Niram's artificial sun cast its dim rays over the city streets, reflecting a soft glow off the metal walls of buildings and the crystalline surfaces that nourished the small fields. But despite the light, a cold, empty feeling remained in Sohan's heart.
He was now standing in the training ground, where dozens of new recruits stood before a raised stone platform. Atop it stood a massive, broad-shouldered man, carrying a gleaming black sword radiating hidden energy on his back.
Ryder... the leader of the Withered Hunters.
His booming voice and his sharp gaze, Rider began:
"You are now under the banner of Niram, the last city that pulsates with the remnants of light. From this moment, you are no longer mere survivors... you become the shield of this land."
He was silent for a moment, then pointed to the four flags raised behind him:
First Division: Iron Division - For direct assault, led by the stern warrior Lyra.
The Second Division: The Shadow of Ashes – for espionage and silent missions, led by the mysterious Valo.
The Third Division: The Eyes of Light – for exploration and reconnaissance within the Light's borders, and this is where Sohan was assigned.
The Fourth Division: The Guardians of the Core – to protect the Core of Niram, the only light that prevents the Wither from penetrating.
Ryder's lieutenant stepped forward and opened an ancient wooden chest, inside which were dark swords with a cracked silver sheen.
"These are the Swords of the Bygone Dawn," Ryder said, "forged from the petrified blood of the Withered and the Black Moon metal. They alone can rend their flesh and weaken their curse.
The recruits advanced one by one, each receiving their sword. When it was Sohan's turn, Ryder looked at him for a long time.
"You are one born beyond the Walls… one who survived in the darkness. Your task will not be easy, Sohan, but you are different."
Sohan held the sword, feeling a slight tingle run through his skin, as if something in the weapon was resonating with his inner shadow.
Later that day, the actual training began. The recruits underwent rigorous physical training and missions in border areas under the supervision of other squads.
During one of the resting sessions, Sohan sat with a group of recruits:
Kira, a slender girl with sharp green eyes, said, "I'm from a city that fell three years ago. I saw my mother transform right in front of me... so I joined."
Dagher, a burly boy, added, "Niram saved me, but I don't think she'll last long if we don't fight."
Sohan remained silent. He hadn't yet told them about Nayla... or the man who raised him.
But a new fire began to burn in his eyes... a fire that bore his new name and his coming destiny.
That night, he stood on Niram's wall, looking into the darkness beyond.
"I won't just be a survivor…" he whispered, "I will bring back the sun… even if I have to face the Withered Ones alone...
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Explanation: The world map will be explained soon.