A Glimpse of Freedom
The first thing Liam noticed when he woke up was the light.
Sunlight streamed through the window of his new chamber, a stark contrast to the dim, torch-lit dungeon from before. He blinked, adjusting to the brightness as he pushed himself up from the surprisingly comfortable bed.
"So, you’re still alive," Nyx’s voice hummed in his mind. "I half-expected someone to slip in and slit your throat st night."
Seraphis sighed. "Evelyn may be cautious, but she’s not cruel. We have a temporary reprieve."
Liam stood and stretched, feeling the stiffness in his body. It had only been a day since he woke up in this world, but it already felt like a lifetime.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.
"Enter," he called.
The door creaked open, revealing a young maid dressed in a simple bck-and-white uniform. Her auburn hair was neatly tied back, and her eyes held a mixture of curiosity and wariness.
"Lady Evelyn has requested your presence for breakfast," she said, keeping her voice polite but formal.
Liam nodded.
"Lead the way."
---
The Heart of Eris
As they walked through the corridors of the castle, Liam took in his surroundings. Eris Castle was massive, a blend of medieval architecture and subtle traces of magic. Enchanted torches lined the walls, glowing softly despite the bright morning sun.
From a passing window, he caught a glimpse of the city below.
Eris, the capital of the kingdom of Aurelia, stretched far beyond the castle walls. Narrow streets weaved between towering stone buildings, bustling with merchants, knights, and commoners alike. Banners bearing the crest of a golden phoenix fluttered in the wind, and beyond the city gates, rolling fields and forests stretched into the horizon.
"Not bad," he murmured.
Seraphis spoke gently.
"It is a city of resilience. Despite the looming war, its people carry on with their lives."
Nyx snorted.
"Until everything burns."
Liam ignored him.
---
Breakfast with a Noble
When they arrived at the dining hall, Lady Evelyn was already seated. She wore a regal deep-blue dress, her ptinum blonde hair elegantly styled. Despite her refined appearance, her sharp gaze reminded Liam she wasn’t someone to be underestimated.
Seated beside her was the old schor from the previous night.
Liam took a seat across from them as servants pced an assortment of food on the table—freshly baked bread, roasted meats, fruits, and tea. Despite the pleasant setting, he knew this was another test.
Evelyn was the first to speak.
"You’ve had a day to adjust. Tell me, Liam—what do you intend to do now?"
A straightforward question. But one ced with deeper meaning.
Nyx’s voice whispered. "Tell her you’ll seize power and take this kingdom for yourself."
Seraphis countered. "She is offering you a chance to earn her trust. Do not squander it."
Liam met Evelyn’s gaze.
"I still know little about this world. Before I make any grand decisions, I need information."
The schor chuckled.
"A wise answer. Knowledge is often more powerful than any sword."
Evelyn tapped her fingers against the table.
"Very well. If you truly wish to learn, then I have an offer for you."
Liam raised an eyebrow.
"And what would that be?"
---
The Informant
Evelyn leaned forward.
"A man in the lower districts of Eris is rumored to possess knowledge of strange occurrences. Some cim he is a madman; others say he knows of forces beyond our understanding."
The schor nodded.
"If you seek knowledge, he may provide insight. But be warned—his words are not always easy to decipher."
Liam frowned.
"And you’re sending me because?"
Evelyn smiled faintly.
"Because if he truly knows anything, I want to confirm it. And if you are lying about your origins… well, he may expose you."
A test.
Liam sighed internally.
"Alright. I’ll meet this informant."
---
The Streets of Eris
For the first time since arriving in this world, Liam stepped beyond the castle walls.
The lower district was a stark contrast to the noble quarters—narrow alleyways, crowded markets, and the scent of spices mixed with the stench of unwashed bodies. Merchants called out their wares, while thieves darted between unsuspecting travelers.
He moved carefully, keeping a hand near his belt in case of trouble.
Eventually, he arrived at a small, dipidated house. The wooden door was barely holding together, and strange symbols were carved into the frame.
Knocking twice, he waited.
The door creaked open slightly, revealing a hooded figure with piercing green eyes.
"So… the outsider finally comes."
Liam’s breath hitched.
How did he know?
---
The Mystery Deepens
Before Liam could respond, the informant stepped back, motioning him inside.
"Come. There are things you must hear… and things you must fear."
The door shut behind them, leaving Liam in darkness.
Inside, something ancient stirred.
---
End of Chapter 4
