Chapter 13: The Path Ahead
Five years had passed since Kain first arrived at the Duke's estate. Now, at twelve years old, he stood taller, his once childlike features replaced with sharper angles, making him appear more mature for his age. His dark hair and piercing eyes added to his striking appearance, often catching the attention of many in the household, but Kain had learned to ignore the stares. His focus had been singular: growth.
Over the years, Kain had unlocked ten powers that he felt would be essential for the challenges he'd face in the future. He had quietly honed these abilities within his spatial dimension, where he could train undisturbed and push his limits. His unlocked powers included heightened reflexes, elemental control, increased agility, shadow manipulation, stealth, sensory enhancement, and more. Each ability had been carefully selected for versatility and strategy, but none had been revealed to the outside world.
While Kain trained with the warriors in the Duke's household, he had always been careful to mask his true potential. He had held back in sparring matches, using only the abilities that would align with what a commoner might achieve. However, today was different.
As Kain faced Sir Garrick, the seasoned instructor who had been tasked with training him from day one, the air was thick with tension. Garrick was one of the best warriors in the household, and while Kain had always respected the man, today was the day he would finally test his strength.
Sir Garrick lunged forward, his blade swift and precise. Kain dodged effortlessly, sidestepping the strike as if it were a simple maneuver. The crowd of onlookers, made up of household staff and other knights, watched in silence, sensing something different in the way Kain moved today. Garrick frowned, noticing the same.
The fight intensified, but Kain remained calm, his movements fluid and controlled. With a final strike, he disarmed Garrick, sending the instructor's sword flying through the air before pinning him down with the flat of his own blade.
A murmur spread through the onlookers as Kain stepped back, offering a respectful nod to Garrick. The instructor stood, dusting himself off with a gruff chuckle. "You've improved, boy. Much faster than I anticipated."
Kain smiled, keeping his thoughts to himself. If only you knew just how much I've held back.
---
Later that day, Kain found himself summoned to the Duke's office. It was rare for the Duke to speak to him directly, and even rarer for him to summon Kain alone. As he entered the cold, imposing room, he saw the Duke standing behind his desk, looking out of the large window that overlooked the estate.
"Kain," the Duke began without turning around, his voice as cold as ever. "I've been informed of your progress. Defeating Sir Garrick is no small feat."
Kain remained silent, standing straight with his hands at his sides. He knew the Duke wasn't one for pleasantries.
"I've decided it's time for you to take on a new responsibility," the Duke continued, finally turning to face him. His eyes were sharp, scrutinizing Kain with the same calculating gaze he always had. "You will accompany Aria to the Royal Academy. As her personal bodyguard."
Kain had expected this. It was common for nobles to assign trusted retainers to their heirs when they went off to the Academy. Though it was seen as a prestigious role for a commoner, Kain knew it was also a test. The Duke was placing his daughter's safety in Kain's hands, and he would be expected to prove his loyalty and skill.
"I understand, Your Grace," Kain said, keeping his tone respectful. "I will ensure Lady Aria's safety."
The Duke nodded, though his expression remained unreadable. "Good. You will follow her closely and protect her at all times. The Academy is not without its dangers, even for someone of her status."
Kain bowed, excusing himself from the office. As he left the room, his mind was already racing with plans. The Royal Academy would be the perfect opportunity to expand his knowledge and power, but he knew he would have to maintain his facade. No one could know the full extent of his abilities—not yet.
---
The next morning, Kain stood outside the Duke's estate, waiting alongside Lady Aria for the carriage that would take them to the Royal Academy. He glanced at her, noting how much she had grown in the past five years. She was taller, her features more refined, and her presence more commanding. Aria had always been sharp and focused, and Kain had seen her grow into a formidable mage. But despite her confidence, he could sense the pressure she carried as the Duke's daughter.
As the carriage approached, Aria turned to Kain, a small smile playing on her lips. "It's strange, isn't it? Leaving the estate after so long."
Kain nodded. "It will be different, but I'm sure you'll do well at the Academy, Lady Aria."
She looked at him thoughtfully. "You've always been so formal, Kain. You've been with me for years now. You can just call me Aria, at least when it's just the two of us."
Kain raised an eyebrow slightly, surprised by the request. "That wouldn't be proper, Lady Aria. It wouldn't be right to disrespect your position."
She sighed, glancing around to make sure no one was in earshot. "I'm serious, Kain. When we're in private, I'd prefer it if you just called me Aria. It's not like we're strangers. I... trust you."
He hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "As you wish, Aria. In private, I will honor your request."
Her smile widened just a bit, and she quickly composed herself as the carriage rolled up. Kain opened the door for her and followed after, taking his place beside her inside.
---
The journey to the Royal Academy was long, but it allowed Kain some time to reflect.