Synopsis In a world built on lies, one truth could shatter an empire. Lyric Ardyn never sought to be a hero. But when imperial soldiers reduce his village to ashes and his father's dying words reveal a hidden artifact-the Scroll of Truth-Lyric is thrust into a deadly quest to uncover secrets that could change the fate of the world. Pursued by the ruthless forces of Emperor Veylor, Lyric must brave cursed lands, forge uneasy alliances, and confront the shadows within himself. The Scroll's power is greater than he ever imagined-capable of unmasking corruption, but at a devastating cost. Will Lyric risk everything to unearth the truth? Or will he let the world remain bound by deception? The End and the Beginning is a heart-pounding journey of courage, betrayal, and the relentless fight for what's right in a world teetering on the edge of chaos.
Chapter 1 The Veil of Lies
Chapter 1: The Veil of Lies
The village of Veritas was quiet that morning, its narrow streets veiled in a soft mist. Farmers guided oxen to the fields, their footsteps crunching on dew-kissed paths. A faint breeze carried the scent of earth and wildflowers, a reminder of the simple, honest life that Veritas was known for. But to Lyric Ardyn, this serenity felt like a fragile illusion.
Standing at the threshold of his family's small home, Lyric tightened the strap of his satchel, which carried scrolls and a single quill. As the village scribe, his days were spent documenting crops, debts, and agreements-tasks that often felt mundane. Yet today, unease stirred within him, a faint echo of his father's voice repeating a warning he couldn't ignore.
"Truth is a flame that casts no shadow. Guard it, even if it burns you."
His father's words often resurfaced in moments like this, when silence felt heavier than it should.
---
The stillness shattered as hoofbeats thundered through the streets. A column of imperial soldiers, clad in obsidian armor, marched into Veritas, their crimson banners snapping in the wind. Villagers stopped in their tracks, eyes wide with fear.
At their head rode Commander Kaelith, his face hidden beneath a cruel helm adorned with jagged metal spikes. His voice, sharp and unyielding, cut through the air.
"By decree of Emperor Veylor, all records of this village are to be seized. Those who resist will face the sword."
Gasps rippled through the crowd. The soldiers began ransacking homes, tossing aside parchments and ledgers. Lyric's heart raced as they approached his family's dwelling.
"My lord," he called, stepping forward, his voice steady despite his trembling hands. "Why destroy the records? They hold no secrets, only truths of harvests and trade."
Kaelith dismounted, his gaze piercing through Lyric. "Truth, boy?" he sneered. "Truth is dangerous. It stirs rebellion and chaos. The emperor has no use for it."
Lyric's mother, Eline, emerged from the house, clutching a worn ledger. "This is our history," she said, her voice defiant. "You cannot take it from us."
The commander's expression darkened. With a swift motion, he unsheathed his blade. "History is written by those who wield power. Surrender it, or pay the price."
Before Lyric could intervene, his father, Marek, stepped between them. "No more lies," Marek said, his voice resolute. "The emperor's deceit has gone unchecked for too long."
Kaelith's blade flashed. The strike was swift, merciless. Marek collapsed to the ground, his lifeblood staining the soil.
Lyric froze as the world seemed to tilt. His mother's anguished cry filled the air, but Kaelith showed no remorse. "Let this be a lesson to all who defy the emperor."
---
As the soldiers left, Lyric knelt by his father's lifeless body. His hands trembled, his mind spiraling into chaos. His mother's sobs pierced the stillness, but it was his father's final words that anchored him:
"The end of lies begins with truth. Seek the scroll-it will guide you."
That night, under the shroud of darkness, Lyric packed his belongings and left the village. The grief weighed heavily on him, but determination burned brighter. He would honor his father's sacrifice by uncovering the truth-the truth that could shatter the empire's lies.
With nothing but a satchel of supplies and his father's final words echoing in his heart, Lyric set forth into the unknown. He didn't yet know of the trials awaiting him or the power of the Scroll of Truth. All he knew was that this was not just an ending. It was the beginning of something greater.
Chapter 1 The Veil of Lies
25/11/2024
Chapter 2 The Burden of Truth
26/11/2024
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