When Kael opened his eyes, he was back in the hall. His hands were still resting on the crystal, now glowing with a dark, pulsating aura.
The mages murmured among themselves, clearly concerned. Kevin knew why: Kael had awakened a unique affinity with shadow magic, a power both feared and misunderstood.
"Shadow magic..." one of the mages muttered.
The Duke, Edrian Ashborne, showed no surprise, though his expression grew darker.
"Kael, what did you see?" he asked seriously.
Kevin raised his gaze, recalling how Kael was supposed to respond in the game.
"Shadows, Father. But I mastered them."
Edrian nodded slowly.
"You are an Ashborne. Remember, this power is both a blessing and a curse. Use it wisely, or it will be your downfall."
Kevin knew the Duke's words were more than advice; they were a warning.
Back in his chambers, Kael sat by the window, gazing at the distant lights of Ashbourne city. The presence he had felt during the ceremony was still there, a constant whisper lingering at the edge of his mind.
"This wasn't part of the game," he murmured to himself.
The voice responded from the shadows.
"That's because you are no longer just a player. You are the heir to Ashborne."
Kevin closed his eyes, trying to quiet his thoughts. As much as he wanted to return to his world, he knew that, for now, he had to play his part.