The small town was bustling with activity, a stark contrast to the quiet villages Zar had known. Borin and his men went about their business, resupplying and preparing for the final leg of the journey. Zar took the opportunity to explore the town, his mind racing with thoughts of escape and survival.
As he walked through the market, he overheard conversations about the academy. It seemed he wasn't the only one headed there, but most were in better positions than he was. He needed to ensure he reached the academy, even if it meant facing Borin's betrayal head-on.
By late afternoon, Borin gathered everyone back at the carriage. "We need to talk, lad," he said, his tone serious.
Zar nodded, feigning ignorance. "What is it?"
Borin's face hardened. "The journey's been tougher than expected. We'll need more money to continue. Double what we agreed on."
Zar's heart sank, but he kept his expression neutral. "Double? Thats all i have ".
Borin stepped closer, his expression menacing. "Then we leave you here. Find your own way to the academy."
Zar knew this was coming. He had prepared for it. "Alright," he said calmly. "I'll pay you double when we reach the academy."
Borin's eyes narrowed. "And how do I know you'll keep your word?"
Zar smiled, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "You don't. But if you leave me here, you'll get nothing. Take me to the academy, and I'll make sure you get your money."
Borin studied him for a long moment, then nodded reluctantly. "Fine. But don't think for a second you can trick me, boy. My men and I will be watching you closely."
Zar glanced at Borin's men, two thuggish figures lounging near the carriage. One was tall and lanky with a perpetual sneer, while the other was short and stocky, his face a mask of scars and cruelty. They eyed Zar with thinly veiled contempt, clearly eager for an excuse to rough him up.
As they resumed their journey, Borin began to share more about the world and the academy, perhaps trying to intimidate Zar further. "The academy," Borin began, "is no ordinary place. It's where the most talented and powerful gather. Only the best are admitted."
He glanced at Zar, gauging his reaction. "The first part of the admission test is a talent and bloodline assessment. They test your potential, see if you have the raw power or unique abilities worth nurturing."
Zar nodded, interested but unbothered since he didnt care, he was already calculating his next move in front of him.
Borin continued, his tone almost boastful. "The second part is more comprehensive. General knowledge of herbs, alchemy, warfare, formations, history, and other critical subjects. They want well-rounded individuals, not just brute strength."
The information was valuable, and Zar stored it away for later use. He had always been a quick learner, and his cunning mind was already formulating strategies to succeed in the tests.
As they traveled, the landscape changed, the dense forests giving way to rocky hills and rugged terrain. The path became more treacherous, and Zar could sense the growing tension among Borin and his men.
One evening, as they set up camp, Borin's men began to grumble about the journey. The tall, lanky one, named Rolf, complained about the meager pay and the hard work. The shorter, stockier one, Brutus, echoed his sentiments, adding that they should have demanded more money from Zar.
Borin silenced them with a glare. "We get to the academy, and we get paid. That's the deal."
Zar watched the exchange silently, his mind working overtime. He needed to turn this situation to his advantage.
That night, as the campfire crackled and the men drifted off to sleep, Zar remained awake, staring into the flames. He knew what he had to do. His past life had taught him the value of decisiveness and ruthlessness.
He waited until the camp was silent, the only sounds the soft rustling of leaves and the distant call of night creatures. Moving silently, he approached the sleeping forms of Rolf and Brutus. With practiced ease, he slit their throats, ensuring they wouldn't make a sound. The thrill of the kill surged through him, but he remained focused.
Next, he approached Borin. The man stirred, sensing something was wrong, but it was too late. Zar's knife was swift and precise, ending Borin's life in an instant. Zar stood over the bodies, his breath coming in steady, controlled breaths. He felt no remorse, only a cold satisfaction.
With the men dead, Zar quickly searched their belongings, taking anything of value. He found more money, enough to ensure his journey to the academy. He also took Borin's map and supplies, knowing they would be useful.
"After silencing those who betrayed me, I am left with nothing but the chilling void of justice that heals neither wounds nor sins." Zar murmured
Before leaving, Zar took a moment to cover his tracks, ensuring it would look like a bandit attack. He then set off towards the academy, the first light of dawn breaking over the horizon.
As he walked, he thought about the world around him. The information Borin had shared was invaluable. The academy was a place of immense power and opportunity, and Zar was determined to make his mark there. He knew he would face challenges, but he was ready. His cunning and ruthlessness would see him through.
The path to the academy was long and arduous, but Zar was undeterred. He traveled through dense forests, crossed treacherous rivers, and climbed rocky hills. Each step brought him closer to his goal.
Along the way, he encountered various travelers and townsfolk. He kept to himself, wary of revealing too much about his intentions. He gathered more information, learning about the different sects and factions vying for power. The world was filled with intrigue and danger, but Zar thrived on it.
One evening, as he camped near a small stream, he reflected on his journey so far. He had come a long way from the modest village where he had started. His parents' kindness had been a brief respite, but his true nature couldn't be denied. He was destined for greatness, and nothing would stand in his way.
As he approached the academy, he felt a surge of excitement. The towering gates loomed ahead, a symbol of the power and knowledge that lay within. Zar knew this was just the beginning. He had much to learn and many obstacles to overcome, but he was ready."The path to enlightenment is solitary, but it is also the path to ultimate power." He whispered preparing himself mentally.
He took a deep breath and stepped forward, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him. The academy was a place of immense potential, and Zar was determined to make the most of it. His journey had just begun, and he was ready to seize his destiny.