The shard’s light guided Damien as he continued through the forest, its glow steady and comforting. The weight of his recent victories bolstered his confidence, but he knew the journey was far from over. Each step forward brought him closer to uncovering the truth behind his newfound power and the role Ebonfang played in the grander scheme.

Hours passed, the dense forest giving way to a vast, open glade. At its center stood a towering stone structure—an ancient fortress, its walls weathered by time. Vines clung to its surface, and the faint glow of runes marked its entrance.

Damien approached cautiously, his instincts on edge. As he neared the fortress, the air grew colder, and a deep, resonant hum emanated from within. He could feel the presence of something ancient, something powerful.

Pushing open the heavy stone doors, Damien stepped inside. The interior was vast and dimly lit, the walls adorned with faded murals depicting scenes of battle and triumph. At the far end of the hall stood a massive throne, upon which sat a figure clad in heavy, ornate armor.

The figure stirred as Damien entered, its helmeted head turning slowly to face him. When it spoke, its voice was deep and echoing, filled with both authority and weariness.

“You have come far, Bladebearer.”

Damien tightened his grip on Ebonfang. “Who are you?”

Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.

The figure rose from the throne, towering over Damien. “I am the Warden of this sanctum, charged with guarding the secrets of the Celestial Blades. You seek answers, but they must be earned.”

It raised a massive weapon—a halberd etched with runes similar to those on Ebonfang. The Warden stepped forward, its movements slow but deliberate.

“This is your second trial. Prove your resolve.”

Before Damien could respond, the Warden charged, its halberd cutting through the air with terrifying speed. Damien barely managed to dodge, the blade’s impact sending shockwaves through the hall.

He countered with a quick strike, but the Warden blocked effortlessly, its strength far beyond anything Damien had faced before. Each clash of their weapons reverberated through the chamber, the force of the blows testing Damien’s endurance.

The Warden’s attacks were relentless, but Damien adapted quickly. He activated Phase Step, evading a powerful swing and delivering a precise Astral Slash to the Warden’s flank. The strike landed, but the Warden barely flinched, its armor absorbing most of the impact.

“You are strong,” the Warden said, its voice calm even in battle. “But strength alone is not enough.”

Damien pressed on, his strikes becoming more calculated. He activated Celestial Aura, slowing the Warden’s movements just enough to create openings. The battle was grueling, each exchange pushing Damien to his limits.

Finally, with a well-timed feint, Damien drove Ebonfang into a weak point in the Warden’s armor. The runes on his blade flared brightly, and the Warden let out a resonant hum, stepping back and lowering its weapon.

“You have done well, Bladebearer,” it said, its tone filled with respect. “The path forward is yours.”

The Warden stepped aside, revealing a hidden passage behind the throne. Damien sheathed Ebonfang and nodded, his determination renewed.

He had earned his answers, but he knew the journey was far from over.