Chapter 3: The Secret of the Crystal
"A promise made to the gods," the monster growled, releasing him. "To protect the Crystal."
"I don't understand a word of this!" Aarav shouted, his shadow-aura flickering.
"Tell me," the monster said, its voice dropping to a low rumble. "What is your father's name?"
"Priyish."
The monster stepped back, stunned. "Then you are the son of the Origin—one of the Three Protectors. Long ago, in another dimension, there was a magical crystal of infinite power. It grants the host whatever they most desire. Three factions bled for it: The Shaikhals, The Narwals, and The Protectors."
The monster continued, "The Shaikhals and Narwals fought the crystal for dominion. But your father and your uncle—The Protectors—guarded it. Your father never wanted power; he only wanted a simple, settled life. But the Rule of the Stone is absolute: whoever removes it from the shrine becomes the Host. They must make a wish... or they die."
"What happened?" Aarav asked, breathless.
"During the final battle, the Shaikthal King moved to claim the box. Your father intercepted him. In the struggle, the box was accidentally triggered. To save his own life and keep the power from the King, your father had to wish. He wished to live in another world—a world where he could be settled, away from the war."
Chapter 4: The Blood Debt
Aarav felt the world spinning. "Then where is he? He's been lost for seven years!"
"Impossible," the monster muttered. "He was the most powerful being in our realm. No one could defeat him here."
Aarav felt tears stinging his eyes. "I don't know where he is... I thought he was gone forever."
"Do not cry, boy," the monster said, surprisingly soft. "I understand now. Your father didn't leave; he was kidnapped by the Shaikthals. The Crystal will reappear this year, and they need a Sikarwar's blood to unlock its seals. Your father is alive... for now."
Aarav's grief instantly turned to a cold, hard resolve. "Then I have to save him."
"I will help you," the monster said, bowing its head.
"Wait," Aarav said, looking at his hands. "Where did these powers come from? If my father was a Protector, who was my mother?"
"Tell me her name," the monster requested.
"Shikha."
The monster recoiled as if struck. "What?! Priyish did not come to this world alone... he came with Shikha? Your mother is a Shaikthal princess! They were enemies who fell in love. Your powers... they are a blend of Protector light and Shaikthal shadow."
Aarav looked toward the horizon, where the portal still flickered. "So, my powers come from both sides. I know who I am now. And I am going to bring my father home."
"The Narwals are already escaping into your world through the portals," the monster warned. "Destruction is coming."
Aarav tightened his grip, the black aura flaring brilliantly. "Let them come. We meet at dawn."