Chapter 31: First Rift
As a Tainted, Kain saw how the Awakened used the Codex several times. In his case, it was Derek, Valkyra, Aurora, and Brigta, the giantess mercenary.
To varying degrees, their abilities differed. Valkyra summoned dark hounds, Aurora created ice spears, Derek became a weapon himself for a single surge through the wind, and Brigta turned her hands into paws.
All of this pointed to limitless possibilities, but not to omnipotence. No matter how complex or compelling the first ability was, against higher-ranked creatures, appropriate measures were needed.
The Awakened didn't need to train to know how to use their abilities. The runes coming from the depths told them what to do. However, practice was needed later on. The runes were only the first step, mastery had to be acquired.
Now, it was time for Kain to use his power for the first time.
Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.
A shudder ran through the bridge - the monster ran straight at Kain, shattering the concrete surface with its hooves.
Kain's eyes twitched to the right. He looked not at the crimson cross but at the thorn hanging above his hand. It looked not like a weapon, but like a tool for torture, the target of which was he himself.
Kreyn, standing to the side, watched Kain's ability with curiosity. Even with his vast experience, he couldn't remember anything similar.
A shadow fell over Kain, the monster was in front of him.
In a quick burst, Kain leaped to the right, evading the monster's paw as three sharp claws swept before his eyes. Then, the crimson cross shuddered as the thorn pierced his hand, the tip coming out of his palm. The bright pain reflected on Kain's face was the real thing, not an illusion.