The Shadows of Destiny by Kaylah Lopez

Author:Kaylah Lopez [Lopez, Kaylah]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: anonymous
Published: 2024-11-29T00:00:00+00:00

The map stretched wide across the table, its edges curling slightly, worn soft by years of constant handling. My hand hovered above it, fingers grazing the faint ridges where inked lines marked rivers and mountain ranges. Each piece stood as a representation of my father’s army—rows of carved soldiers, their postures rigid, unmoving. Tiny flags marked their positions, bright splashes of color against the muted browns and greens of the map. Symbols etched into the figures hinted at their purpose: infantry, cavalry, archers. I clenched my hands, struggling to pull my focus from the countless markers.

My gaze inadvertently met Eldric's. His chestnut eyes, usually brimming with warmth, now reflected a depth of understanding. The furrows in his brow and the slight tilt of his head told me he was keenly aware of the turmoil swirling inside me. Seeing my apprehension, he offered a silent reassurance.

"It's okay," he mouthed silently, his words invisible yet palpable in the charged atmosphere. The corners of his mouth lifted slightly in an encouraging smile, his demeanor calm and steadfast. This quiet exchange, brief as it was, seemed to anchor me.

"War is coming faster than we expected," Soren declared, his voice grave as he addressed the room, then turned his piercing gaze directly toward me. "Ravena, we must speed up your training. You need to be prepared in case your father's army invades." I felt a gentle touch on the small of my back. It was Cazien, his hand providing a comforting pressure, the warmth of his touch seeping through my tunic.

And so the plan was established: I would engage in daily training sessions with each member of the group, rotating through a regimen crafted to sharpen my abilities. Despite the clear path laid out before me, doubts clouded my thoughts. I questioned my destiny, wondering if they had perhaps mistaken me for someone else. Unlike my comrades, I wasn't a seasoned fighter, nor was I adept in the arcane arts. My attempts at magic were clumsy at best, and my ability to time hop was erratic and uncontrolled.

"Sounds good," Lelani's voice sliced through my whirlwind of thoughts, bringing me back to reality. I realized then that every eye in the room was fixed on me, waiting for a response. The sudden attention felt like a spotlight casting its beam directly onto me, amplifying my uncertainties.

"Yes," I managed to reply, my voice coming out quieter then intended. Despite my tentative tone, I saw nods of agreement and faces softening with understanding.

Lelani caught my gaze. "Meet me downstairs when you're ready," she mumbled. She lingered for a moment, giving me a small nod before turning to leave, her footsteps fading as she disappeared through the door.

"Ok." I nodded back.

Leilani stood in the courtyard, a striking figure fully clad in gleaming armor. The morning sun kissed her rich brown skin, highlighting its warm undertones as it reflected off the polished metal of her breastplate. Intricate etchings carved into the armor shimmered in the light, the symbols of her lineage telling silent stories of honor and resilience.

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