4 Hollow

**Chapter 1: Hollow**

Valeron awoke from a restless night's sleep, drenched in sweat, his heart pounding in his chest. The nightmare had returned, as it often did, like an unrelenting specter haunting his dreams. In the darkness of his room, he clutched the covers tight, trying to shake off the suffocating feeling of dread that had gripped him. The memory of the Abyss devouring his family in that terrible storm lingered in his mind.

Taking a deep breath, Valeron threw back the heavy blankets and swung his legs over the edge of the bed. His bare feet met the cool, wooden floor of his chamber, a stark contrast to the fiery tempest of his dreams. As pale morning light filtered through the curtains, he rose from his bed, determined to banish the lingering fear.

In his private chamber, Valeron began his daily ritual of exercise and physical training. He moved with grace and precision, his body a testament to the discipline he had cultivated over the years. Push-ups, sit-ups, and stretches filled the early hours, each movement a deliberate act of control and focus.

With each bead of sweat that trickled down his forehead, Valeron pushed the memories of his family deeper into the recesses of his mind. He couldn't afford to be consumed by grief or fear; there was a destiny awaiting him, one tied to the enigmatic powers that coursed through his veins.

As the clock struck noon, the sound of footsteps outside his chamber signaled the arrival of Theseus, his loyal butler and mentor. The man had been a constant presence in Valeron's life since the tragic night that had claimed his family, offering guidance and support.

Valeron wiped the sweat from his brow and stood, his chest rising and falling in a rhythmic pattern. He knew what Theseus had come to announce—the start of a new session at the Black Rose Academy, a place where Skyfall's elite honed their abilities before adulthood.

Theseus cleared his throat, his voice a deep, soothing baritone. "Young master Valeron, it's time, the Black Rose Academy has started admission.  Your studies await."

Valeron nodded, his stormy gray eyes meeting Theseus's with unwavering determination. He would face the abyss, uncover its secrets, and discover the truth about his clan's downfall. With a final, resolute breath, he followed Theseus out of the chamber, ready to embrace the destiny that awaited him in the world beyond his home.