Chapter 24 – The Calm Before the Storm
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long shadows over the training grounds of the Guild of a Thousand Lights.
Inavy's footsteps echoed softly as he approached a familiar figure standing by the ancient oak tree.
Inavy (smirking, with irony):"Well, well… long time no see, Vice-Captain of the Guild of a Thousand Lights."
Kelvin turned slowly, his face serious but with a hint of tiredness. The weight of unseen battles reflected in his eyes.
Kelvin:"It's been a while, Inavy. Feels like a lifetime."(he paused, voice lowering)"Sometimes… it's like there's something inside me trying to take control."
Inavy's expression shifted, understanding flickering in his gaze.
Inavy:"You feel it too?"
Before Kelvin could answer, a familiar voice interrupted.
Darius (grinning, lighthearted):"Oi! Enough of this gloomy talk. You two planning to brood all day or what?"
Rose (teasing):"How about you guys come out with us? It's your day off, after all."
Kelvin and Inavy exchanged a glance, then a small, reluctant smile.
Rose (to Inavy, noticing):"You've been quieter than usual… what's going on in that head of yours?"
Inavy (shrugging):"Nothing serious. Just… thinking."
The group laughed and gathered their things, heading towards the bustling city streets.
Laughter, teasing, ice cream — a rare moment of lightness.
But inside, Inavy's thoughts churned.
What is happening to me?
Later, arriving at his family home, Inavy was greeted warmly by familiar faces.
Tiana (smiling softly):"Ray won't be home tonight. He's training."
Inavy frowned slightly, worry tightening his chest.
Cut to a secluded training ground bathed in twilight.
Ray Stormbreak stood alone, eyes closed, aura crackling intensely.
His form shimmered and shifted.
Ray (quietly, to himself):"Almost ready…"
The air vibrated with raw power — a new transformation was taking shape.
A storm was coming.
Next Arc: The Last Dance