In a quiet rural town, 13-year-old Ethan Alexander lives a humble life as an orphan raised by kind-hearted farmers. Unknown to him, his lineage is not as ordinary as his surroundings; he is the rare hybrid of a werewolf and a vampire-a secret that h...
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Creeta had insisted that I stayed at the tavern for the night, and set off early this morning in search of the academy. "You cant go back to the farm, not tonight, I don't know when you'll be able to go back," she had said, her voice firm but caring. I knew she was right; the whispering shadows that followed me were too dangerous to confront alone. But here I was, in a room above a tavern full of strangers, with the excitement of my thirteenth birthday diluted by the weight of my fears.
I sat on the edge of the bed, the dim light filtering through the windows casting shadows on the wall, and I found myself grappling with the weight of my new identity. "Lykkos Elias Alexander." The name rolled off my tongue like a spell, foreign, yet somehow familiar, filled with a significance that seemed to reverberate in the silence of the room. My mother had said it softly, as if sharing a precious secret, revealing a piece of my past I had never known—a name given by my father, a name that whispered of heritage and history.
In that moment, a rush of emotions surged through me. Pride flickered within, kindling the embers of a connection to a lineage I could barely grasp. Lykkos. It sounded strong, almost mythical; it painted images of strength and bravery in my mind. I imagined being a hero in a tale, a story where I could defy the odds, where I could be more than just a boy from a farm. Elias, I'm sure my mother gave me that name, it felt sacred but also heavy, like a mantle I wasn't sure I was ready to wear. Alexander—now that was something monumental, echoing with the power of kings and conquerors. It made me feel like I was a part of something greater, something significant.
But just as swiftly as the pride surged, an ache settled in my chest. My new identity had to stay hidden, tucked away like a treasured secret. I glanced at the mirror across the room, my reflection staring back at me with eyes that felt foreign; beneath the surface was Lykkos, but the world only knew me as Ethan. How was I suppose to live up to this name when it couldn't be mine in the light of day?
I walked over to the window, gazing out at the rising light over the village. Today marked my thirteenth birthday, a milestone I had anticipated with both excitement and dread. As shadows stretched across the cobblestone streets, the warm glow inside the room was a stark contrast to the chill that crawled under my skin whenever I thought about what awaited me outside those walls.
Last night, my mother gave me an early birthday present before she had to leave me in the care of Creeta. She said she wanted to give it to me earlier but unfortunately, secrets were revealed so quickly, she wish she could've explained everything before I wandered off to Brineshield.
It was a letter that contained important information regarding my identity, bloodline and heritage. And a necklace was also tucked away inside the envelope, it seemed to carry the weight of ancient stories. It had a stunning blend of natural elements and vibrant colors, designs typical of many native tribes scattered throughout Arcadia. At its center, held a smooth, polished fang, likely from a wolf. Symbolizing strength, protection, or spiritual connection.
The fang is strung from on a durable, braided combination of twine and beads which adds a rustic touch to the piece. Surrounding the fang, were small intricately crafted beads made from clay, and bone, with a few earthy gems and stones—deep browns, subtle greens, and muted blues—to represent nature and the land.
Threaded through the necklace is a striking bright red-orange feather, perhaps from a bird like a phoenix cardinal or a snow macaw. It added a vibrant pop of color and a sense of liveliness, symbolizing freedom and a connection to the spirit world. The feather dangles delicately alongside the fang, swaying gently with movement.
Overall, this necklace not only serves as a piece of adornment but it also tells a story of heritage, connection to nature, and spiritual significance, embodying the rich craftsmanship traditions of native tribes.
As I ran my fingers across the surface, I notice the carvings of foreign symbols that I have only seen before on the cover of the book I received from Gondorlum. This necklace is a piece of the past that I am only beginning to understand. As I continued to hold it, I felt the presence of those who came before me, the stories whispering through the delicate threads of this ancient treasure. It is a gift that holds a legacy of heritage and mystery that I am honored to carry with me.
I wrapped the necklace around my neck, connecting the clasp together, the fang laying flat on my chest, the feather swaying gracefully next to it, I picked up the letter and begin to read.
Dear Ethan, your father and I have been wanting to tell you this ever since we heard your first howl. We should've told you sooner. I know it will come a time when you will ask about your true identity. You have always been so inquisitive and curious. And I know you've had questions about yourself as well.
You are of royal bloodline and heritage. First natural born son of King Lycoan and The Great Mother. Lykkos Elias Alexander, You are the rightful heir to the Arcadian Throne. The true ruler of the land. The necklace was found wrapped inside of your blanket when we found you. Please, you must always wear it at all times, as it signifies who you truly are.
When the time comes for you to travel to the New City of Arcadia, search for Rosehaven Central Bank. They will ask you for your name.. unfortunately you will have to provide your real name and ask for Vault number 001, and 002. Creeta will accompany you along the way as protection. She was appointed your royal guardian and advisor ever since you were discovered in the lake. Once you collect everything that you need. Leave immediately, If you linger too long, they will find you. And you will be captured by a dark force with a dark motive.
We will meet again soon. Happy Birthday. Love Always.
My eyes began to swell with tears, but I quickly dried them. My feelings were mixed with anger, and sadness. I wanted to know more about this dark force and why would they want to capture me? What would they gain?
I sat down grasping all of the events leading up to now. My werewolf transformation had been both terrifying and exhilarating—a wild rush of power and instincts that both thrilled me and sent shivers down my spine. Gaining the ancient tome from Gondorlum, was another turning point; its pages whispered secrets that felt foreign and familiar rooting me deeper into a world I never asked to be a part of.
As I recalled the revelations about my true identity—the bloodline that coursed through my veins, the legacy that had been thrust upon me—I felt a sudden realization wash over me. It was a strange mix of peace and acceptance, as if a million tiny puzzle pieces were finally clicking into place. Understanding my place in all this didn't eradicate the fear, but it certainly put it in perspective. I was meant for something greater.
In the midst of my thoughts, something in my satchel lit up, casting the dim room in a vibrant shade of blue. I blinked in surprise. My heart racing as I reached for the source. It was the map of the academy—the artifact Creeta gave me, something I barely skimmed the surface of. Now it seemed alive, pulsing with energy, beckoning me, to follow where it led.
Upon discovering the source of light, Creeta entered the room. She smiled and bowed before me. "My Young King.. Happy Birthday, but it is time. The school is ready to be found, and the map I've given you will lead us there."
"Thank you Creeta, I'm ready."
Gazing around the room, I felt the world shift slightly, the weight of my destiny pressing against my chest, it was time to move forward, to embrace whatever awaited me on this journey. The map was no longer just a parchment filled with ink; it was a guide to reclaiming my future. As I stood, the blue glow intensified, illuminating the doorway before me. Each step felt heavy yet thrilling, like plunging into the depths of untamed ocean, ready to uncover treasures buried beneath the waves.
