Lian was sitting on his bed, the book Relics of Creation resting in his hands like a physical and mental weight. He ran his fingers over the aged cover, hesitating before opening it again. The information he had read about Oblivion still lingered in his mind, raising more questions than answers.
"Balance between the extremes of the universe… losing humanity… what's the purpose of all this?" he murmured to himself, turning to the first page again.
The ancient words were engraved in an elegant but difficult-to-decipher style. Even so, Lian forced himself to read, searching for any clue that could help him better understand what Oblivion truly was.
"You shouldn't drown yourself in this kind of thing, kid," Oblivion's voice echoed in his mind, its tone carrying the same dark severity as always.
Lian abruptly closed the book and replied in a low voice, "If you know something about this, you should tell me. Why does this book talk about you as if you're something more than just a sword? What are you hiding?"
There was a pause before Oblivion responded. "I've already told you, Lian: I'm merely the manifestation of the power that resides within you. I'm not a book of answers or a guide. My knowledge only goes as far as your connection to me allows."
"Convenient," Lian muttered, frustrated, as he reopened the book. His eyes scanned the words, trying to ignore Oblivion's lack of cooperation.
This time, he forced himself to read other sections, perhaps to distract his mind from the confusion. The following pages spoke of other legendary weapons, elixirs, and mythical monsters. He spent quite some time absorbing all of it. But one section, in particular, caught his attention, if only for a moment.
Lian paused at the title: Aurion, the Sword of Salvation. Unlike Oblivion, which seemed to radiate darkness, this weapon was described as its complete opposite. The description said it was a weapon meant to protect and heal, a blade that amplified the power of light and was chosen to bring balance during times of chaos.
He furrowed his brow, feeling something strange as he looked at the sword. "Aurion…" he murmured, running his fingers over the illustration. From the book's perspective, it seemed like that weapon belonged to the hero, while his own was the villain's, as if the two were polar opposites.
"Don't get distracted," Oblivion interjected, its voice more serious this time. "You already have enough problems. There's no need to concern yourself with things that don't involve you."
"Why would I care? It's just a weapon I'll never see in my life," Lian replied, closing the book again. But even as he tried to ignore what he had read, he couldn't shake a persistent unease, as though that sword was somehow connected to his path.
He took a deep breath, leaning back against the wall. "None of this makes sense. Why was I chosen to wield you? What does this 'price to pay' even mean?"
"Those are questions only you can answer," Oblivion replied, this time with a tone that was almost condescending. "You're still at the beginning of the path, kid. And the road ahead will be long and filled with darkness. But the path you walk is yours to choose. Don't let this book dictate how you'll end."
"Great. That's inspiring," Lian said sarcastically, closing his eyes for a moment.
The truth was, he was beginning to realize the weight of carrying something as powerful and mysterious as Oblivion. It wasn't just a weapon; it was a responsibility he hadn't chosen. And now, with all the doubts and secrets hovering over him, Lian felt more alone than ever.
Even so, he couldn't stop. He knew there was something greater at stake. If Oblivion didn't have the answers, he would have to find them himself.
"Kid, you think too much," Oblivion said, its voice echoing in his mind like a cold whisper. "That won't change anything. Strength doesn't come from understanding what you are. It comes from accepting it."
Lian clenched his eyes shut, irritated. "Accept what? That I'm just a pawn in some game I don't even understand?"
"You're far from a pawn," Oblivion replied, almost sounding amused. "But maybe it's time to decide whether you want to be a piece controlled by others or a player who chooses his own path."
Lian couldn't take it anymore. It felt like the world was conspiring against him. Challenge after challenge, he felt emptier. The power he had gained came with instability and a destiny of death.
"I need some air," Lian murmured to himself as he left his dormitory.
Lian wandered through the academy's courtyard. There were only a few students around, as it was late afternoon and classes had already ended. He hadn't even bothered attending classes that day, everything that had happened left him incapable of concentrating.
"Mom, Dad, Mia… am I making the right choices?" Lian's thoughts flowed through his restless mind. His father had taught him to control his emotions because it was crucial for a hunter. If his father were watching him now, would he be disappointed?
Tears threatened to fall from his eyes, but he knew he couldn't break down. He had to stay strong, at least a little. "Dad, I'll honor your teachings. I'll find the truth, no matter how long it takes." Lian placed his hand on his chest, where his scar was, and looked up at the sky. "This scar is proof that I won't forget my purpose. I won't let this power kill me before I've fulfilled my revenge!"
Watching him from afar was Lena, hidden in the shadows. Even from a distance, she seemed to hear him clearly.
"I didn't think letting him take that book would leave him so unbalanced. He's not ready for the truth yet… but he will be," Lena said to herself as she left the scene, deep in thought.
"He just needs to release all of this while learning more about his powers… Don't worry, Lian. You'll awaken your true potential. The mission will be the next step to test your control," Lena murmured with a small smile as she walked away.