The dawn broke over the hills, painting the sky with golden and crimson hues. Kael Tenebris, a young man with hair as black as night, bright blue eyes, and tanned skin, woke up early, as usual. He lived in a stone cabin, isolated, with his parents, Nerissa and Arden. Despite the apparent calm of the village, Kael knew, from the stories told by his father, that this balance was fragile.
— Kael! — Arden called, his deep voice resonating from outside. — Get up! If you want to surpass your old man one day, you'd better hurry up.
Kael grumbled, rubbing his eyes as he got out of bed.
— Surpass you? That's easy. I could do it with my eyes closed.
Arden laughed.
— I like the confidence, kid. But take it easy, or your mother will remind you who really runs this house.
Kael chuckled as he left the room. Nerissa, always elegant and with an imposing presence, sat near the table, reviewing maps and notes. Her attentive eyes rose to meet her son's.
— Don't give him any ideas, Arden. — She smiled faintly, adjusting her long black hair. — Kael, finish your training before breakfast. No excuses today.
— Yes, ma'am. — He responded with a light tease.
The morning training was intense. Arden, tall and imposing in stature, wielded his sword with mastery. Kael tried to keep up with the swift movements, feeling sweat trickle down his face.
— Focus! — Arden said, easily blocking his son's strike. — You're distracted. In battle, that could cost you your life.
— You talk as if I'm going to fight for real. — Kael rolled his eyes, trying again to land a blow.
Nerissa, observing from afar, intervened:
— Don't underestimate what your father is teaching you, Kael. You carry more than you realize. One day, these skills will save lives, including yours.
After the training, the family gathered for breakfast. Arden told stories of his youth adventures, exaggerating some details to entertain his son.
— ... And then, with a single strike, I took down that colossal dragon! — He said, gesturing dramatically.
— Sure, dear. — Nerissa replied with a sarcastic smile. — I'm sure that's exactly how it happened.
Kael laughed loudly. Those moments were simple, but filled with a connection he cherished more than he could express.