Capítulo 14: The Silent Requiem
Captain Zane was summoned to meet Commander Thorian and Vice Commander Alda after returning from the mission. In the grand chamber of the Valoria Kingdom's military headquarters, the atmosphere was heavy with anticipation. As Zane stood before the two commanders, Commander Thorian leaned forward, his gaze intense. "Captain Zane, report the mission's outcome," he commanded.
Zane stood firm, recounting the successful mission and the challenges they faced. As he spoke, he hesitated momentarily before adding, "There's something unexpected that occurred during the mission. It's regarding Nizara."
Vice Commander Alda raised an eyebrow. "Nizara? Go on."
Zane continued, his tone both intrigued and cautious. "In the beginning, Nizara's abilities were limited. He barely knew how to wield magic. Yet, as the mission progressed, his growth was nothing short of extraordinary. He's become highly proficient in combat and magic within days—something that should take months, even years. Frankly, it doesn't make sense. I'm impressed, but also… concerned."
Commander Thorian exchanged a glance with Alda, both silent for a moment before Thorian responded, "Your skepticism is valid, Captain. Growth like that is abnormal, especially under such conditions."
Vice Commander Alda nodded thoughtfully. "We'll need to monitor him closely. There may be factors at play we're unaware of. For now, keep this between us. We'll discuss the matter in more depth later."
As Zane saluted and left the chamber, the two commanders remained, their expressions serious. Thorian's voice broke the silence, "Nizara's growth could be an asset—or a threat. We need to uncover the truth behind this before it becomes a problem."
Alda's eyes narrowed. "Agreed. Let's not underestimate what we don't fully understand."
Shortly after Captain Zane's meeting with Commander Thorian and Vice Commander Alda, Nizara returned to his dorm, still feeling uneasy. He tossed his belongings aside and sat on the bed, staring at the palm of his hand as if searching for answers.
"What's happening to me?" he muttered, clenching his fist.
His thoughts drifted back to Elarindor Village, recalling that eerie moment when he heard a voice in his head—angry, vicious, and definitely not his own. "Who… was that?" Nizara whispered, still unsettled by the memory. The tone was hostile, as if the voice wanted to take control.
"And then there's the Thunderblade V2…" Nizara shook his head, confused. "Why was it so much stronger than Thunderblade V1? It didn't even feel like something I should be capable of yet."
He stood up and began pacing the room. "Back in Villanova, I barely managed V1… Now suddenly I can unleash something way beyond that?" His mind raced as he tried to connect the dots. "Is it connected to that voice? Or maybe something else?"
Nizara sighed in frustration. "No matter how much I think about it, it's not making sense." He stared at the ceiling, lost in thought. "Whatever's going on with me… it's not normal."
Despite his efforts to figure things out, the exhaustion from the mission weighed heavily on him. "Forget it… I'll deal with it later," he murmured. "Right now, I just need sleep."
With that, Nizara lay down, letting the day's confusion and worries fade as sleep finally took over.
The next morning, as the sun just began to rise, Nizara was summoned by Vice Commander Alda. She found him by his dorm, looking surprised by her sudden presence.
"Nizara," Alda said, her tone firm yet curious, "Commander Thorian has requested your presence at the Attack Force training grounds. Let's go."
"Commander Thorian?" Nizara asked, a bit puzzled. "Did I do something wrong?"
Alda shook her head. "You'll find out soon enough."
As they arrived at the training grounds, they spotted Commander Thorian waiting in the center, arms crossed and a stern look on his face. "Nizara, it's good to see you," Thorian greeted. "You've shown remarkable improvement recently. But growth like yours needs to be tested."
Nizara nodded, understanding the challenge that lay ahead. "I'm ready, Sir. What do you need me to do?"
Thorian's eyes shifted to Alda. "I want you to take on Vice Commander Alda first. Don't hold back."
Alda stepped forward, drawing her weapon. "Let's see what you've got, Nizara."
Without hesitation, Nizara activated Swiftstride, instantly closing the gap between them. Alda's eyes widened in surprise as Nizara's speed outpaced her reactions. Before she could counter, Nizara maneuvered behind her and landed a swift, clean strike. The duel was over almost as quickly as it began.
Thorian nodded, impressed but still focused. "Impressive, Nizara. Your speed and precision have improved significantly, but I can tell from your movements that you still have gaps. You're relying too much on speed alone."
Nizara straightened up, taking the critique seriously. "I understand, Commander."
Thorian's expression hardened. "Good. Now, you're going to face me."
Nizara felt a jolt of nervousness, but he quickly steeled himself. The duel began, and Nizara once again used Swiftstride to engage quickly. However, Thorian was on a completely different level. Despite Nizara's newfound strength, Thorian exploited every small opening, deflecting his attacks and targeting his weak points with pinpoint accuracy. In mere moments, Thorian disarmed Nizara and knocked him to the ground.
"That's the difference between relying on raw power and mastering technique," Thorian said sternly. "You have great potential, Nizara, but you still have much to learn. You need to strengthen the foundation of your skills and think strategically in battle."
Breathing heavily, Nizara nodded. "Understood, Sir."
Thorian paused for a moment, studying Nizara. "There's something else I'm curious about. I haven't seen you use any magic. I want to assess your abilities fully. Show me what you've got."
Nizara focused and channeled his energy, raising his sword. "ThunderBlade V1!" he shouted, as he executed a swift, precise slash. The tree in front of him was cleanly cut through in an instant, crackling with electricity before it fell.
Thorian observed the aftermath, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "That's good. But is that all?"
Nizara sheathed his sword and responded with calm determination. "For now, yes. That's all I need to show."
Thorian remained silent, but deep in thought. *Is his sudden growth connected to his true magical element?* he pondered. Yet despite the impressive display, a lingering uncertainty gnawed at him—something about Nizara's progress didn't quite add up. Nevertheless, he kept his thoughts to himself, determined to keep a close eye on the young warrior's development.
After Commander Thorian finished his thoughts, he stood up and looked directly at Nizara. "Follow me to my office," he instructed. "There are some tasks I need you to handle."
Nizara obeyed, curious and eager, as they made their way to the commander's quarters. Upon entering, he found Vice Commander Alda already standing beside Thorian's desk, her expression as composed and serious as always. Commander Thorian took his seat and motioned for Nizara to stand before them.
"Nizara," Thorian began, "I have a special mission for you. But you won't be doing it alone."
Nizara felt a surge of excitement and curiosity. "Who's my partner?" he asked.
Thorian's gaze remained steady as he responded, "You'll be working with a new recruit. He's... promising."
The commander turned to the door and called out, "Enter."
The door creaked open, and a young man walked in. He was tall, with a lean yet muscular build. His eyes were a piercing, icy blue, and his presence was cold and commanding. His silver hair hung just above his shoulders, giving him a striking and sharp look. He moved with the calculated precision of someone who was both intelligent and confident, as if he had already analyzed everything around him within seconds.
"This is Zalthor," Thorian introduced. "He's recently joined us, but don't underestimate him. He specializes in Shadow Aether, making him perfect for missions requiring stealth and strategic infiltration."
Zalthor gave Nizara a nod, his expression unreadable. "I've heard about you," he said, his voice smooth but laced with a chilling tone. "You're the one making waves with your sudden growth. Let's see if you're as strong as they say."
Nizara couldn't help but feel a mix of respect and wariness toward Zalthor. There was an undeniable intensity in his eyes—a sharpness that revealed both his strength and intelligence. "Looking forward to working together," Nizara replied, determined not to be overshadowed by his new partner.
Commander Thorian leaned back in his chair and got straight to business. "Your mission is called *The Silent Requiem.* The objective is twofold. On the surface, you're to deliver supplies to the village of Thornshade. But your real task is to investigate rumors of a dangerous bandit gang terrorizing the area. These aren't ordinary bandits—reports suggest they might be tied to Dark Magic. We need confirmation and, if necessary, neutralization."
Vice Commander Alda added, "The mission requires both subtlety and strength. You'll need to assess the situation carefully before making any moves. Thornshade is isolated and known for its dense forests—perfect for ambushes and hidden threats."
Thorian's eyes narrowed as he looked at both Nizara and Zalthor. "This is a test for both of you. Nizara, this will push you further beyond what you've faced so far. Zalthor, consider this your initiation. Show me that I can trust you two to handle sensitive missions together."
Nizara, still processing the mission details, exchanged a glance with Zalthor. The challenge ahead was clear, and so was the tension between them. But there was also an unspoken understanding—both knew they had to rely on each other to succeed.
"Understood, Sir," Nizara responded, his voice filled with resolve.
Zalthor simply smirked, his confidence unwavering. "We'll get it done."
With that, Commander Thorian dismissed them, his gaze lingering on both young warriors as they left his office. As they walked side by side, neither spoke a word, but the tension and anticipation of what lay ahead were palpable. The mission was just the beginning, and both Nizara and Zalthor knew that how they handled it could shape the future of their partnership—and their standing within the Attack Force.
*To Be Continued…*
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