CONTINUING
"Never expected you had that in you," Maya said.
"Yeah, I've been training a lot for something like this," I replied.
"Well, we need to hide," Maya said urgently.
"You're right," I agreed, running quickly to the bathroom to blend in. "Damn, there are cameras everywhere," I muttered, releasing a surge of dark energy to destroy them.
After a few minutes passed, many students emerged from hiding, though some were still too scared to come out.
"What in the world happened here?" asked the teacher leading the class.
"Looks like a fight between Awakened ones," someone added.
"You're right, but why here? Why at this school? Are they targeting someone?" the teacher wondered aloud.
As they continued talking, a large surge of energy flooded the hallway.
"W-what's going on?" the teacher stammered, shaking and unable to move.
Everyone drew their stones, ready to attack.
"Relax, guys! It's just me!" I called out, coughing from the lingering energy.
"SOREN! What are you doing? Why aren't you in class?" the teacher demanded angrily.
"Umm..." I struggled to think of an excuse.
"Say you were in her class but came out to use the bathroom," Fang whispered in my mind.
"I was actually in your class, ma'am. I just stepped out to use the bathroom. Sorry," I explained.
"You could have gotten yourself hurt!" the female teacher scolded.
"But I didn't," I pointed out.
"Anyway, head back inside. We need to discuss what happened because this isn't natural," she said firmly.
"Alright," I agreed as everyone filed back into the classroom.
Inside, the tension was palpable. Students whispered among themselves, casting nervous glances my way. Maya caught my eye from across the room and gave me a subtle nod.
"Now then," the teacher, Ms. Chen, began. "Would anyone like to explain what they saw?"
A girl with braided silver hair raised her hand. "I saw shadows moving unnaturally, like they were alive. And then there was that burst of energy..."
"That's correct, Lily," Ms. Chen said. "What we experienced was a manifestation of dark energy. Very few people can manipulate it at that level."
I tried to keep my expression neutral, but I could feel Fang's amusement in my mind.
"Showing off already, are we?" he teased.
"It wasn't intentional," I thought back.
A tall boy with auburn hair and golden eyes stood up. "I've seen something like this before. My father works with the Stone Registry. He says dark energy users are becoming more common, especially among our generation."
"Thank you, Kai," Ms. Chen nodded. "Indeed, we're seeing an unprecedented rise in unique abilities. Which is why it's more important than ever to understand and control our powers."
As she spoke, I noticed several students touching their stones unconsciously. Each one gleamed with a different color – emerald, sapphire, topaz. But none had the deep crimson of my stone.
"For those who don't know," Ms. Chen continued, "I'm not just your mathematics teacher. I'm also a Stone Guardian, tasked with protecting and guiding young stone wielders like yourselves."
This caught my attention. If she was a Guardian, she might know something about the Covenant.
After class, Kai approached me. "Hey, new guy. That was some display earlier."
"I don't know what you're talking about," I said carefully.
He smirked. "Right. Well, if you're interested in learning more about your... talents, a few of us meet after school to train. No teachers, no rules. Just students helping students."
I glanced at Maya, who had drifted closer to listen.
"He's telling the truth," she said quietly. "I'm part of the group too."
I considered their offer. Extra training could be useful, and having allies might help in the fight against the Covenant.
"Where do you meet?" I asked.
"The old gymnasium behind the school," Kai replied. "Come by today if you want. But fair warning – we don't go easy on newcomers."
I couldn't help but smile. "I wouldn't expect you to."
As they walked away, Fang materialized briefly beside me, visible only to my eyes.
"Making friends already?" he asked.
"More like potential allies," I replied. "We're going to need them."
"Just be careful," Fang warned. "Not everyone is what they seem."
I nodded, watching as other students filed out of the classroom. Each one carried their own stone, their own power, their own story. And somewhere among them might be the answers I was looking for.
The bell rang, signaling the next class. As I gathered my things, I couldn't help but wonder what other surprises this school had in store for me.
```
The rest of the day passed in a blur of classes and new faces. In History, I learned about the Great Stone War, when different factions fought for control of the Prime Stones. In Combat Training, we practiced basic defensive techniques with our stones. Through it all, I tried to keep a low profile, but I could feel curious eyes following me.
When the final bell rang, I made my way to the old gymnasium. The building stood apart from the main school, its weathered walls covered in ivy. Despite its aged appearance, I could sense powerful energy emanating from within.
"You sure about this?" Fang asked as I approached the entrance.
"No," I admitted. "But we need allies."
Inside, the gymnasium had been transformed. Training dummies lined the walls, some bearing scorch marks and deep gashes. In the center, a large circular arena was marked out with glowing runes.
Kai and Maya were already there, along with several others I recognized from classes. A girl with flame-red hair was sparring with a boy who wielded ice crystals, their elements clashing in spectacular displays.
"Welcome to the Underground," Kai said, approaching me. "Where we can train without holding back."
"Impressive setup," I commented, noting the barrier runes that protected the walls.
"Thanks. We've been building this place up for years." He gestured to the others. "That's Akane and Frost sparring. The twins over there are Lin and Jin – they specialize in lightning. And you already know Maya."
Maya waved from where she was helping a younger student with their stance. "Glad you came."
"So," Kai continued, "show us what you can do."
I hesitated. "I'm not sure that's a good idea."
"Come on," he pressed. "We all saw what happened in the hallway. You've got power. Here, you don't have to hide it."
Before I could respond, a new voice cut through the gym. "Let him be, Kai. Not everyone wants to show off on their first day."
A girl walked in, her white hair falling in waves down her back. Her eyes were a striking violet, and she carried herself with natural authority. The others straightened up as she approached.
"Luna," Kai nodded respectfully. "Didn't think you'd make it today."
"And miss meeting our new friend? Never." She extended her hand to me. "I'm Luna Nightshade. Leader of this little group."
As I shook her hand, I felt a subtle probe of energy. She was testing me, trying to gauge my power. I carefully kept my barriers up.
She smiled, impressed. "Strong shields. Good. You'll need them here."
"What exactly is this place?" I asked. "Beyond the obvious training ground."
Luna's expression grew serious. "We're more than just students practicing with our stones. We're a network. We look out for each other, share information, and prepare."
"Prepare for what?"
"The storm that's coming," she said grimly. "Surely you've felt it. The rising darkness, the increasing number of Awakened ones, the tension building in the stone community. Something's brewing, and when it breaks, we need to be ready."
I thought of the Covenant, of my brother's last words. "I know exactly what you mean."
Luna studied me for a moment. "I think you do. Which is why we want you to join us."
"Just like that?"
"Maya vouched for you," she explained. "And I trust her judgment. Plus, anyone who can handle dark energy like you did earlier is someone we want on our side."
I glanced at Maya, who shrugged. "We need all the help we can get."
"Before you decide," Luna continued, "you should know what you're getting into. We don't just train here. We investigate strange occurrences, protect other stone users, and sometimes... we fight."
"Against who?"
"Anyone who would abuse their power or harm others. There's a group that's been particularly active lately. They call themselves—"
"The Covenant of Veil," I finished.
Luna's eyes widened slightly. "You know of them?"
"They killed my family," I said quietly. The room fell silent.
Luna exchanged looks with Kai and Maya. "Then you understand what we're up against. The Covenant is growing stronger, recruiting more members. They're after something big, but we don't know what."
"I might," I said. Making a decision, I pulled out the Crimson Stone. Gasps echoed through the gym as its deep red light filled the space.
"Is that..." Kai started.
"A Prime Stone," Luna breathed. "We thought they were all lost."
"The Covenant wants it," I explained. "They think it's a key to something. That's why they..." I couldn't finish the sentence.
Luna placed a hand on my shoulder. "You don't have to explain. But now you see why we need to work together. The Covenant must be stopped."
I nodded. "Where do we start?"
"First, you train. Really train." She gestured to the arena. "Show us what you can do, and we'll help you become stronger."
Taking a deep breath, I stepped into the circle. The runes glowed brighter, responding to my presence.
"Ready when you are," I said.
Luna smiled. "Let's begin."
For the next hour, I sparred with different members of the group. Each had their own unique style and stone power. Akane's fire challenged my barriers, while Frost's ice tested my agility. The twins' lightning kept me constantly moving.
Through it all, Luna observed, occasionally calling out advice. "Don't just react – anticipate! Feel the flow of energy around you!"
Finally, she called for a break. I was drenched in sweat but feeling more alive than ever. Using my powers openly, without fear of discovery, was liberating.
"You've got raw talent," Luna said, handing me a water bottle. "But you need refinement. Your dark energy is powerful, but wild. Combined with the Prime Stone... it could be dangerous if not properly controlled."
"I know," I admitted. "I've been training, but..."
"But you need proper guidance," she finished. "That's what we're here for. Each of us has something to teach you, just as you have things to teach us."
As we talked, the others gathered around, sharing stories and tips. For the first time since losing my brother, I felt like I belonged somewhere.
"There's one more thing," Luna said as the evening drew to a close. "We meet here three times a week, but we also have a communication network. If anyone spots Covenant activity or needs help, we can respond quickly."
She handed me a small crystal. "This will connect you to our network. Just channel a bit of energy into it to send a message."
"Thank you," I said, pocketing the crystal. "For everything."
"Don't thank us yet," Kai grinned. "Wait until you see what Luna has planned for your training tomorrow."
As we left the gymnasium, Maya fell into step beside me. "So, what do you think?"
"I think..." I looked back at the building, at my new allies – my new friends. "I think things are finally starting to look up."
Fang appeared briefly, visible only to me. "Just remember why we're here. The Covenant won't rest until they have the stone."
"I know," I thought back. "But now we're not facing them alone."
Walking home under the setting sun, I felt a mix of emotions. Hope, for the allies I'd found. Determination, to master my powers. And beneath it all, a burning desire for justice for my brother, for my parents, for everyone the Covenant had hurt.
The Crimson Stone pulsed warmly in my pocket, as if sharing my resolve. Whatever challenges lay ahead, I would face them with newfound strength and purpose.
And somewhere in the city, watching from the shadows, the Covenant's agents plotted their next move, unaware that their prey was no longer alone
As I walked home, the streets glowed with the warm hues of the setting sun. My thoughts raced with everything I had learned and experienced that day.
The Underground, the friends I'd made, and the looming threat of the Covenant weighed heavily on my mind. It was a lot to process, but one thing was clear: I was no longer alone.
The next morning, I awoke early, the anticipation of my training at the Underground buzzing in my veins.
After a quick breakfast, I made my way back to the old gymnasium, the air crisp and invigorating. The sun had barely risen, casting long shadows through the trees lining the path.
As I entered, I was greeted by the familiar sight of the transformed gym. The energy inside felt charged, as if the very air crackled with potential. Luna was already there, setting up training dummies while Akane and Frost practiced their sparring.
"Good morning!" Luna called out, her violet eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "Ready for round two?"
"More than ready," I replied, feeling a surge of confidence.
"Great! Today, we'll focus on refining your control over your dark energy and how to synchronize it with the Prime Stone," she explained, leading me to the center of the arena. "You've got raw power, but if you want to harness it effectively, you'll need to learn how to blend it with your instincts."
I nodded, recalling the way my energy had flared during the sparring session the previous day. It had felt chaotic, a wild beast I struggled to tame. But with guidance, I could channel that energy into something focused and formidable.
As the others gathered around, Luna began explaining different techniques. "The key is to feel the energy within you, acknowledge it, and then direct it. Picture it flowing through you like water – it should be fluid and adaptable."
I took a deep breath, centering myself. I closed my eyes, focusing on the pulse of my dark energy. It felt like a storm raging within, powerful yet untamed. Slowly, I began to visualize it flowing through my body, settling into a rhythm.
"Good! Now try summoning it," Luna encouraged. "Let it flow into the Prime Stone in your pocket. Feel the connection."
I reached for the Crimson Stone, pulling it out and holding it in my palm. The moment it touched my skin, I felt a surge of warmth. I concentrated, pushing my dark energy toward it, envisioning it swirling around the stone, merging with its power.
A moment later, a bright flash erupted, illuminating the gymnasium. I opened my eyes to see the runes around the arena glowing fiercely, responding to the surge of energy. Gasps echoed from the gathered students as they witnessed the display.
"Impressive!" Kai exclaimed, stepping forward. "Your control is improving!"
But just as quickly as the energy flared, it began to fade. I felt the exhaustion wash over me, a reminder of the toll my powers could take if not managed properly. I took a step back, breathing heavily.
"You've got the potential to become a formidable ally," Luna said, her voice steady and encouraging. "Don't be discouraged by the initial drain. With practice, you'll learn to harness it efficiently."
"Let's keep going," I said, determination fueling my resolve. "I want to master this."
The morning passed in a blur of training and sparring. I faced off against each member of the group, each one pushing me further. Akane's fire was relentless, and I found myself weaving through flames, using my barriers creatively to absorb and redirect the heat.
Frost's ice challenged my agility, forcing me to adapt quickly, while the twins' lightning had me on high alert, constantly moving to avoid their strikes.
With each encounter, I felt myself growing stronger, my control over my dark energy improving. But beneath the surface, a nagging thought lingered: the Covenant was out there, and time was not on our side.
Just as the training session drew to a close, a sudden chill swept through the gymnasium. The atmosphere shifted, and the air became thick with tension. I turned to see a figure standing at the entrance, silhouetted against the light.
"Who's that?" Maya whispered, her voice laced with concern.
The figure stepped forward, revealing a tall girl with flowing silver hair, her eyes a piercing blue. She exuded an aura of authority that immediately commanded attention.
"Who are you?" Luna asked, stepping protectively in front of the group.
"I'm Seraphine," the girl replied, her voice smooth yet firm. "I've come to warn you."
"Warn us about what?" I asked, feeling an uneasy knot form in my stomach.
"The Covenant is planning something big, something that could change the balance of power among stone users. They're not just looking for prime stones anymore; they're searching for a way to control them."
"What do you mean?" Akane interjected, her fiery spirit ignited. "What do they want?"
Seraphine glanced around, ensuring no one else was eavesdropping. "They believe that if they can harness the power of all Prime Stones, they can open a rift to the Dark Realm – a place filled with unimaginable power. Whoever controls it would have dominion over all stone users."
A wave of silence enveloped the room as her words sank in. The implications were horrifying.
"Is there a way to stop them?" I asked, my heart racing.
Seraphine nodded. "But it won't be easy. The Covenant has been recruiting more members, and they've infiltrated many schools and organizations. We need to gather allies and prepare for what's coming."
Luna crossed her arms, her expression serious. "We already knew they were a threat, but we need more information. How do you know all this?"
"I have my sources," Seraphine replied cryptically. "But I also have a proposition. Join me. Together, we can form a coalition to stand against the Covenant."
"Why should we trust you?" Kai challenged, narrowing his eyes.
"Because I've fought them before," Seraphine said, her voice unwavering. "And I lost friends to their ambition. I want to stop them just as much as you do."
The room buzzed with uncertainty. Trust was a fragile thing, especially in our situation. But the stakes had never been higher.
"Let's think this through," Luna said, her leadership qualities shining through. "We need to weigh our options carefully."
I felt a mix of hope and apprehension. The idea of joining forces with someone who had firsthand experience against the Covenant was tempting, but I also sensed the complexities that would come with it.
"Let's meet again tonight," I finally suggested. "We can discuss everything in more detail and make a decision together."
Seraphine nodded, her expression softening slightly. "I'll be here. But time is of the essence. The Covenant won't wait for us to prepare."
After she left, the atmosphere shifted again, filled with a sense of urgency. We gathered in a circle, discussing the implications of Seraphine's visit.
"What do you think?" Maya asked, looking at me. "Should we trust her?"
"I think we need to," I replied. "The Covenant is a threat we can't ignore. If Seraphine knows more about their plans, we should listen."
"Agreed," Luna said, her voice resolute. "We need to be proactive, not reactive. This is our chance to take a stand."
As we discussed strategy and potential allies, I felt the weight of my responsibilities settle on my shoulders. The fight against the Covenant was not just about my past; it was about protecting those I cared for and ensuring that no one else suffered the way I had.
As night fell, the gymnasium was lit with candles, casting flickering shadows across the walls. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as we awaited Seraphine's return.
When she arrived, the air felt thick with tension. We were all seated in a circle, ready to hear what she had to say.
"Thank you for gathering," Seraphine began, her tone serious. "I know trust is hard to come by, but what I'm about to share is crucial."
"Let's hear it," I urged.
"The Covenant is not just a group of rogue stone users. They're organized, and they have a hierarchy. At the top is a figure known only as The Architect. He's the mastermind behind their plans, and he has a particular interest in Prime Stones, especially the Crimson Stone."
I glanced at the stone in my pocket, feeling a surge of protectiveness.
"What does he want with it?" Akane asked, her fiery