By the following day, Brittany and Sam had mastered the elements of Earth, Air, Fire and Water. They had also learned how to summon the element of Darkness.
"Great work!" Raul congratulated. "You both have learned much in a short period of time. But there's still more to learn."
"And what's that?" Brittany asked.
"There are many other elements beyond those basic five." Raul explained. "These are the most powerful ones, and they're very rare. Only a handful of people have ever encountered them and survived."
"Like who?" Sam asked.
"Well, there's one Shadow Walker who has already seen these elements." Raul said. "But he never talks about them. I don't even know what they look like. But I think it would be best if you two don't know too much about some of them. Otherwise, it may put you in danger."
"I understand." Brittany said.
"Me, too." Sam agreed.
"Alright then, let's get started." Raul said.
He recited several incantations. A swirl of magic energy emerged from his body. It swirled around him and formed into a sphere. It began to glow brighter and brighter until it turned into a transparent ball.
"This is the element of light." Raul said. "I hope you two are ready."
"Ready?" Brittany echoed.
"Yes, Brittany." Raul replied. "It will be difficult for you to control this element. It's very powerful, and it can consume everything in its path."
"I can handle it." Brittany insisted.
"The element of light can appear to be harmless. But it can quickly turn deadly.” Raul explained, “Remember that it is always moving. That means you must be quick and precise in order to defeat it."
"Okay." Brittany said.
She took a deep breath, focused her magic, and envisioned the element of light. At once, the sphere appeared before her. She held on tight and followed Raul's instructions.
Skill Unlocked: Light Element Summoning
The Light Element is unstable and unpredictable. Lack of control can lead to immediate damage or death. Use with extreme caution.
"Now, let's see what you can do." Raul said.
Brittany unleashed her magic. The ball of light shot through the air, shattering the trees behind them. It disintegrated the rocks and boulders lying on the ground, leaving nothing but barren land. The entire forest was consumed by the bright light.
"Wow!" Sam gasped. "That was amazing!"
"That's the element of light for you." Raul said. "Now, we'll try something different."
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Raul recited another incantation. This time, the ball of light expanded rapidly. It grew bigger and bigger until it was the size of a small house. Then it exploded. The blast left a large crater in the ground.
"Impressive!" Brittany exclaimed. "How did you do that?"
"I don't want to tell you." Raul replied. "You need to figure that one out on your own."
"I think I have a good idea." Brittany said.
"Hmmm… you might be right." Raul agreed. “I think you are finally ready to meet with our Coven Leader Davion.”
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They walked toward his hut. They approached, and Raul poked his head in.
"Hey, Davion!" Raul greeted. "It's been a while since we've last met."
Davion stepped out of his hut. His skin was pale, and his hair was jet-black. His eyes were dark and mysterious.
"Hello, Raul." Davion greeted. "It's good to see you again."
"Likewise, Davion." Raul agreed. "This is our newest member Brittany.”
Davion cringed, and turned his head in anguish.
"What happened?" Raul asked. "Why are you looking at me like that?"
"It's just…" Davion stammered. "She's a higher level than I am. And you know what that means.”
Raul’s eyes lit up in understanding, “Oh, yes. She must challenge you for your position. It’s the Coven Code.”
"Yes, you're right." Davion sighed. "That’s what’s been troubling me. I noticed her stats the instant she joined the Coven. I’m afraid I have no choice. It’s a duel to the death."
Raul frowned and shook his head.
"Please, don't do it, Davion." Raul pleaded.
"I can't change the code." Davion confessed. "I'm sorry, Raul. I will have to kill her. I don't want to, but I have no choice."
Raul nodded. He glanced at Brittany and then looked away in shame.
"I understand." Raul said. "If that's what you wish, then I won't stop you."
He bowed his head and walked away.
"Raul!" Brittany called after him. "Don't leave me alone with him!"
She ran after him, and caught up to him.
"Wait, Raul! Please don't go!"
Raul stopped and turned around.
"I know you're scared." Raul said. "But this is important. If I stay, I may compromise the Coven Code. I can't risk it.”
"But you promised you wouldn't abandon us!" she cried.
"I didn't promise anything." Raul replied. "I can't let my personal feelings get in the way of the Coven Code. My word is worthless if I let it affect the future of our Coven. Don't worry, I'll be back as soon as this is done. Just be strong, okay? And remember everything I taught you."
"Okay." Brittany agreed.
Then Raul continued walking away.
Brittany watched him until he disappeared from view. Then she turned back to Davion.
Davion stood in front of her with determination set in his jaw.
"Why are you doing this?" Brittany demanded.
"Because it's my duty." Davion answered. "As the leader of the Coven, I have to protect our legacy. The Coven Code is very clear on this matter. You’re at a Level 13 whereas I’m only a Level 10. Your mere presence is a challenge to my position as Coven Leader, so I have no choice but to eliminate you."
"So what happens now?" Brittany asked. "I beat you, and you're out of a job?"
"Not exactly." Davion said. "This is a duel to the death. As far as I'm concerned, you win if you survive. So, I'm just protecting the Coven and upholding our traditions. After all, you're going to die anyway. What's the difference between killing you right now or waiting a bit longer? Besides, I'd rather enjoy this while you're still alive."
“But I thought we were already dead?” Brittany asked, confused.
“Technically we are undead, which isn’t exactly the same.” he exclaimed, “There are far worse fates than mere physical death.”
Two prompts appeared before her.
Threat Detected: Level 10 Shadow Coven Leader
HP: 1,000 / 1,000
Strengths: Powerful Mage capable of subduing opponents with magical elements of Fire, Water, Air, Earth, Darkness and Light.
Weaknesses: Undead Shadow Walkers are susceptible to fall by sword or by other means depending upon severity of attack.
Do you wish to challenge this opponent?
Yes | No
Brittany stared uncomfortably at the screen.
What should I do?
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