The morning in the kingdom was unusually heavy and quiet. The air was cool, but it wasn't a normal coolness... It was as if even the sky sensed that something was approaching. The footsteps echoing in the palace corridors sounded more anxious than usual.
As Zero looked out the window of his room, a strange uneasiness filled him. The heavy silence from the night before had permeated every corner of his room. The deal he had made with the curse had mentally drained him. Now, it was no longer just about gaining power, but also about limiting it.
He had learned that he had unconsciously activated the Area Expansion even while asleep. The princesses sometimes had to use charms when entering the room. This annoyed Zero, but it also made him realize the extent of his power.
Just then, there was a knock on the door. One of the palace guards bowed his head slightly and said:
"His Majesty is waiting for you, sir. In the throne room."
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The King's Call
When Zero entered the throne room, the atmosphere was tense. The king looked at him with old and weary eyes. Beside him were the palace wizards, generals, and advisors. Maps were spread out on a table covered with various symbols and notes.
The king began slowly:
— "Zero... You are no longer an ordinary warrior. Your power can affect not only the balance of this kingdom but also the balance of this world. But the curse within you… it remains an unsolved equation. That is why I will give you a task."
Zero bowed his head silently. He was ready. The king continued:
— "Beyond the western lands, deep within the Forest of the Lonely, lies the Forgotten Academy. In the past, we sent uncontrolled magic users, cursed warriors, and exiled mages there. Now it has become a sort of testing ground. I will send you there. There, you will either tame your power or perish."
Zero narrowed his eyes. "Is it… still alive?"
— "Partly," said the king. "Those there are no longer individuals. They have become beings driven by instinct. But that's why I'm sending you. You are the only one who can defeat them."
After a moment of silence, the king smiled slightly:
— "You won't be going alone. Princess Lyria will be with you."
Zero raised his head slightly, his first emotion being surprise. Then... he felt a warmth.
— "Lyria?" he asked.
The king nodded:
— "She is your balance. She was the first to introduce you to the magic of the realm. She is the guide your heart needs, not just your power."
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Preparations and Farewell
When Zero returned to his room, Lyria had already arrived. She had a small bag in her hand and a cloak draped lightly over her shoulder. There was a brief silence. Then Lyria spoke:
— "You're surprised they chose me, aren't you?"
— "No," said Zero with a slight smile. "When I'm with you, everything is quieter… more balanced."
Lyria took a step closer.
— "Then let's walk into the silence together."
Zero extended his hand. Lyria didn't hesitate to take it. This touch was not just a touch, but a contract. It was walking into the darkness together.
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The Princesses' Farewell
Before setting off, the other princesses also came. Venya offered Zero a protective bracelet enchanted with magic. Aurora gave an ancient water talisman. Each spoke in their own way, but there was a shared feeling in their eyes: worry.
Venya whispered quietly:
— "If you don't return... we won't forget you. But if you do return, you won't just be a hero... you'll be a friend to us."
Zero said nothing. But he never forgot those silent words that had pierced his heart.
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The Journey Begins
As the sun slowly set on the horizon, Zero and Lyria mounted their horses. Their path led westward, toward the Forgotten Academy. When they entered the forest, everything changed. The air grew heavy, the wind shifted direction. Strange eyes watched them from between the trees.
Zero whispered to himself:
— "If you're ready, let's begin."
The curse's voice echoed in his mind:
"I am always ready... my partner."
At that moment, dark clouds gathered in the sky. The wind whispered an ancient prophecy:
"If you make a deal with darkness, learn not to forget your soul."
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End of Chapter
And so Zero set out on a journey that would change not only himself but the world.
The kingdom held its breath, waiting for its fate.