Chapter 2: The Council of Magi

The hooded figure led Akira through the dark streets of the city, staying silent the entire time. Akira couldn't help but feel a sense of unease as they weaved through the shadows and alleyways, the only sounds the distant echoes of footsteps and the occasional whinny of a horse.

After what felt like hours, they finally arrived at a large stone building. The figure led him inside and up a flight of stairs, to a grand hall filled with robed figures.

"Magus Akira," a voice boomed from the front of the hall. "We are honored to have you in our presence."

Akira surveyed the room, noting the powerful mages seated at the long table in front of him. The Council of Magi was an ancient order, dedicated to preserving the art of magic and using it for the betterment of humanity. But over time, their ideals had become corrupted, and they had become more interested in power and control than in helping others.

"What is it you want from me?" Akira asked, his voice cold and stern.

"We have reason to believe that the Order of the Black Sun is planning to attack one of the remaining magical artifacts," the voice said. "We need your help in protecting it."

Akira felt a wave of anger wash over him. He had spent his entire life trying to protect these artifacts, and now the Council was asking for his help, after years of ignoring him?

"Why should I help you?" he asked, his voice rising. "You have ignored me for years, and now you come to me when it suits your purpose?"

The Council members shifted uneasily in their seats, but the voice at the head of the table remained calm.

"Magus Akira, we understand your concerns," the voice said. "But we believe that we can work together to protect the artifacts and ensure that they remain safe from those who seek to misuse them."

Akira weighed his options. On the one hand, he knew that the Council could not be trusted. But on the other hand, he knew that he could not protect the artifacts alone.

"Very well," he said, his voice resigned. "I will help you protect the artifact. But know this: if you betray me or attempt to use the artifact for your own purposes, I will not hesitate to stop you."

The Council members nodded in agreement, and the meeting was adjourned. As Akira left the hall, he couldn't help but wonder if he had made the right decision. But he knew that he had to do everything in his power to protect the artifacts and keep them from falling into the wrong hands.

Chapter end