Chapter 41: Aethera
Ava's POV:
As the battle subsided, I stood panting, surveying the aftermath. The Shadow Brotherhood's soldiers lay defeated, Xandros among them.
Kael approached me, his eyes scanning my face. "Ava, are you alright?"
I nodded, still reeling from the ancient magic's surge. "I think so."
Cassius stepped forward, his expression somber. "Ava, I need to tell you something."
"What is it?" I asked.
Cassius hesitated before speaking. "The Shadow Brotherhood... they're not the only ones seeking the prophecy's power."
My heart sank. "Who else?"
Cassius' eyes locked onto mine. "The Order of the White Oak. They've been hiding in plain sight, manipulating events from the shadows."
Kael's grip on his sword tightened. "We'll deal with them next."
But I felt a shiver run down my spine. The Order of the White Oak was a mysterious and feared organization.
Suddenly, Valtor's voice echoed through the clearing. "Ava, your powers are growing stronger."
I looked down, and my hands glowed with an ethereal light.
I felt the ancient magic coursing through me, urging me to explore its depths.
Kael's concerned gaze met mine. "Ava, are you sure you're ready for this?"
I nodded. "I must understand my powers, Kael. For our future."
Suddenly, a figure materialized before me. Her piercing green eyes sparkled with wisdom.
"Greetings, Ava," she said. "I am Aethera, a wielder of the ancient magic. I've been sent to guide you."
"Finally, I won't be doing this blindly." I replied
Aethera's presence radiated calm authority. "Let us begin with a simple technique: Centering. It will help you focus your energy."
Aethera guided me through the exercise, teaching me to quiet my mind and channel my magic inward. I struggled at first, but with her patient guidance, I slowly began to grasp the concept.
"Imagine a flame within you, Ava," Aethera instructed. "Nurture it, but don't let it consume you."
I focused on the flame, feeling my magic respond. It flickered, then stabilized.
Aethera smiled. "Well done, Ava. That's enough for today. Practice Centering, and we'll build upon it next time."
With that, Aethera vanished.
"Thank you Aethera."
Kael's eyes narrowed. "Who is Aethera, really?"
I smiled. "My magic tutor, it seems. And a mysterious one at that." And that was when I realized I was in a trance and no one else saw her.
Sabine's voice cut through the moment. "We can't stay here. The Order of the White Oak will hunt us."
Cassius stepped forward. "I know a safe haven. Follow me."
As we journeyed, I pondered Aethera's words: "Balance is key, Ava. Remember that."