"Allow me to share a tale of how our world succumbed to darkness."
Enter Garan, the storyteller, once again weaving his narratives from the long stool by the chamber hearth. It's not that I dislike stories; it's the repetition that irks me. Garan seems to be running low on content, using this as a pastime during his shift. The way the other kids listen as if it's their first time makes me queasy.
Don't misunderstand—I appreciate stories, especially those about the world before. However, Garan's tale focuses on its demise, where our world now only basks in light from the created glow of lightcasters. Beyond the townsguild walls lies perpetual darkness. Only the lightcasters can venture out, shielding us from creatures known as shadow infernals, creatures I've yet to witness.
Our townsguild, Rux, named after the lightcaster who created the yellow heartlight at its center, is a haven. The heartlight shields us from shadow infernals, while the walls confine us to its protective aura. Venture beyond without your own light, and shadow infernals will claim you.
Every 18th hour, we gather in this chamber. Divided into three groups—young, youth, and adults—we receive varying instructions. The young delve into literature, history, and stories of the world. The youth, as my friend Lupen tells me, learn to manifest or harness the power of lightcasting. The adults' realm remains a mystery since my parents remain tight-lipped.
In my 9th year, I endure the young category, counting the months until my 10th year when I can escape these repetitive tales.
"And how does the story end, Karsiel?"Garan nods, thrusting me into the spotlight, which I find unsettling.
"The Siblings' battle almost concluded with Lightbringer triumphing over the Shadow Weaver. However, in delivering the final blow, he fell into a trap and was sealed. Realizing the world would plunge into darkness without him, the Lightbringer split his remaining power into fragments, granting humanity a chance to free him from the cursed seal. That's why, even now, we have lightcasters."
"Very accurate, Karsiel, as expected."
"How long ago did this happen, Garan?" a six-year-old boy inquires eagerly.Garan looks to me, awaiting my response.
"Approximately 1,000 years," I comply.