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Scene 1: Forest Grounds – Morning After the Duel
Aeron stands still, holding the flame-inscribed stone. Azrakel floats quietly beside him for once, eyes narrowed.
> Aeron:
"She knew about me. She knew about her."
> Azrakel:
"Yeah… and she didn't try to kill you. That's either very good or very bad."
Footsteps approach. Aeron turns quickly—battle-ready—only to relax as he sees Master Ryden, his father's best friend and his current guardian, return.
> Ryden (calm but alert):
"I sensed a strange fire in the air… What happened while I was gone?"
Aeron hands him the stone. Ryden examines the symbol, eyes tightening.
> Ryden:
"The Flameborne Crest… They've found you."
> Aeron:
"She said it was a test. She was fast, skilled—almost like she knew what I'd do before I did it."
> Ryden (gritting his teeth):
"I was only gone for a mission… a few hours… and they came."
He crushes the stone in his hand—turning it to glowing dust.
> Ryden:
"From now on, I'm not going anywhere. I don't care if the King himself calls me—I'll stay by your side."
> Aeron (serious):
"But what if they attack you next time?"
Ryden smiles.
> Ryden:
"Kid, I'm not just anyone. In this kingdom, I'm one of the most powerful people after your father. Even the hidden clans know better than to take me lightly."
> Azrakel (smirking):
"Yeah, big guy here could probably throw a mountain if he wanted. Or at least yell at it until it apologized."
Aeron smiles faintly—but concern still flickers in his eyes.
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Scene 2: Secret Realm – Hidden Clan Council
The girl kneels before the elders again.
> Girl:
"He was guarded. I wasn't alone with him for long."
> Elder:
"Then the rumors are true. The King's Sword still protects him."
> Another Elder:
"So the Kingdom still considers the boy valuable… That makes things difficult."
> Oldest Elder:
"Let's not rush. First, we must confirm his bloodline."
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Scene 3: Ryden's Promise
Later that night, Ryden and Aeron sit by the edge of a cliff, overlooking the training grounds. A cool breeze rustles the flames.
> Ryden:
"You're strong, Aeron. Stronger than even you know. But strength isn't just about power—it's about knowing when to ask for help."
> Aeron:
"You think I'll ever be strong enough to fight those who hurt my mom?"
> Ryden:
"You won't just be strong enough to fight them… One day, they'll kneel before your flame."
> Azrakel (breaking the mood, arms crossed):
"Aww. Mentor moment! I love this part of the hero journey. Just missing a dramatic soundtrack and a slow zoom!"
> (to readers)
"Hey you! Yeah, you reading this. If this doesn't give you goosebumps, go drink some hot soup and try again."
Aeron chuckles.
> Aeron:
"You're such a weirdo."
> Azrakel:
"Says the kid with a flaming aura and destiny issues."
They sit together as stars twinkle above—unaware of the shadows still watching.
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End of Episode 14