Chapter 6: Light in the Darkness
By the time Maegor Lucaerys turned thirteen, his training under Valyria's elite instructors had become both more comprehensive and more challenging. At this age, Maegor was not only honing his skills in combat but was also delving into the dark arts of blood magic.
Blood magic training was a process that tested both his mind and spirit. As one of the darkest and most dangerous branches of sorcery, blood magic required Maegor to understand the nature of blood and learn how to harness its power. The fundamentals of blood magic involved using one's own blood to create physical and spiritual effects. During the rituals, Maegor studied the profound spiritual and physical impacts of these rites as he performed them.
One day, Maegor tested a new application of blood magic. The blood illusions and painful effects he created with his magic reinforced his determination to master these dark arts. This experience provided him with a deeper understanding of blood magic's limitless potential and personal gratification. The fear and suffering of the slaves served to reinforce the satisfaction and amusement Maegor derived from his work.
Throughout his blood magic training, Maegor realized that the effects of his practices were not limited to himself but also impacted those around him. The rituals that inflicted pain on slaves deepened his quest for darkness and power. To better grasp the effects of blood magic, Maegor conducted various experiments. Each experiment offered him a better understanding of the magic's power and its dark implications. He frequently used slaves in his rituals, observing their pain, which helped him comprehend the dark nature of the spells.
Maegor's progress in swordsmanship was also noteworthy. His sword training not only increased his physical endurance but also sharpened his strategic thinking skills. During his training, Maegor had the opportunity to practice with various swords and techniques. His instructors taught him not only technical skills but also how to analyze his enemies and execute the most effective attacks.
On one occasion, Maegor faced a rival of equal skill in a challenging duel. Maegor quickly identified his opponent's weaknesses and emerged victorious. This victory demonstrated how advanced his sword training had become. However, Maegor's successes sometimes drew criticism from other family members and instructors.
Sir Kyros, Maegor's swordsmanship teacher, observed his achievements closely. While he appreciated Maegor's skill and strategic intellect, he also noted his excessive ambition and sometimes ruthless approach.
Sir Kyros: "Maegor, your techniques are excellent, but there is something you must remember. Combat is not only about strength and skill but also about maintaining spiritual and ethical balance. Ruthlessness will only grant you temporary victories. True mastery involves understanding and respecting your enemy's suffering."
Maegor generally did not respond to Sir Kyros's warnings. During training, he often applied his own methods and preferred to be ruthless with his opponents. Nonetheless, Sir Kyros's advice occasionally prompted Maegor to think more deeply and question himself during his training.
During his blood magic training, Maegor's teacher, Mistress Seraphine, taught him about the darker aspects of the spells. Seraphine focused on both the physical and spiritual effects of blood magic. Under her tutelage, Maegor gained in-depth knowledge on how to absorb and manipulate the energy of blood.
Mistress Seraphine: "Maegor, you must confront the darkest aspects of blood magic. The power of these spells affects both you and those around you. Beyond controlling the power of blood, you must also bear the dark burden it brings. This is not merely a power but a great responsibility."
Maegor often ignored Seraphine's words and preferred to use the magic's power for personal gratification. His interest in dark magic and his abilities in this area raised concerns among his other instructors.
One evening, after training, Maegor and Leana found solace in each other's company in a private room. Leana provided support to alleviate the pressures and challenges Maegor faced during his training. The time they spent together deepened their bond and offered a respite from the intense demands of their training.
When Leana entered Maegor's room one evening, she aimed to ease the emotional strain he was under. Maegor found comfort in her presence, and their moments together brought him relaxation. One evening, after their training, when they were alone in the room, Leana approached Maegor and kissed him. This kiss intensified the depth of their relationship.
The closeness between Maegor and Leana went beyond a personal connection; it also represented their way of overcoming the challenges they faced in their training. Leana played a crucial role in helping Maegor cope with his inner darkness. Her presence gave Maegor the strength and courage to tackle the difficulties of his training.
Maegor was also making plans to inform his father, Aemon, about the impending apocalypse in Valyria. However, he intended to present this information through a deceptive story involving dreams and visions. To convince Aemon of the validity of this information, Maegor used his dark magic experiences and illusions to present a vision.
One night, Maegor summoned Aemon to a special meeting. During the meeting, Maegor described the visions he had seen in his dreams. He detailed these visions vividly, portraying the future disasters that Valyria would face.
Maegor: "Father, recently I have been dreaming of the apocalypse that awaits Valyria. In these visions, I see Valyria being completely destroyed and our family experiencing a great calamity. If we do not take action now, this disaster will be inevitable."
Aemon was concerned by Maegor's words but was not entirely convinced of the truthfulness of the visions and the manner in which Maegor presented them.
Aemon: "Maegor, we must verify the accuracy of these dreams and visions. We need to conduct further research and take appropriate steps based on more information."
Maegor's efforts to convince his father were challenging. Aemon was skeptical about the accuracy of the visions and sought additional information. Maegor sought to provide more evidence to convince his father, though Aemon's desire for further research delayed Maegor's plans.
To gain Aemon's trust, Maegor conducted a series of experiments and rituals to provide concrete evidence supporting the visions. Using his blood magic skills, Maegor created symbolic images of Valyria's future. These images impacted Aemon, leading him to develop a belief in the reality of the visions.
One evening, Maegor called Aemon to another special meeting. This time, Maegor presented an illusion depicting the future apocalypse of Valyria. The illusion vividly showed Valyria engulfed in flames and destruction, with the entire nation in chaos and darkness.
Aemon fell into a deep silence after viewing the illusion. Maegor watched his father carefully, observing his reaction to the impressive display.
Aemon: "Maegor, these visions are truly terrifying. We need to gather more information on how to prevent this disaster. If this is truly going to happen, we must act immediately."
Aemon's response provided Maegor with some relief and also reminded him to develop a new strategy. Seeing Aemon's determination to act against the impending catastrophe, Maegor decided to seize the opportunity to execute his own plans.
During this time, Maegor worked hard to convince his family, particularly his father, of the necessity of leaving Valyria. He presented a detailed plan outlining the advantages of relocating. Maegor argued that this plan was the best option for both the family's and Valyria's future security.
Maegor's plan for relocation became a significant topic of discussion within the family. While Aemon and other family members were receptive to Maegor's proposal, some questioned the risks and uncertainties associated with the plan. Maegor had to demonstrate his skills in managing these discussions and convincing his family of the need to migrate.
Maegor's relocation plan eventually became a crucial agenda item for the family. With the support of his father and other family members, Maegor began taking the necessary steps to implement the plan. This process highlighted Maegor's leadership and strategic thinking abilities. Other family members came to understand Maegor's vision for the future and decided to support him in this endeavor.
By the end of the chapter, Maegor's plan to leave Valyria was accepted by the family, and preparations began. Maegor meticulously organized every stage of the relocation plan and completed the necessary arrangements for his family to start a new life. This process proved to be both challenging and rewarding for Maegor.
The steps Maegor took towards his goals were crucial for securing his family's future. His mastery of dark magic, swordsmanship, and strategic planning contributed to his development as a powerful leader and visionary. His sacrifices and preparations for his family's future underscored his growth into a strong and determined character.
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Firstly, good day dear readers. In this chapter, you might be wondering why Maegor has developed such a personality. I want to say this: born in Valyria and growing up in a powerful family, would he truly sympathize with slaves and others? In his previous life, he was at the bottom of the world, and in his new life, he is far superior to others. Therefore, such a transformation is an inevitable result. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Also, don’t forget to gift the Stone of Power. I love you all, take care of yourselves.
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