Narrator's POV
"Requip: STORMWING TEMPEST ARMOR!" Kali bellowed, his voice tinged with agony, as the silver radiance intensified following his invocation.
Caden was taken aback as the fiery vortex summoned by Phoenixa vanished abruptly, replaced by a perilous glint hurtling towards him.
"If I incapacitate you, your summoned spirit will suffer the same fate!" Kali declared, hurtling towards Caden at breakneck speed, now clad in the formidable Stormwing Tempest Armor.
The Stormwing Tempest Armor, inspired by the wind's essence, featured swirling motifs and feathered designs that mirrored a raging tempest. Lightweight yet durable, the armor enhanced agility and speed, equipped with ethereal wings granting flight. Acting swiftly, Eavan shielded Caden with his Divine sword as Kali's Zephyrblade clashed with it, creating a resounding wave upon impact.
"Caden, take cover!" Kali's grip tightened on the Zephyrblade, a weapon infused with wind power, capable of unleashing razor-sharp gusts. Following Eavan's lead, Caden sprinted into the forest to seek refuge, evading Kali's line of sight.
The clash of swords reverberated as Eavan and Kali locked eyes with fiery determination. Eavan exerted more force, creating a space between them. Both combatants perspired from the intense battle—one exuding an ethereal allure with clinging midnight strands, the other showcasing heightened grace amidst perspiration.
Without hesitation, the two adversaries clashed once more, their swords generating waves of energy upon contact. The forest echoed with the clanging sound of combat—a battleground of impending victory or death. Despite evenly matched skills, they pressed on with unwavering precision, eyes fixed on the deadly dance unfolding.
"Flame Nova," Phoenixa unleashed, conjuring a massive fiery magic circle on the ground. Sensing Eavan's brief hesitation, Kali seized the opportunity, delivering a swift kick and a burst of wind energy to Eavan's stomach, momentarily staggering him. With precision, Kali took flight, hurtling towards Phoenixa, ready to unleash his next move.
"Tempest Cyclone Slash," Kali cast, channeling the wind's power through the Zephyrblade. Before Phoenixa could unleash her Flame Nova, Kali unleashed a torrent of razor-sharp winds in a cyclonic slash, cutting through Phoenixa in a whirling vortex.
As the fiery magic circle dissipated in the wind, Phoenixa's form shimmered with golden energy before vanishing. Landing on the ground, Kali remained unaware that he had fallen into Eavan's strategic trap.
"Golden Radiance, Chain of the Divine!" Eavan cast in quick succession, catching Kali off guard for a moment.
The brilliant burst of golden light dazzled and blinded Kali, momentarily disorienting him and creating an opening for attack. Eavan's hand glowed with golden energy as intricate runes encircled Kali, binding him in chains suffused with a divine aura.
These chains, far from ordinary, suppressed Kali's magical abilities, rendering him numb and constrained. A radiant light enveloped Kali, restoring him to his original attire. Drawing closer to Kali, Eavan anticipated Kali's potential retaliation and prepared for it by invoking his next spell.
"Body Link! I, Eavan, through the power vested in me, bind this Gifted to myself. I beseech the following condition: should he stray too far from me, he shall be wracked with pain, and I shall be made aware of his location through my magic. As he feels, so shall I." Eavan's proclamation echoed lengthily.
Witnessing this decree, Caden was filled with dread as he realized Eavan had effectively sealed any chance of the Gifted escaping his grasp. Their fates were now intertwined, with death awaiting any attempt to flee. As the light dimmed, Kali pushed Eavan away in a fit of anger, only to suffer the consequences and experience the agonizing pain himself. Tensed with frustration, Kali grappled with the realization that his struggles had only multiplied.
Eavan's steely demeanor remained unyielding as his icy gaze met Kali's silver eyes, unwavering in his resolve.
"You have nowhere to go. It would be best for both of us if you cooperate and spare us both from suffering," Eavan urged, delivering a lengthy explanation that left Caden in awe, having never heard Eavan speak at such length before.
Realizing the futility of resistance, Kali contemplated the situation and reluctantly accepted defeat, sighing in resignation.
"Requip." Kali summoned, a radiant surge of light transforming him, revealing a crimson cloak made of sturdy yet luxurious fabric. Adorned with intricate crimson clasps and a fur-lined hood, the cloak exuded both practicality and elegance. Paired with sleek black travel boots and a matching crimson leather satchel, Kali's attire exuded sophistication and functionality. Emerging from his hiding spot, Caden approached the duo.
"May you understand your actions," Kali remarked, a golden energy crackling between Eavan and Kali, their hands now marked with an intricate rune.
Caden was astonished by the turn of events and glanced towards Eavan. For a fleeting moment, he could have sworn Eavan's icy gaze softened as he observed the intricate rune tattooed on his hand. Shaking his head, Caden dismissed the thought as impossible, considering Eavan's usual cold demeanor. Redirecting his gaze to Kali, Caden found himself captivated by the Gifted's beauty. However, what truly caught Caden's attention were Kali's somber silver eyes, reflecting the sorrow of his newfound perpetual bond with Eavan.
"Forevermore!!" Caden's internal scream reverberated in his mind.
"Second Master, do you realize what you have done?!" Caden couldn't hold back the question, receiving only a silent nod from Eavan in response.
"Why would he do that? I understand the Gifted's power and potential for escape, but employing the Body Link spell seems extreme," Caden thought, wrestling with frustration.
Eavan turned and began walking, surprising Caden who hastened to follow. Kali trailed behind, his steps resonating loudly, creating an uncomfortable tension among the trio. They departed from the battleground, delving deep into the forest's depths, leaving behind the altered landscape as the forest reverted to its natural state.
"Are we really walking back to Skyhill? Wouldn't Second Master use his Teleportation Talisman?" Caden pondered inwardly, grappling with various concerns as they embarked on what seemed to be a lengthy journey ahead.
"A village is nearby; we can reach it before sundown," Eavan announced to his companions, Caden and Kali.
As they navigated the dense forest, Kali sensed Caden's recurring glances in his direction. Meeting Caden's gaze, Kali welcomed him with a soft inquiry, surprising Caden and eliciting a flush of embarrassment.
"Do you have something to ask?" Kali's gentle inquiry caught Caden off guard, his surprise evident on flushed cheeks. Were they once foes just moments ago?
Resolving to comply with Eavan's wishes, Kali followed alongside him, finding potential benefits in understanding the nature of the Body Link spell between them. Observing Caden's nervous fidgeting, Kali grew concerned. Despite the warning to remain vigilant by the enigmatic being who had helped him, Kali found himself unable to suppress his innate kindness, acknowledging Caden's actions as mere obedience. This contrasting trait, admired yet disdained by Zephernian palace workers in his past life, reflected Kali's complex nature. Beneath his facade of strength lay a compassionate soul, always ready to extend aid to those in need.
"Ummm...well.....ummm..." Caden began nervously, prompting Kali to tilt his head cutely, leaving Caden flushed by the Gifted's beauty.
"Don't be nervous, I harbor no grudges," Kali reassured, his smile accentuating his ethereal allure. Sensing Caden's sincerity, Kali deemed him a potential friend, intrigued by Caden's abilities and character.
"Ummm, I just thought it would be nice to know your name, given that you already know mine?"
In Caden's eyes, the innocence radiating from Kali contradicted his association with Dark Cultivation. Viewing Kali as a savior rather than a prisoner, Caden contemplated extending a chance to this benevolent being. Enthralled by Kali's charm, Caden envisioned a genuine friendship with the captivating Gifted.
"Kali. Kali is my name," Kali replied softly, his silver irises devoid of malice.
"That's a beautiful name, fitting for you," Caden complimented, eliciting a genuine smile from Kali who acknowledged the familiar praise.
Unbeknownst to them, Eavan quietly observed their interaction.
"Kali?" Eavan mused internally, finding the name strikingly familiar.
Engrossed in their conversation, Caden and Kali engaged as if they had known each other for decades rather than moments. Their connection only interrupted by the village's commotion drawing their attention. As the evening sky painted a picturesque scene bathed in pink hues, Kali mentally noted the village's name displayed on a signboard.
"Aelrock Village."
Nestled at the foot of a rugged mountain, Aelrock Village exuded an ancient charm with cobblestone streets teeming with life. Timber-framed buildings adorned with colorful banners and intricate carvings added to the village's quaint appeal.
At the heart of the village lay a bustling town square, resonating with the clinking of tankards and melodious tunes. Market stalls offering various goods lined the square, enticing passersby with handcrafted wares and delectable treats. The tantalizing aroma of roasted meats filled the air, inviting villagers and travelers to savor a hearty meal.
Surrounded by lush fields and orchards tended by diligent farmers in traditional attire, the village radiated a sense of tranquility. Beyond, the towering mountain loomed mysteriously, its peaks veiled in mist, adding an air of enchantment to the picturesque setting.
Kali discreetly hid one hand behind his back, conjuring a crackling crimson energy that materialized into a pouch through his Chaos magic. Securing the pouch at his waist beside his satchel, he ensured it remained inconspicuous to Caden and Eavan.
"We should find a tavern to rest and continue our journey tomorrow," Caden suggested, receiving a nod of agreement from Eavan.
Entering the village, they immediately caught the attention of the crowd. Maidens glanced shyly at Eavan, hastily adjusting their attire, while men admired Caden's delicate appearance, causing him to flush with embarrassment, seeking refuge behind Eavan. However, the true spectacle lay with Kali, captivating the villagers with his radiant presence, his mesmerizing allure leaving them entranced.
Quickly discerning the trio as outsiders or travelers due to their fine attire, onlookers couldn't help but be drawn to their moon-lit robes and Kali's enigmatic crimson attire. Coming to a halt outside an establishment, they found themselves at Aelrock Tavern, indicated by a weathered sign.
"Let's go," Kali took the lead, guiding them inside to escape the prying gazes of the villagers.
Inside the tavern, they attracted further attention, catching the eyes of many travelers. Eavan and Caden were recognized by some, yet it was Caden's alias that intrigued Kali – "The golden spirit caller." Observing the azure-eyed Caden, Kali noticed his bashful reaction, prompting a cute scratch from Caden, embarrassed at being referred to as such.
Overhearing whispers about himself, Kali approached the counter, where a young man, visibly awestruck by Kali's beauty, stood frozen. Concerned, Kali inquired about room availability, prompting Caden to intervene and assist the mesmerized man.
"Is there any available room? Probably three rooms?" Kali politely asked, as the young man regained his composure, responding affirmatively.
Realizing the expense, Caden contemplated the cost, startled by the price of five gold coins and three silver coins for the three rooms. Before Eavan could retrieve his pouch, Kali swiftly produced the coins, surprising the counter attendant with his graceful gesture.
"Show us the way," Kali instructed, reattaching the pouch to his waist belt. The attendant promptly summoned an employee to escort them to their rooms.