A Prophecy of Tainted Silver

Chapter 9 - A New Light in the Darkness

The probing of his mind felt oddly soothing, a sign of careful practice and discipline. Mels made no resistance to the spell as he sat on a smooth, stone floor, placed in the middle of a glowing sigil. His legs were crossed underneath him, hands were folded in his lap and eyes closed in a meditation. The large stone room he sat in was one of the House's many chambers dedicated for magical training. The walls of the room were made of stone shelves, packed with tomes and scrolls of all kinds. Above him hovered dozens of lit candles, and dozens more unlit. At a time, several would light themselves or snuff themselves out by magic, a sign that the spell was working itself on Mels' mind, one designed to share memories with another. To share exactly what he saw.

Mels recognized the chamber as commonly used in the study of scriptomancy, as the candles were carved with various commands, waiting to be activated. Students would be charged with lighting them in sequence, and thus cast spells, teaching them the importance of algorithms in scriptomancy.

Eventually, he felt the weight of magic lifted from his mind. Mels took a deep breath, and opened his eyes to see the sigil fade away underneath him. Across from him, Mother Madelyne sat, the same sigil disappearing from underneath her. Their gazes met.

Immediately he blushed, noting her revealing outfit. She wore white, signaling her title as the head of House, contrasting against her dark skin and smoky black hair. Her dress, adorned in silver jewelry, exposed her full thighs and arms. Though this dress showed no cleavage, it still betrayed her curves, and his memory of the visions of the Eye filled in the gaps. He averted his eyes as she opened hers to avoid her gaze.

She giggled, causing Mels to blush further. "The visions of the Eye are certainly... arresting," she said slyly.

Mels looked down at his hands as he fiddled his fingers. Despite having escaped the Labyrinth nearly two weeks ago, the Eye's visions were still quite fresh in his mind. Try as he might, the memory of Madelyne sitting on his cock invaded his stream of consciousness, and it took much of his willpower to keep his arousal down.

"Sorry," he said, still avoiding eye contact.

"Whatever for, Melyssi?" She asked, "Are you saying that you had control over what an ancient artifact of incredible and unknowable power showed you?"

The reverend mother's words assured him enough to meet her gaze. "I suppose not," he answered.

Madelyne smiled. "Then there's no need for such flushed cheeks," she said, causing Mels to reflexively bring a hand to them. "Although, I completely understand if you see this spell as an invasion of your privacy. In any other circumstance, one's thoughts should be their own."

"Don't worry," he said quickly, "It is my duty and honor to share what I saw on our quest."

"I greatly appreciate that. Especially given the confrontation at Xor Ci'Pelho. Such a dreadful place. Both Master Rickard and Master Aylala have fully reported back to me on your trials. You and Christine have endured much."

Mels nodded in agreement, glancing down at the scar on his exposed abdomen. He then asked the question he's been waiting to ask since they had escaped:

"What do the visions mean?"

The inquiry caused Madelyne to close her eyes in careful consideration. He was all too familiar with her expression. Perhaps he had been too hopeful to think that the Eye would give them the exact instruction on how to subvert the prophecy, especially considering what Aylala shared of her time at the Grey Labyrinth in Phyylis. Even still, what he had seen had troubled him, unable to gauge any significant meaning from his visions. There were just too many questions:

Why were there demons at the house? Why was the tree in the inner chamber lit with purple flame? What was the significance of the well, or the castle, or the woman attacking him?

And why was Purple Boy seemingly at the center of all of it?

He was grateful for this session with Madelyne, as he was finally given space to discuss such questions. He didn't want to burden Christi with them, though he did allow her soothing magic to quell his mind, at her insistence.

The comfortable silence was eventually broken by Madelyne. "I can tell you are deeply troubled by the prophetic visions," she said in a soothing voice. "Unfortunately, I am also cursed with uncertainty."

Mels felt mildly crestfallen at her words, as she continued. "Though, don't worry, I can provide some additional context," she said, "In the time of your quest, the House has received reports of at least one other Eye of Xoan artifact. In those reports, those who have encountered it relayed that it was guarded by a dragon of black scales, like the one of Xor'Cipelho. Which tells us that the entity that is Xoan is perhaps a spirit, who subsists on the artifacts, and manifests to protect them."

Mels nodded at her explanation. It certainly made sense, as the Xoan they encountered seemed only to perish when the artifact was destroyed. Though the thought that there were more dragons out in the world like the one from the labyrinth made his stomach churn.

"How is that related to the visions?" Mels asked.

"Well," Madelyne said slyly, "Perhaps you could remind me what you know of the difference between Holy Magic and Corruption?"

Mels thought for a moment, particularly at what the Reverend Mother was hinting at, before giving an answer. "Both are fueled by one's soul," Mels relayed, "But Holy magic makes one master of the mind, while Corruption makes one master over the body."

Madelyne nodded. "A rather simple explanation, but one that rings true," she said, "To master one's consciousness is to be capable of great feats, such as what you saw with Christine's fire breath. But it's malleable, as it only exists in the fleshy brain. Diviners of Holy Magic must learn to create a divide between the reality of their flesh, easily manipulated, and the immaterial of their mind in order to resist Corruption. Do you understand?"

Mels nodded slowly. Though it was a complex explanation, he thought back to the dual personalities of Christi and Crystal, somehow both being able to exist in the same body. Ever since she was Corrupted herself, it was a delicate balance in order to not fall completely to the demonic magic. The allegory helped him to make sense of Madelyne's words.

"To return to your original question," Madelyne continued, "I suspect the Eyes of Xoan to be the result of immense Corruption magic. It could make you see anything, and, much like the Labyrinth in which it resided, your belief in its visions affect it somehow. You were able to heal your wounds once Christine consoled your faith, correct? I believe what you saw was a defense mechanism of sorts."

"Defense?" Mels questioned, fully engrossed by her theorizing.

"Yes," she said, "The prophecy of the Eye of Oblivion is one of a wanton apocalypse, in which all would indulge in the lusts of the flesh in corrupted unlife. Tainting their very souls. Knowing this, and reacting to your thoughts, it tried to quite literally seduce you to succumb to such a calamity, using my likeness as a lure. But you resisted, and broke free from its temptations. That was when the demons attacked you, and you had to free yourself."

Mels pondered on her elucidation. He was comforted in knowing that he had avoided going mad with lustful visions, but in trying to make sense of them, he found himself frustrated.

"Does that mean I saw no vision of the future?" he asked, not hiding his annoyance. "No way to stop the prophecy?"

"Not necessarily," she clarified. "It will take some time, admittedly, to make sense of all of the details, but one thing I know for certain is that the demons you saw in the inner chamber were imps."

"Imps?"

"Yes. Centuries ago, during the previous age, the world was under the rule of the demons, and imps were the infantry of the demon king. Scores of them made his armies, and the founding brothers and sisters of the Church of Sage and the House of Sorisancta fought them in the war against the demon king. Of the many interpretations of the prophecy, it seems likely now that the return of the demon king and his army is part of it."

Mels felt himself begin to shudder, and took a few deep breaths to calm himself. His encounters with demons up to this point were few, but they left a dire impression. The dark hosts of Corruption magic were otherworldly in their power, warping everything around them. Even his memories of them seemed tainted, as he could recall the faint feeling of arousal at their presence. It's no wonder it takes such great magic to resist them.

"Oh dear," Madelyne said, interrupting his thoughts. "It seems that my words have disturbed you. Your worry is very clear on your face. I apologize, truly."

"Oh," Mels stammered, feeling embarrassed again. "I-it's no trouble, really."

Madelyne chuckled softly as she stood up, causing Mels to stand up quickly as she walked over to him. As she came close enough to place a hand on his shoulder, he instantly felt relaxed as he bathed in her Holy aura.

"Recall what I've said earlier?" she asked with all the grace befitting her experience. "There's no need for embarrassment. In fact, in its place, you should feel pride. You have endured so much, faced many challenges, and now you stand here before me, utterly radiant."

Mels still felt embarrassed, though now it was a result of accepting such compliments. "I had help of course," he said, "and if anything, it was Christi who should feel accomplished. Her power helped us to defeat Xoan."

Madelyne's smile was infectious as she chuckled again. "Your adoration of her makes my heart sing, Melyssi!" she said as she suddenly placed a hand on his exposed abdomen, right on top of his scar. "Your love for her is truly a fire in your belly. It's inspiring. Which is why I'vc decided to graduate you to knighthood."

Mels looked up into eyes. "Pardon?" he asked. He had to. Surely she had misspoken.

"What for?" she asked cheekily, giving into giggles.

All dread from the discussion from before is gone, replaced with befuddlement. "I-I-I'm going to be a knight?!" he asked, "Why? I've only been a blade for a year!"

"True," Madelyne said, "And yet you've displayed all the qualities we at the House seek for Knighthood. Though I must convene with the Argentsori, I'm sure they would agree to promote you as well. After all, you've impressed two of them already."

Mels sputtered, trying to find words to voice his disbelief, when she took a step closer and placed a finger on her lips. He stopped, and continued to listen.

"And more importantly, I believe that in these increasingly dire times, what the world needs now is hope. To see you take to your oath so beautifully, no one would argue that you are undeserving of such status, even in your youth. You and Christine have proven yourselves worthy of the title. So please Melyssi, accept it with honor and grace."

Mels took a deep breath, letting her words wash over him. A knight of the Sorisancta.

It's all happening so fast,

he thought,

Though Madelyne is right. Christi was quickly promoted too.

Though she actually earned it. Have I?

It was then he thought back to when he first took his oath before the Reverend Mother. He had questioned then why he had even done so in the first place. He knew Christi always wanted to be part of the House, so her enthusiastic study and incredible ability were clearly motivated. He swore that he would wield power of his own will, yet this quest saw him even more devoted to her. He was happy to do so, of course, but then what did that mean for his knighthood?

Perhaps that doesn't matter,

he thought.

Earned or not, as Mother Madelyne said, it will help to inspire hope for the coming storm. I've sworn a duty to fight against the darkness, and that is what I'll do.

Looking back at Mother Madelyne, he smiled. "Thank you, Reverend Mother," he said, bowing as he did. "For seeing my potential to serve the House of Sorisancta."

Madelyne stepped in closer and lifted Mels' chin so that his gaze was level with hers. "I know you'll do me proud, Melyssi," she said. Mels, detecting the double entendre, held back a chuckle. "You're dismissed."

With one more bow, Mels turned to exit the scriptomancy chamber, entering the halls. He planted himself just beyond the door as it closed behind him, as happiness suddenly welled up inside him.

I still can't believe it! Actual knighthood! I can't wait to share it with Christi!

"Exciting talk with Mother, was it?" a voice echoed in the hall. Mels looked to see Rickard at the end of it, coolly leaning against a wall.

"You could say that," Mels said, nervously scratching his head as he approached him. When he got closer, Mels noticed that something was off about him. He seemed paler than before, and he moved a bit slower than usual. Mel, now closer, suspected that he was leaning against the wall to support himself.

"Are you alright?" Mels asked kindly.

"Never better," Rickard answered quickly. "Innozen just doesn't do well in holy places like this." Mels nodded in understanding, thinking back to his absence during Christi's graduation. "And besides, you shouldn't worry about me. You should be pondering on your own knighthood."

Mels smiled. "I assume Aylala suggested that I be promoted?" He asked, switching the subject.

"That would be correct," Rickard confirmed, "Though Mother asked for my opinion as well."

"Yes, she told me. You said you were impressed?"

Rickard chuckled. "She's always putting words in my mouth. I wasn't impressed by your fighting, Melyssi. In fact, I would call it quite sloppy."

Mels deflated a little, especially as he recalled his conversation with Rickard as he was being healed in the labyrinth.

Rickard stood up straight as a serious look fell on his aged face before continuing. "But, I'll admit to you that I am a worry-filled man. I'd rather not trouble you with my entire life story, as you already know a portion of it. And you," he placed a hand on Mels' shoulder gingerly, "What you've done in the past week, witnessing and remembering it, my worry doesn't seem as daunting."

Mels had only known the seasoned Argentsori for a couple days, but in this moment, he recognized the sincerity in Rickard's voice. It had occurred to Mels that he had quested through the remains of Rickard's tragic past, and was at the mercy of the Argentsori's sister. When he recalled the adventure in the days since the escape from Xor Ci'Pelho, he remembered sensing a war of emotions within Rickard. Now however, he sensed a calmness from the Argentsori, an inner peace that created an almost alluring aura of power, drawing Mels in deeper like a hot spring. He resisted giving in entirely, but Mels felt his confidence grow as a result.

Mels smiled up at Rickard. "Well," he said, "I hope you continue to feel that way for a long time."

Rickard smiled back. "I appreciate the sentiment, truly," he said before letting his hand fall from Mels' shoulder. "But the threat that the prophecy poses remains. And we all must rise to the challenge. And because you are graduating early, you will have to train harder in order to be prepared for the title. Understand?"

"Of course," Mels responded immediately.

"Good. If that's the case, then perhaps I could be worry-free just a little while longer." Rickard held out his armored hand, and Mels shook it. "Good luck to you, Melyssi Edwin." With that, he began to walk down the hallway.

"Wait!" Mels called out, stopping him. Rickard turned to look back at him. "Even with Innozen, I was wondering if you would still make it to the ceremony?"

Mels felt a tad guilty and childish for asking, but his worries were immediately dashed when Rickard smiled.

He blinked, as his dark eyes turned to a soft purple. When Rickard spoke, it was with both his and Innozen's voice.

"We wouldn't miss it for the world," they said cheerfully.

***

Mels didn't recall the hall before the inner chamber being so long. Perhaps it was some new strange magic. Perhaps it was because Mels was walking more slowly, the elaborate cape swaying as he took careful steps.

Or perhaps it was because he didn't want to enter.

It was a strange feeling, and in the two weeks before the ceremony, he'd had plenty of time to determine why this was the case. Per Mother Madelyne's advice, he did his best to accept that he deserved such a title. Accept that with it, came new responsibilities and a difficult training regime. That didn't worry him, he knew, so instead he suspected it was the lingering effect of the Eye. In talking about it with Christi, her response was hit him with a new wave of comfort, intimacy, and pleasure cuddling every day and fucking every other day. In her words, it was to show that she "was better than some stupid artifact." And wasn't afraid to respond in kind, so the Eye was eliminated as another suspect.

Mels looked up and found himself standing before the closed doors of the inner chamber, flanked by armored guards, staring past him. They left him to continue to mull over his emotions, trying his damndest to find their origin.

Weave your own fate Mels. The words entered his stream of consciousness unbidden, and remained. Purple Boy's. The mysterious figure occupied a strange place in his thoughts. On one hand, he hesitated to consider Purple Boy a true threat, or least, not as much as the one foretold by the prophecy. On the other, he noticed that he had yet to reveal his interactions to anyone, not even Madelyne or Christi. As far as Mels knew, he was the only one aware of Purple Boy's existence, which only cast more doubt over his actions.

But his advice: Weave your own fate. In the days before the ceremony, against his instinct, he speculated on the words. Madelyne said that even through the Corruption of the Eye, the artifact still foretold the future. It showed him this very inner chamber, and the Mother. A question formed that grew ever more apparent as Mels stood before the door:

By becoming a knight, am I fulfilling the prophecy?

Am I the child of fate?

Before the implications of the question could gestate, he looked up to the guards opening the doors to the chamber.

"Melyssi of Kelna!" Mother Madelyne called from within it.

Mels froze in place, but only for a second, then walked forward. He masked his thoughts with a neutral expression as he entered the ring of thrones, approaching Madelyne. The warmth emanating from the collected pool of holy energy washed over Mels as he walked. He kept his head forward as he walked, though in his periphery, he saw several faces that filled him with jubilation: Aylala and Rickard, regal and proud. His mother and father, tired from their long journey yet utterly radiant.

And of course, Christi's beaming grin.

He couldn't help as a smile grew on his face as he stopped before Madelyne in her elaborate, and utterly familiar dress. Before the memory of her bare body could resurface, he kneeled at her feet.

"Melyssi!" she declared to him and the gathered crowd. "We at the House seek to find and train those who can burn as bright as the sun. You have proven that you are capable of such a feat! We are blessed that the Lord of Silver Grass has presented us with such a determined and capable man of his will!"

The familiar words washed over them, and despite his thoughts from before, he allowed them to sink in. He heard the telltale ringing of her sword unsheathing, and he braced for her coming question.

"... A weight that, while burdensome, will be a shining beacon against the wielders of the darkness, so that the whole of Asisai may be bathed in his holy light?!" she proclaimed.