Artemis Unveiled:The Descent

Untitled Part 59: Awakening the Power

"You can't keep us imprisoned in Wind Valley forever," Aria exclaimed, her voice trembling with emotion. "We're not Aether, and he is the Executive Commander of the legion. Voidmarsh is under attack, and the northern seals are weakening. If you and the Aether choose to stay here, the Night Ghoul will eventually climb the cliffs and destroy your Wind Valley."

The chieftain was silent for a moment before speaking, his tone tinged with melancholy. "It seems it won't be easy to keep you here."

Just then, Felix cleared his throat, breaking the brief silence.

The chieftain turned his gaze to Felix, his voice growing deeper. "You saved Felix, and Felix saved you in your moment of peril. But we Aether have an ancient tradition—we never imprison the mightiest warriors. Those with extraordinary power are destined to bear responsibilities beyond themselves."

He paused, his eyes gleaming with wisdom. "If you truly wish to leave, the only way is to challenge Felix. This isn't just a simple duel; it's a test of courage and fate. Every warrior must prove their worth to be acknowledged by destiny. This isn't just about strength—it's a tempering of the soul. If you can defeat Felix, you will earn the right to continue your journey."

Aria and Alexander both instinctively turned to Neven, knowing that only Neven could possibly defeat Felix.

"And if I lose?" Neven asked calmly.

The chieftain's expression grew more solemn. "Then you will remain with the Aether forever, becoming one of us. Felix requested this battle because he admires your friend. If you defeat him, perhaps our proud young man will learn humility."

Neven nodded, his voice steady. "As you say."

At this, Aria couldn't hold back any longer and grabbed Neven's sleeve, whispering angrily, "How could you agree to this? I don't want to stay in this wretched place."

Alexander gently patted Aria's shoulder, signaling her to stay calm. "Neven has regained his Essence Power. You must trust him."

Aria pursed her lips, still uneasy, but she knew that Neven's victory or defeat would determine the fate of all three of them. She began to imagine what the legendary Executive Commander Neven, after three years of trials, might be like now.

When Neven accepted the challenge, a barely concealed joy appeared on Felix's face. He walked toward Neven with his head held high, as if preparing to shake hands, but to everyone's surprise, he took Aria's hand instead and placed a gentle kiss on her bandaged hand.

"My dear, is your injury feeling any better?" Felix asked with a smile, his tone full of concern.

Aria angrily pulled her hand back, snapping, "I'm fine."

Though she despised Felix's audacity, she couldn't help but feel grateful to him. If it weren't for him leading the warriors to their rescue that night, the three of them might have already perished at the hands of the Night Ghoul.

The battle began. Neven drew his Soul Stone sword, its golden light gleaming, while Felix gripped his heavy steel sword with his powerful physique. The hall, filled with nearly a hundred people, fell silent in an instant. The warriors stepped back, leaving Neven and Felix facing each other.

The fight erupted. Neven's sword glowed brilliantly, and he and Felix seemed evenly matched. Aria had thought only the Aether could possess such astonishing speed and strength, but with the power of the Essence, Neven's sword moved so fast it was nearly invisible.

In the darkened hall, golden light sliced through the air. Aria could feel Neven's anger, though his face remained calm. This was a battle not just of victory or defeat, but of whether they could leave this place.