment, he spoke, his tone firm yet laced with quiet admiration."I see in this boy the kind of dreams that could one day free this world… but only if he becomes as strong as he dares to be."

A faint smile tugged at Drazan's lips as he rose from his seat, the old fire of a warrior glinting in his eyes. He turned to Rayan, voice sharp and resolute:"Alright, boy… let's begin your training now!"

.

Drazan (Character Art)

.

More Chapters