The Escape Begins
The underground passage was damp, the air thick with the scent of old stone and decay. Kael's boots echoed lightly against the stone floor as he moved, his stolen captain's badge tucked safely beneath his cloak.
This tunnel had been built centuries ago, back when House Valorin still held true power. A hidden escape route meant for the nobles in case of rebellion. Now, it would serve a different purpose—Kael's first step back into the world.
His body still ached from the battles in the barracks, but something had changed. His movements were sharper, his mind clearer. His Imperial Presence, though still weak, pulsed beneath his skin, making him more aware of everything around him.
As he neared the tunnel's exit, a soft breeze filtered in—carrying the distant scents of firewood, cooked meat, and damp earth.
The city was close.
Kael stepped forward.
---
The City of Halrith
The tunnel opened into an abandoned alleyway, its walls covered in grime and ivy. The city of Halrith, once a flourishing trade hub, had fallen into disrepair—its streets cracked, its buildings worn from neglect.
Kael pulled his hood lower, blending into the shadows. His golden eyes were too distinct—too recognizable for anyone who knew the old stories.
He needed supplies, information, and a plan.
His first destination? The Black Market.
Every city had one—a place where coin mattered more than names, where secrets flowed like wine.
As Kael moved through the streets, he listened. Observed.
Rumors drifted through the air.
"…Did you hear? Lord Valorin is furious. Someone killed Captain Ralven."
"Serves him right. That bastard was a tyrant."
"Word is, they found a symbol near the bodies… something ancient."
Kael smirked. Good. Let them wonder.
But then—
"…The Duke's men are searching for someone. A man with golden eyes."
Kael's steps stilled.
They knew.
He had barely escaped, and already, the hunt had begun.
A test, then.
Kael exhaled, his fingers itching toward his sword.
If they wanted to find him…
Let them come.
---
A Hunter Appears
The tavern was dimly lit, the scent of cheap ale and roasted meat thick in the air. Kael had chosen this place carefully—it was crowded enough to disappear, but not so rowdy that fights would break out over a spilled drink.
He sat in a corner, cloak drawn, a stolen mug of ale in front of him. He had no intention of drinking it—it was a prop, a way to blend in.
Then, he felt it.
A presence.
Not just any presence—a predator's gaze.
Someone was watching him.
Kael lifted the mug slowly, using the motion to scan the room.
There.
A figure sat at the far end of the tavern, draped in dark leather armor, a hood casting shadows over their face. But Kael could feel it—the careful stillness, the way the figure's fingers hovered near the hilt of a dagger.
A hunter.
Sent for him? Or merely coincidence?
Kael smirked. He would find out.
Lifting the mug, he took a fake sip, then rose to leave.
And just as expected—the figure moved.
A shadow trailing him into the night.
---
A Dance in the Dark
The alley was silent, save for the faint whistle of wind through the rooftops.
Kael walked at a steady pace, his ears tuned to the soft footfalls behind him. The hunter was skilled, their steps almost soundless.
But Kael had spent a lifetime hunting men like this.
He turned a corner—and vanished.
The hunter froze.
The alley was empty. No footprints, no sound.
Then—
A whisper behind them.
"You need to work on your tracking."
The hunter spun, blade flashing.
Kael caught the wrist mid-strike, twisting sharply. A gasp escaped the figure as the dagger clattered to the ground.
With a swift motion, Kael pinned them against the alley wall, his stolen sword pressing lightly against their throat.
Golden eyes met a pair of emerald green ones.
A woman.
Young, but not inexperienced. Her hood slipped back slightly, revealing dark hair tied in a simple braid.
She wasn't afraid.
In fact—she smiled.
"Well played," she murmured.
Kael's grip tightened. "Who sent you?"
The woman chuckled softly. "You think I'm here to kill you?"
Kael didn't answer.
She leaned in slightly, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Oh, Kael Drax. I didn't come to hunt you."
Her emerald eyes gleamed.
"I came to help you."