"We should rest until they send for us. The cultivating chamber will be ready for us soon, and we need our strength." Sven embraced Kimi saying goodbye.
"You mean we get to join you?" Helga asked.
"I requested you two come with us, and he said it was okay," Sven replied as they walked into their cabin.
"Thanks for the offer but I'll pass. Nova asked me to be on the frontlines. I already know what I would see in there anyway. Word of advice for you two. Find you're anchor before you go in. You will need it. I know this won't be a problem for you." Astrid said as he grabbed Helga from behind.
They all got in bed and went to sleep after a little personal time. It was finally the afternoon as a knock was heard at the door. When they woke up to check who it was they saw it was a messenger from Mikom. After gathering their gear for a battle they sat down to eat together. Once they finished Astrid pulled Sven to the side.
"I understand the need for revenge, and you know I will help you achieve it. Just achieve it with your own two hands, and don't let him tempt you. The place you're going is connected to the outer reaches of the underworld. You will see someone you've lost, but never let your guard down. Don't forget how hard Helga worked to save you. If you lose it in there the dragon will surely awaken in his true form. If that were to happen no one here could stop you. Never forget that we are here for you, and the people of this place need you to win." Astrid kissed him while embracing him.
"Thank you for the advice. Just make sure you stay alive. Don't forget you're important to both of us. I figured you might not join us so I left you something." Sven replied as he handed her a bag before bidding her farewell.
As they walked to the center of town Sven had his arm around Helga. Many of the women in the village have been eyeing him since the arena. He wanted everyone to know where they stand. So maybe the advances would stop when seeing this. He also knew Helga wanted more attention from him, but wouldn't ask. As they approached the great tree Kimi, and Mikom were waiting for them. After seeing the two with a wave of his hand the ground opened as steps formed.
"Let us begin," Mikom said as the group walked down.
Kimi was nervous about entering. She heard stories from her mother about this place. That it would increase your power by enormous amounts, but the things you see can torment you. The group traveled deep under the tree until they came to a chamber with a unique array setup. There was a series of tunnels.
"Drink this then choose a tunnel to begin your training. When you reach the garden you must leave a portion of your blood while entering it. Try not to forget this step either. I will wait here for your return." Mikom said as he handed them each a concoction.
They all drank it as they said good luck to each other. Sven began walking down a tunnel and eventually came across a garden. Following his instructions as he walked in admiring its beauty. The place was radiating such powerful energy. After exploring the garden he found a nice spot to begin his cultivating. Closing his eyes as he became one with his surroundings.
Outside everyone was getting ready for the coming battle. Evacuation protocols were rehearsed with everyone thoroughly. Mika sent out a few groups of warriors to patrol the perimeter. The rest were ordered to inform the other neighboring tribes of the conflict to come, and even gather available reinforcements. All the remaining warriors were gathering shields, weapons, and war armor making sure they were recharged for battle. Nova was spending time with Astrid at their cabin.
"If you had permission to go with them why didn't you? I've always wanted to cultivate in there." Nova asked.
"Long ago I found a tree like the one here. When I ventured beneath it I found out how great it was for increasing one's strength. Something about the energy in that place strengthens tera, and gods alike. It's indeed a very useful place to train." Astrid replied.
"Then even more of a reason you should've gone," Nova stated.
"It has its negative points as well. It's tunnels connect to the underworld. While training you get visited by spirits of your past. Not to mention your ancestor has greater control there. Usually, you have to call out to them or be approached in a dream. In there they can get a grip on you with ease. There is no way to push them out. You must confront them, and subdue them. I have no desires to speak with that cunt ever again so I choose to stay here." Astrid said while remembering her dark days.
"Sven recently went on a rampage. Was it really wise to let him go? I question the old man's decisions sometimes. Maybe his illness also affects the mind." Nova said while sitting next to Astrid.
"Sven will be fine. Most who become fallen are lost forever. He managed to fight his way back though. No thanks to me. I was ready to kill him if given the chance." Astrid had a deep look of regret on her face.
"It isn't like you to be so concerned about someone. You must care for him deeply. Guess I don't stand a chance huh?" Nova asked while averting her gaze.
Astrid saw the look on her face. Her tone was a joking one, but sorrow could be felt in them as well. She slid in closer to her placing her hand on Nova's thigh.
"No reason to be down. He's very powerful but is still so caring for those around him. He has a warmth about him I haven't felt in so long. It doesn't mean there's no future for us. You're always welcome to join anytime. You would enjoy his company if you give him a chance. He also wouldn't mind us spending some alone time together. Not to mention you could have a taste whenever you want. I saw the look on your face when you drank from him. Filled you with an unmatchable pleasure didn't it?" Astrid teased.
"I've had animal blood that tasted better. " Nova retorted.
Astrid got up walking over to the table to open the bag Sven left for her. Inside it was several containers with his blood. He was aware she could drink animal blood but knew she preferred his. Sven also had an ulterior motive for this. The thought of her feeding from another man went across his mind. It was the first time he felt jealousy. That also played a part in his decision. Astrid walked back over to the bed to tease Nova some more.
"If it truly wasn't to your liking. Then you won't mind me drinking this all by myself." Astrid stated as she popped it open.
Astrid began to swirl it around letting the scent fill the air. Nova smelled the alluring aroma fill the room. She began panting as her face went red. Her fangs began to protrude wanting so bad to have another taste. She was too proud to go back on her insult though so she hid them. Astrid saw the look on her face knowing she was fighting the urge. Astrid dipped her finger in and then applied the blood to her lips. Leaning in to kiss Nova as her hand ran up her thigh. Astrid pulled away taunting her with the blood. Nova could no longer fight the urge as she took it from her.
"That's a good girl, but save me a little. Don't know why you try so hard to fight your urges. Now for your reward." Astrid said while undressing.