Echoes Of Darkness

I

Echoes of Darkness

In shadows deep where secrets sleep, 

The ancient ones await, 

With whispered lies and bloodied ties, 

They twist the hand of fate. 

When darkness stirs and fire burns, 

The Chosen shall arise, 

But who will stand, with fate in hand, 

When light betrays the skies? 

By moon and flame, through storm and shame, 

The bond shall be undone, 

Unless the path, through death and wrath, 

Is walked by the Appointed 

The Awakening

Thick shadows clung to the ancient stone walls of the cavern, where the air was thick with the scent of burning incense and something far more sinister. The chamber was dimly lit by the sickly glow of green flames rising from a massive cauldron at its centre. Dark figures, cloaked in tattered robes, surrounded the cauldron, their faces hidden beneath hoods. They hummed in low, guttural tones, their voices reverberating against the walls with an unnatural echo. 

The flames flickered, casting distorted shadows across the stone floor, as one of the figures raised a bony hand over the cauldron. In his palm rested a small vial of crimson liquid. With a swift motion, he emptied it into the bubbling mixture. The green flames flared, turning a deep blood-red for an instant before settling into an eerie, pulsing glow. 

Verrilum mortis, one of the cloaked figures whispered, their voice hissing like wind through dry leaves. 

The others echoed the words, their voices blending into a haunting chorus. The ritual continued, the hum growing louder, more intense, as the cauldron’s contents began to churn violently. 

Another figure stepped forward, holding a ragged piece of parchment. It was brittle and ancient, covered in strange, twisting runes that seemed to shift and writhe under the dim light. The figure’s voice was a harsh rasp, reciting the incantation written upon the page. 

By the blood of the unworthy, by the ashes of the forgotten, rise from the depths of darkness, shadow and flame. Let the Chosen’s fate be bound, the ancient ties forged anew. 

The cauldron hissed and bubbled furiously. From within the roiling depths of the potion, something began to take shape. Wisps of shadow twisted upward, forming the vague outline of a figure—something grotesque and ancient, yet still incomplete. The cloaked figures bowed their heads as if in reverence, while the creature clawed its way higher from the cauldron’s depths. 

She is coming, one of the figures intoned softly, a strange eagerness in his voice. The Anointed will soon awaken. another whispered.  

And when the Anointed rises, her power will belong to us. The prophecy will be twisted in our favour. 

The creature in the cauldron let out a low, menacing growl, its red eyes glowing like embers from the darkest abyss. Its presence filled the cavern with a chilling dread that seemed to seep into the very stone around them. 

Let the binding begin, the lead figure said, his voice thick with malevolent glee. He reached into the folds of his robe and produced a sharp, obsidian blade. Holding it over the cauldron, he sliced his palm, allowing dark, viscous blood to drip into the flames. 

The creature hissed in response, its eyes narrowing. The figures began to chant faster, the language ancient and guttural, until the very air seemed to hum with power. 

Outside the cavern, far away from the sinister ritual, the world remained oblivious. But the forces of darkness were stirring, and soon, everything would change. 

The campus of Larkspur University buzzed with the late-afternoon rush of students heading to their next class or lingering in the quad, soaking up the warm September sun. Laughter and conversation filled the air, a stark contrast to the shadowy ritual happening far beyond anyone’s awareness. For most, it was just another day—normal, predictable. But for Kim Reynolds, normal had always been a fleeting thing. 

Kim, dressed in a simple hoodie and jeans, blended easily with the crowd as she walked alongside her two best friends, Mia Winters and Charlie Thompson. They were fresh off a three-hour lecture on contemporary philosophy—one that Charlie swore had drained her will to live. 

I swear, Charlie groaned, swinging her backpack onto one shoulder, if I have to listen to another argument about whether or not chairs actually exist, I’m going to lose it. 

Mia laughed, pushing a loose strand of hair behind her ear. Don’t be so dramatic, Charlie. You’ll survive. It wasn’t that bad. 

Yeah, sure, Mia. Says the girl who actually enjoys metaphysical debates. 

Kim smiled faintly, but her thoughts were far away. The day had been normal enough, but beneath the surface, something was stirring. She felt it—a low hum of energy pulsing at the back of her mind, like the static charge before a lightning storm. It had been there for days now, growing stronger each day, but she hadn’t told Mia or Charlie. Not yet. How could she explain something she didn’t fully understand herself? 

They passed by the student union building, and Mia suddenly stopped, her eyes lighting up. 

Hey, you guys want to grab a coffee before we head back to the dorms? Mia asked. I need caffeine if I’m going to get through the reading for tomorrow. 

Charlie was about to agree when Kim’s phone buzzed in her pocket. She pulled it out, glancing at the screen. 

A message from Rowan: "Meeting in 5 minutes."

Kim’s heart skipped a beat. She hadn’t heard from Rowan in last two days, not since he’d cryptically told her that things were moving faster than expected and then vanished into the shadows as he often did. His messages were never casual, and they always meant one thing: trouble was coming. 

Uh, you guys go ahead, Kim said, slipping the phone back into her pocket. I need to swing by the library for something. 

Mia gave her a curious look. You, okay? 

Yeah, I’ll catch up with you later. 

Charlie frowned but didn’t push. If, you’re sure. We’ll be at the café if you change your mind. 

Kim waved them off with a smile, trying to seem casual, but her thoughts were racing. She watched them head toward the café before turning in the opposite direction, making her way through the winding campus paths to a secluded spot near the old observatory. She could feel Rowan before she saw him—his presence always had a certain heaviness to it, like the air around him carried centuries of knowledge and secrets. 

Rowan Kane emerged from the shadows, his long coat billowing slightly in the cool breeze. His dark hair was streaked with silver, and his sharp eyes seemed to see straight through her. 

You felt it, didn’t you? Rowan said without preamble, his voice low and commanding. 

Kim crossed her arms, leaning against a nearby bench. Yeah. For days now. What’s going on? 

Before Rowan could answer, Kim lifted a hand, Oh wait... evil is amongst us, right? 

Rowan nodded. It’s as if you know me, he replied sarcastically. Anyway, getting back to the subject at hand. The Guardian is you remember Kim. The one destined to either stop the darkness or be consumed by it. There is no turning back now. The ritual has begun, and you must be ready. 

Kim stood there, arms crossed over her chest. It’s almost as if you practice these speeches before you tell me. She gave a faint smile, What do I do? she asked quietly. 

Rowan’s eyes softened, just slightly. You keep living your life for now but stay vigilant. Something is stirring. They know who you are, and soon, they will come for you. When they do, you must be ready to fight. 

As always. Kim nodded, though the weight of his words always pressed heavily on her chest. She had been training with Rowan for years now—learning ancient spells, combat techniques, and how to harness the power inside her. But knowing that the moment she had been dreading for years was finally approaching, sent a chill through her veins. 

I’ll be ready, Kim said, her voice steady and reassuring. 

Rowan smiled faintly, a rare expression on his usually stern face. I believe you will. Meet me tonight. There’s more you need to learn. 

Kim let out a long sigh. Rowan, I’m studying with Mia and Charlie later. Can’t we do this tomorrow? 

This is serious Kim. 

Oh, and failing my lesson is not a big deal? 

Rowan held his head in his hand before looking back to her. Fine, we’ll continue this tomorrow. 

Kim watched as he turned and disappeared back into the shadows, leaving her alone once again. She took a deep breath, trying to shake off the frustration of how much her destiny interrupted her life. She had a destiny to fulfil, whether she liked it or not. But for now, she had to return to the world of normalcy, to Mia and Charlie—her last ties to a life that was slipping further and further from her grasp. 

Kim rejoined Mia and Charlie at the café, slipping back into their easy banter as though nothing had changed. But beneath the surface, she was acutely aware that her time as just another university student was running out. The darkness was coming, and soon, her role as The Anointed One would consume everything she thought she knew. 

The sun had dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over Larkspur University as Kim, Mia, and Charlie left the bustling café behind. The trio meandered through the campus courtyard, passing groups of students lounging on the grass or hurrying to their evening classes. The breeze was cool, and the sound of distant chatter mingled with the rustle of leaves as the early signs of autumn began to creep in. 

Mia was the first to break the comfortable silence, her sharp eyes turning to Kim with a knowing look. So, spill it. What did Rowan want this time? 

Kim hesitated, adjusting the strap of her backpack as she kicked a small stone in front of her. You know... the usual ‘destiny’ stuff, she said casually, keeping her tone light. Training, preparation, something cryptic about ancient evil. Nothing I haven’t heard before. 

Charlie groaned, rolling her eyes. How come you get all the cool secret meetings with the mysterious mentor guy, and we’re stuck writing term papers? 

Kim chuckled, though the laughter felt forced. Trust me, it’s not as cool as it sounds. It’s more ‘you’re the key to stopping the end of the world’ and less ‘learn to summon fireballs for fun.’ 

Mia nudged Kim gently with her elbow. Yeah, but you’ve got to admit, being ‘The Guardian’—or whatever Rowan calls you—kind of beats studying for exams, right? 

Kim glanced at her, a slight smile tugging at her lips. Only if you’re into constant stress, random nightmares, and the possibility of demonic attacks. Not exactly the carefree university experience. 

They rounded the corner toward their dorm building, a tall, modern structure that seemed out of place amidst the older, ivy-covered buildings of the university. The lights were just beginning to flicker on in the windows as students returned from their day of classes. Kim took a deep breath, trying to ground herself in the normalcy of it all—the laughter of her friends, the hum of campus life—but that strange sense of foreboding lingered in the back of her mind. 

Rowan’s just being paranoid, Kim added after a beat, her voice more confident than she felt. He’s always thinking something terrible is about to happen. 

Isn’t that his whole deal, though? Charlie teased, holding the door open for them as they entered the building. I mean, what good is an ancient prophecy if it doesn’t involve something catastrophic? 

Mia shot her a mock glare as they made their way up the stairs to their floor. Honestly, Charlie, do you have to make everything sound like a bad movie? 

Kim smirked but kept quiet. She was grateful for the distraction. Mia and Charlie’s banter helped pull her away from the weight of Rowan’s words, even if just for a moment. 

Once inside Kim’s dorm, they tossed their bags aside and collapsed on the chairs in the corner of the room. 

Mia immediately pulled out her laptop, grumbling about the amount of reading she had to do, while Charlie disappeared to the cupboard to rummage for snacks. 

Kim, sitting back and resting her head on the back of the chair, stared up at the ceiling. She could feel Mia’s eyes on her, even though Mia pretended to be focused on her screen. 

You’re not telling us everything, are you? Mia asked quietly after a moment, her voice gentle but probing. 

Kim sighed and turned her head to face Mia. What makes you say that? 

Mia shrugged, though her eyes were sharp with concern. I’ve known you for three years now, Kim. You get this look on your face when you’re really worried about something but don’t want to admit it. Like now. 

Kim hesitated, feeling the familiar pang of guilt. Mia and Charlie were her best friends—practically her family—and they’d stood by her through everything so far. But how could she tell them about the full extent of the danger Rowan had warned her about? About the demons, the rituals, the ancient prophecy that seemed to be closing in on her faster than she was ready for. 

I just... I don’t want to freak you guys out, Kim finally admitted, sitting up and hugging her knees to her chest. Rowan thinks things are going to get worse soon. Like, way worse. He’s been acting more intense lately. 

Mia closed her laptop, her full attention now on Kim. Do you think it’s connected to your— she lowered her voice, even though they were alone, —you know, your destiny? 

Yeah. Kim’s voice was soft, her eyes distant. It always is. 

Charlie reappeared from the kitchen, holding a half-empty bag of crisps, and looked between them with a raised brow. Did I miss something? 

Kim’s ‘destiny’ talk, Mia filled in, her tone lighter now to ease the tension. Rowans got her all worked up again. 

Of course he does, Charlie said, flopping down on her bed. What did he say this time? Apocalypse? Demons? Ancient curses? 

Kim smirked at her. Take your pick. 

Charlie grinned. Well, whatever it is, we’ve got your back. Demons, curses, or just the worst midterm season of our lives. 

Kim smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. She knew they meant well—they always had her back, even when they didn’t fully understand what they were up against. But deep down, she also knew there was only so much they could do when the forces of darkness finally came knocking. For now, though, she could pretend things were normal for a little longer. 

As they settled into the familiar rhythms of their evening—Mia studying, Charlie teasing her, and Kim trying to shake off the weight of her destiny—Kim couldn’t help but glance out the window, feeling the creeping edge of something dark approaching, just out of sight. 

She could sense it in her bones: the storm was coming. And soon. 

Night had fallen over Larkspur University, blanketing the campus in shadows and casting long, eerie silhouettes across the ground. The wind had picked up, rustling the trees outside the dorm building and making the windows creak faintly. Inside the dorm, Kim sat at her desk in the dim light of a single lamp, trying—and failing—to focus on her homework. 

The events of the day lingered in her mind: Rowan’s warnings, the creeping sense of something stirring in the dark corners of her world. She knew she should be studying, but the words on the page blurred together, her thoughts drifting back to the unsettling sensation she’d been carrying all week—the feeling that something was watching her. 

Kim glanced at the window. It was closed, but the curtains fluttered as if touched by an invisible breeze. She frowned, a chill creeping up her spine. 

Come on, Kim, she muttered to herself. It’s just the wind. 

Still, she couldn’t shake the nagging feeling of being watched. With a sigh, she shut her textbook and stood, stretching her stiff muscles. Mia has gone to her dorm just down the hallway and Charlie lay in the bed next to Kim’s, the soft sound of her snoring echoed around the room. The quiet should have been comforting, but tonight it only made Kim feel more isolated. 

She decided to head to bed, hoping that sleep would help clear her mind. But as she flicked off the light and crawled under the covers, she couldn’t shake the unease that clung to her. Her eyes drifted shut eventually, though her sleep was anything but peaceful. 

Kim tossed and turned in her sleep, her subconscious haunted by the dread that had been gnawing at her for the past couple of days. Her dreams were always restless lately, but tonight was different. As she drifted deeper into sleep, the world around her shifted into a distorted, nightmarish version of Larkspur University. 

Kim found herself standing in the middle of the campus quad. But instead of the usual vibrant greens and cheerful chatter of students, the scene was cloaked in an unnatural twilight. The sky was a swirling mass of dark, bruised clouds, and the air was thick with an oppressive haze. The once-familiar buildings were twisted and broken, their silhouettes jagged and distorted. 

She wandered through the quad, her footsteps echoing unnervingly in the silence. The campus was deserted—no students, no faculty, just an eerie stillness that pressed in on her from all sides. 

Suddenly, the ground beneath her feet began to tremble. She soon found herself in a vast, dimly lit cavern. 

The walls were slick with moisture, and the air was heavy. Shadows danced menacingly around her, cast by the flickering light of ancient torches. 

The sound of chanting filled the air, a rhythmic, guttural incantation that resonated with a sinister undertone. Kim’s heart raced as she moved deeper into the cavern, her footsteps echoing against the stone. Suddenly, she stumbled and fell to the cold, hard ground, her vision blurring. 

As she lay on the floor, her eyes wide with fear, the scene around her began to shift. The cavern walls seemed to dissolve, and she was abruptly transported to a different part of the cave. She found herself standing at the edge of a wide, dark chamber. 

The ritual was in full swing before her. The hooded figures, their faces obscured by deep hoods, were arranged in a circle around a large, bubbling cauldron. The air was thick with dark energy, and the shadows on the walls danced in unsettling patterns. Kim’s gaze was drawn to the high priest, who stood at the centre of the ritual circle. He held a staff with a jagged crystal, its surface glowing with an ominous light. His voice, deep and resonant, chanted in an ancient language that seemed to shake the very foundation of the cave. 

The cauldron’s contents churned violently, and from within, a dark mist began to rise. Kim saw an artifact on a pedestal nearby—a dark, ancient amulet with a large, blood-red gem at its centre. The amulet radiated a powerful, malevolent energy, its runes and symbols pulsing with dark magic. 

As the ritual reached its climax, the mist from the cauldron began to coalesce into a ghostly spirit. The spirit materialised, its form a shifting blend of darkness and shadow. It hovered above the cauldron, its presence exuding a chilling, oppressive aura. 

The spirit’s eyes, glowing with a malevolent light, locked onto Kim. Its voice, echoing with ancient power, spoke directly to her. The Amulet of Despair binds the Anointed One’s fate to darkness. Its power will test her resolve, and its influence will bring forth trials and suffering. 

Kim’s heart pounded in her chest as the words seemed to pierce through her, the dark energy from the amulet reaching out toward her with an almost tangible force. The scene around her grew more intense, the ritual’s power threatening to overwhelm her senses. 

Kim tried to run, but her legs felt like lead. She looked around, desperate for a way out, but everything seemed to be closing in from all directions. The tendrils snaked up the sides of the buildings, enveloping them in a dark shroud that obscured everything. 

A guttural, rasping voice filled the air, echoing from every direction. The time has come, Guardian. The veil is thin, and the darkness seeks its due. 

Kim’s breath came in ragged gasps as she continued to struggle against the encroaching darkness. The voice seemed to be all around her, taunting, mocking. She turned to see a figure emerging from the shadows—a tall, cloaked entity with a face obscured by darkness, its eyes glowing a sinister yellow. 

The figure extended a hand toward Kim, and she could feel the icy chill emanating from it. The prophecy has begun, and you are bound to it. 

Kim tried to scream, but no sound emerged from her throat. The shadows wrapped around her, tightening like a noose. She felt an overwhelming pressure, as if the very air was being squeezed out of her lungs. 

In the distance, she saw the outline of Rowan Kane, standing amidst the chaos. He was calling out to her, but his voice was lost in the swirling vortex of darkness. His features were barely visible, a shadow of his usual self. 

Rowan! Kim scream, her hand outstretched.  

You must face it! Rowan shouted. 

As the darkness closed in around her, Kim felt a surge of raw fear. Still reaching out toward Rowan, the shadows pulled her away, dragging her deeper into the abyss. 

With a gasp, Kim jolted awake, her heart pounding in her chest. She sat up in bed, her breathing ragged and uneven. The room was dark and quiet, the only sound the faint hum of the dormitory’s heating system. 

Kim’s sheets were tangled around her and sweat clung to her forehead. She looked around the room, trying to shake off the remnants of the nightmare. The familiar surroundings of her dorm room did little to ease the anxiety gripping her. 

Her nightmare had felt so real—so suffocating. The darkness, the figure, Rowan’s distant call—it all lingered in her mind, a haunting echo of the fear