Chapter 7: Journeys Unveiled

The morning sun cast a warm, golden hue across the estate, painting the scene with a touch of magic. Eclipse's family gathered to bid him farewell, their smiles and hugs a mixture of pride and bittersweet emotion. His mother's embrace was warm and tight, her words a whispered encouragement that he held close to his heart.

"Make us proud, my son," she said softly, her voice tinged with a mother's love and a touch of sadness at his departure

His father, standing with a stoic expression that barely masked his emotions, extended a hand to Eclipse. Their handshake spoke volumes, a silent understanding between father and son. "Remember, Eclipse, your strength lies not just in your magic, but in your heart and your determination. The academy will challenge you, but I have no doubt you'll rise to the occasion."

As Eclipse turned away from his family, his heart felt heavy yet brimming with determination. The carriage awaited him, its dark wooden frame contrasting against the vibrant scenery. The horses, majestic and strong, stood ready to carry him toward the next chapter of his life.

Two guards flanked the carriage, their imposing presence a reminder of the world beyond the estate. Eclipse nodded to them, acknowledging their role in ensuring his safe journey. As he stepped into the carriage, his gaze lingered on the familiar faces that had been his foundation.

The carriage set into motion, wheels creaking softly against the gravel path. Eclipse's hand pressed against the window, his gaze fixed on the estate that was slowly fading from view. Memories of laughter, shared moments, and lessons learned played in his mind like a vivid montage.

The journey to the capital would take approximately a week, a week of contemplation and anticipation. The landscape shifted around him, passing by fields, forests, and quaint villages. Eclipse watched it all with a mix of wonder and reflection, his thoughts alternating between the present and the future.

As the days passed, the rhythm of the carriage's movement became a comforting backdrop to his thoughts. Eclipse found himself lost in contemplation, envisioning the challenges and opportunities that awaited him at the academy. He knew that the road ahead would be arduous, but he was determined to face it head-on, armed with the knowledge and guidance he had gained.

Amidst the gentle sway of the carriage and the passing scenery, Eclipse's thoughts often returned to his family and the words they had shared. Their support and love were a wellspring of strength, a reminder that he was never truly alone.

The rhythmic clatter of hooves on the road had lulled Eclipse into a contemplative state, his thoughts dancing between anticipation and reflection. The world outside the carriage window shifted and changed, a visual representation of the path he was treading—full of twists, turns, and unforeseen encounters.

But as the sun began its descent, casting long shadows over the landscape, the tranquility shattered like glass. A sudden rush of wind, a muffled thud, and the carriage jolted violently. Eclipse was thrown off balance, his heart pounding in his chest.

Before he could gather his bearings, the world outside erupted into chaos. The guards who had been stationed to protect him were now engaged in a fierce struggle against a group of mysterious assailants. Shouts, clashing weapons, and the unmistakable sounds of combat filled the air.

clipse's instincts kicked in. He knew he had to act, and act quickly. With a surge of adrenaline, he flung open the carriage door and leaped onto the ground, his senses attuned to every movement around him. His crimson eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation, the cold demeanor he had cultivated in his training taking over.

The attackers were swift and coordinated, their intentions clear—take down the guards, incapacitate Eclipse, and plunder whatever riches they believed him to possess. But their plan had a fatal flaw—they underestimated the young man's strength and determination.

Eclipse's muscles tensed as he engaged in combat, relying on his honed physical prowess and his affinity for darkness magic. Yet, even as he fought back, he couldn't ignore the glaring gap in strength between him and his assailants. Their agility and combat skills were formidable, and the odds were turning against him.

His eyes never wavered from the masked figures before him, his voice cutting through the chaos with a cold, calculated tone. "Who are you?"

No reply came. Instead, a mocking laughter filled the air, drowning out the sounds of battle. They spoke not of their motives or their affiliation, only a brazen declaration that they sought his wealth.

That was all the confirmation Eclipse needed. He unleashed his darkness magic, his power surging forth like a tempest. Shadows coalesced around him, and with a wave of his hand, the very darkness seemed to answer his command. In a blinding flash, the assailants were engulfed by the swirling abyss, their screams silenced as swiftly as they had come.

When the darkness subsided, Eclipse was left standing amidst the aftermath—a scene of devastation and finality. The attackers lay lifeless, their forms distorted and motionless.

But the victory was bittersweet. The carriage was in ruins, the guards who had sworn to protect him now fallen. With the path ahead blocked and his mode of transportation destroyed, Eclipse faced a daunting realization—he had to traverse the remaining distance to the capital on foot.

The journey that had initially promised excitement and new beginnings had taken an unforeseen turn. Now, with the capital still miles away, Eclipse set his gaze on the horizon, his steps steady and resolute. The road ahead would test his mettle in more ways than one, revealing aspects of himself he had yet to uncover.