The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a soft golden light over the dense forest. Valen and Deli made their way through the underbrush, the morning air cool and crisp around them. Birds chirped high above, and the scent of damp earth filled their noses. It was a peaceful scene, but the two friends were anything but relaxed.
Today, they were on a mission.
Deli glanced at Valen, who was walking ahead with an eager look in his eyes. "You're sure this is where we'll find it?" Deli asked, adjusting the straps on his backpack.
"Absolutely," Valen replied, his voice filled with excitement. "The system's map showed that a powerful beast lives near the waterfall just ahead. If we're lucky, we'll find the water-type creature you need."
Deli nodded, his heart pounding with a mix of nerves and anticipation. Ever since Valen had unlocked the ability to summon creatures like the fearsome Blazewyrm, Deli had felt a longing to have his own companion. But unlike Valen, Deli's abilities were centered around healing and support. He needed something that could protect him while also complementing his skills.
Valen had suggested they search for a water-type beast, one that could serve as both a guardian and a source of healing in battle. The idea had excited Deli, and they had set out early that morning in search of this elusive creature.
As they walked, Valen pulled up his system interface, eyes scanning the details. "It's called Infero," he said. "From what I've read, it's a rare water beast known for its healing waters and powerful defensive abilities. If we can find it, it would be the perfect partner for you."
Deli's eyes widened. "Healing waters? That would be perfect! But… Infero doesn't sound like a water creature. Isn't that more of a fire-type name?"
Valen shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips. "Maybe it's a water beast with a fiery personality? Who knows. The system can be a little odd with names. But I have a feeling this one's going to be special."
Deli chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, as long as it doesn't try to eat me, I'm in."
They continued deeper into the forest, the sound of rushing water growing louder with each step. After another fifteen minutes of trekking, they arrived at the base of a towering waterfall. The water cascaded down a rocky cliff, crashing into a crystal-clear pool below. Mist filled the air, creating a surreal, almost magical atmosphere.
Valen scanned the area, his eyes narrowing as he looked for any signs of movement. "This has to be the place," he said. "Get ready, Deli. If Infero is here, it won't just show up and introduce itself."
Deli took a deep breath, his hands glowing with a soft blue light as he prepared his healing magic. "I'm ready. Let's do this."
They moved cautiously around the edge of the pool, eyes peeled for any signs of the elusive beast. The water was so clear they could see all the way to the bottom, where fish darted between the rocks. But there was no sign of Infero.
Just as Valen was about to suggest moving on, the system chimed.
Objective: Find and tame the water beast known as Infero.
Reward: Water Guardian Beast Companion for Deli.
Valen's eyes lit up. "There it is! The system confirmed it—Infero is nearby. We just need to draw it out."
Deli looked around nervously. "How do we do that? Do we… call for it or something?"
Valen grinned, stepping closer to the edge of the water. "Nah, we're going to provoke it. If this thing is as powerful as the system says, it won't be able to resist a challenge."
Before Deli could protest, Valen raised his hand, summoning a small burst of fire magic. He launched the flame into the water, causing a burst of steam to rise from the surface.
For a moment, there was nothing but the sound of the waterfall. Then, the water in the pool began to ripple. The ripples grew into waves, and suddenly, a massive shape burst forth from the depths.
A colossal creature emerged, its body covered in glistening blue scales. It had the long, serpentine body of a sea dragon, with fins that shimmered like crystal in the sunlight. Its eyes were a deep, oceanic blue, glowing with an ancient intelligence. Water dripped from its fangs as it let out a low, rumbling growl.
Valen took a step back, eyes wide with amazement. "There it is… Infero."
Deli's heart was racing, but he couldn't help but feel a thrill of excitement. "It's… beautiful."
But Infero was not in the mood for admiration. It reared back, opening its massive jaws to release a torrent of water, aimed directly at Valen and Deli.
"Look out!" Valen shouted, grabbing Deli and diving to the side just in time. The water blast hit the ground where they had been standing, leaving a deep crater.
Valen scrambled to his feet, summoning Blaze with a shout of "Evoke Blazewyrm!" The fiery serpent appeared in a burst of flames, facing off against the water beast.
"Blaze, keep it distracted!" Valen commanded, his eyes flicking to Deli. "Deli, this is your chance. You need to tame it!"
Deli nodded, his mind racing. He had no idea how to tame a creature, let alone one as powerful as Infero. But he trusted Valen, and he trusted his own instincts. He closed his eyes, reaching out with his healing magic, trying to connect with the creature.
Blaze and Infero clashed in a dazzling display of fire and water. The air was filled with steam as Blaze's flames met Infero's water blasts. But despite the chaos, Deli focused, sending out waves of calming energy toward Infero.
At first, the water beast didn't seem to notice. But gradually, its movements slowed. It turned its massive head to look at Deli, its glowing blue eyes narrowing. Deli took a deep breath, stepping forward.
"It's okay," he said softly. "We're not here to hurt you. We just want to be your friend."
Infero let out a low growl, but it didn't attack. Deli felt a flicker of hope. He continued to send out calming energy, focusing all his magic on forming a bond with the creature.
Valen watched, holding his breath. Blaze was ready to strike, but he held it back, trusting Deli to handle the situation.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Infero lowered its head, a soft, rumbling purr emanating from its chest. Deli's eyes widened in amazement. "I… I think it's working," he whispered.
The system chimed once more.
Infero has accepted Deli as its partner. You have gained a Water Guardian Beast Companion.
New Skill Unlocked: Aqua Shield – Infero can create a barrier of water to protect allies from attacks.
Deli let out a laugh of pure joy, reaching out to touch Infero's snout. The creature rumbled in response, nuzzling him gently.
Valen grinned, walking over to clap Deli on the back. "You did it, Deli! I knew you had it in you."
Deli beamed, his eyes shining with excitement. "I can't believe it… I actually have a companion now."
Valen nodded, looking at Infero with admiration. "And not just any companion. Infero is powerful. With Blaze and Infero on our side, we'll be unstoppable."
Deli laughed, feeling a surge of confidence. "Yeah, I guess we make a pretty good team, don't we?"
Valen smirked. "The best. Now, let's head back and see what other quests the system has in store for us. I have a feeling this is just the beginning."
Together, with Blaze and Infero by their side, the two friends set off back into the forest, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.