(Kaeden POV)
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The tavern was loud, filled with soldiers, laughter, and the glow of firelight.
But Kaeden didn't hear any of it.
He sat alone in the corner, eyes fixed on Serian, who stood at the center of it all—like he belonged there.
Elyn laughed beside him. Too close. Too warm. She looked at Serian like he was something holy.
Kaeden's hand tightened around his mug until the wood cracked.
> "He was nothing. A ghost in the academy. A second-rate nobody."
Now?
Now the commanders praised him.
The healers whispered his name.
And Elyn…
She never smiled like that at Kaeden.
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Later, Kaeden stepped out into the courtyard, letting the cold air slap his face.
> "You envy him."
The voice came from the shadows.
A priest—his robes darkened, eyes glowing faintly.
> "Who—?"
> "A friend," the man said, stepping forward. "One who also watched from the sidelines. Forgotten. Powerless."
Kaeden didn't answer. But his silence was agreement.
> "Do you want to surpass him?" the priest asked. "To bring him low… so Elyn sees you?"
Kaeden swallowed.
> "What do I have to do?"
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The priest grinned.
> "There's a hunt. A creature born of corruption near the Vale of Ash."
> "And?"
> "Serian will be there. So will Elyn. You'll lead the team."
Kaeden frowned. "Is this some test?"
> "No. It's a chance."
> "For what?"
> "To become the hero… by watching the false one fall."
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Back in his quarters, Kaeden stared at his sword.
He felt his hands tremble. Not with fear.
But anticipation.
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Far away, in a quiet tent, Serian stared into the embers of his fire.
> "Someone's going to betray us," he whispered.
Marielle raised a brow. "Why do you think that?"
He looked at her. Something behind his eyes… distant, cold.
> "Because I've felt it before."
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