Valerian led Aren through the castle's dimly lit corridors after their discussion in the strategy room. The stone walls seemed to whisper echoes of centuries past, and flickering torches in wrought-iron sconces cast dancing shadows that played across their faces. Aren and Valerian's footsteps echoed in the silence, broken only by the occasional crackle of the flames.

Finally, they stopped before the massive doors of Duke Darius's study. Valerian held up a hand, stopping Aren from proceeding.

"Allow me to announce your arrival, sir," Valerian said in his usual impassive tone.

Aren nodded. Valerian rapped on the door and, after a moment, entered. Aren waited in the corridor, examining the intricately crafted armor displayed along the walls. Each suit told a silent story of battles fought and victories won. Minutes stretched, feeling like hours. Finally, the study door opened, and Valerian emerged, his face as unreadable as ever.

"The Duke will see you now, Sir Aren," Valerian announced. Without another word, he turned and strode back down the corridor, leaving Aren alone before the imposing door.

Aren stepped into Duke Darius's study, a spacious room that breathed history. Tapestries depicting battle scenes, darkened with age, adorned the walls. The air held a rich aroma of old leather, beeswax, and a subtle hint of expensive wine that seemed to permeate every crevice. Shelves groaned under the weight of scrolls tied with leather cords and dusty tomes in heavy bindings. The desk, littered with maps and charts, was also covered in trophies – weapons of strange design, gleaming gemstones, some of which pulsed with a faint, inner light, as if imbued with some unknown power.

Duke Darius sat behind a massive oak desk, seemingly carved from a single, ancient tree trunk. His broad face, flushed with drink, radiated bonhomie. He appeared more sober than at the recent feast, but a spark of merriment still danced in his eyes.

"Aren, welcome to my humble abode," Darius said, gesturing to a chair upholstered in faded velvet opposite the desk. "I trust Valerian hasn't bored you to tears? He does have a talent for the dreary."

Aren settled into the chair, feeling slightly awkward under the Duke's intense gaze. "Not at all. General Valerian was simply performing his duty. He takes the Dominion's security seriously."

"Indeed, indeed. Valerian is a loyal friend and a dedicated warrior. But I wish to discuss something else with you – your future in Stormborn Dominion, and the upcoming tournament," Darius leaned back in his chair, folding his arms across his chest. His gaze sharpened, becoming assessing. "You've certainly caused a stir, Aren. All the nobility can talk about is you and your… remarkable skills. This undoubtedly benefits Stormborn Dominion, and, dare I say, me personally."

"I'm glad I could be of service to the Dominion," Aren replied, trying to keep the skepticism from his voice. What's he really after?

"Valerian told me about your conversation. I don’t know what’s more surprising, your fighting skills or the fact that you managed to impress Valerian." Darius chuckled, still lightheaded from the alcohol. "Well, I'm glad you're interested in the tournament. Your participation, along with my son Leo's debut, will surely be the main topic of gossip, not only in our Dominion but also among our neighbors."

Aren raised an eyebrow, waiting for the catch. "With all due respect, I don't doubt your decisions, but why have you decided to have Leo participate in the tournament alongside me? It could create unnecessary rivalry and tension between us."

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Darius smirked, as if he'd anticipated the question. "Leo needs to temper his spirit and hone his skills, Aren. He needs a worthy opponent to unlock his full potential. And I sincerely believe that you can be not only a formidable rival in the arena but also a true friend outside of it. My son relies too much on the power of Aether, forgetting about tactics and strategy. He should learn from you how to fight using his mind and cunning."

Aren nodded, considering the Duke's words. So, he wants me to teach Leo how to fight. That makes sense. But what if we end up facing each other in the tournament, and I win? How will that be received in the Dominion?

"So, I would like to ask you directly…" Darius leaned forward on the desk. "During your training sessions with Leo, teach him what you know, and in return, we will teach you how to wield Aether. But I warn you, not everyone can master it. It will depend on you."

The terms are quite favorable. He's a wise ruler, taking advantage of the situation and offering something in return.

"Agreed," Aren said.

"Excellent! I'm sure you'll be a sensation at the tournament!"

Darius abruptly changed the subject, glancing sideways at Aren. A cunning glint flickered in his eyes. "Speaking of which, Aren, you are now a nobleman of Stormborne. It's a great honor, but also a heavy burden. You should consider continuing your lineage. Find a worthy spouse who will be a support in life and provide heirs to strengthen your position in the Dominion."

No, thank you. A second marriage would surely drive me to an early grave. Aren decided to remain silent; after all, it was impolite to refuse the Duke. He would let Darius talk, and then Aren would decide what to do.

Darius noticed that Aren wasn't interested but continued anyway. "A handsome young man like you needs a faithful companion. Soon, I will start looking for a suitable match for you. There are many beautiful young women from noble families in Stormborne who dream of a brave warrior like you."

Aren tried to change the subject as quickly as possible, memories of his first marriage flooding back like a shower of broken glass. "General Valerian mentioned a Veridian who could tell me more about Aether. Who is he?"

Darius paused for a moment, as if gathering his thoughts. "The Veridians… They are a mysterious people who arrived in Atheria about ten years ago. They claim to be travelers from distant lands, interested in our culture and, especially, Aether. We don't know how they crossed the waters, since none of us has ever crossed them and returned to tell what is on the other side. They diligently study Aether, conduct complex research, but they themselves are unable to use this power."

So, Veridian is a people, not a person's name.

"Can I meet him? Valerian said he's here."

"That's right, Jaxx'im. He is currently returning from his journey to the Wintervale Research Facility. He should arrive any day now. Jaxx'im is a very knowledgeable scholar, especially in matters concerning artifacts. He will be able to conduct a thorough analysis of your abilities and possibly help you unlock your hidden potential."

Aren was intrigued. "Tell me about this analysis and the artifacts."

"The Veridians have developed unique methods for measuring and analyzing Ether flows in the human body. They can determine your tier, identify strengths and weaknesses. It could be very useful for you, Aren. As for artifacts, they are materials altered by Ether, formed throughout Atheria after an Ether storm. You've seen Valerian's armor, the metal that's as flexible as fabric? It was made from an artifact."

Incredible. I'll have to ask Valerian if I can try on his armor.

The conversation was drawing to a close, and dusk was gathering outside the window, painting the sky in violet hues. Darius rose from his desk, stretching as if to loosen stiff muscles. "Well, Aren, I think we've talked enough for today. It's time to get down to business. How about a little training session with Leo before dinner? It will help you better understand his abilities, and him yours. Besides, physical exercise will get the blood flowing and clear your mind."

Aren nodded, feeling a surge of energy. "I wouldn't mind a workout."

Darius grinned, revealing strong, white teeth. "Excellent! Then meet us at the training grounds in half an hour. I'll have the servants show you the way. Don't be late, Aren. Leo is probably already looking forward to sparring."

The Duke headed towards the door to summon the servants, and Aren followed him, pondering the upcoming training session and Darius's words. Victor will be ecstatic when I tell him everything that's happened. The tournament, marriage proposals, the Veridians… It seems my life in Atheria is becoming increasingly complicated and unpredictable.