Threat

In the grand palace that stood atop the highest hill in the Kingdom of Eldoria, King Gabriel sat on his throne made of gold and gemstones. The morning sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows, casting colorful glimmers that mingled with the white marble walls. King Gabriel, with his black hair and thin beard, looked thoughtfully at the two individuals standing before him.

On his left was Albion, his loyal companion since youth. Albion was tall and sturdy, with jet-black hair that contrasted with his emerald green eyes. On his right stood the White Sorcerer.

"White," King Gabriel said, his voice deep and authoritative. "I've called you here because there's something important we need to discuss. It's about Eizan."

The White Sorcerer nodded slowly, his blue eyes meeting the king's. "I've heard that his powers are growing stronger, Your Majesty. The dark element within him is becoming increasingly difficult to control."

Albion, who had been silent until now, nodded in agreement. "We've been observing Eizan for some time. He's still young, but that power... it's dangerous. If left unchecked, it could repeat the devastation that occurred 250,000 years ago."

King Gabriel sighed, his face showing signs of fatigue and worry. "That's what I fear the most. History has taught us that the dark element cannot be underestimated. I don't want the disaster that befell our ancestors to happen again."

The White Sorcerer stepped forward slightly, his voice gentle yet firm. "I'll do what I can, Your Majesty. But we must remember that Eizan is a good child. He didn't choose to have this power. He needs guidance and understanding."

King Gabriel nodded, his eyes still filled with concern. "I know, White. That's why I've asked you to keep a close watch on him. I trust you. But if there are any signs that his power is becoming uncontrollable... we must be ready to take drastic measures."

Albion clenched his fists at his sides. "I will do whatever it takes to keep this kingdom safe. Eizan is a real threat, and we cannot be complacent."

The White Sorcerer looked at Albion with a resolute gaze. "He's not a threat, Albion. He's a child in need of our guidance. Remember, in every darkness, there is always light to be found."

King Gabriel raised his hand, halting the debate. "Enough. We all know what's at stake here. White, you will continue to monitor Eizan and report any developments to me. Albion, you will ensure the kingdom's security. We must not fail."

POV Albion

"He's not a threat, Albion. He's a child in need of our guidance. Remember, in every darkness, there is always light to be found," said the White Sorcerer with conviction.

Hearing the word "light," Albion's mind drifted to the past. A memory long buried resurfaced, like a shadow difficult to ignore.

---

In the past, when Albion was young and full of ambition, he fought in a duel that would determine his fate. His opponent was a sorcerer with extraordinary light element powers. To this day, the sorcerer's name remains a mystery, but his power and Albion's humiliating defeat are unforgettable.

The duel took place in a valley littered with the remnants of past battles. Albion, with his sword gleaming under the sun, felt confident in his victory. But the sorcerer appeared with astonishing grace, bringing with him a blinding light.

"I don't know your name, but I will not back down," Albion said bravely.

The sorcerer merely smiled faintly. "Names are unimportant. What matters is what you do with your power."

The battle was fierce. Every strike Albion made was effortlessly dodged or blocked by the sorcerer. Every time Albion's sword approached, the light emanating from the sorcerer deflected his attacks.

Finally, in one swift and graceful move, the sorcerer disarmed Albion and knocked him to the ground. The defeat left a deep mark on Albion's heart.

"Now you understand," the sorcerer said gently. "Power is not just about physical strength. Light and darkness both have their place. Balance is the key."

With those words, the sorcerer vanished, leaving Albion physically and emotionally wounded. From that day, Albion vowed to avenge his humiliating defeat, as the shadow of that loss always haunted him.

---

Back in the present, Albion clenched his fists tightly, trying to control the emotions stirred by the memory. He looked at the White Sorcerer, who continued to speak about the importance of guiding Eizan.

"I understand your point, White," Albion said finally, his voice calmer but firm. "But I can't ignore the potential danger that boy poses. I will remain vigilant."

The White Sorcerer looked at Albion with understanding. "I know, Albion. We all want what's best for the kingdom. Any power, whether of light or darkness, must be balanced with wisdom."

King Gabriel, who had been listening intently, finally spoke. "We will work together to ensure Eizan is closely monitored. We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past."

Albion nodded, though the shadows of his past still loomed in his mind. He knew his duty now was to protect the kingdom.

That night, under the dim light of the moon, Albion stood alone on the palace balcony. He gazed at the night sky, contemplating light and darkness, and how the two were always intertwined in an inevitable destiny.

At the Axeris Academy

Eizan was walking towards Director Emilia's office, contemplating whether to accept the offer she made two days ago. He stared at the ground, his hands shoved into his pockets.

His steps halted when he sensed a familiar presence, just like two years ago. Eizan exhaled with a smile on his face. "Huff... What brings you here, old man?" Eizan looked at the White Sorcerer with a welcoming gaze.

"Hoho... Not much, my boy. It seems you've grown into an excellent student under her guidance," the White Sorcerer replied, his eyes smiling back at Eizan.

Not much had changed since they last faced each other during Eizan's elemental awakening. "What do you want to talk about, old man?" As Eizan spoke, the conversation took on a more serious tone.

The White Sorcerer approached and placed a finger on Eizan's forehead. As soon as he did, Eizan was confronted with a terrifying vision.