The Crimson Fang
Chapter 16 - Training's End

Time seemed to melt together, as Joseph continued to train himself. The days continued in nearly the same way, as they passed. Joseph would train Freya when he finished his daily training. He had upped increased training routine to two doubles, instead of just the one. Ami practiced daily with her bow, and even Freya had begun to learn combat.

Thousands of years had passed, with very little changing in the Ancient Land. The only things that had changed, in fact, were the inhabitants and a Conduit that was materializing as they trained. The three of them had become much more skilled. Ami had taken to shooting her bow backwards, while blindfolded. Freya has decided to use a spear, which she had become skilled with as well. Joseph had learned to control his powers, strengthening them to levels beyond his expectations. He was now also to use them effortlessly, without needing time to prepare them. The Conduit had become nearly completely visible; they could soon go home.

Joseph came rushing from the trees, followed closely by five of his doppelgangers. They were covered in marks, presumably from Joseph, while he had none. They surrounded him in the fields and he smiled. “I’m not the weakling I was when I first arrived here. Come then, and seek out your own destruction.” The five attacked, and in a flash of light, the flames of their lives were extinguished.

Joseph walked over to Ami and Freya, who were waiting by the Conduit. It was now completely visible. As they looked into it, they could see the Mirror Room. The three of them smiled, finally able to return. “It appears I have finally been deemed worthy. Let’s go home.” Ami tugged on Joseph’s clothes, motioning toward his waist, where the vial of blood hung. “I almost forgot the blood! Thank you, Ami.” He pulled the stopper from the vial, tipping it into his mouth. As he allowed the viscous liquid to pour down his throat, he fell to his knees. Knowledge flowed through him; the knowledge of the Ancients. He stood up, his eyes glowing deep crimson red. “Hang on. Before we leave, I wish to try something out.”

He walked away and sat in the field. He raised his hands, moving them in a circular motion. As his hands sped up, a ball of light materialized and began to spin as well. This continued for a few hours, until he suddenly stopped and stood up. Ami looked at him, confused, as he walked back to the Conduit, smiling. “Let’s go home, now.” The three of them passed through the Conduit, and travelled home.