Chapter 26 – Enter Samuel

As the brutal training continues in the dark fantasy world of Tavarin, Chapter 26 of my upcoming fantasy novel pulls us deeper into the physical—and emotional—journey of Nissa, our defiant Lurani protagonist trying to stay alive in the academy that was never meant to see her survive.

This chapter marks the introduction of a new character: Samuel, a First-ranked Zhakari cadet, handpicked (or maybe blackmailed?) by Ryn to take over Nissa’s combat training. If Ryn is the mentor with grit and a grudging sense of friendship, Samuel is her stark opposite—cold, sharp, and unimpressed. And honestly? He’s exactly what Nissa needs right now.

While Ryn’s guidance has helped Nissa lay the groundwork—footwork, balance, and staying on her feet when all she wants to do is give in—Samuel is there to push her past comfort, past politeness, and into raw survival. There’s no sugar-coating in this academy. No reward for potential. And Samuel makes that abundantly clear from the moment he opens his mouth.

This chapter is full of tension, small victories, and subtle shifts in character dynamics. We see Nissa—exhausted, aching, but unbroken—begin to realise that the sword she’s holding, a gladius, is more than a weapon. It’s a symbol of what she’s becoming: quick, brutal, and relentless when the time calls for it.

As a fantasy author, one of the things I enjoy most is crafting relationships that reflect not only the dangers of the world but also the potential for growth within it. Tavarin is no exception. It’s not just a combat school. It’s a prison. A forge. A battlefield in disguise.

And for Nissa? Every chapter forward is another test—of trust, of strength, of survival.

If you’re a fan of dark fantasy, training academies, or gritty character development, you’ll want to keep this book on your radar. The story is evolving fast, and as a writer, I can feel the pulse of it racing now. We’re past the point of setup. Every chapter from here on out carries real, tangible weight.

Stay tuned for more updates, character insights, and behind-the-scenes looks as I move closer to the finish line. I’ve still got about 12–14 chapters to go, and things are only going to get more intense from here.