Chapter 983 – The Wolf's Oath
The sun had barely kissed the rooftops of the Hollow when Kael walked into the training grounds, his presence immediately drawing the attention of the gathered crowd. Today was not just another day of drills—it was the day the Hollow's first chosen hero would be tested, and the stakes were nothing less than the city's reputation, its future, and the faith of its people.
Before him stood the contender: a wolkkin, a towering beastfolk with silver fur that shimmered in the morning light. His amber eyes burned with fierce intelligence and a sharp, unwavering focus. He exhaled slowly, clawed hands flexing as if already feeling the weight of the mantle he sought.
Kael stepped forward, his gaze piercing. "You know why you are here. These trials are not simply a test of strength or skill. They are a test of heart, of understanding, of purpose. Do you understand what it means to be the Hollow's champion?"
The wolkkin bowed his head respectfully. "I do, Lord Kael. My purpose is to stand as your shield, to carry your will and protect this city. I will not fail you, nor those who depend on me."
A murmur of approval swept through the gathered spectators and council members. Kael nodded once, sharply, and gestured toward the trial course, a gauntlet of combat, strategy, and endurance specifically designed to push the limits of body and mind.
The trials began in earnest. Kael observed closely, every strike, every dodge, every decision calculated and measured. The wolkkin's form was a blur of precision, instinct and raw strength. Even against obstacles designed to test his wit and resolve—puzzles of shifting terrain, combat simulations, and magical barriers—the beastfolk adapted, learning and evolving with each challenge.
Eris hovered nearby, eyes bright with fascination, occasionally whispering suggestions to Kael through their telepathic bond. "He's thinking beyond what we anticipated," she noted. "He's not just fighting the trial—he's embodying it."
By the end of the gauntlet, the wolkkin stood, chest heaving but unbroken, eyes fixed on Kael with unflinching resolve. The council members exchanged glances, nodding approval.
Kael approached, placing a hand lightly on the wolkkin's shoulder. "You have proven yourself, not just in strength, but in spirit. The Hollow now has its hero. Wear this title well, and remember your vow. Protect, serve, and never falter."
The wolkkin knelt, lowering his head in a gesture of solemnity. "I swear it, Lord Kael. I will carry this duty with honor, and I will not fail. I am yours, and the Hollow's, as long as I draw breath."
Lyria, standing nearby, exchanged a small, approving smile with Eris. "He understands the weight of this more than most," she whispered. Eris tilted her head, observing the intensity in the wolkkin's eyes, and felt a strange, warming satisfaction at seeing such loyalty and purpose in another being.
Kael straightened, his mind already moving forward. With the hero now chosen and sworn, the Hollow's defenses, reputation, and influence would soon grow exponentially. But he also felt the familiar stirrings of anticipation, of challenge—the path ahead would test them all, and nothing would remain the same.
The wolkkin, still kneeling, finally raised his head, amber eyes locking with Kael's. "Lead me, and I will follow to the ends of the world. Fail me, and I will accept your judgment. But know this—I will not fail the Hollow."
Kael's lips curved in a rare, approving smile. "Good. Rise, Wolfkin. Your journey begins now."
The new hero rose to his full height, muscles coiled and ready, the embodiment of Kael's vision for the Hollow's future. And as Kael watched him, the aura of purpose and power surrounding the wolkkin reminded him just how far the Hollow had come—and just how much farther they still could go.