Chapter 9: Into the Shadows of Azazeer
The wind rushed past as I rode Silverfang, his powerful strides propelling us forward at an incredible speed. Lira floated alongside us, her ethereal glow a soft contrast to the vibrant greenery around us. For years, my world had been defined by the clash of blades, the searing heat of magic, and the cold indifference of those who feared or hated me. Yet now, as the trees blurred into a peaceful panorama, I found myself taking in the beauty of the world for the first time in years.
"Is this what peace feels like?" I murmured to myself, my hand resting lightly on Silverfang's mane. The serene landscape made my chest ache in a way I didn't fully understand.
"I don't know if I'm cursed or blessed," I thought aloud, "but with the two of you by my side, I don't feel so alone anymore."
Silverfang let out a soft growl, his ears twitching as if he understood my words. Lira's light pulsed gently, a silent affirmation of her presence. They weren't just my bonds—they were my companions, the only ones in this world who didn't look at me with disdain or fear.
The system had given me the ability to tame and bond with beasts, and I had the potential to grow my circle. Yet, I hesitated. "I could bond with more," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper, "but I'm not sure I see the point. Would they even want to be tamed by me? Would they be happy?"
The system provided clarity in these moments, allowing me to see into the hearts of those I sought to tame. It was a gift, but also a responsibility. One I wasn't eager to misuse.
We traveled for two days, the journey filled with quiet contemplation and occasional exchanges of glances between my bonds and me. The world outside the forest was alive with light and color, a sharp contrast to the somber existence I had known for so long. Each passing hour brought us closer to our destination, and with it, a growing tension in my chest.
Finally, we reached it. Azazeer Forest.
The entrance loomed before us, an ominous portal into the unknown. The dark energy radiating from the forest sent a shiver down my spine. The massive trees, towering over a hundred feet tall, cast long, twisting shadows that seemed to reach out like claws. The air was heavy, oppressive, as if the forest itself sought to repel intruders.
"This place…" I muttered, staring into the abyss before us. Fear gripped me, cold and sharp, but I clenched my fists and swallowed hard. "To be honest, I'm afraid. But what choice do I have?"
The world hated me. Humans hunted me, cursed me, tried to erase me from existence. Azazeer Forest was no more hostile than the world outside it, and at least here, there was the promise of answers—and power.
"We've come this far," I said, my voice steadying as I looked at Silverfang and Lira. "Let's see what lies beyond."
Silverfang growled softly, a sound that was equal parts reassurance and determination. Lira's light brightened briefly, casting away the shadows that encroached on us.
With a deep breath, I urged Silverfang forward, crossing the threshold into Azazeer Forest. Darkness enveloped us immediately, the oppressive energy pressing against my senses. But I didn't falter. I couldn't.
The journey ahead would test me in ways I couldn't yet imagine. But as long as I had my bonds with me, I would face whatever horrors awaited within the depths of Azazeer. For in a world that sought my destruction, this cursed forest might just hold the key to my salvation.