Chapter: Ionia| 3
That night, I climbed a mountain. Or perhaps the mountain climbed me, I didn't know. I kept running, and I stumbled into a cave. It was small, dank, and dark. I sat there, waiting. Waiting for death.
Minutes turned into hours. Rain fell, masking the path I used to get here. I should stay here, die in obscurity. Nobody will know.
I was so afraid. Of myself, of my actions. What had I done?
The rain continued falling, its pattering echoing off the walls. Yaavin. Is that what I was? A single piece of a monster? That meant I didn't have a family waiting. No village was expecting my return. There was nobody. I was completely and utterly alone.
Maybe... that was best. For the safety of everyone, I need to be as far away from them as possible. I needed to learn how to control myself, how to control this darkness within me. The thoughts came naturally. The hatred. The anger. The despair. It was as if it had a mind of its own. No... I don't need to control it. I need to end it. Forever.
I was going to kill myself. The thought was instantaneous, born out of fear. I knew it was selfish, cowardly. But I didn't have another option. I left the cave, the rain still falling. Perhaps... I could return to the spot Irelia shared with me and jump to my death. After all, the ocean was below it. Nobody would ever find my body. It would be a fitting end.
It was hard climbing down, the path slippery, treacherous. Right before I reached the bottom, I had slipped. My fingers clawed at the wet ground. I struggled to grip onto something to save myself. All I felt was rocks that crumbled beneath my strength. Then I fell. I slid down the muddy ground. With a final thud I landed at the bottom. I chuckled ruefully. Even in my last moments, the world hated me enough to take my life with a humiliating fate.
I stood up, feeling sore and broken. Blood trailed down my legs. But I was already numb to it all. I whipped my head around, my eyes wide. Something was there.
Someone?
"Is somebody there?" I called out. Maybe it was a monk sent by Karma and Tenzin. They probably were trying to make sure I didn't do anything stupid. My eyes moved to another part of the forest. I didn't hear anything, but for some reason I could tell where this thing was moving. It was now a thing because it moved faster than anyone should be able to, appearing in another spot without using any sort of cover or any kind of movement that made sound.
It felt like a game. A predator chasing me down in a circle. I took this chance and sprinted in the opposite direction. Rain whipped my face as I ran. All I felt was determination and anger. Angry at the world. Angry at myself. How dare the universe play this joke on me. It led me to believe I was someone, only to show I was nothing. I was a thing. A piece of something, something I have no connection to. A piece with no memory, no purpose, no meaning.
Just. A. Monster.
Something appeared ahead. A dark silhouette amongst the rain. I tried to stop, but I slid on the mud and fell. My heart was in my throat. How could I be scared now of all times when I had just said I would kill myself? It felt ironic.
A shape loomed over me. It was humanoid, but its body shifted like smoke. It drew closer. It was a man. But it looked to be a monster. His hair was long and black. He held a sword in each hand and wore a red mask that hid his features, giving him a ghostly, fearsome appearance. The rain seemed to avoid him, as if even the elements were wary of his presence. His eyes, glowing a haunting blue, fixed on me with an intensity that felt as if it could pierce through my soul. I wanted to speak but my voice was stuck in my throat. I opened my mouth but no sounds came out. His swords flashed, twin arcs of lightning cutting through the night.
I sat up slowly, carefully, as if a sudden movement could trigger an attack.
"You... you look human, and yet you have the stench of an Azakana." The figure stated calmly, his tone cold, distant, threatening. "Either way, your demonic taint makes you too dangerous to allow you to continue to wreak havoc on this plane."
Azakana.
The word resonated in my mind. Memories of the Placidium surfaced. Whispered rumors of terror-inducing beasts that preyed on Ionia's weakest citizens. Tales of shadowy entities, their true form a mystery, feeding on emotions and possessing the corpses of their victims, twisting them into an aberrant, warped, monstrous version of themselves. The whispers grew louder and louder until suddenly the world fell silent.
This was my chance. A way to make Yaavin lose. I stood with my arms out wide. If I could help the people who helped me, this was it.
"Then you know what to do." I whispered.
"Hmm." The figure tilted his head slightly. "You aren't like any Azakana I have killed. Your magic isn't based on fear." He pointed a sword toward me, the sheen of the blade reflecting my tired eyes.
"Then do it, please." I begged. The spirit blinked once, seemingly surprised. He adjusted his posture.
"A demon pleading for death? Do you not crave bloodshed and torment? It seems unlike demons to willingly die." He responded. His voice was as steady as a rock, but his eyes were unsure.
"I'm no demon. But I am a monster. One that doesn't deserve to exist." The words tumbled from my lips.
"And why do you think you deserve death?" The sword twitched.
"Because... if I keep living, I will bring a calamity that will tear Runeterra apart." I answered. I wasn't even sure if the monster before me could do it, but if there was hope for me, this was it.
"An interesting claim. But your words are empty. You lack the drive of a demon." He remarked.
"Because I'm not a demon! I'm something else. A monster, that's all!"
I felt the world sway as I slumped to my knees.
"I... don't want to hurt the people who helped me. Those monks." I sobbed. "Karma, Irelia..." Images of our interactions replayed in my mind. Each moment, every second was special. Yet, those memories were painful. I thought about their smiles, and their kindness. True memories against the existence I never had. Yaavin was right. I am nothing but a fragment. A monster whose existence was driven by greed, chaos, and destruction.
The rain finally came, drenching me entirely. Water flowed down my cheeks, mixing with my tears. I looked to the figure. His eyes stared coldly back at me. I saw no hint of pity or remorse.
"I don't deserve to live. To remember or treasure these memories. You have to kill me! Just end my suffering!" I pleaded once more.
For a long while, the figure looked down at me.
"Fine. Allow me to put you to rest." He declared in a detached, emotionless voice. "Any last words?"
I choked back a sob, wiping my eyes dry. "Thank you. And farewell."
His swords sliced downwards, severing my limbs and decapitating my body. Or... I thought he did, but I heard someone behind me yell out.
"Yone, stop!" A soft voice called out. Yone? The man looked to the source and lowered his weapons.
"What is it, Lillia?" He asked in a monotonous voice, as though we weren't talking about ending my life. I heard someone approach from behind. I turned to see... a deer? No, that can't be.
"The smell is wrong. He isn't an Azakana. He's human." Lillia spoke out. The creature looked at me. In her eyes, I saw the warmth and compassion Yone lacked.
"Why must you insist on defending every stray you happen upon, Lillia?" Yone sounded impatient. Like a parent getting frustrated with their child. "Everywhere you go, you invite trouble. Now, not only are you endangering yourself, you're risking yourself."
"Yone. He is... like you." Lillia walked up to me. "He is lost and confused." She rubbed herself on me, hugging me gently.
"Like me? Impossible." Yone growled.
Lillia shook her head. "You have been separated from yourself, too. You are still bound by your curse."
"Nonsense!" Yone cried out. He looked at me.
"This one has a connection to demons, Azakana. We cannot let him stay." Yone threatened.
I got up and pushed the girl away.
"He's right... I can't live. I'll only bring pain and suffering." I said sadly. Yone was still waiting for me. Waiting for me to try and prove myself worthy to live. I held out my arms once more, closed my eyes, and braced myself for the inevitable.
"Do you dream?" The faun asked me. I blinked my eyes open in surprise and confusion. Dream? I stared blankly at her.
"I... don't remember," I replied truthfully. My life was filled with gaps in my memories, things that have been blocked from me. But then again, the memories weren't mine. They were Yaavin's. Have I dreamed? I tried to search within the deepest recesses of my mind to find something. Anything. But there was only blackness. Nothing. I wasn't able to recall any dreams or nightmares. Just the endless void of the absence of memories. I closed my eyes at night to simply wake to the morning sun.
"My flowers dream," she stated simply. "I planted them many, many moons ago, but some never blossomed, staying hidden and dead underneath the roots. But the ones who did? They were my favorites. I could talk to them, hear their sweet song, feel the love in their hearts. Oh, what beautiful music they make!"
She seemed enamored by the idea. Lost in the thought of hearing the singing. The rain began to subside. This creature's face was full of happiness. So much so, that the brooding Yone had done lessened. Just for a few seconds. He sheathed his blades and sighed, letting out an exhausted breath.
"I apologize for my hostility. My duty demands I do whatever it takes to protect people from Azakana. Even if it means killing those possessed by demons." He bowed his head, ashamed at his previous display. Lillia looked up at me expectantly.
"But I see no malevolent spirits lurking in you. My senses say otherwise. Please forgive my haste."
I nodded. It was true. I knew it deep down. I don't want to hurt anybody. But I do want answers. And I won't get them out here, alone.
"You're looking for something. I can see it. Someone looking for a sweet dream. A connection. You've lost yourself and seek the truth. I know. Because my flowers once sought a dream, too. And now, they blossomed. I think you'll blossom too. But you can't find the dream if you stay in the nightmare." Lillia spoke, her tone sweet and calming.
"What... can I do?" I asked. Yone and Lillia looked at each other. Yone crossed his arms, allowing Lillia to continue.
"You must share your nightmares so they aren't as scary. No one likes to be scared. Having someone there with you helps. It makes the night less lonely." She said, smiling. I thought about it. If sharing my dreams, my memories, would help me, maybe I could find a way to stop Yaavin. I was trying to save everyone, when I needed to share my burden.
"Ok. I'll do it. I'll share my dreams."
"Excellent! I knew you'd want to." She exclaimed. She looked to Yone, who seemed to understand. "You may not like your past, but you can make it your present. Then, maybe, you'll find a future of your own." Lillia smiled and bowed her head.
I smiled. "Thank you, Lillia. Yone." I bowed. The rain had completely stopped. Yone seemed less cold, and less distant.
"I will keep an eye on you. Should your presence prove... detrimental, I will do what needs to be done. But for now, I believe there is hope for you." He said. The pair had turned to leave when Yone stopped. He reached for his hip and pulled a mask. It looked to be a dark red. The eyes were glowing a deep blue.
"What is it?" I asked. He tossed it at me.
"This mask, I want you to have it." He said. I caught it.
Why?" I asked, hesitant to reach for it.
Yone's gaze was hard, a reflection of his own inner struggle. "Because it was the weapon of a creature consumed by its darkness. Yet, I bent it to my will. This blade is now my tool, a reminder of what I can defeat. Perhaps it can be the same for you. We who have danced with the shadows...we know them better than most. Use the darkness within you, not to succumb, but to understand it. Become the weapon that cuts the very heart of darkness itself." He turned and left. Lillia waved at me and followed him.
"Good luck!" She shouted, skipping away. I watched them disappear into the darkness. I turned the mask over. I could feel there was something special. Something that called to me. But I couldn't figure out what it was. Perhaps it was meant to help me understand my past. Or maybe it was simply a gift. I didn't know, but I was glad to have met them.
I turned about, hoping to find my way back to the Placidium. As I began walking, something strange happened – the glowing lights that had seemed so random before…now felt like they were forming a path. It was subtle, as if the forest itself was guiding my footsteps. The Spirit of Ionia, the whispers had called it. Was this its doing? If so…maybe there was still hope for me, despite everything. With renewed determination, I followed the luminescent trail.
It took a few hours to make it back. It was morning when I arrived. The sun was rising, bathing the land in a golden glow. It was beautiful, and serene. A perfect scene of harmony. The one thing out of place was me. As the Placidium fell into view, the aches in my body became all that much apparent. I lumbered toward the gate, exhausted and worn. My mind was blank. My body was sore. My eyes were heavy.
"Ravik! Ravik!" Irelia called out. She ran towards me with a frantic expression on her face. Her arms wrapped around me. She squeezed tight, not letting go.
"Are you ok? What happened? Are you hurt?" She bombarded me with questions.
I was silent. I felt numb. Over her shoulder I could Karma and Brother Tenzin approaching. I could feel the guilt weighing heavily on me. But the overwhelming feeling of relief, of being home, of being safe, was even stronger.
"Irelia." I croaked.
"Yes?" She pulled away and stared into my eyes.
"I'm... sorry." I muttered.
She shook her head. "Don't be. We're just glad you're safe. Come, let us get you inside. You need rest." She guided me through the gate.
I recounted the events after I had ran. I told them about the deep rooted feelings of wanting to disappear, my meeting with these two individuals named Yone and Lillia, the mask, and how I made my way home.
"I'm sorry for running off like that. I... just didn't know what to do. All I know was that I needed to get away, and never come back. But when I was out there, all alone, the thought of hurting any of you... I felt like I couldn't come back. If I was going to die, at least it would be out there. Somewhere nobody knew me."
I paused for a moment, letting my words sink in. Karma looked down at me with sad eyes, while Tenzin nodded in understanding.
"However, even if I did die, who would have mourned me?"
The words stung as I spoke them. Nobody would miss me. Nobody would cry over my death. Nobody would care. It would have been better that way. I had only spent perhaps a week on Runeterra. Enough to be able to disappear and no one would know the cataclysm that was narrowly avoided.
"We would have." Karma said softly. "We still would."
Her words were genuine and warm.
"I don't deserve it. After what you've all done for me, you don't deserve to suffer because of me. I don't deserve to live." Tears fell again. Truthfully, I didn't want to die. The people I've met, the memories I've made, no matter how small, meant the world to me. But... the horrors I saw through the eyes of Yaavin, I... no. I can't drown in this nightmare alone.
"Karma. Tenzin. Everyone. You have all given me so much, and yet, all I have done is take. I can't accept your kindness and love. Not when I'm a monster. I believe it's time for me to leave. I have to find a way to prevent Yaavin's return."
"You are no monster, Ravik. You are a man with a kind heart and a gentle soul. Do not let the darkness in your mind cloud your judgment." Tenzin spoke. Their kindness was everything I could ask for. But their love was too dangerous. It was a risk, a risk I didn't want them to take.
"Please, let me go. It's for the best. For everyone's sake."
"Then we will come with you." Karma said.
"I... no. Please. If anything were to happen, if Yaavin took control, if... anything, I can't allow it." I argued. Karma nodded. She adjusted her robes and stood.
"If you will not allow us to accompany you, then at the very least, I'd like to prepare you for your journey."
"I... suppose that's fair. Thank you, Karma." I replied. She held a finger up.
"However, please allow me the favor of taking you to someone to meet. After you hear their words, we won't stop you." She said. I wanted to ask who this person was, but the fact that she was willing to let me leave was enough.
"Fine. Thank you." I smiled.
"Now, go clean yourself up. You've been through a lot. We will begin preparations." She commanded.
I bowed and left, heading towards the bathhouse. I can't say I didn't miss it, it was an oasis of relaxation. As I entered, the steam filled my lungs. It was a sensation I didn't realize how much I missed.
I cleaned myself up, washing away the filth and grime. The next day will be the end of my time in Ionia. It was a bittersweet feeling.
I had one more thing to do. One last thing.
"Ravik. Are you ready?" Karma asked, her voice calm and collected. I had hoisted the pack they gave me. They gave me plenty of provisions, I was more than grateful.
"Where are we going?" I asked.
"In your time with us, have you heard of the Kinkou Order?" Karma inquired.
The name rang a bell, but I didn't remember too much about it. "The name is familiar. But I can't remember what they are."
"They are a group of guardians tasked with keeping balance on Ionia. They are the eyes of the Spirit of Ionia, watching the world and protecting our land. They are a group of monks and ninjas who are highly trained." She explained.
"And you want me to go to them?" I followed up. She gave a soft chuckle.
"No. Their leader is the want I want you to meet. His title is the Eye of Twilight. He is able to see threats both in the physical and spiritual realms. He will be able to see your path."
"Why do you think so?" I asked.
"Because, Ravik, the Eye is the one who is able to see the true potential of the people of this world. His goal is to keep balance in the world, no matter the cost."
"The cost? What kind of cost? How much are you willing to give up for something like that?"
Karma's smile faded, her expression growing serious. "Whatever it takes, Ravik. Whatever it takes."
I had no idea how powerful the Eye was. All I could do was trust that he would help me find the answers I sought. Karma, some monks, and I were walking out of the gate when I heard someone call out my name.
"Wait!"
Irelia ran towards us, her armor clanging with each determined step. The blades orbiting her shimmered in the fading sunlight, a silent testament to the battles she had endured.
"You're really leaving." It was less a question, more an accusation laden with familiar exhaustion - the weight of responsibility she carried after witnessing Ionia's near-destruction. "I can't let you face this alone. Not when…"
Her gaze fell upon the mask hanging ominously from my hip, a flicker of unease crossing her face. The mask pulsed with a sickly green light, barely perceptible yet undeniably sinister.
"The Spirit guides my hand, Ravik," she continued, her voice resolute. "I may be young, but I will NOT stand by while Ionia's fate hangs in the balance."
"Irelia..." I trailed off, unsure of what to say. "Thank you. But... this is my journey. Mine alone. I don't want you getting hurt."
Her eyes narrowed, her determination unwavering. "It wasn't a request, Ravik. And you're going to listen."
Karma sighed, her eyes mirroring the weariness etched on Irelia's face. "Irelia, I understand your concern. The darkness within Ravik... it mirrored a shadow I myself wrestled with not long ago." A flicker of sadness crossed her usually stoic features.
"Then perhaps he needs someone who doesn't shy from darkness, but embraces it to control it. Someone like the Kinkou Order," Irelia countered. "I've heard whispers of their work with a dangerous criminal… one who found a twisted form of enlightenment through their methods. If they could reach such a broken soul, perhaps they could help Ravik too."
Karma paused, a flicker of doubt clouding her expression. "Irelia, the Kinkou are a secretive order. They do not take outsiders lightly. Would they even agree to train Ravik?"
After a moment of contemplation, Karma nodded. "Perhaps the Eye's guidance can be supplemented by traditional methods. I will reach out to the Kinkou and see if they might consider your suggestion."
A spark of relief flared in Irelia's eyes, but it was quickly tempered by pragmatism.
"Very well," Karma conceded, her voice tight. "You may accompany Ravik. But remember, the Eye's vision must be honored."
Irelia avoided eye contact, her gaze fixed on a distant point. A muscle twitches in her jaw, betraying the inner turmoil.
I felt a surge of gratitude towards Irelia. Despite my own reservations, her unexpected support was a welcome respite amidst the turmoil swirling within me. "Thank you, Irelia. I appreciate your trust." I smiled. But she didn't return it. Instead, she gave a curt nod. "Don't mistake duty for kindness, Ravik. My blades are sworn to Ionia, and you…you may be the only way to prevent its destruction. For now." The threat was clear in her voice, her earlier warmth completely vanished. She turned away, as if the sight of me was too much to bear. The fire had dimmed in her eyes. Disappointment flickered across her face, a silent echo of the bond I was so determined to sever. A pang of regret stabbed at me, but I steeled myself. It was for the best.
I shouldered the pack, and adjusted the mask on my hip. It thrummed with an unsettling energy, a constant reminder of the darkness within me. Karma and Irelia waited by the temple gate, along with a handful of monks. The sun had yet to crest the horizon, painting the sky in a wash of soft pinks and violets.
"Ready, Ravik?" Karma's voice was gentle, yet resolute. A strange mix, like a flower growing amidst cracked stones.
"As I'll ever be," I managed a wry smile. Irelia didn't look amused. Her eyes were narrowed, fixed on a point far beyond me. Duty hardened her features, draining away any hint of the warmth that had surprised me before.
We set off, the path before us winding through dense forests and across rolling hills. The beauty of Ionia was undeniable, a tapestry of vibrant life that seemed to sing with the spirit of the land. Lush foliage shimmered with dew, the air laden with the scent of exotic blossoms. It was a world teeming with magic and wonder, a stark contrast to the storm that raged inside me.
As the days turned into nights, Ionia revealed its hidden edges. The playful rustle of leaves in the wind took on a sinister tone. The once harmonious birdsongs became shrill and discordant. Once, in the twilight, I glimpsed flickering lights amongst the trees, their ethereal glow more menacing than inviting. Irelia, ever vigilant, explained they were will-o'-the-wisps, spirits said to lure the unwary to their doom. My skin prickled, the legends of Azakana all too vivid in my mind.
We encountered other dangers too. Noxian Shriekers, with their razor beaks and blood-curdling cries, harried us from the skies. Their relentless attacks were a grim reminder of the constant struggle even Ionia endured. I watched Irelia fight, her blades flashing like silver meteors. The way she moved, so graceful yet lethal, was mesmerizing. It reminded me that she was more than just duty and determination – she was a warrior honed by the fires of this beautiful, unforgiving land.
Nights brought their own unsettling beauty. We stumbled upon fields of bioluminescent Spirit Flowers, their otherworldly glow painting the darkness in hues of ghostly blue and green. Irelia warned me against touching their delicate petals. Legends claimed a single touch could induce hallucinations or even invite the possession of vengeful spirits. I shivered, the weight of my own internal demon feeling even heavier.
One day, the path led us to a crumbling shrine hidden deep in the wilderness. Moss and ivy cloaked ancient statues depicting fearsome battles against grotesque beings. Were these images from forgotten wars, or were they warnings of horrors yet to come? My thoughts turned to Yaavin, and the destruction my power held.
As we drew closer to the Temple of Koeshin, the land itself seemed to shift in sympathy with my growing unease. The once vibrant colors muted, as if the Spirit of Ionia was holding its breath in anticipation. The air grew still and heavy. It felt like the world was waiting, watching to see what would emerge from the meeting with the Eye of Twilight. Would it be a broken monster, or the sliver of hope I desperately clung to?
As we approached the temple, an ancient structure nestled atop a winding path, I felt a presence watching us. My eyes darted about, searching for the source. A rustle in the bushes startled me, but it was only a squirrel, busily gathering acorns for winter. Yet, as I turned, figures materialized from the shadows, their forms blending seamlessly with the forest.
Some were…small. Childlike, yet the energy radiating from them was anything but innocent. Their robes were a deep woodland green, and the half masks covering their faces revealed enormous, expressive eyes shimmering with an unnerving golden light. But most peculiar of all was their appearance – pointed ears, furred faces, a nimbleness that felt more animal than human.
One of them stepped forward, its diminutive size belying its commanding presence. "Who dares enter the grounds of the Kinkou Order?" Its voice was high-pitched, yet laced with an underlying rasp that hinted at age far beyond its appearance. Irelia bristled, but before she could speak, Karma moved forward. The creature's gaze flickered to her, and the air crackled with barely contained power. There was recognition in its eyes, not fear.
"Karma. We did not expect you," it said, tilting its head slightly. "Come, it is not safe to linger here." The creature gestured, and the Kinkou silently parted, allowing us passage up the winding path to the temple.
My head spun. These creatures were nothing like anything I'd ever encountered. What were they? I followed closely behind Karma, no longer led by the monks, but by one of the strange creatures. My bewilderment battled with a flicker of hope. Perhaps, in this ancient place shrouded in secrecy, there were answers I desperately needed. Stepping through the massive doors felt like crossing a threshold into another world. The sunlight filtering through the high, narrow windows was barely enough to pierce the gloom. My eyes struggled to adjust, leaving the details of the chamber shrouded in flickering shadows. Yet, I sensed its vastness, the way the silence seemed to expand outward, echoing with a sense of timelessness.
Ancient tapestries adorned the walls, their faded threads depicting scenes both beautiful and unsettling – masked warriors dancing amidst vibrant blossoms, shadowed figures locked in combat against spectral beasts. The air held a subtle tang of incense, mingled with the scent of old stone and something I couldn't quite place…perhaps the lingering essence of ancient rituals.
A soft, rhythmic chanting drifted through the chamber, the source hidden from sight. It pulsed like a heartbeat beneath the stillness, adding a layer of mysticism to the atmosphere. I glanced at the monks. They remained impassive, their familiarity with this place in stark contrast to my wide-eyed wonder. It felt as though we were no longer in Ionia, but a realm existing between the real and the imagined.
Finally, my eyes adjusted enough to discern a figure seated in the center of the chamber. Shrouded in deep shadows, only the faintest outline was visible - a hunched form, radiating a quiet intensity. This must be the Eye of Twilight. Yet, despite the imposing title, there was an almost unnerving stillness to the figure, as if it was less a living person and more a conduit for some ancient, unseen force.
I swallowed hard, the silence pressing down on me.
"Master Shen, I hope my missive arrived with just enough time." Karma's voice was steady, yet I sensed a tremor of tension beneath her calm exterior.
The figure stood, his form showing the entire story. His height and build were unremarkable, but the presence he exuded sent a shiver down my spine. A mask covered most of his face – a smooth, metallic surface broken only by narrow slits revealing eyes that glowed with an eerie, ethereal light. The same light seemed to shimmer around his form, blurring the lines between man and shadow. He was the Eye of Twilight. No… he was more. Even without knowing his name, I felt a deep, instinctual familiarity that was both terrifying and strangely comforting.
Shen said nothing. He simply inclined his head, a slight gesture that held more weight than any outburst. His gaze settled on me, and the air crackled with an unspoken intensity that made my skin prickle. The runes on my skin pulsed, a subtle yet undeniable reaction to the energy radiating from him.
"This is the one you spoke of?" Shen's voice emerged as a chilling whisper, his mask amplifying its unnatural resonance. "The one who bears the mark?"
Karma nodded, her posture stiffening slightly. "Indeed. His name is Ravik, and his…condition…is unlike anything we at the Placidium have ever encountered." She gestured towards me. "It mirrors a tale from the ancient texts."
The way she spoke that word – ancient – carried a weight that hung in the chamber long after it had faded. Shen didn't move, his form an unsettlingly still silhouette. His glowing eyes remained locked on me, and I felt utterly dissected, laid bare before an unseen power.
"Tell me, Ravik," Shen's voice cut through the silence, "how much do you know of your origins? Of the darkness that dwells within you?" He left his post and approached the group, but his eyes never left mine. I had never felt this mixture of fear and awe before. It was as if the very fabric of reality was bending to his will.
I shifted uncomfortably, the weight of his gaze almost unbearable. "I... I don't know much. Just that I was a fragment of a being known as Yaavin. He was a being of pure destruction, and he wanted to bring chaos and ruin to Runeterra. He wants me to unite his fragments for his resurrection. He is the nightmare that plagues me. The reason I'm here." I could feel the tears welling up. I tried my hardest to hold them back, but they fell anyway.
Shen didn't flinch. His hands wrapped behind him.
"Long ago, there was an ancient being that came to this world. His origins are unknown, even to this day, but he brought ruin to all that fell in his path. There are beings of celestial origins that avoided his destruction, but they knew better than to try and confront him. In the end, they had to shatter his essence and cast him out, back to whence he came."
My head was spinning. A part of me wanted to run away and hide. To escape from the burden that weighed on my soul. But another part, a deeper, darker part, craved the knowledge that Shen possessed.
"What... what happened after?" I stammered, my voice trembling. Shen's eyes narrowed, the glow intensifying.
"Yaavin had been split into three pieces of his essence. The Mind, the Soul, and the Body. The celestials had hoped that such a thing would be enough to keep him at bay, but it was only a matter of time until his fragments returned. However, they did not all return at once. Where they are, none can say. Except one piece. The body."
The body. The words echoed in my mind. That was me. I was the body.
"Me." I gave the answer he already knew. The answer that Yaavin himself gave.
Shen nodded. "Yes. You are the vessel. The one who bears the darkest part of him. His power is great. Too great for this world to handle. And if he is allowed to reunite with the other fragments, it will be the end for this world."
He voiced the feelings I held inside. The feelings that made me run. "I... I don't want anyone else to suffer. If you know a way to stop him, please, tell me." I begged.
"You are his weakness." Shen answered. "You are the only one who can defeat him. The piece of him to turn against the other pieces. But tell me, do you feel the call of destruction? The pull to bring ruin to all around you?" He asked. The room was a tomb, the silence pressing in upon me. My heartbeat thundered in my ears, a relentless drumbeat that underscored the weight of his question. Something dark and primal stirred within me, an echo of Yaavin's hunger for chaos. I recoiled, terrified of what I felt. But before I could answer, the cold steel of a blade pierced the fragile quiet.
"Answer his question. But I'd think really hard on what that is." The woman's voice was sharp, laced with a hint of playful cruelty. A ripple of energy surged through the chamber. Karma stepped forward, a subtle shift from the composed monk to the protector. "Stand down," her voice was low, resonant with a power that had been carefully restrained until now. "This is not the way of the Kinkou."
Irelia's reaction was far less controlled. With a snarl of rage, she launched herself forward, blades flashing as they carved through the air. The movement was instinctual, a warrior's visceral response to danger. Unlike Karma, she seemed more concerned with eliminating the threat than understanding it.
The woman was fast, impossibly so. She released me with a laugh, her form dissolving into wisps of shadow before Irelia's blades could find their mark. Moments later, she reappeared several paces away, her stance relaxed, a mocking smile playing on her lips.
The air crackled with barely contained power. Even Shen, who had been an unsettling stillness until now, shifted. The mask tilted slightly, the glowing eyes seeming to bore into the very essence of the newcomer.
My head spun. They were going to kill me. The Eye of Twilight was supposed to provide answers, a way to control the darkness within me. Now, a new, unknown danger had emerged. The Kinkou, those I had begun to trust, seemed fractured, no longer a united front against my inner demons.
"You were not invited, Akali." Shen remarked. His voice was calm, yet there was an undercurrent of irritation. The woman - Akali - let out a snort. "Well, you're not the only one who can use the shadows."
I had no idea what she meant, but Shen seemed to know. His hands clenched behind his back. "Leave us. This is a matter of the Kinkou. You are not welcome here."
Akali raised an eyebrow. "And what exactly are the Kinkou doing?" She asked. Her eyes met mine. I've seen those eyes before. Eyes that were assessing. It reminded me of the man that led me to the Placidium.
"Akali!" Karma snapped, her tone edged with steel. "This is not your affair. We have matters to discuss. Matters of great importance."
Akali didn't move. But Akali didn't move. Instead, she crossed her arms, a gesture that was both nonchalant and a direct rejection of their authority. "And this..." she gestured loosely towards me, "is that matter of great importance?"
Her words hung in the air, a challenge to the Kinkou, the Order, and me. I could feel the tension building, a palpable energy that crackled like lightning. Karma took a step forward, her body radiating barely contained power. But before she could speak, Irelia stepped between them, her blades flashing a warning.
"Akali, you fought alongside me during the invasion. You saw what kind of destruction followed Noxus. You understand the dangers of unchecked power." Irelia's voice was strained, her posture mirroring Karma's tense readiness. "You may not trust the Kinkou, but you should trust that this…this is a threat even you can't ignore."
Akali's gaze remained fixed on me. A flicker of…something…crossed her face. Not amusement this time, but a keen interest, like a predator scenting prey. "You're right, I don't trust the Kinkou. Their precious balance is nothing more than an excuse for inaction." She paused, her eyes flickering between me and the others. "But I do trust you, Irelia. So I'll ask you again: what exactly are the Kinkou doing here?"
Irelia didn't flinch. I looked between the two. The tension was so thick, it felt like a physical force. I wanted to say something. But I couldn't. My body was frozen in place, unable to move. It felt as if the very air itself was holding me hostage. These people were trying to find out what to do with my life. But I should know better than to think that I had a choice in that matter.
"Karma," Shen finally spoke, his voice cutting through the tension. "This is a matter of great importance. The Eye must speak with this... fragment. Akali, if you wish to understand the dangers we face, then you will let us speak without interruption."
Akali's eyes narrowed, but she didn't argue. Her gaze swept over the assembled group, as if considering her options. After a few tense moments, she gave a slight nod. "Very well. But I will be listening."
The Eye's glowing eyes didn't shift. Instead, he seemed to be assessing Akali, his posture radiating a subtle shift of power. It felt like a silent test, one that she seemed more than willing to meet.
"Shen." Karma's voice broke the silence, her tone holding an undercurrent of impatience. "If we could continue?"
Shen turned his attention back towards me, the glowing eyes seeming to bore into my very soul. Then he did something unexpected. He removed the mask he wore. What was underneath was not a monster or a terrifying being. It was a human.
The face beneath the mask was surprisingly young, barely older than me. His features were strong and handsome, but it was the eyes that held my attention. My eyes widened in shock.
"Y... You're the man who found me when I first came to Runeterra." I choked out the words, my voice thick with disbelief. The man who had given me provisions, led me to safety...he was the leader of this secretive order? My stomach churned. Had this been his plan all along?
He didn't answer, his expression unreadable. But as he gazed at me, a hint of something flickered across his face. Not the kindness I remembered, but a cold appraisal, as if I were a puzzle he was determined to solve...and potentially dismantle.
Shen's gaze held mine for a long moment. "The spirits whisper of an imbalance," he finally spoke, his voice low and measured. "A fragment, torn from a being of immense power. I found you, lost and adrift, drawn by this… anomaly." He gestured vaguely towards me.
"The Placidium," he continued, "houses those who walk the path of balance. Here, we hoped you might find… answers. Recover your memories. Perhaps even learn to control whatever power stirs within you."
His words were cryptic, offering little explanation for his actions or my situation. But a sliver of hope flickered within me. Answers. That's all I craved.
"But what if I don't remember?" I whispered, the fear creeping back in. "What if I can't control it?"
Shen's expression remained unreadable. "The path to balance is never easy," he said simply. "But it is a path we must all walk. The fate of Runeterra may very well depend on it." The others watched as he continued to speak.
"Your life is not spared, Ravik. I cannot render judgement until you understand yourself. Would it be fair to say that you have?"
"Yes." I answered. I know what I am. And I had despaired over it. This mask on my hip was a reminder that the darkness within me can be a weapon used to repel the darkness Yaavin used to spread. I knew what my purpose in life now was.
"Very well. Then, before the eyes of the Kinkou, tell us. What do you seek?" Shen asked.
I felt a strange sense of calm washing over me. This was the moment of truth.
I was a piece of Yaavin.
I was the body that would unite his mind and soul.
Yaavin would bring cataclysm to Runeterra if he returned.
But if I was his weakness, then I had to stop him.
My answer was simple. "I seek... redemption."
Silence.
A sudden, deafening silence.
All eyes were on me.
I took a deep breath, steadying myself. "I want to redeem myself for the sins of the past. I want to make sure that this world doesn't suffer because of what I am. I may be only a piece, but I shoulder the burden, nonetheless. If the cost of redemption is my life, then so be it. But if the cost is too high, then... then I will leave, and never return. But if it's within my power, I want to do something with the darkness within me. I want to make sure that Runeterra continues to live on. I may be a fragment, but I still have a will. And that will is not the will of destruction. My will is the will for balance."
More silence.
Shen stared at me, his eyes unreadable. He closed them and nodded. He returned to his spot where he had found him initially.
"A body may be simply a shell for the mind and soul to exist in. But the piece that guides one forward is not the mind or soul, it is the heart. If you have a will, a heart, then the darkness within you will have no choice but to obey." Shen answered.
A wave of relief swept over me. He believed me. He believed in me.
"Thank you," I whispered. "Thank you for giving me a chance."
Shen nodded, his expression unreadable. "But your journey is only beginning, Ravik. You understand that the other pieces that exist are still out there. The other two fragments. And the longer you remain apart, the more powerful the call will become. If you can't find them, they will find you."
He was right. Yaavin was calling me. He had told me himself. If I don't find them, they will find me. The amount of destruction he'd cause just to have me was terrifying.
"Then I will find them," I said with determination.
Shen's gaze remained steady. "That is good. You understand the urgency. However, your journey must also be one of balance. The darkness within you…it is formidable. You must be prepared to face it. And that is something only you can do, Ravik."
"I understand," I said, though doubt gnawed at me. How do you face darkness that feels like your very essence?
"I cannot teach you how to overcome your inner demons," Shen continued, his voice laced with a hint of empathy. "But perhaps, with time and training, you can awaken the balance within yourself. That is the path of the Kinkou, the path of the Eye."
I nodded, the weight of his words sinking in. It wasn't a promise of victory, but an offer of guidance on a treacherous road.
"I'd like to leave as soon as possible," I said, the urgency pressing hard against my ribs. "There is no telling when the other pieces will make their move. And I would rather not have them find me unprepared."
Shen nodded in agreement. "Yes. That is wise. Your senses will be heightened, but also chaotic. It will make finding the others easier...and make you a target."
Karma stepped forward. "You have found your path, Ravik. We are glad to have given you this…clarity. However, before you leave, I would like to speak with Shen alone."
I nodded, understanding my dismissal. As the two walked away, I turned to Irelia. Since Akali's arrival, she had been silent, her expression unreadable. Her anger at my existence was clear before, but now that I had voiced my intent, was that enough?
"What are you thinking?" I asked, hesitant but needing closure. Despite our short time together, her connection to me felt genuine, and in this strange world, that was a tether I desperately clung to.
Irelia uncrossed her arms, a slow, deliberate movement. Her gaze swept over me, taking in the raw power that simmered beneath my skin, a power I barely understood myself. "I'm thinking," she finally said, her voice cool and measured, "that facing the darkness within is easier said than done, Ravik."
Her words were a stark reminder of the reality I now faced. No grand pronouncements would erase the doubts, the fear that gnawed at me. "I know," I admitted, the weight of her gaze heavy upon me.
"And the others," she continued, her voice dropping to a low murmur, "they won't be waiting with open arms. They'll see you as a threat, a weapon to be controlled or destroyed."
A shiver ran down my spine. The memory of fleeing the Placidium, the terror of believing myself a monster, was still fresh. Irelia's words echoed those fears. "Then I'll have to convince them otherwise," I said, my voice gaining strength with each word. "There has to be another way."
Irelia didn't reply, but a flicker of something, perhaps grudging respect, crossed her features. "Perhaps," she conceded finally. "But make no mistake, Ravik. This path you choose... it won't be easy. It will test you in ways you can't even imagine."
Her words were a challenge, a warning, and a sliver of…hope? I met her gaze, a newfound determination burning in my chest. "I know," I said again, this time with conviction. "But I'm not alone anymore. I have you, and…" I hesitated, unsure if I dared to voice the name.
"Shen," she finished for me, a hint of a wry smile playing on her lips. "Don't mistake his offer for blind trust, Ravik. He'll train you, that much is certain. But whether he truly believes in your redemption… that remains to be seen."
Her words were a bucket of cold water, a stark reminder of the precariousness of my situation. But even with that knowledge, a spark of defiance ignited within me. I wouldn't win them over with empty promises. I would prove myself, one step, one choice at a time.
"He meant that? He'd train me?" I asked her.
"Yes." Irelia nodded. "You'll have to follow the path of the Kinkou. The balance. It won't be easy. It will test you in ways you can't imagine. But if you're willing to walk the path... then Shen will guide you."
"Or," Akali slid in beside us, "You can learn from me. I'm sure I could teach you more than Shen ever could." Akali smirked at the Eye's back.
Akali turned towards me, her gaze assessing. She radiated power and confidence, an intriguing blend of danger and seduction. "So, Ravik. You're some sort of monster. You don't look too monstrous to me." Akali said with a smirk on her face.
I felt my face heat up at her words. She was teasing me, trying to get a reaction out of me. I took a deep breath and steadied myself.
"I appreciate the offer, but I don't know you. And quite frankly I don't trust you, since you did put a blade to my neck." I said calmly. I looked into her eyes, trying to see if she was serious or not. Her expression was unreadable, but I sensed a hint of amusement in her eyes.
"Fair enough," Akali shrugged, seemingly unconcerned by my rejection. "Just know that the offer stands, if you get tired of the old man's training." She winked at me. I frowned, unsure how to respond. Before I could say anything else, Shen approached us again, his face once again hidden behind the metallic mask.
"Ravik," Shen's voice cut through the chatter of the temple's inhabitants. "Karma and I have come to an agreement. If you so wish, you may accompany us here at the Temple of Koeshin. Irelia as well, if she is still adamant in joining your journey." He said. That's right, she wanted to come. But, now that she knows my path leaves Ionia, would she still come?
Irelia stared at me with her usual intensity. "I have not changed my mind. A danger as destructive as the Ruination, or even more so, needs to be stopped." Irelia said in response to the Eye of Twilight's questioning gaze.
Shen nodded slowly, his mask impassive. I could see the contemplation in his face. It seems like I would get to keep Irelia around for a while longer. I was surprised by how happy I was about that fact.
I turned to face her. "Are you sure about this? I have no idea what awaits me in the rest of Runeterra. And, well, the only person I'd be able to trust is you." I said honestly. "I mean, I haven't even known you for a week yet and you're already willing to risk your life for me. Why?"
Irelia regarded me for a moment, her face unreadable.
"I'm not doing this for you. Ionia is my home, and I'll protect it from any threat." Her words held a hint of steel.
I was taken aback by the intensity in her voice. "Right. I guess that makes sense," I replied, somewhat awkwardly. "Still, I appreciate it, Irelia." I gave her a small smile.
She studied me for a moment longer, then nodded. Her expression softened slightly, but she still didn't return the smile. "You're welcome," she said simply.
"Ahem!" Akali cleared her throat exaggeratedly, drawing our attention back to her.
"You lot forget that I was going to join you," Akali said as she walked over to Shen and stood next to him with crossed arms, glaring at both of us.
"You are?" I said with genuine surprise. "I thought you weren't part of the order? What do you have to gain by coming with us?" I asked her suspiciously.
Akali grinned mischievously, obviously enjoying my bewilderment. "I'm not part of this order, that much is true," she confirmed. "And yes, I have ulterior motives. But before we get into that, why don't we start off with a proper introduction?" She extended her hand toward me, her smile turning into a cocky smirk. "The name's Akali."
I blinked, taken aback by the unexpected gesture. I hesitantly took her hand, my skin tingling as her palm slid over mine. This was the person who was ready to take my life not too long ago. Yet, as she shook my hand with surprising strength, I felt a surge of excitement. Yes, she was dangerous, unpredictable. But she was also intriguing, mysterious. And despite all odds, I couldn't help but feel a little flattered. But then it happened again. The runes on my back began to glow brightly, stardust-like mana surrounding us. Darkness soon followed.
My senses exploded. A scream ripped through the air - guttural, filled with pain. Flashes of burning villages, a masked figure wielding twin blades, their edges dripping crimson. The metallic scent of blood mixed with the tang of ozone. Then, a young girl, ragged and defiant, rising from the ashes.
A harsh training ground, the crack of wood against flesh echoing louder than birdsong. A young Akali, bruised and bleeding, pushed beyond her limits, the sting of each failure fueling her determination.
Noxian soldiers, their laughter echoing as flames consumed a humble village. Akali, smaller and less skilled, her eyes blazing with a chilling mix of fury and despair.
Clandestine missions, shadows her allies. The weight of lives taken, not in open battle, but swift, brutal strikes. A flicker of revulsion buried deep under the mask of a necessary weapon.
A furious clash of wills with Shen, not swords, but cutting words. Akali's voice shaking with frustration as she questioned the Kinkou's inaction, the doubt that gnawed beneath her unwavering facade.
A gasp tore from my lungs, forcing my eyes open. Akali had wrenched her hand away, her face a mask of shock. I stumbled backward, the fragments of her memories searing through my mind – a whirlwind of violence and loss.
"What…what did you DO?!" Akali's voice was raw, the usual mocking edge replaced by pure fury. I had seen her memories. I had forgotten that I was able to do so. It allowed me to connect with Karma and Irelia. But the fury on Akali's face, this person I just met, told me that I saw things no one was allowed to see. This was a woman who hated being vulnerable and just opened up to me in a way she wasn't used to. I had crossed a line with this.
"I didn't mean to," I tried to apologize but my voice was strained by the effort of containing the foreign emotions coursing through me. My entire body shuddered, fighting against the urge to double over in pain. I clutched my chest with one hand and the wall with the other to prevent myself from falling over.
Akali's expression contorted into a snarl, her hands clenching into fists so tightly, her knuckles turned white. Before I could react, I felt a strike across my face, then the ground soon after. A sharp, stabbing pain spread through my jaw as I tasted blood from my bitten lip. Akali had gotten on top and I felt the familiar blade against my neck. Irelia had moved to stand next to us, one of her blades drawn and pointed towards Akali. Irelia's glare was full of anger. "Get off him, Akali. Now."
"What was that?! He was in my head, saw...things that no one should ever see." Akali's voice dripped with venom. "Why aren't you asking him what he did?" Akali demanded. Irelia didn't hesitate.
"He's done it to me too." She answered without looking at me, still staring daggers at Akali. "Now get off him."
Akali was clearly angry, but there was a different emotion too. There was sadness behind her eyes. Just seeing this brought back all the memories I had seen. Her father killed, her training, all of the killings she's done in the name of Ionia. Akali quickly pulled her dagger away and stepped back.
Akali's expression shifted from fury to a mixture of confusion and disbelief. "...What? Are you saying knows he everything about your past? How do you-"
"Not everything," Irelia interrupted, finally letting out a breath that she seemed to have been holding in for a very long time. "Just flashes and images."
Akali's eyes narrowed, her gaze switching between Irelia and me. After a moment, her features softened.
"Fine, I won't push it," she muttered as she started to walk away from us. "If he pulls that stunt on me again, though, he'll regret it. Learn to control it, or I'll control it for you." She warned as she turned around to leave the main hall. Shen made his way over to us, his gait measured and silent, even with his armor.
"That will have to be enough for today. I believe you're in need of first aid. Let me tend to your injuries, Ravik, and I can talk about our plans for tomorrow," Shen said. I nodded, grateful for the reprieve. Shen guided me to the medical wing. It was nothing more than a simple room with a bed, a chair, and a table that had a few boxes of supplies on it. I sat down on the wooden chair and Shen handed me a cup with something inside. I drank the liquid and it felt refreshing and warm. I leaned on the armrest for support while Shen went to the box on the table and retrieved some bandages.
"This may be uncomfortable," Shen said.
The process didn't hurt too bad, but having someone dab at your face with a wet cloth tends to not feel amazing. The blood I was coughing up was concerning, but I felt like the effects would wear off soon enough.
"You must steel your mind. I imagine you won't be staying long. The training you'll undergo will ensure survival. You may not have the privilege of returning," Shen spoke calmly as he worked to clean the blood.
"I understand."
Shen finished wrapping up my lip, then left the room. I had learned not to question him, but my curiosity got the better of me.
"Why didn't you kill me when you found me? You knew what I was, and yet you gave me a chance. Why?" I asked. Shen closed his eyes for a moment, then let out a sigh.
"It is my duty to balance the darkness within those who threaten Runeterra." He said as he reentered the room. I stood up, now healed, thanks to my own regeneration and whatever magical drink Shen gave me. "So you have done this before. Balancing dark powers."
"Yes," he replied solemnly. "Balance is not eradicating evil in the name of justice. It is bringing two forces of equal measure to maintain the harmony of our world. Evil will always exist, Ravik. To fight it is a fool's errand, to destroy it, a coward's lie. Your path is difficult, but necessary. Only you can bring balance to Yaavin's mind and soul."
His words struck a chord in me. Only I can balance his mind and soul. A small part of me wished it was easy, just kill me and he will be gone forever. But if this path is the right one, if there is even a possibility that I can stop Yaavin, then I must follow it. Even if that path leads me to the brink of death. "I... understand." I said simply, nodding my head towards the Eye of twilight in affirmation. Shen bowed his head slightly towards me, acknowledging my resolve.
"Good. Your journey shall begin tomorrow morning. Rest." He said as he began walking towards the entrance of the room. I sat back down on the chair as Shen went back to wherever he was before, leaving me alone with my thoughts.
The training grounds were a symphony of exertion. Birdsong was overpowered by the rhythmic thwack of wood against leather pads, grunts of focused effort, and the occasional frustrated curse. A hazy layer of dawn light lent a surreal quality to the scene, blurring the edges of the stone courtyard into a soft, golden glow.
I stumbled, nearly losing my footing as Irelia's practice sword connected solidly with my forearm. A dull ache throbbed through my arm, but a flicker of pride sparked within me. A month ago, I wouldn't have deflected that strike at all.
"Focus, Ravik," Irelia's voice snapped me back to the present. She circled me, her movements deceptively fluid beneath her simple tunic. "This isn't about brute force. It's about flow, about anticipating your opponent."
I swiped the sweat from my brow and nodded, readjusting my grip on the bladed tonfas. My initial enthusiasm for weapons training had waned after days of relentless drills. Turns out, the Kinkou didn't just hand out fancy weapons and let you swing them around. There were stances, footwork, techniques – an endless list of ways to trip yourself up even before an actual enemy threw a punch.
Still, it was a welcome distraction from the other, more unsettling aspect of my training – the meditations with Shen. Images of him, brow furrowed, foreheads nearly touching in some strange attempt at mental connection, sent an involuntary shiver down my spine. While there was an undeniable stillness to him, a well of ancient wisdom contained within his human form, his methods felt like an invasion.
As if sensing my wandering thoughts, Irelia struck again, a swift flurry of blows that forced me to focus. And it was then that it happened. My runes flared, the familiar warmth surging through my back. My vision blurred, replaced by a flash of Irelia from an unfamiliar angle, her eyes narrowed with a mix of determination and...was that fear?
The memory faded as quickly as it came, leaving behind the dull clang of our training weapons echoing in the courtyard. I blinked, disoriented. Irelia regarded me with a raised eyebrow.
"Did you just…see something?" Her tone was cautious, a sharp contrast to her usual certainty.
"I… I think so." I stammered, glancing around the courtyard. Somewhere high in the shadows, I felt a prickling sensation down my spine. Akali, always observing. Was that my memory, or one she triggered on purpose? The thought made my skin crawl.
Frustration flitted across Irelia's face, quickly replaced by her usual stoic resolve. "We need to tell Shen," she said, voice firm. A sliver of worry tightened her lips.
My stomach churned with uncertainty. Each glimpse into another person's mind, each attempt at controlled meditation, revealed just how unstable my powers were. Was I a student, an asset…or simply a ticking time bomb waiting to be contained? The question clung to me like the morning's humidity, heavy and unanswered.
Training had ended and so did my time here. A month, after knowing what was out there, was too long. I wasn't ready, but I had to be. The other pieces were out there, searching. Not knowing where or what they could be capable of, I knew I needed to prepare. For all of their sakes, not just mine.
I packed up my meager belongings into a backpack. The clothing Shen gave me to replace my torn ones, along with rations and other essential items for travel. As I set the backpack down, Irelia and Shen walked in. They looked like they were arguing.
"I cannot force them to stay if they wish to depart." Shen said, his voice calm.
"He needs to learn control," Irelia insisted. "We're close. We can't just..." Her voice trailed off as she realized I was standing in the room. A sudden awkwardness hung between us. I could feel Shen's gaze boring into me. "Have you packed your belongings?" he asked. His voice betrayed no emotion.
"Yes," I said. "Thank you for allowing me to train here." I bowed my head in respect. Shen returned my gesture with a nod. The moment felt oddly final, as if this would be the last time I saw him.
"From here, you'll be taken south where you will board a boat and sail for Bilgewater." Shen continued. He gestured to a small scroll on the desk, neatly rolled up and tied with a piece of cord. "Your map and directions. Though I expect you know well how to find your way. As for you guide-"
"I'm already here." Akali emerged from the shadows of the corner of the room. "Ready to get moving?" She said in a mocking tone. There was a brief moment of silence, then she sighed, her shoulders slumping.
"Look, I know I avoided you, tossed shuriken at you, and called you some names while I did it...but I want to help," she admitted grudgingly. Then, turning towards Irelia with a defiant tilt of her chin, she added, "This is bigger than whatever bad blood we have between us." Her gaze flickered back to me, a predatory gleam in her eyes.
"But let's be clear," she said, her voice low and dangerous. "I'm not doing this for YOU, fragment boy. Ionia needs all the power it can get. If there's a way to control you, I'll find it. Till then..." she shrugged, a chillingly casual gesture, "consider yourself my temporary investment."
I swallowed, acutely aware of how little I actually knew this woman. This deadly assassin who now held my fate in her hands.
"Akali's proven her skills. Her instincts have kept her alive," Shen affirmed. "There are few who could guide you better through Bilgewater and the Serpent Isles. If you accept her assistance, she will accompany you."
He made it sound like a choice, but we both knew it wasn't.
"Fine," I muttered, the word bitter on my tongue. "I suppose I don't have many options."
Akali smirked. "That you don't. Now, you see ONE flicker of a memory you weren't invited to, and I'm leaving you to rot in whatever gutter you fall in."
Her blunt honesty, however terrifying, felt like a strange relief. At least I knew where I stood.
"I'll hold you to it," I replied, trying to match her intensity. It wasn't quite acceptance, but it would have to do.
Akali's expression hardened, her eyes narrowing with steely determination. "Good. Then let's get this disaster show on the road."
And that was it. No more questions. I watched as Irelia nodded her head at Akali, as if in approval of her offer. After, we were on our way south.
I thought back to the person I was a little over a month ago. Lost, yes, yearning for a home I'd forgotten. The few days of quiet amnesia had been a cruel gift. Ignorance, for a while, had felt like peace. But now, burdened by power, shadowed by two guides with their own complex motives, I longed for that simple desperation.
What did I want? Redemption? To wield this power like a sword for good? Or darker still, did vengeance burn in me now, echoing Yaavin's own destructive rage? The answers swirled in my head, as murky as the harbor waters below.
One stark truth cut through the fog: Only I could stop Yaavin. The weight of that settled over me, heavier than any pack. It was a vow, forged in the training ground, amidst visions of Akali's pain and Irelia's unwavering determination. They stood a few paces away, their contrasting demeanors a stark reminder of the precarious path I now walked.
We reached the shore, a weathered boat bobbing against a weathered dock. The sea stretched before us, a vast expanse whispering of unknown dangers and the fragments of a shattered being. Despite the uncertainty, I wasn't alone. For now, at least.
Akali's smirk cut through my reverie. "Ready to see what kind of mess you've gotten yourself into, fragment boy?" Her usual bravado couldn't fully mask a flicker of unease in her eyes.
Irelia stepped beside me, a silent counterpoint to Akali's energy. Her gaze met mine, and for a fleeting moment, I wasn't just a threat, a monster. There was a glimmer of something like hope.
Would that hope be enough to sustain us on this journey? I boarded the ship, flanked by these unlikely allies, and the future, like the sea before us, was uncertain. But the journey had begun.