Rael's body trembled as he knelt in the grand chamber of Varenthia's royal palace. His wrists were bound by silver chains, searing into his skin. Before him stood King Varian, his piercing gaze locked onto him like a predator studying its prey. To his right, Lady Selene Drakos remained still, her arms crossed, her crimson eyes betraying no emotion.
"You are a creature of the abyss," the king said, his voice deep and commanding. "Yet, you still possess reason. That alone makes you useful to me."
Rael swallowed, his throat dry. He had no illusions—if he refused, he would be executed. If he accepted, he would become the kingdom's pawn. But if he played his cards right, he could use this opportunity to carve his own path.
"And if I refuse?" Rael asked, his voice steady despite the pain.
Varian leaned forward slightly, the candlelight casting sharp shadows over his face. "Then Lady Drakos will put an end to you here and now."
Selene stepped closer, her black armor glinting. She drew a dagger from her belt, pressing it lightly against his throat. "Your power is unstable. If we let you live unchecked, you'll eventually lose yourself to it," she said. "But if you swear loyalty to the crown, we will give you the means to control it."
Control…
Nyxthar's presence coiled in the back of Rael's mind like a serpent. "They fear you. But you are beyond their chains. Take what is yours."
Rael clenched his fists. He had no trust in the king, but he needed time to grow stronger—to master the abyssal power coursing through him.
Lifting his gaze, he met Varian's eyes. "What do you want from me?"
Varian smiled slightly. "There is a war coming. A force beyond our comprehension stirs in the shadows. The creatures lurking in the abyss will soon rise, and we need warriors who can stand against them." He gestured toward Selene. "Lady Drakos will train you. You will serve the kingdom until the war is won."
"And after that?"
"You will have your freedom."
A lie. Or perhaps a half-truth. But it was the only chance he had.
Rael took a deep breath and exhaled. "Fine. I accept."
Varian nodded and raised a ceremonial dagger, slicing his own palm. Dark red blood dripped onto the marble floor. He extended his hand toward Rael.
"Swear your loyalty with blood."
Rael hesitated only a moment before taking the blade. He cut his palm, feeling the warmth of his own blood trickle down his fingers. As he clasped Varian's hand, something stirred within him—a surge of dark energy, binding him to this oath.
As their blood mixed, Rael felt a weight settle on his soul. A pact had been made.
Lady Selene stepped forward, finally showing a hint of a smile. "Welcome to the Order of the Black Sun, Rael Veyne."
And with that, his journey as a soldier of Varenthia began.