SKATH: The Awakening Of Power

Chapter 9

Skath walked heavily along the path, frustration building inside him. “Malakar... again. I can't believe he had the nerve to show up like that. Every time it seems we're about to find some peace, he resurfaces, like a shadow we can't shake.”

Lyra looked at him, trying to encourage him. “We need to stay focused. His appearance means he's afraid of us, that we're getting close to him.”

“Afraid? I don't think he even knows what fear is,” Skath replied, clenching his fists. “And he's never shown any sign of weakness. I could try to understand his power, but I'm sure he has some trick up his sleeve.”

After hours of walking, the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Finally, they spotted a small village. The flickering lights of the lanterns reflected on the wooden walls of the houses, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

“We should find a place to stay for the night,” suggested Lyra. “I need a moment to catch my breath.”

Skath nodded. “Yes, and maybe we can find something to eat as well.”

As they approached the center of the village, they found a crowded bar, with music filling the air. The place was full of people laughing and dancing, and the smell of food surrounded their senses.

They entered and made their way through the crowd until they found a table in a corner. As they settled in, Skath noticed a young woman dancing in the center of the room. She had long, snow-white hair that floated elegantly around her. Her dance was mesmerizing, as if she were in sync with the music and the very atmosphere of the place.

“Look,” Lyra whispered, pointing to the dancer. “Who is she?”

“I have no idea,” Skath replied, following the fluid movement of the young woman. “But she seems to have a certain charm.”

As the dance continued, the woman approached their table, stopping in front of them with an enigmatic smile. “May I join you?”

“Of course,” Lyra replied, intrigued by her presence. “Your dance was beautiful.”

“Thank you,” said the dancer, her gaze lingering on Skath. “You are Skath, aren't you? The guest from Hearth?”

Skath stiffened, startled by those words. “How do you know who I am?”

The woman smiled, her eyes bright like stars. “My name is Nerys. I am a witch, and I know your story. It was I who brought you to Earth from Hearth.”

Skath stared at her in disbelief. “You? But how is that possible?”

“My gift is transforming into a peacock, and when I saw your situation, I realized you needed help. I called upon magic to help you find a new beginning,” Nerys explained. “But now that Malakar has returned, things are getting complicated.”

“What do you know about him?” Skath asked, hoping she could provide some useful information.

“Malakar is a complex entity,” Nerys began, “he was born from pain and fear, as you’ve already heard. His strength grows in proportion to the fear he instills. We need to find a way to face him without falling into his trap.”

Lyra stepped forward, her eyes filled with determination. “And how can we do that? We need a plan.”

Nerys thought for a moment. “We need to find an artifact that can keep him at bay. There’s a legend about a crystal hidden deep within the forest. It might have the power to counter Malakar. If you find it, you’ll have an advantage.”

“Where can we find it?” Skath asked, his heart pounding.

“It’s said that the crystal is guarded by an ancient creature,” Nerys replied. “You’ll have to face it to obtain it. But don’t worry: I can help you get there. Together, we can stop Malakar.”