The old wooden door creaked as Thomas entered, the warm glow of the forge illuminating the dusty interior. The scent of hot metal and coal filled the air, mingling with the faint aroma of leather from the armor hanging on the walls. Cheake, the blacksmith, was hammering away at a piece of glowing steel, his muscles rippling with each strike.
“Ah, Thomas!” Cheake called out, glancing up with a grin. “Ready to find something worthy of the hunt?”
“Definitely!” Thomas replied, his excitement bubbling over. “I need something that can help me face whatever’s on that mountain.”
Cheake paused, his expression turning serious. “You’ve heard the stories, haven’t you? The mountain isn’t just a place for glory. It’s home to shadows and echoes of the past.”
“I have to know what happened to my parents. I need to face whatever took them from me,” Thomas said, determination shining in his eyes.
Cheake studied him for a moment, then turned to a shadowy corner of the shop. “There’s one blade you should see. It’s called the Shadow Blade.”
As Cheake reached into the darkness, Thomas felt a chill run down his spine. The sword emerged, its blade dark and shimmering, almost like it was absorbing the light around it. The hilt was adorned with intricate carvings, and as Thomas took it, a strange energy pulsed through him.
“This sword has a powerful history,” Cheake warned. “It can grant immense strength, but be cautious—its darkness can seep into your heart if you’re not careful.”
“I can handle it,” Thomas said, though a flicker of doubt danced in the back of his mind. The blade felt alive, almost as if it were whispering to him.
“Choose wisely,” Cheake said, concern etched on his face. “A weapon can be a friend or a foe, depending on how you wield it.”
With a nod, Thomas secured the Shadow Blade at his side, the weight of it both exhilarating and ominous. He also picked a lightweight set of leather armor, perfect for agility and stealth. With his supplies secured, he hurried back to the fields, adrenaline coursing through him.
As he approached, Kejo was surrounded by other boys preparing for the hunt. The air buzzed with excitement, laughter echoing as they shared tales of bravery and the shards they hoped to collect.
“Look at you!” Kejo exclaimed, eyeing the dark blade and armor. “You’re ready for battle!”
“Just need to find the truth,” Thomas said, determination set in his gaze. “Tonight, I’ll finally uncover what happened on the mountain.”
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a fiery glow across the fields, the villagers gathered for the ceremony. An ancient elder stood at the forefront, her voice steady and deep, weaving the legend of the Heart of Scholo into the cool night air.
“The five shards represent the five virtues of our people,” she proclaimed. “Courage, wisdom, compassion, honor, and sacrifice. May those who seek them do so with pure hearts.”
Thomas clenched his fist around the hilt of the Shadow Blade, feeling its dark energy swirl within him. He would not only seek the shards but also the truth behind his parents' fate. As the ceremony concluded, a hushed anticipation fell over the crowd, and the boys were called forward, ready to embark on their quest.
With one last glance at Kejo, who gave him an encouraging nod, Thomas stepped into the darkness of the forest, the cold night air wrapping around him like a shroud. The path to Kindeo awaited, filled with dangers and secrets, but Thomas felt a flicker of power within him. The heart of Scholo was calling, and he was ready to answer.
get ready for chapter 3 guys because this is just the beginning
next part will be posted when i get done in a couple weeks
By @jax_xds
