Evan slowly came to with a throbbing pain in his head. The world around him was a blur, and the air smelled damp and musty. As he tried to move, he realized his hands were bound, and he was lying on a cold, hard surface.
“Great, now what?” Evan mumbled, his voice barely audible.
A faint glow illuminated the surroundings, revealing stone walls and a dimly lit cell. Evan’s memories started to piece themselves together – the attack on Isolde’s carriage, the fight with Gromm, and now, this cell.
As Evan’s eyes adjusted to the dim light, he saw the iron bars that confined him. The sound of distant footsteps echoed, and he strained to listen, trying to discern any clues about his situation.
“Ah, you’re awake,” a voice said, and Evan turned his head to see a man in a soldier’s uniform standing outside the cell. “You’ve caused quite a stir.”
“What’s going on? Why am I in here?” Evan demanded, the pain in his head making it challenging to focus.
“You’ve been accused of attacking Miss Isolde and looting the dead. You also have been accused of attacking a fellow adventurer who was trying to render aid. The evidence doesn’t look good for you.” the soldier replied with a stern expression.
“That’s not what happened! I saved her from the attackers. She can vouch for me,” Evan argued, his frustration building.
“Miss Isolde is in shock. She has hardly said a word since she came back. We can’t just take your word for it. Her sister is caring for her now,” the soldier explained, crossing his arms.
Evan groaned. “Look, I didn’t do anything wrong. I was trying to help. Where is Isolde? Let me talk to her.”
“That won’t be happening. Miss Isolde is in no state to deal with what you did to her.” Replied the soldier, before gesturing for another guard to open the cell.
Evan struggled to stand, his hands still tied, the pain in his head intensifying with each movement.
Lyra entered the cell area, her eyes holding no kindness. She glanced at Evan with a mix of disgust and rage.
“Lyra. Thank the goddess, tell them it wasn’t me. Talk to Isolde, she will explain what happened,” Evan urged, trying to maintain his composure despite the pain.
Lyra looked at Evan for a moment before speaking, her voice shaking with rage. “I… I don’t know what to say to you. Did you kill her guards? Why attack the carriage? I thought you were one of the better ones. I’m sorry, but they will execute you for this.”
Evan’s heart sank. “Lyra, please. You know I wouldn’t hurt anyone. I need your help here.”
The soldier interrupted, “Enough of this. We’ll sort it out at the trial. Until then, you stay put.”
Pushing Evan back into the cell, the guards walked away, talking softly to Lyra. Evan sat on the cold floor and mulled over the events that led to this predicament. “I don’t get how they can think it was me?”
“It seems that you are being framed for the attack.” Said Ardentrex’s voice. “That Gromm person is a part of it. We should have killed him.”
“We are not cold killers dammit.” Replied Evan.
Evan heard Ardentrex snort. “Not yet human.”
Evan’s mind raced as the gravity of the situation settled into his mind. Accused of crimes he didn’t commit, with Lyra seemingly convinced of his guilt and Isolde not talking, Evan knew he had to find a way to clear his name before the trial.
As he sat in the dimly lit cell, the faint glow of the surroundings offered little comfort. The stone walls seemed to close in around him, amplifying the feeling of confinement. The distant echoes of footsteps outside hinted at the bustling activity of the town beyond the cell.
“We need to find evidence, something to prove that I’m innocent,” Evan muttered to himself, his mind working through the possibilities.
Ardentrex’s voice echoed in his mind, “Finding evidence won’t be easy in this situation. We should just destroy this cell and everyone in this town. A show of power to make them fear you.”
“What… No. That’s worse than what we are being accused of.” Evan said in shock. “How can you think that’s a good idea?”
“I’ve done it before. All dragons use this method. It’s quite effective.” replied Ardentrex’s voice with a huff. “I am confused, do you not want to be free? You still have to fulfill your side of the agreement, human.”
“What kind of question is that?” Evan shouted in irritation. “Of course, I want to get out of here. I’m just not sure escaping will worth it. Ok.”
“Oh, it is always worth it. You can’t do anything if you are locked away. Trust me on this.” Said Ardentrex’s voice softly. “Spend a few decades like that and eventually, you will see things my way.”
Evan sat, absorbing Ardentrex’s words. “I guess even the king of dragons has a history.”He thought. “Anyway. This isn’t the time for a pity party. Think Evan. who might benefit from framing you.”
“Gromm is involved in this somehow. He attacked us, and he mentioned someone else being after Isolde. We need to figure out who’s pulling the strings.” Said Evan slowly.
Evan could hear Ardentrex sigh and agree, “Start by recalling the details of the attack. Did you notice anything unusual? Any distinctive markings or symbols on the humans we killed?”
Evan furrowed his brow, concentrating on the memories. “The attackers wore dark cloaks, and their faces were mostly covered. I couldn’t see any symbols or markings, but they were skilled fighters. It felt like a well-coordinated ambush.”
“Dark cloaks and skilled fighters…” Ardentrex mused. “Not much to go on. We’ll need more information. Maybe there’s a witness who saw something. Someone who wasn’t directly involved but observed the attack from a distance.”
Evan’s eyes lit up with the realization. “There were meant to be merchants and travellers who were with Isolde. Everyone travels in groups when they are going long distances. They might have seen something. If I can get in touch with them, they could have answers. I need to speak with Isolde.”
“That’s a good plan. But we’ll have to find a way to get to them without alerting the guards. Sneak out of this cell and gather information discreetly. We can’t afford to draw more attention to ourselves.” Replied Ardentrex’s voice.
Evan’s eyes scanned the confines of his prison, landing on the iron bars that kept him confined. In the middle of a wall was a small window with rusty bars. A feeble sliver of light seeped through, offering a glimpse of hope in the otherwise gloomy cell.
Evan’s racing mind as he studied the window, this would be his escape route. He focused on loosening the bonds around his wrists, Working as swiftly as he could, he slowly began to loosen the ropes. Every creak of his movements echoed in the confined space, making him acutely aware of the need for silence. As Evan continued his efforts, he maintained a vigilant ear for any signs of approaching guards.
Eventually, Evan’s patience paid off as the ropes around his wrists gave way. Rubbing his red wrists, he approached the window. The rusted iron bars were not as rusted as they first appeared.
“Hey, Ardentrex. Is it not a good time to maybe teach me how to use my magic? I can’t see another way to get these bars loose.” Thought Evan.
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Ardentrex’s voice was quiet for ages before he finally answered. “It’s not that I don’t want to teach you magic. Human. The type of casting and magic I use is not meant to be used by humans. Or any other species to be honest. Long ago, dragons swore, to never teach our magic to other races. One day, after many years of friendship, our king finally gave in to the requests and decided to teach our closest ally. It cost us dearly. We taught the demons how to use our chaos magic. They turned it against us, and damn near wiped the dragon race out.”
“I didn’t know. I’ve never heard anything like this.” Thought Evan. “Wait. Is that why some demons use black flames?”
“Yes. Only certain lines or very old demons still know to use our chaos magic. It takes a toll on the user though. For each person the requirement for using our type of magic is different. It comes down to the will of the intended user and the bargain they strike with chaos.” Explained Ardentrex’s voice. “This is why when you used it in the dungeon, it nearly killed you. My agreement is for my life. My health.”
“Life?” Thought Evan. “Wait. Do you mean that each time you used magic it was killing you?”
“Yes. But as a dragon, I used Healing magic to restore what it cost me each time.” Said Ardentrex’s voice sadly. “I will teach you how to wield chaos magic. But, you must learn other magics, don’t just rely on chaos. Promise me that human.”
“I… That’s a lot to take in Ardentrex. But I promise you. I will only use it when I no longer have any other choices.” Thought Evan. “I still need to travel to the magic institute to research the temple location for the goddess. I can learn other types of magic while I am there. But first I need to clear my name.”
Ardentrex, sensing Evan’s readiness, decided it was time to take the first step into teaching him chaos magic. The dragon’s voice resonated in Evan’s mind, a low rumble that carried an air of ancient wisdom.
“Listen carefully, human,” Ardentrex’s voice began. “Chaos magic is not like the ordinary spells you’ve encountered others using. It’s a force that predates the known world, an ancient power we dragons harnessed long ago. But with great power comes great responsibility, and chaos magic demands a price.”
Evan nodded, his curiosity mixing with a tinge of nervousness. He felt a surge of anticipation as Ardentrex continued.
“At your current level, you would be considered a level 2 user, at the beginner rank for that level. This alone would make you a force to be reckoned with, most humans only fall into a level 4 category. You have quite an advantage. This is also why they can not read your mana reserves. It is far above what normal testing can record.” Ardentrex’s voice paused, giving Evan a moment to absorb the information.
“Now. Chaos magic operates on a different scale than normal magic. To wield it, you must tap into the chaotic energies that permeate the very fabric of our reality. Close your eyes, Evan. Focus on the energy within you. Feel the mana coursing through your veins, but instead of controlling it, let it flow freely. Embrace the feeling of the chaotic nature of the mana. Feel it randomly moving around. Focus on that feeling. Embrace it.”
Evan took a deep breath, following Ardentrex’s instructions. He closed his eyes and concentrated on the wellspring of mana within him. It felt like a turbulent river, untamed and wild.
“Now, envision your intent. What do you wish to achieve with this magic?” Came Ardentrex’s voice as it guided Evan through the process.
Evan thought of breaking free from the cell, of unravelling the rusted bars that held him captive. He envisioned the chaos magic as a tool to bend reality to his will.
“Good,” Ardentrex’s voice encouraged. “Now, let the chaos respond to your will. It’s not about control but influence. Feel the ebb and flow, and let it resonate with your desires.”
As Evan focused, a subtle shift occurred. The air around him seemed charged, and the ambient mana responded to his intent. The rusted iron bars began to vibrate, resonating with the chaotic energies Evan had tapped into.
“Keep going, Evan. You’re on the right path,” Ardentrex’s voice urged excitedly.
Evan continued to channel the chaos magic, the vibrations of the bars becoming more pronounced. Slowly, the rust began to crumble away, revealing weakened points in the iron structure. Just as Evan felt the last connection snap into place. Everything faded to black. Evan found himself floating in a black void. Panic quickly gripped his heart as he turned around, looking for something, anything he could use to ground him.
“Human. You dare.” Came a deep gravelly voice. It sounded like two massive stones being dragged across each other. The voice projected from everywhere.
“I seek a bargain.” Gulped Evan. “I wish to wield Chaos magic.”
Deep laughter echoed around Evan. “You. Human. One does not control chaos. One must embrace it. What would you offer in exchange?”
“What do you require?”Asked Evan.
“Everything.” Came the Booming reply. “We need to unmake everything. To remake it in new ways. To reshape the world. You. We will trade the control of our chaos. But in return, you must give us your lifespan.”
“How much of my lifespan,” replied Evan as fear gripped his heart.
“We will take one month for every spell you use. Bear in mind. If you use too much chaos magic at once. We will demand a larger repayment. Use even more and we will take body parts. Do you agree?” Demanded the voice with a deep low rumble. Almost like laughter.
“I…. Ah…. " Stuttered Evan, his thoughts were trying to work out the impact this would have. He still needed to complete the goddess quest. But if he used chaos too much he might not even survive long enough. “I agree.” Whispered Evan.
The darkness around Evan slowly became brighter as deep evil laughter faded away. “Shit.” Thought Evan. “What did I just agree to.”
Ardentrex’s voice echoed as The world snapped back into place. Evan stumbled forward as he struggled to get his balance back. “…Now, when you feel the peak of the chaos, release it. Picture the bars bending to your will.”
“Ok. You did not tell me that Dealing with Chaos would be like that.” Yelled Evan out loud.
“Ah. You made your deal. Hopefully, you didn’t agree to anything too stupid.” Chuckled Ardentrex’s voice. “Picture what it is you are trying to do. Feel the chaos respond. Command it.”
With a final surge of concentration, Evan released the chaos magic. The iron bars groaned under the force, and then, with a resounding snap, they bent outward, creating an opening just wide enough for Evan to slip through. Evan stood, amazed. The chaos magic had responded to his intent.
Ardentrex’s voice resonated with pride, “You’ve taken your first steps into chaos, human. Remember, this power comes with a price. Never tell anyone you can use chaos magic or how to wield it. You will be hunted for the information.”
Evan smiled and nodded. It was the first time he had ever been able to use magic like this. Looking at the iron bars on the window, now twisted and bent out of the way, his smile grew. Grabbing the window frame he pulled himself up. His muscles complained at the effort after being still for so long.
“Shit.” Groaned Evan as he jumped back to the stone sell floor. He eyed the twisted window passage, a smidge of triumph evaporating as he realized it was too damn narrow to slip through. “Well, that’s just fantastic, maybe I can change the shape of the passageway,” he grumbled, more to himself than anyone else.
Ardentrex’s voice echoed in Evan’s mind, “Chaos magic is not meant just to open windows. Using it recklessly can be costly. Be mindful, human.”
Evan scratched his head, nodding as if the dragon could see him. “Got it. Chaos magic to reshape things is a gamble. So, any bright ideas on how I get out of this cell without using chaos magic to change the window?”
“Think, human. There is a much simpler way to freedom without trying to destroy your way out.” Advised Ardentrex’s voice.
Evan smirked, mischief dancing in his eyes. “Oh, I’ve got an idea.”
Evan closed his eyes and shifted his focus to the cell door. He summoned chaotic energies, not to twist bars this time, but to finesse the lock. The air tingled as the magic gathered.
Ardentrex’s voice echoed a reminder, “Chaos magic comes at a cost, remember? Don’t get too cozy with it.”
With a mental flick, the lock surrendered, and the hefty iron door swung open. Evan opened his eyes, grinning at the liberated door. “That was too easy.”
Ardentrex chuckled in Evan’s mind, “Enjoy the thrill, but there’s more to magic than chaos. Wait until you can learn other magics, human. They aren’t as addictive, but they won’t cost you your life.”
As Evan silently emerged from his cell, the underground jail enveloped him in a symphony of muted echoes and haunting stillness. The air hung heavy with the musty scent of damp stone, a persistent reminder of the underground prison surrounding him.
The faint glow of sputtering torches flickered along the narrow corridors, casting long, wavering shadows that danced across the uneven walls. Sounds of distant droplets echoed in the quiet, a subtle percussion marking the leaky ceiling’s contribution to the underground melody. The occasional creaks and groans of unseen mechanisms resonated through the cool air, creating an eerie harmony that added to the sense of solitude.
Evan’s careful footsteps produced a muffled shuffle against the cold, stone floor, every movement reverberating in the tight, confined space. The faint hum of magic wards lingered in the air, a constant undercurrent reminding him of the jail’s magical defences.
Evan passed by rows of cells, the feeble glow from within the cramped cells revealed faces etched with resignation and shadows that seemed to cling to the walls like silent witnesses. Faint whispers of conversations, grievances, and the occasional sob reached his ears.
Finally, Evan emerged just outside the underground complex through a doorway on the side of a building. The change in the atmosphere was palpable as the scent of dampness gave way to the crisp freshness of the open air. The distant echoes of his footsteps faded, replaced by the ambient sounds of the outside world. The soft breeze played with his hair, and the muted light of the moon bathed the surroundings in a silvery glow, a stark contrast to the dimly lit confines of the underground jail he had just left behind.
As he walked away, turning at the first corner, Evan collided with a mountain of a man. Stumbling back, Evan squinted, levelling a glare at Gromm. “You. Why would you try to frame me?”
Gromm, grinning like a cat with a canary, retorted, “Frame you? You are not that important. That was the boss’s doing. I’ve got no fingers in that pie.”
Evan’s irritation bubbled over. “Cut the crap! You attacked us, and now I’m facing charges for a crime I didn’t commit. Who’s pulling the strings, Gromm?”
Gromm’s grin stretched wider as he unsheathed his sword. “You’re in deeper shit than you think. They will pay me well for dealing with you here. Once I finish with you. That wretch of a woman is next.”