Chapter 3: The Training Begins
The years passed like the changing seasons, and the helpless infant left in the wilderness grew into a boy of strength and determination. Under the watchful eyes of Master Eamon, Kael learned the ways of survival, though he still had no knowledge of the royal blood flowing through his veins.
At fifteen, he was no longer the frail child the old hermit had rescued. His body had grown lean and strong from years of hunting, climbing, and running through the dense forests. His reflexes were sharp, his instincts honed by the harsh wilderness. But Eamon was not an easy teacher.
"Again!" the old man barked, striking his staff against the dirt.
Kael, breathing hard, tightened his grip on the wooden practice sword. Sweat dripped from his brow as he charged at his mentor, swinging with all his might. But Eamon moved with the grace of a seasoned warrior, sidestepping the attack and swiping Kael's legs out from under him. The boy hit the ground hard, coughing as dust rose around him.
"You're too eager," Eamon scolded. "Strength without control is a weakness. Try again."
Kael groaned but pushed himself up, his frustration burning in his chest. "I don't understand why I need all this training," he muttered, gripping the sword again.
Eamon's gaze hardened. "Because the world is cruel, boy. And one day, you will face something far worse than me."
Kael didn't ask any more questions. He had learned long ago that Eamon never gave answers easily.
A Test of Survival
One evening, after another grueling day of training, Eamon led Kael to a high ridge overlooking the vast forest. The sky burned with the colors of sunset, and in the distance, the mountains stretched toward the heavens.
"You've come far, but there is one lesson left," Eamon said, his voice steady. "Survive the next three days in the wild, alone. No weapons, no food. Only your wits and the skills I've taught you."
Kael's eyes widened. He had hunted before, but always with Eamon's guidance. "Alone?"
Eamon nodded. "A warrior must learn to rely on himself. You will face hunger, cold, and danger. But if you are strong, you will return stronger."
Without another word, the old man turned and walked away, leaving Kael standing there, the weight of the challenge pressing on him.
As night fell, the wilderness came alive with unseen threats. The howls of distant wolves echoed through the trees, and the wind whispered through the leaves like ghostly voices. Kael tightened his fists, determination setting in.
"I will prove myself," he murmured.
But as the first night dragged on, a presence lurked in the darkness—watching, waiting. Something—or someone—had found him. Who or what is watching Kael in the night? Is it a wild beast or something more dangerous?