The next few days were a blur. Under Merlin's tutelage, Gabriel was pushed to his limits. The wizard showed him how to tap into his divine energy, teaching him ancient incantations, forgotten spells, and combat techniques that were not of this world. But most importantly, he guided Gabriel to understand the darkness inside him—the force that had once been a curse but now could become a weapon.
It wasn't easy. Every time Gabriel reached for the light, the darkness pulled at him, whispering promises of power, of control. He could feel it feeding on his fear, his doubts, his anger. But Merlin was always there, reminding him to hold firm, to trust in himself.
The first lesson Merlin taught was the art of balance—how to blend the light and the dark, to use both in harmony. "The world isn't black and white, Gabriel," Merlin said one evening, as they stood in a clearing surrounded by ancient trees. "Neither is your power. You must learn to control both sides of yourself, or you will be consumed by them."
Gabriel struggled with this concept. Every time he tried to tap into the dark energy, he felt himself slipping, losing control. But with Merlin's guidance, he began to understand. The darkness was not inherently evil. It was simply untamed, chaotic, and it could be used to protect, to fight for those who couldn't protect themselves.
Over time, Gabriel's power grew. His angelic abilities became sharper, more focused, while the dark energy coiled beneath the surface, waiting for its moment to strike.
But it wasn't just the magic that Gabriel struggled with. It was the uncertainty of his path, the constant questions about his true purpose. Why had he been chosen? Why had he inherited the power of Gabriel the Archangel?
Merlin had no answers for him, only more questions. "You must learn to trust in your journey, Gabriel. The answers will come when you are ready. Until then, focus on the here and now. Focus on preparing for what's to come."