Chapter 9: village
Jarec and Velaris trudged along the rugged terrain, their path illuminated by the fading light of the setting sun. The air was thick with the earthy scent of the wilderness, and the distant roar of a waterfall hinted at the proximity of a stream. Jarec's muscles ached from the day's exertion, but he remained vigilant, aware of the potential dangers lurking in the shadows.
Velaris glanced at Jarec, who was practicing the technique of Chaos Surge. The young man's control over the chaotic energy was improving, but there was still a noticeable lack of finesse. Jarec's aura flickered erratically as he attempted to focus the surge into a coherent form. Velaris watched with a mix of concern and encouragement.
"You're making progress," Velaris said, his voice calm despite the tension in the air. "But remember, Chaos Surge requires precise control. The more focused your intent, the more potent the effect."
Jarec nodded, though his expression betrayed his frustration. "I'll keep practicing."
Suddenly, the tranquility of their journey was shattered by a low, menacing growl. Velaris's eyes narrowed as he scanned the surroundings. Out of the underbrush emerged a pack of Battle Hounds, their feral eyes glowing with predatory intent. The creatures were low-tier elemental beasts native to Valorium, embodying the essence of war and valor. They were well-known in the region for their combat prowess and tactical coordination.
The Battle Hounds were formidable, with sleek, muscular bodies covered in dark, battle-scarred fur. Their claws were sharp, and their growls reverberated with an unsettling harmony of aggression and strategy. These beasts were often seen patrolling the rugged terrains of Valorium, their presence a testament to the region's warrior culture.
Velaris drew his sword, a gleaming blade imbued with a faint, protective aura. "Get ready. Battle Hounds are no pushovers. They're trained for combat and often work in packs."
Jarec took a deep breath, channeling his Chaos Surge into a more stable form. He could feel the chaotic energy coiling around him, ready to be unleashed. The Hounds closed in, their eyes locked on the intruders with unwavering focus.
The first Battle Hound lunged at Jarec, jaws snapping with alarming speed. Jarec barely managed to sidestep, the creature's breath hot on his heels. He raised his arm, and a surge of chaotic energy erupted from his palm, striking the Hound and forcing it back. The beast snarled, shaking off the impact but clearly injured.
Velaris moved with practiced precision, his sword flashing as he engaged two of the Hounds simultaneously. The blade cut through the air with swift, decisive strikes, its protective aura shimmering with each swing. One Hound fell, its growls silenced as Velaris's blade found its mark.
Jarec faced the remaining Hounds, his focus sharpened. He summoned another burst of Chaos Surge, this time more controlled, creating a swirling vortex of dark energy that ripped through the enemy ranks. The remaining Hounds were caught in the whirlwind, their movements erratic and their howls turning to pained yelps.
Velaris took advantage of the chaos, finishing off the disoriented beasts with well-aimed strikes. The battle was fierce but brief. When the last Hound fell, the forest fell silent once more, save for the distant sounds of nature.
Jarec wiped sweat from his brow, his heart pounding from the exertion. Velaris sheathed his sword, surveying the battlefield with a critical eye.
"Good work," Velaris said, though his tone was more instructional than celebratory. "You've improved, but you need to focus more on control. Chaos Surge is a powerful tool, but it can be unpredictable."
Jarec nodded, feeling a mix of pride and determination. "I'll keep practicing."
As they continued their journey, a sudden, frantic scream pierced the air. Velaris and Jarec exchanged worried glances. They followed the sound through the dense forest, pushing through thick underbrush until they stumbled upon a heart-stopping scene.
A young girl, no older than ten, was cornered by a hulking **Stonehide Beast**, its rocky hide bristling with jagged crystals. The creature's eyes glowed with a menacing light as it advanced on the girl, who was desperately trying to fend it off with a small, crude stick.
"Help! Somebody, please!" the girl cried, her voice trembling with fear.
Without hesitation, Jarec sprang into action. His heart raced as he raised his hands, channeling his Chaos Surge into a focused blast. The chaotic energy erupted in a brilliant flare, slamming into the Stonehide Beast and sending it reeling backward. The creature roared in pain, its rocky hide cracking under the force of the attack.
"Stay back!" Jarec shouted to the girl, who was frozen in fear. He moved swiftly, dodging the Stonehide Beast's erratic swings. The beast, enraged by the interruption, swung its massive, rocky limbs with brute force.
Velaris joined the fray, his sword slicing through the air with precise, measured strikes. He targeted the beast's exposed joints, aiming to weaken it. The battle was intense, with Jarec and Velaris working in tandem to subdue the beast. Jarec's Chaos Surge continued to pound the creature, while Velaris's sword strikes found their mark with practiced ease.
The Stonehide Beast, now battered and weakened, attempted one final, desperate charge. Jarec met its charge head-on, channeling a concentrated burst of Chaos Surge that erupted in a blinding explosion. The beast staggered, its resistance crumbling under the relentless assault. With one final, powerful strike from Velaris, the creature fell, its monstrous form collapsing onto the forest floor.
Breathing heavily, Jarec turned to the girl, who was now standing in shock. "Are you alright?"
The girl nodded, her wide eyes filled with both gratitude and awe. "Thank you… I thought I was done for."
Velaris approached, his gaze softening. "You should be careful out here. This part of Valorium can be dangerous."
The girl's expression brightened as she looked at Jarec. "I can lead you to my village. It's not far from here. You saved me, so it's the least I can do."
Jarec and Velaris followed the girl through the winding forest paths, eventually emerging into a small, picturesque village. The village was a collection of modest wooden houses surrounded by lush fields and a serene river. The villagers, initially wary, quickly warmed up to their rescuers as the girl explained what had happened.
As they settled into the village, Jarec couldn't shake the sense of unease that lingered. Velaris, sensing his discomfort, kept a watchful eye on their surroundings. They were welcomed with warm hospitality and provided with a place to rest.
As night fell, Jarec and Velaris sat by the fire, reflecting on the day's events. The battle with the Stonehide Beast had tested their skills and strengthened their bond. The journey ahead was uncertain, but for now, they were safe, surrounded by the simple comfort of the village and the promise of a new beginning.