The Eternal Strive

Caden stumbled through the ruined streets of Velsaria, his body aching from the battle and the chaotic energy raging within him. Each step felt heavier than the last, as if the Riftborn's essence was trying to anchor him in place.

I need to refine this power before it destroys me.

The sky above remained distorted, the remnants of the collapsed Rift flickering like dying embers. Behind him, he could still sense the warriors of Order and Chaos watching from a distance. None followed—perhaps out of caution, or perhaps out of fear.

A sudden surge of pain shot through his chest. He fell to one knee, gasping as black and gold energy flickered across his arms. The unstable force within him was fighting for control.

---

System Alert: Rift Energy Rejection Increasing!

Stability: 23% (Critical).

Solution: Initiate Balance Core Awakening.

Location Recommended: Ruins of Eldros.

---

Caden's eyes narrowed. The Ruins of Eldros?

He had read about them in ancient texts—an abandoned city said to be a place of knowledge, where long-forgotten secrets of the Strive were buried.

If there's an answer anywhere, it'll be there.

Pushing himself up, he took a deep breath and focused on suppressing the unstable energy. His body still trembled, but he couldn't afford to waste time.

He turned east, toward the dark mountains beyond the battlefield. The journey wouldn't be easy—the land between Velsaria and Eldros was filled with dangers. But right now, the greatest threat was inside him.

Before he could take another step, a voice called out.

"Running away, are we?"

Caden turned sharply, his weakened stance shifting into defense.

Seraphis stood atop a broken pillar, watching him with an amused expression.

"I had a feeling you weren't planning to stick around." She leapt down effortlessly, landing in front of him. "Valerius might see you as a threat, but me? I see something far more interesting."

Caden tensed. "I don't have time for this."

Seraphis tilted her head. "You're dying."

He clenched his fists. "I can handle it."

She smirked. "Can you?"

Caden didn't answer. He didn't know.

Seraphis folded her arms. "You need help. And lucky for you, I know a thing or two about handling unstable power."

He frowned. "And why would you help me?"

Her violet flames flickered. "Because whatever you're becoming—it's bigger than this war. If you survive, I want to see what happens next."

Caden studied her carefully. She wasn't lying—but she also wasn't trustworthy.

Still… he wasn't in a position to refuse help.

After a long pause, he sighed. "Fine."

Seraphis grinned. "Good choice. Let's see if you can make it to Eldros before that energy tears you apart."

Together, they disappeared into the wilds, toward an uncertain fate.