As Asher walked on, he began to feel the combined pangs of thirst and hunger. The aftermath of his intense battle with the devourers had left him physically and mentally drained. The fight had proven more challenging than he had anticipated, especially considering these were just newly hatched devourers. He couldn't help but reflect on how much he had to learn and grow.
Noctis's words echoed in his mind, a reminder of his current limitations despite the help he was receiving from the Dreamrealm and his wolf companion. The anger within him welled up, a mix of frustration and determination. He roared, his voice carrying his discontentment and his unwillingness to remain weak and helpless.
"Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!"
His roar reverberated through the surroundings, a release of pent-up emotions. He was frustrated with his inability to provide help when it was needed most. He had always been willing to extend a hand to others, even when he received none in return. But today was different. Today he was determined to change that, to become stronger so he could truly make a difference.
Despite his frustration, he could sense the comforting presence of his companions from the Dawnbreaker team. They were hidden in the shadows, their watchful eyes offering him guidance as he pursued Zephyr. Their steadfast support fueled his determination, giving him the strength to push forward and see his mission through to the end.
As the sun dipped beneath the horizon, a tapestry of stars emerged across the sky. The celestial display drew Asher's attention, and he couldn't help but feel a connection to the heavens above. He recalled the vision he had experienced earlier, the realm where Noctis had appeared to him. The concept of "Stargazing" resurfaced in his mind, igniting a spark of curiosity and hope.
With a resolute breath, Asher settled atop a rocky perch on a hill. His gaze fixed on the night sky, he focused on establishing a connection with the stars. He cleared his mind, slowed his heartbeat, and entered a deep state of meditation. The Dreamrealm energy responded, enveloping him in a cocoon of radiant light.
In this state of communion, Asher extended his senses beyond the physical realm. He felt a kinship with the stars, sensing that they held untapped secrets. Memories, both distant and recent, surged through his consciousness like a river of emotions. Amidst these memories, a subtle presence emerged – Noctis, his wolf companion.
"Are you prepared to go deeper, Asher?" Noctis's voice echoed in his mind like a gentle breeze.
"Yes," Asher responded, projecting his thoughts into the ethereal realm. "Guide me."
Noctis's spectral form materialized beside him, seeming to blend with the starlight itself. "Stargazing is a path of connection, Asher. The stars are vessels of countless experiences, just like the Dreamrealm. To tap into their power, you must learn to intertwine your energy with theirs."
Asher closed his eyes and focused his energy on the stars above. The currents of the Dreamrealm merged with the starlight, forming a bridge that connected realms. With each breath, his awareness expanded, encompassing the vastness of the cosmos. He felt the memories of countless lives, dreams, and destinies. Yet, it proved difficult to harmonize with a specific star.
"Extend yourself, Asher," Noctis's voice encouraged. "Let the stars be your guide."
In response, a constellation captured Asher's attention – a pattern of stars resembling a wolf in mid-stride. It pulsed with its own energy, a beckoning that resonated with his soul. Asher extended his hand toward the constellation, feeling a tingling sensation in his fingers.
In that instant, power surged through Asher's being. Starlight and Dreamrealm energy merged within him, amplifying his senses and awakening latent abilities. His thoughts cleared, and his connection with the world around him deepened.
"STRENGTH," a thunderous voice resounded in his mind, shaking him to his core. Noctis, who was beside him, was equally startled. Their shared connection magnified the impact of the voice.
Asher looked at Noctis and inquired, "What was that voice?"
"I didn't anticipate you hearing the voice of the creator," Noctis replied. "It seems I have underestimated your strength. It's different from what I expected." Noctis paused and glanced up at the sky, sensing numerous gazes upon them.
Asher understood the significance of the voice and Noctis's reaction. His desire to become stronger burned more fervently within him, driving him forward.
As he lowered his hand, a profound sense of purpose surged within Asher. Stargazing was not merely a method of harnessing power; it was a way to align his consciousness with the universe's symphony. It offered a means to draw strength from the past, chart a course for the future, and shoulder the responsibility of both realms.
Opening his eyes, Asher found himself back atop the hill, the stars still sparkling overhead. Noctis's spectral presence lingered beside him, a silent companion that spoke volumes.
"You've taken your initial step, Asher," Noctis's voice murmured. "The stars have granted their guidance. But remember, this is only the beginning. Your journey is intertwined with theirs, and each star you harmonize with will make you stronger. Take it step by step on the way of stargazing."
With those words, Noctis's form began to fade, merging once more with the starlight. Asher watched, a mixture of awe and determination swelling within him.
The night sky shimmered with newfound potential. Standing on that hill, Asher understood that his path was no longer solely about vengeance. It was a journey of growth, redemption, and the realization that he possessed the power to reshape the shattered realms into something new.
The stars had imparted their blessing, and Asher was prepared to embrace the cosmic symphony that lay ahead. With renewed determination, he continued his journey, seeking both sustenance and a place to rest for the night.