Rebirth of the Crimson Soul
Chapter 4: A Burning Choice
The next morning, Alex woke with aching limbs, sore shoulders, and a quiet fire in his chest—not pain, but drive.
Outside the cabin, Brann was already waiting, sharpening a blade with steady, brutal focus. Lyra stood nearby, twirling her staff absently, lost in thought.
"You've lasted longer than I thought," Brann muttered as Alex approached. "Most boys your size cry by the third swing."
Alex shrugged. "I did cry. Just... internally."
Brann smirked. "Good. You'll need that stubbornness."
He tossed Alex a short wooden sword. "Time to learn how to hold your ground."
---
The hours that followed were merciless.
Brann didn't teach—he tested. Strikes came fast, relentless. Alex could barely lift his arms by the time Brann called for a break.
He collapsed near a tree, breathing hard.
Lyra handed him a flask. "You're improving."
"I feel like I've been beaten by a tree."
She sat beside him, her knee brushing his. "You're stronger than you think."
Alex looked at her. "Why are you helping me?"
She hesitated. "I guess I see a piece of myself in you. Weak once. Alone. Trying to be more."
Their eyes met. The silence between them deepened—charged, meaningful.
Lyra looked away first, cheeks flushed. "Besides... you're interesting."
Alex smiled. That warmth in his chest stirred again.
> [System Update]
Bond Level with Lyra: 2
Strength +1
Magic Affinity +1
Passive Ability Unlocked: Shared Flame (Temporary magic boost when near bonded partner)
Shared Flame.
The words echoed in his mind, heavy with potential.
Could growing close to people—truly close—build not just power, but synergy?
He looked at Lyra again. She was gazing out at the horizon, unaware of the gift she'd just unknowingly given.
---
Later that evening, Brann stood before him with a wrapped cloth bundle.
"You survived three days. You want to keep training? Then stop playing with sticks."
He unwrapped it, revealing a short sword—not decorative, not elegant, but balanced and sharp.
"This is iron, not magic. You don't deserve enchantments yet. But if you live long enough, maybe you will."
Alex took the sword in both hands. It was heavier than it looked, but it felt right.
Brann nodded once. "Tomorrow, we hunt beasts."
"Real ones?" Alex asked.
"You want power?" Brann's eyes burned. "Power comes when your life is on the line."
Alex swallowed hard—but didn't back down.
"I'm ready."
Lyra watched him quietly, arms folded.
He was still weak. Still green. But something was awakening inside him. A hunger not just for survival—but for purpose, for strength, for connection.
And now... for her.