Story 224: The Rite of Reckoning

Damien steadied himself before the glowing fountain, its waters casting eerie shadows across the stone chamber. Behind him, Lena and Marek waited, tense and quiet, each holding their breath. The fountain radiated an ancient power, thrumming in rhythm with Damien’s heartbeat, as if it were alive, sensing his presence.

“Once you drink,” Marek warned, his voice low, “there’s no going back. The Rite of Reckoning reveals all truths. It will test your loyalty to your purpose, stripping away everything you thought you knew.”

Damien’s jaw tightened. “If this is what it takes to kill the Zombie King, then I’m ready.”

He bent down, cupping the shimmering water in his hands, but before he could drink, Lena’s hand shot out to stop him. Her eyes searched his, fear and loyalty warring within them.

“Damien, what if this… changes you?” she whispered, her voice tinged with desperation. “What if it takes more than you can afford to lose?”