Chapter 30: The Shadow Crystal's Secrets
The events at the market lingered in Rudra's mind as they walked back to the academy. Nand and Raina kept glancing at him, their expressions a mixture of awe and concern. The encounter with Karan had stirred something deeper—a sense of urgency that Rudra couldn't ignore.
The system's notification about the Shadow Crystal flashed again in his mind.
> New Item: Shadow Crystal.
Description: A rare artifact containing dark energy. Can be used to enhance talents or skills.
"Bro," Nand finally broke the silence, "are you sure you're okay? That guy looked... insane. I mean, he disappeared into shadows! Who even does that?"
Raina crossed her arms. "It's not just him. The Syndicate targeting you isn't a coincidence. This is bigger than we thought."
Rudra sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I know. But I also know that every answer we need is buried in the Syndicate's plans. That Shadow Crystal... it might be a clue."
Once back in his dorm, Rudra excused himself from Nand and Raina, locking the door behind him. The Moonshadow Wolf jumped onto his bed, watching him curiously as he pulled the Shadow Crystal from his inventory.
The black crystal shimmered with streaks of violet, pulsating like a heartbeat.
"System," Rudra said softly, "analyze the Shadow Crystal."
> Analyzing Item...
Name: Shadow Crystal.
Rarity: Legendary.
Use: Grants insight into shadow-based powers. Can also enhance user talents temporarily.
Hidden Effect: Unlocks the location of the Syndicate's next operation if fused with elemental energy.
Rudra's eyes widened. "This isn't just a weapon... It's a map."
The system's voice chimed in again.
> New Mission Unlocked: Trace the Syndicate.
Fuse the Shadow Crystal with an elemental source to reveal the Syndicate's next target.
Reward: 7,000 EXP + Rare Talent Shard.
Rudra smirked. "Looks like I've got some homework to do.
Meeting the Patriarch
The next day, Rudra decided to take a brief break from the academy. He had promised Nand that they'd visit his house soon, but first, there was something he needed to confirm with his own family.
The Kairous family estate was a sprawling fortress hidden within the heart of Rionna City. It radiated power and authority, a testament to the clan's legacy. Rudra's father, Dhruv, was waiting for him in the grand hall, alongside his mother, Meera.
"Rudra," his father greeted, his tone firm but warm, "I heard about your encounter in the market. You're drawing attention—dangerous attention."
Rudra nodded, his expression serious. "I know, Dad. That's why I need to understand more about our clan's history. The Syndicate is targeting me for a reason, and I think it's tied to our bloodline."
Dhruv exchanged a glance with Meera before nodding. "Follow me."
The Kairous Legacy
In the clan's archive room, Dhruv opened a hidden vault, revealing ancient scrolls and artifacts. He handed one to Rudra, the parchment worn but intact.
"This," Dhruv began, "is the history of the Kairous Clan. We've always been protectors of balance—guardians of the elemental forces. But with that power comes responsibility, and enemies. The Syndicate is one of them."
Meera stepped forward, placing a hand on Rudra's shoulder. "They fear what you represent, Rudra. Your talent isn't just a gift; it's a threat to their plans."
Rudra unrolled the scroll, his eyes scanning the text. It spoke of a prophecy—a descendant of the Kairous Clan who would rise to challenge the darkness, wielding unparalleled power.
He clenched his fists. "They're trying to stop the prophecy."
Dhruv nodded. "Exactly. But remember, you're not alone. Your friends, your family—we stand with you."
Nand's Home Visit
After returning to the academy, Rudra joined Nand and Raina for their trip to Nand's house. Unlike the Kairous estate, Nand's home was a bustling, cozy haven filled with laughter and delicious aromas.
Nand's mother, a petite woman with a sharp tongue, greeted them at the door. "So, this is Rudra! My son talks about you like you're some kind of superhero."
Rudra chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "He exaggerates."
"Not at all!" Nand interjected. "This guy took down a Syndicate operative like it was nothing!"
Nand's father, a large, jovial man, clapped Rudra on the back. "Well, anyone who looks out for my boy is welcome here. Come in, eat, and tell me everything!"
The evening was filled with hearty laughter and stories. Even Raina found herself smiling as Nand's mother teased her about being the "voice of reason" in their group.
System Reminder
Later that night, as Rudra lay in the guest room, the system's interface reappeared.
> Mission Progress Updated: Trace the Syndicate.
Shadow Crystal Fusion Pending.
Current Progress: 60%.
> Status Update:
Name: Rudra Kairous
Level: 26
Talent: Thunderstorm Deity (Abnormal Phenomenon)
Skills:
Lightning Blade
Storm Step
Thunderstorm Manifestation
EXP Needed for Level Up: 7,500
As the interface faded, Rudra stared at the ceiling, his mind racing. The Syndicate was targeting him because of his bloodline, but why now? What had changed?
"I'll find out," he whispered. "No matter what it takes."