Night had fallen over Luthvar, the camp quiet except for the soft rustle of tents and the distant calls of night watchmen. Azerion sat alone on the ridge, gazing at the stars. The Core hummed faintly within him, a reminder of both his strength and the burden it carried.
Beside him, Serenya arrived without a sound, her presence like a gentle anchor. "You shouldn't be alone," she whispered, settling next to him. "Even the strongest need someone to share the weight."
Azerion turned to her, eyes reflecting the starlight. "I know… and I'm grateful you're here. Every day, you remind me of what I fight for."
Her hand found his, fingers intertwining naturally. "And I'll remind you again and again. We'll face everything together."
But beyond the quiet comfort, shadows moved. Soldiers who had once envied Azerion now conspired in whispers, plotting to sow doubt and fear. They approached the nobles in hushed tones, exaggerating minor mistakes and planting seeds of suspicion.
"He's becoming dangerous," one whispered, voice low. "He wields power too easily, and loyalty bends too quickly toward him. He may not realize, but he's already a threat."
The nobles, eager to maintain their influence, nodded subtly. Rumors were spread—subtle enough to avoid immediate confrontation, yet sharp enough to chip at Azerion's reputation should they gain traction.
Meanwhile, Azerion's nights were filled with reflection and strategy. He trained in secret, learning to bend his Core energy with precision. Every flicker of shadow, every shift in the wind, he observed, honing his perception. Yet, no amount of power could shield him from the vulnerability he felt when Serenya smiled at him.
"You're pushing too hard," she said one evening, concern threading her tone. "I see it in your eyes. Don't lose yourself in strength."
"I won't," Azerion assured her. "Not while I have you. Not while there's still good to protect."
Serenya rested against him, the pendant around her neck catching the firelight. Unbeknownst to them, the Core stirred subtly, sensing not only Azerion's growing mastery but also the currents of envy and betrayal approaching from within the camp.
"The heart you protect may be the one most at risk," it whispered, a warning wrapped in caution.