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Chapter 5 – Daren
The journey to the hidden safehouse was long and treacherous. Daren led Aric through twisting forest paths and over craggy hills, keeping to routes few mortals would dare to traverse. The air itself seemed heavier here, thick with residual magic that had been left untouched for centuries.
"This place is older than most civilizations," Daren explained, his voice calm but carrying weight. "Every secret, every discovery I've made over the years is stored here. You may one day need it, but only when the time is right."
Aric's eyes widened at the mention of secrets. "All of it? Even about… the Taboo?"
Daren nodded gravely. "Yes. Knowledge of the Taboo is dangerous, Aric. It can protect you… or it can destroy you. That's why it must remain hidden until you are ready to confront it. The world isn't kind to those who know too much too soon."
They arrived at the base of a steep cliff. Embedded in the rock was a narrow tunnel, nearly invisible from the ground. Daren crouched and pressed his palm against a rune etched into the stone. The wall shimmered, and a door of pulsating light appeared, casting the surrounding cliffside in a soft glow.
"Safehouse," Daren said, smiling faintly. "Few know this place exists. Fewer still know how to enter. Inside, you'll find everything I've collected—artifacts, texts, maps, and… answers. But be cautious. Even here, the system can sense powerful magic. It's not impossible to hide, but vigilance is required."
Aric followed closely as Daren led him into the cavern. The walls glowed with embedded crystals, humming softly with mana. Shelves carved from stone contained scrolls, books, and objects that seemed to pulse with latent power. Aric's fingers itched to touch them all, but he resisted, knowing he needed guidance.
Daren walked to a central pedestal, where a large tome rested. Its cover was worn, symbols etched deep into its surface. "This," he said, voice low, "is the first clue you'll need. It tells the story of the early divines, those who transcended mortal limits. It also hints at the origins of the system."
Aric's eyes shone with curiosity. "So… the system didn't always exist?"
"No," Daren replied, opening the tome carefully. "Once, mortals could grow without restriction. They could reach heights no one can now imagine. But unchecked power nearly destroyed the world. The system was created by the world itself, Aion, to prevent that destruction. It siphons magic from everyone, binds growth, and ensures no one rises too fast. Its purpose is preservation… but at a cost."
Aric leaned over the pages, absorbing every detail. He could feel the pulse of power in the room, the hum of the crystals resonating with his own growing magical sense. Every word was a seed, a lesson planted for the future.
Daren paused, looking at his son. "One day, Aric, you will need to make choices. Choices about power, freedom, and what it means to protect this world. This safehouse is not just a library. It's a sanctuary, a training ground, and a reminder. Nothing is given freely—every lesson, every tool, every piece of knowledge comes with responsibility."
Aric nodded solemnly. The weight of his father's words pressed against him, but beneath it was a spark of excitement. This was the beginning of something greater than any child could imagine.
Daren continued, moving to a chest in the corner. He opened it to reveal a collection of small relics—crystals, amulets, and scrolls etched with strange runes. "These are minor artifacts, but they will teach you about manipulation, combat, and observation. Use them wisely. And remember…" He looked at Aric, his expression firm. "The world is not fair. It never will be. But if you learn to see beyond the surface, you may survive where others perish."
Aric nodded again, determination firming in his chest. This hidden sanctuary was more than a refuge—it was the key to everything he would one day face. And when the system, the gods, the dragons, or anyone else tried to control him… he would be ready.
The room hummed softly, as if aware of his resolve. The safehouse was a quiet place, but within its walls, the seeds of a hero were being sown.