As the dawn goes by. Cade and Lyrica shifted their focus back to the training ground, the sun climbed higher in the sky, casting a warm light over the makeshift arena. The earlier frustrations lingered, but there was a new weight in the air, a sense of understanding following their candid conversation about her heritage. Yet, Cade knew there was more he must address—lessons that would shape the way Lyrica interacted with the world around her.
"Lyrica," he began, drawing her attention as he took a step back to gauge her response, "there's something else we need to discuss about your powers and your lineage."
She glanced up at him, curiosity etched on her face but tinged with apprehension. "What is it, Dad?"
"I want you to understand that until you can fully control some of the magic within you, you shouldn't use any of it—other than for healing," he explained, his tone careful but firm. "It's not because I don't trust you. On the contrary, I believe in you wholeheartedly. You have the strength and the heart to do great things with your gifts."
Lyrica's brow furrowed slightly, a hint of rebellion stirring within her. "But I want to learn! I want to be strong now, not just later!"
"I understand that desire," he acknowledged, moving closer to kneel beside her. "But trust me when I say that the world isn't quite ready for someone like you—especially as a descendant of Kasathar."
"But I'm not him!" she protested, her voice rising as frustration mingled with the depth of her understanding.
Cade nodded, meeting her gaze with sincerity. "I know you're not. You're a good person, full of kindness and compassion. But the truth is, the rest of the world—other kingdoms, and even some of the gods—might not share in that belief. If they were to find out that a child of the Dark God is alive, they would not see you as a protector; they would see you as a threat."
"What do you mean?" Lyrica asked, her voice dropping to a whisper, sensing the gravity of his words.
"There are those who fear what they do not understand," he continued, his eyes solemn. "They would want to capture you, to control you, or worse—to eliminate you before you can fully realize your potential. This isn't just a possibility, Lyrica; it's a reality we must prepare for."
A chill ran through her, the implications of her heritage settling heavily upon her shoulders. "But I don't want to hide! I want to be able to use my powers for good."
"And you will one day," he assured her gently, placing a hand on her shoulder. "But for now, I need you to trust me, to keep your abilities hidden—especially your dark magic. Healing magic is different; it's a gift that can help others and is generally accepted. As for the rest… we must be cautious."
Lyrica swallowed hard, processing the weight of what it meant to hide a part of herself. "What if my friends find out? What if they see me do something? I can't just keep lying to them…"
Cade's heart ached for her. "It's not lying, Lyrica—it's protecting yourself. You can't risk revealing your abilities to those who wouldn't understand. It's essential to remain vigilant. While I'm confident you possess the strength to handle your powers, the reality beyond our home can be unforgiving."
"Will I ever be able to show my real self?" she asked, her voice almost a whisper, vulnerability laid bare.
"Yes," he replied firmly, wrapping his arm around her in a protective embrace. "Once you've mastered your magic and understand its depths, you'll be ready to use it freely. But you must do this with wisdom and discretion. The world can shift, and the dark legacy is a double-edged sword—you must learn how to wield it wisely."
She took a moment to think, the weight of secrecy resting heavily on her heart. "So, for now, it's just healing?"
"For now," Cade confirmed. "Focus on that, on honing your skills, and we will explore the darker aspects of your magic when the time is right. I will guide you, every step of the way."
Lyrica nodded slowly, determination beginning to set in despite the burden of her circumstances. "Okay, I'll do my best. I promise I won't let you down, or my powers."
Cade smiled warmly, pride swelling within him at her resolve. "I know you won't, Lyrica. You are destined for greatness. Just remember that with trust comes responsibility. When your friends ask why you seem distant or if you're holding back, assure them that you're simply focused on something important. They may never understand your journey, but they love you—and that's what truly matters."
"Thanks, Dad," she said, her voice steadier now. "For believing in me, even when it seems scary."
"Always," he replied, giving her a reassuring squeeze before rising to his feet. "Now let's pick up where we left off. We've got training to get back to, and I want you to channel all your strength into that swordplay."
Lyrica stood, her earlier frustration fading into a steady resolve as she took up her training sword once more. As they resumed their practice, the reality of her heritage lingered in the background—a silent specter she would carry with her. But armed with her father's guidance and love, she felt a flicker of hope ignite within her.
Together, they would face the challenges ahead, navigating the delicate balance of light and shadow that defined her legacy. Cade felt the promise of her potential, reaffirming his commitment to steady her course, ready to prepare her not just for the powers within her, but for the world beyond their tranquil home.