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Chapter 2 - Ancient Ruins (1)

Diary of Mekiare BackleMore: Entry 1

1st Jan 996

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I, Mekiare BackleMore, begin this chronicle as a testament to my journey through the esoteric realms of the Night Arts. It is the fifth moon of the second cycle, and the air is thick with anticipation as I embark upon this path of shadowed enlightenment.

May this record serve as a guide to those who dare to tread where few have ventured, those who contain my bloodline who shall learn the triumphs of my blood sweat and tears.

The night sky is a canvas of inky blackness, punctuated only by the pale light of the twin moons. In this solitude, I find solace, for the darkness is a veil that conceals and reveals. My journey begins in the ancient ruins of Eltharion, a place where the boundaries between our world and the unseen are thin.

A pilgrimage by Father and a few of us has been conducted here so that we can learn the family art. Outside of my expectations a spirit voice spoke to a lowly being like myself.

Although faint and fleeting, It said that it's name was Nyx and that it wanted to teach me an art different from the family Shadow Art. Do I have the capabilities to learn two, both Shadow and Night Arts.

Surely if I do I'll become a powerful and respected individual, however father has warned against evil Gods and spirits. But power isn't given to those who don't take risks, I need to grow stronger and solidify a position for myself in the the succession struggle.

4th Jan 996

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Tonight, I conducted my first successful invocation of the Veil of Nyx. The preparation was arduous: a circle inscribed with glyphs of protection, a concoction of rare herbs to stimulate the senses, and a chant that resonates with the very fabric of the night.

As the final words left my lips, the air shimmered, and a palpable presence filled the space around me. Shadows danced and coalesced, forming ephemeral figures that whispered secrets of forgotten realms.

The Veil of Nyx grants one the ability to perceive the unseen, to glimpse the hidden threads that weave the tapestry of existence. Through it, I saw the lingering spirits of the ancient Eltharion inhabitants, their forms ethereal and sorrowful.

They spoke of a great calamity that befell their civilization, a curse born from their hubris in delving too deeply into the Night Arts. Their warnings are clear: power comes at a price, and the path I walk is fraught with peril.

12 Feb 996

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It has been a while since I last touched the pen. Once again I can see the light of dawn, the visions are fading, leaving me with a profound sense of both awe and trepidation.

Knowledge is power, but it is also a burden. I must tread carefully, for the Night Arts are not to be taken lightly. At times I feel boughts of madness as if my body will be taken over. Night Arts are a double-edged sword, offering unparalleled insight and unimaginable danger.

As I pen this entry, my thoughts turn to the future. What secrets will I uncover? What trials will I face? The Night Arts promise great power, but at what cost? Only time will tell. For now, I must continue my studies, for there is much to learn and even more to understand.

18th Feb 996

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To those who find this diary, take heed of my words. The Night Arts are not for the faint of heart. They demand dedication, resilience, and a willingness to confront the darkest corners of one's soul. Earlier this week cousin Mary met a fated end. She couldn't handle the power of the shadow arts, and turned into a monster, sadly butler Erik had to strike her down.

She was a bubbly lady, interested and intrigued with the world itself. It was that curiousity that led to her demise. Apparently she was confronted by an wandering spirit that wanted to take her up as a disciple. When she accepted it corrupted her body turning her into a monster.

Looking back at it I could've faced a similar fate, I was foolish and dumb, but now since I've stepped down this road already I can't turn back. If corruption is all that lays down in my path then so be it. If you find this diary may you find the strength to endure, and the luck to survive any ordeals.