The northern wind bit at Frank's face as he stood in the quiet courtyard of Aurenfall, the artifact cradled carefully in his hands. Its soft glow pulsed rhythmically, almost like it was alive—responding to his heartbeat.
Rhea observed from a safe distance, her eyes sharp. "Frank, this artifact isn't a tool you simply wield. It's a force. Misuse it, and it could destroy more than you imagine."
Elara stepped beside him, her hand brushing against his. "Then we learn it together. I'll be here every step of the way."
Frank nodded. "Agreed. Let's start slow… see what it can do."
THE FIRST ATTEMPT
Frank focused, letting the artifact's energy flow through him. His reflexes sharpened, his vision widened, and his movements felt almost preternaturally precise.
"Whoa," he whispered, dodging a swift strike from a practice dummy. "This… amplifies everything. My speed, my strength… even my perception."
Elara reached out and touched the artifact. Her magic sparked in response, small flares of light dancing along her staff. "It reacts to both of us," she said, eyes wide. "We could be… unstoppable if we learn to use it properly."
Rhea's expression was grim. "Or reckless. One mistake and you could harm yourselves—or everyone around you."
A DANGEROUS SURGE
Frank tried pushing the artifact further. A wave of energy surged outward, throwing him back violently. The ground cracked, dust rose in clouds, and Elara's hair whipped around her face.
"Elara!" Frank gasped, scrambling upright.
"I'm fine!" she shouted. "But this… it's powerful… too powerful to handle carelessly."
Rhea stepped closer, inspecting the artifact. "This isn't just power—it's alive in a way. You two must learn to synchronize completely before even thinking about facing Caelum again."
Frank exhaled, brushing dirt from his cloak. "Understood. We train carefully, together. No shortcuts."
TRAINING AND COORDINATION
Over the next several days:
Frank practiced blending the artifact's energy with his physical combat skills, learning to enhance strikes without losing control.
Elara experimented with channeling the artifact's magic, carefully refining her precision.
They worked on synchronized maneuvers, practicing fluid coordination in both attack and defense.
Each session strengthened not only their skill but also their bond—trust and understanding becoming second nature.
A DISTURBING REPORT
That evening, scouts returned with troubling news: Caelum's army was on the move, larger and more organized than before.
Frank clenched his fists. "He knows we've taken the artifact… and now he's preparing a full-scale assault. We can't wait. We must strike first—or we lose everything."
Elara placed her hand on his arm, steady and reassuring. "Then we'll be ready. Together."
Far to the north, Caelum watched the news of the artifact's capture. His lips curved into a cold, calculated smile.
"They have the artifact… excellent. Let's see how long courage alone can survive against true power."