The journey back to the Ashenblade estate was quieter than usual. The task force’s mission had been a success, the Rift in the eastern plains closed and the threat contained. Yet, Damien couldn’t shake the lingering tension. The creatures they had faced were stronger, more organized, and each battle seemed to push him further.
As the convoy crossed the familiar forests and rolling hills of Ashenblade territory, the weight of the recent battles began to settle. Damien’s thoughts turned inward, reflecting on the toll the constant fighting had taken. He had grown stronger, of that he was certain, but he hadn’t yet taken the time to assess just how much.
The estate’s gates opened to welcome them, and Damien dismounted, feeling a mix of relief and anticipation. Soldiers and attendants greeted them with respect, their admiration for the young Ashenblade clear in their eyes. He exchanged brief words with his siblings and Alaric before excusing himself, heading straight for his quarters.
----------------------------------------
A MOMENT OF SOLITUDE
Once inside, Damien locked the door and moved to the center of the room. Ebonfang rested on a nearby stand, its blade gleaming faintly in the dim light. Damien took a deep breath, his hands still tingling from the battle’s intensity.
He reached for the small, rune-etched device on his desk—a relic used by the Ashenblades to monitor their growth. It pulsed faintly as he activated it, a soft hum filling the air as it connected with his essence. The runes on the device flared briefly before a translucent display appeared before him, showing his current stats.
----------------------------------------
DAMIEN ASHENBLADE
Level: 40 → 52
Strength: 78 → 110
Agility: 70 → 95
Endurance: 65 → 90
Mana: 80 → 105
Perception: 75 → 100
Willpower: 72 → 98
Charisma: 50 → 55
----------------------------------------
The numbers were staggering. Damien’s eyes widened as he absorbed the changes. His level had jumped significantly, a result of the countless creatures he had slain and the Rift core he had destroyed. Every stat had increased dramatically, reflecting the intense battles and the immense pressure he had endured.
Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.
He flexed his hand, feeling the surge of power coursing through him. His body had adapted, his reflexes sharper, his strikes more precise. Yet, it wasn’t just physical. His mana reserves felt deeper, more responsive, and his perception of the world around him had sharpened considerably.
Despite the growth, Damien couldn’t help but feel a pang of unease. The battles were making him stronger, but at what cost? The Rifts were growing in number and intensity, and each one seemed to demand more of him.
----------------------------------------
A KNOCK AT THE DOOR
His thoughts were interrupted by a knock. “Damien? It’s Selene.”
He deactivated the display and opened the door. Selene stepped inside, her usual confident demeanor softened by concern.
“You’ve been holed up here since we got back,” she said, crossing her arms. “Checking your stats?”
Damien nodded. “The fights have pushed me further than I expected. My level jumped to 52.”
Selene whistled low. “Impressive. Looks like all those creatures paid off. But don’t get too caught up in the numbers. Power is more than just stats.”
Damien leaned against the desk. “I know. But it’s a lot to take in. Every fight feels like a step closer to something bigger.”
Selene’s eyes softened. “That’s because it is. We’re not just fighting to close Rifts anymore. We’re preparing for a war we barely understand.”
Damien sighed, his mind racing. “I just hope I’m ready when the time comes.”
Selene placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “You will be. And you’re not alone, remember? We’ve got your back.”
----------------------------------------
RESOLVE AND DETERMINATION
After Selene left, Damien sat on his bed, staring at Ebonfang. The blade had been his constant companion, a symbol of his family’s legacy and his own determination. He reached for it, the familiar weight grounding him.
His growth was undeniable, but it came with a heavy burden. The battles ahead would only grow more difficult, the stakes higher with each Rift. Yet, Damien felt a renewed sense of resolve. The power he had gained was not just for himself—it was for his family, for the people of Valdris, and for the countless lives that depended on their strength.
He stood, his gaze steady. The road ahead was uncertain, but Damien Ashenblade was ready to face whatever challenges awaited.