DARK DEALINGS: A Warlock's Legacy

8. Dire Confession

As the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the cobblestone streets, Kadas, Elowen, and Mirra stepped out of the tavern, their spirits lifted by Baelor's story and the warm drinks they shared. The streets of Eldryth had begun to quiet down, with only the occasional clink of a blacksmith's hammer or the murmur of traders packing up for the evening.

Mirra adjusted her cloak, giving Kadas and Elowen a thoughtful look. "I suppose this is where we part ways. There's still much for me to prepare back home."

Kadas gave a nod, a glimmer of respect in his gaze. "We'll see you soon enough, Mirra. And if you need anything, you know where to find us."

With a parting nod, Mirra melted into the evening shadows, disappearing down a winding alley that led back to her quarters. Elowen watched her go, then turned to Kadas, who was now surveying the nearby stable with interest.

He gestured to a black, sleek figure just beyond the stable door—a dark horse, standing calm yet alert, with an almost ethereal air about it. He read the name on the plaque. "This is Nightbane," Kadas said, brushing a hand along the horse's midnight mane. "He'll be our new companion."

Elowen's eyes widened, taking in the horse's powerful build and steady gaze. "A fitting steed for you," she said, a smile pulling at her lips as Kadas helped her onto the saddle, taking his place just behind her as they set off toward the open plains beyond Mournspire.

They rode for some time until the city's towers faded in the distance, replaced by fields of golden wheat swaying gently in the breeze. Here, they came upon an open space where archery targets were set up amidst the grasses, almost forgotten yet perfect for Kadas's intent.

Sliding down from Nightbane, Kadas readied his magic bow, the weapon shimmering faintly in his grip. "I need to keep my skills sharp," he said, taking aim at the nearest target and releasing an arrow. It sailed through the air with precision, striking the bullseye with a satisfying thud. He repeated the action, then practiced with his throwing knives, each one hitting its mark in swift succession.

Elowen watched intently, admiring his accuracy and the quiet, focused determination in his movements. Yet, as she observed, a thought began to gnaw at her. She could assist Kadas, yes, but she was aware of her own limits. She could not wield magic as he did, nor did she possess any training in weapons.

"Kadas," she said hesitantly, breaking his concentration. "Watching you, I've realized that I'll be of little use as an assistant if I can't defend myself. Will you teach me?"

Kadas lowered his bow, a faint smile playing on his lips as he considered her request. "You're certain? It isn't easy work, and it will take time."

She nodded, determination set in her gaze. "I want to learn. If I'm to be by your side, I can't rely on you for protection at every turn."

With a small nod of approval, Kadas began showing her the basics, first guiding her hand in drawing back his magic bow and finding her balance. She struggled at first, the unfamiliar weight of the bow testing her strength, but soon her aim improved, her stance becoming steadier.

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting hues of amber and violet across the field, Kadas moved on to teaching her knife handling. He instructed her in stance and throw, her motions hesitant at first but becoming more confident with each attempt.

After a few hours, as the field glowed under the sunset's warm light, Elowen stepped back, a hint of pride in her eyes. She looked at Kadas, an expression of both awe and gratitude in her gaze. "Thank you. This... this feels right, being prepared, being able to protect myself."

He gave a quiet nod. "You did well. Keep practicing, and it will serve you in time."

Elowen hesitated, then spoke, her voice filled with a newfound resolve. "I've been thinking... watching you, hearing stories from the coven and Mirra, I know now what I want. I want to become a Witch Maiden and learn the arts of magic and combat."