The Silent oath

Chapter 8: The Tools of the Trade

The years of rigorous training and relentless missions had forged me into a skilled and resilient member of The Family. At seventeen, I stood on the brink of another significant milestone: my promotion to Agent. This new rank came with the receipt of critical tools, final training sessions, and an elevation ceremony that would formally acknowledge my readiness to serve The Family at the highest level.

One morning, Matron Rheneares summoned me to her chambers. Her presence, as always, was commanding, and I felt a mix of anticipation and respect as I stood before her.

"Zai," she began, her voice calm yet authoritative, "you have proven yourself time and time again. It is time for you to receive the tools of our trade, symbols of your status and capabilities within The Family."

She presented me with three items: the Dagger of Venom, a green cloak, and a Sending Stone Necklace. Each held deep significance, representing my progression and responsibilities.

The Dagger of Venom was a sleek, deadly blade, its hilt intricately engraved with serpentine patterns. "This dagger," Matron Rheneares explained, "is imbued with a potent venom. A single cut can be fatal, making it a formidable weapon. It symbolizes your role as an assassin, requiring precision, discretion, and lethality."

Next, she handed me the green cloak. The fabric was lightweight yet durable, designed for stealth and agility. "The green cloak marks your official status as an assassin within The Family. Wear it with pride, for it signifies your skills and dedication."

Finally, she placed the Sending Stone Necklace around my neck. The stone, embedded in an ornate pendant, glowed faintly with an inner light. "This Sending Stone allows for secure communication with other members of The Family. It is a tool of great importance, enabling you to relay information and receive orders discreetly."

As I held these items, a sense of responsibility and honor washed over me. "Thank you, Matron Rheneares. I will uphold the values of The Family and use these tools wisely."

She nodded, her gaze unwavering. "I have no doubt you will, Zai. Now, you must complete your final training sessions. These will push you to your limits, ensuring you are fully prepared for your new role."

The final training sessions were intense and comprehensive. Matron Rheneares, along with other Masters, put me through a series of grueling exercises designed to test my combat skills, agility, and strategic thinking.

One afternoon, I found myself sparring with Teacher Amos in the training arena. His formidable strength and skill had always been a challenge, but I had grown stronger and more confident.

"Come on, Zai," he urged, his voice booming. "Show me what you've learned."

We engaged in a fierce battle, my movements swift and precise. I used the Dagger of Venom, its lethal edge glinting in the dim light. Teacher Amos countered with powerful strikes, but I adapted quickly, using my agility to evade and strike back.

"Good," he grunted as I landed a blow. "You've become quite formidable. Remember, it's not just about strength but also about strategy and precision."

In the evenings, Matron Rheneares continued to instruct me in the art of poisons and disguise. We spent hours in her laboratory, perfecting various compounds and practicing new personas. Her guidance was invaluable, and I absorbed every lesson with determination.

One night, she introduced me to a holly ceremony of The Faceless One, a sacred ritual performed to seek guidance and strength from our enigmatic deity. The ceremony took place in the Temple of the Fallen, the air thick with the scent of incense and the flickering light of candles casting eerie shadows on the walls.

We knelt before the statue of The Faceless One, its featureless face and flowing cloak a symbol of anonymity and adaptability. Matron Rheneares led the prayers, her voice soft yet resonant. "Faceless One, guide us in the shadows, grant us the wisdom to navigate the darkness, and bless us with your strength."

As we chanted the sacred hymns, a sense of tranquility and focus settled over me. The vision of the amethyst tree from years ago resurfaced, its ethereal light a beacon of hope and purpose. I felt a deep connection to The Faceless One, a reminder of my path and my duty.

After the ceremony, as we walked back to the quarters, Matron Rheneares spoke softly. "Zai, your faith and dedication will guide you. Never forget the lessons you have learned and the values you uphold."

"I won't, Matron Rheneares. Thank you for everything."

As my final training sessions came to an end, the day of my promotion ceremony arrived. The Grand Hall was adorned with banners and symbols of The Family, the atmosphere charged with anticipation. The overseers, Masters, and fellow members gathered to witness the ceremony.

I stood before them, my heart pounding with a mix of pride and nerves. Matron Rheneares stepped forward, her presence commanding silence.

"Today, we recognize Zai's exceptional achievements and dedication. She has proven herself worthy of the rank of Agent. Let us honor her commitment to The Family."

She placed the green cloak around my shoulders, its weight a tangible symbol of my new status. The Dagger of Venom was securely fastened at my side, and the Sending Stone Necklace glowed faintly against my chest.

"You are now an Agent of The Family," Matron Rheneares declared. "Serve with honor, loyalty, and precision."

As the ceremony concluded, I mingled with the other members, their congratulations and encouragement bolstering my confidence. I spotted Damion and Alicent among the crowd, their presence a source of comfort and familiarity.

"Zai, congratulations!" Alicent exclaimed, pulling me into a warm embrace. She had grown even more beautiful, her changeling features delicate yet striking. Her touch sent a pleasant shiver down my spine, and I felt a slight blush creep up my cheeks.

"Thanks, Alicent. It means a lot to me," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.

Damion, standing beside her, gave me a nod of approval. "You've come a long way, Zai. We're proud of you."

"I couldn't have done it without your support," I admitted, grateful for their friendship.

As the evening wore on, I found myself drawn to Alicent, our conversations filled with shared memories and laughter. Though I tried to keep my feelings in check, I couldn't help but feel a growing affection for her. Her presence was a source of warmth and comfort, and I cherished every moment we spent together.

The promotion ceremony marked a new chapter in my life, one filled with challenges and responsibilities. As an Agent of The Family, I was ready to navigate the shadows, uphold the values I had learned, and face whatever lay ahead. With my friends by my side and the lessons of Matron Rheneares guiding me, I knew I was prepared for the journey that awaited me.