Night had fallen over Eldrath Castle, and the flickering light of torches cast long shadows across the grand halls. Kael walked briskly through the corridors, his mind heavy with thoughts that had haunted him for weeks. The dreams had returned—visions of a mysterious woman who spoke in riddles, her eyes holding knowledge and sorrow beyond measure.
He finally reached the study where his father, Lord Tharion, often worked late into the night. The elder noble sat at a massive oak desk, quill in hand, parchment scattered across its surface. When Kael entered, Tharion looked up, his eyes sharp yet kind.
"Kael," he greeted, his voice calm but carrying the weight of authority. "You seem troubled. Speak, my son."
Kael hesitated for a moment, gathering his thoughts. "Father… it's these dreams. A woman… she visits me in my sleep. She speaks in riddles, shows me visions of ancient wars and battles I don't understand. I feel… connected to her somehow, but I don't know why."
Tharion set down his quill and leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. His expression darkened slightly, a shadow of concern passing over his features. "A mysterious woman, you say? And these visions… do they feel real to you?"
Kael nodded. "More real than anything I've ever experienced. She doesn't speak plainly—always in riddles. But it's as if she's trying to tell me something… something important about the past… or the future."
Tharion's gaze grew distant. "Dreams can be messages, Kael. But when they carry riddles and visions of war, they are often tied to powers beyond our realm. Tell me, do you recognize her? Even vaguely?"
Kael shook his head. "I don't… not yet. But her presence… it feels familiar, as if I've known her before. And sometimes, I swear I can feel her sorrow… and her hope. It's overwhelming, Father."
Tharion rose from his chair and walked over to the window, looking out over the castle grounds. The night sky stretched endlessly, stars glittering like scattered diamonds. "Kael," he said finally, "you must understand this: the blood of our family carries more than heritage. It carries responsibility. Your connection to this woman… may not be coincidence. It may be part of the legacy you bear."
Kael frowned. "Legacy? Are you saying she's… linked to our family?"
Tharion nodded slowly. "Possibly. There are forces at work that we do not yet fully comprehend. Celestial bloodlines, ancient powers, and the wars of old… they all leave marks, Kael. Some of these marks appear as visions in dreams, guiding—or warning—the heirs of power."
Kael swallowed hard, the weight of his father's words pressing down on him. "What should I do, Father? How do I find out who she is, and why she's showing herself to me?"
Tharion turned to him, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "You must seek the truth carefully, Kael. Dreams are fragile, yet potent. They can guide you—or mislead you. Begin by understanding her name, her origins, and the messages she brings. Every detail matters. And trust in the guidance you already have—your companions, your training, and… your bond with Luminor."
Kael nodded, determination building in his chest. "I will, Father. I'll find her. I'll understand why she comes to me, and what role she plays in all of this."
Tharion's eyes softened. "Good. Remember, Kael, knowledge is power—but patience and wisdom are just as vital. The path ahead is dangerous, and curiosity alone will not suffice. Prepare your mind as much as your strength, and do not be afraid to seek counsel when needed."
Kael straightened, taking a deep breath. "I understand. Thank you, Father. I won't let this… this destiny overwhelm me. I'll face it, no matter what it reveals."
Tharion smiled faintly, pride shining through his cautious demeanor. "That is all I ask, Kael. The world will test you, as it has tested all heirs of the Celestial line. But with courage and insight, you can face what others cannot."
As Kael left the study and ascended to his chambers, his mind swirled with questions. Who was the woman? Why had she chosen him? And what did her visions mean for the coming storm?
He knew one thing for certain: the answers would not come easily. But Kael was determined to uncover the truth, no matter the cost.
Outside, the castle walls were silent under the star-strewn sky, yet the currents of fate moved relentlessly forward. Somewhere beyond the walls, forces were gathering, and the echoes of ancient wars were beginning to stir once more.
Kael's journey was only just beginning—and the mysterious woman in his dreams was already guiding him toward the unknown.