269 | Advanced - Short Story: The Guardians of the Flame [English Listening Practice]

Title: The Guardians of the Flame

Level: Advanced (C1)

#Story : The story follows four Guardians—Lysandra, Caelan, Vespera, and Eirik—who protect the Eternal Flame, a sacred source of light that wards off darkness. When Miraak, a former Guardian corrupted by shadows, returns to extinguish the Flame, a fierce battle ensues. Despite their unity, Miraak's connection to an ancient darkness proves nearly overwhelming. Using the Bond, a powerful but dangerous technique, the Guardians channel the Flame's light to sever Miraak’s link to the shadows. Though victorious, Miraak’s final words—hinting at a greater darkness—linger, leaving the Guardians haunted by uncertainty and an impending sense of doom. The Flame remains protected, but shadows linger, watching, waiting for their chance to return.

#Vocabulary :

• Encroach: to gradually move or invade something.
• Flicker: a brief or unsteady movement of light.
• Gnawing: a persistent feeling of distress.
• Sever: to cut or break off completely.
• Unyielding: not giving way under pressure; firm and resolute.

#Grammar Focus:

• Present Perfect for Lasting Effects:
• Used to indicate actions that have lasting effects up to the present.
• Example: "The shadows have lingered, watching, ever patient."
• Past Perfect for Sequencing:
• Used to show which past action occurred first.
• Example: "The Guardians had won a battle, but the war had only just begun."
• Modal Verbs for Speculation and Uncertainty:
• Used to express degrees of uncertainty or hypothetical outcomes.
• Example: “If there is something beyond it, something darker…”

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