《Summon Shadows》


 Prolog

    In the heart of the forest, where the trees whispered ancient secrets, a silver female wolf¡¯s body shook as the contractions began. Pain lanced through her, but hope also surged within her. With each contraction, she felt the start of a transformation, a chance for her offspring to possess strength or intelligence far beyond her own.


    As the transformation unfolded, the wolf¡¯s body shifted and settled into her humanoid form. Though she retained her wolf ears and slightly out-of-proportion features, her eyes held the same intelligent gleam. Bitterness gnawed at her for the lack of a more pronounced transformation, yet she clung to the hope that her child would inherit the strength and wisdom from the alpha of her pack.  He was born in this shape and so would her child.


    Her barely legible howls and grunts betrayed her lack of language, but her instincts guided her. Unlike a normal litter, she could sense the single life within her, fighting to escape. Hours later, she held her small cub close to her breast, its tiny mouth latching onto her nipple. Though she longed to express her love in words, her growls and barks had to suffice. Her son lived, a testament to her strength and resilience.  He had retained the mixed form which would make him much more intelligent than she was.


    However, as she held her cub, a sense of unease settled over her. Her keen ears, not quite as keen as in her normal form, caught the sounds of commotion outside the shelter, suggesting something was amiss. She lifted her head, her nostrils flaring as she tried to decipher the nature of the disturbance. Her protective instincts flared as she realized the sounds were getting closer, threatening the safety of her newborn child.


    As the entrance to the shelter opened, the scent of another pack filled the air, confirming her worst fears. She swiftly pushed her son away and turned, transforming back into her natural wolf form. Two large wolves entered the cave, pushing aside the hides that had been concealing the shelter''s entrance.


    Despite her valiant efforts and numerous rallies, inspired by the watchful eyes of her son, the outcome was inevitable. Two menacing wolves emerged victorious. One clamped down on her hind leg, while the other unleashed a deadly grip on her throat before tearing it out. The killer, still dripping with blood, shifted into a huge hybrid form and cast a sinister smile downward as he reached for the child.


    ¡°This one will make a good slave.¡±


    Wrapped in hides, the beast handed the captive to his subordinate.


    "Take him with the others while I inform our leader that this group has been apprehended. Assign him to the vanguard; they will find the most utility in his skills."


    As the younger wolf carried the child out of the cave, the air was thick with tension. The child remained silent, but its eyes seemed to capture every detail of the moment.


    Silent, the one of the leaders within the Circle, reporting directly to the alpha, watched with a mixture of concern and anticipation. He had a brief moment of worry, but it was quickly forgotten as he remembered the purpose of their raid on the shaman''s cave.


    The materials gathered during this mission held the potential to promote another enhanced within the pack. The implications were significant. An additional summoner would strengthen their pack and enable them to expand their territory even further. The potential for growth and power overshadowed any lingering concerns Silent might have had when they began this hunt, and this was only the fifth pack they had taken down since then.


    Driven by ambition, Silent pulled on the link to his familiar, an immaterial crow that soared high above the forest canopy. In an instant, he disappeared, leaving no trace behind.


    On the outskirts of a small camp, the child was unceremoniously dropped among a rowdy group of individuals. The camp was home to a diverse array of species all adorned with odd collars. The wolf responsible for delivering the child turned and sniffed in disdain, his task completed he left to join the main pack.


    A pale blue lizard with a feminine voice stepped forward. Covered in a peculiar ensemble of clothing crafted from roots and grass, she spoke, "I wouldn¡¯t believe it if it wasn¡¯t before us, another hybrid.  The alpha of this pack must have been one.  Are we lucky they hate their own kind this much?"


    A similar colored lizard, much more bulky in build, approached.  "We''ll put them together then," he declared. "They can be their own pack as we have no others like them beyond Elias, and he despises children."


    A small, waddling raccoon-like creature emerged, his eyes aglow.  He looked over the boy, his eyes looking vague as if they were seeing beyond the child¡¯s flesh.  Deep within he could see a glow, which were patterns or arrays starting to form around the child''s heart, mind and groin.


    "What do you see?" inquired the male lizard.


    "He''s an innate summoner," the raccoon-like being replied. "I can already perceive his summoning array forming. If those wolves possessed this insight, they likely would have eliminated him, but they would never have surrendered him to us.  And he¡¯s got more than one circle forming.  We must keep this secret."


    "And the female, Beet, was she equal to this one?" the male lizard asked.


    "She possesses potential for the mind, but she would require assistance," Beet responded, still peering through a magical array that resembled glasses. "However, with two enhanced, Silent will regret not bringing them under his control.  Well, at least her, this one would be killed by the alpha the moment he completes his summoning, and nothing is going to stop that eventually."


    "Putting them together might significantly aid her development," Beet continued. "But we must maintain discretion regarding his innate abilities. I''ll ensure they are aware of their potential, but they''d never assist us with materials unless replacements are required."


    As the conversation unfolded, several other figures approached the camp, and additional slaves from the vanquished pack were assimilated into the Vanguards. Each of them being a non-wolf-like being.


    Beet grumbled internally, his frustration rising like a tide within him. Once again, he attempted to establish a complete connection with his familiar, yearning for the boundless power that lay dormant within him. However, the collar encircling his neck served as a stark reminder of the limitations imposed upon him. While he could still access and utilize his lesser abilities, the higher echelons of his power remained tantalizingly out of reach, locked behind an impenetrable barrier. The collar seemed to possess a will of its own, constantly monitoring and suppressing his true potential. Beet knew that as long as the collar remained in place, his growth would be stifled, and his dreams of unlocking the full extent of his abilities would be nothing more than a distant mirage.


    "Lia, escort this one to the followers. At least a couple of them have recently given birth, and we already sent the other one to the medical tent. If they meet the requirements, they will be of suitable age to join the vanguard in about six years. " Beet then proceeded to examine the other slaves. He could already discern that none of them possessed exceptional strength, and there were no signs of a familiar, indicating that they were mortal. "More for our followers, though not all will survive given our limited resources," he mused.


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    In preparation for the celebration of the destruction of the enemy pack on the ruins of their home, the camp followers fervently erected a meal area and shelter for the vanguard. Lia carried the young male child back to the campsite construction area.


    Within a spacious medical tent, Lia witnessed the wounded receiving care. Her attention was drawn to a woman with a child nearby. Despite the woman''s partial elven heritage, Lia perceived her mortality and noticed the similarity between the child and the one she carried, except for the red hue of the child''s ears contrasted with her baby''s silvery blue. Lia considered the woman¡¯s potential value.


    "Excellent, they''ve already handed you the other child. What of your own?" Lia inquired.


    "She perished," the woman responded sadly. "Her mixed breed couldn''t sustain her, and she couldn''t survive."


    "Unfortunate, but there''s hope for these," Lia said. "Here''s another child. You will care for them, but know that they will become full members of the vanguard. Your life pales in comparison to theirs."


    The elf nodded solemnly. "What are their names?" she asked.


    "I don''t care, and they don''t either," Lia replied.


    Lia turned and exited the tent. In the middle of the camp, she harnessed the power of life around her. The crushed grass and plants beneath the tent stirred, forming an array, and the tent pulsed with additional energy. Those experiencing pain felt it subside, and the wounds ceased bleeding. While this wouldn¡¯t fully heal them, it would give the followers caring for them a chance to potentially save a few. Though not summoners, they all possessed potential, making them more hardy than most. That''s why they were in the vanguard, leading the charge. Slaves always served best on the front lines.


    The elf looked lovingly down at the two children.  They weren¡¯t her own, but they did fill a void that she had.  Looking at the girl she spoke, ¡°You will be Nare.  I was going to name my own child after my spirit guide F?an¨¢ro, but you can have part of her name and fire does seem to fit you.¡±  She smiled while still crying.


    The male child had found her other breast and was now uncomfortably feeding, his teeth were sharper than the girls and she could feel the pain as the skin broke.  She slowly pet his ears which twitched at her touch to calm him down.  ¡°And you shall hold the other part of my life, Dae, the shadows.¡±


    As the years unfolded, the two children grew and matured under the care of their new mother. However, their path quickly diverged from the other children in the camp, as they started to be trained by the vanguard. Lia, Beet, and Zy, the male lizard, took them under their wings and imparted their knowledge and skills.


    Zy, a skilled combatant almost monk-like in his dedication, taught them the art of hand-to-hand combat, utilizing fists, claws, and feet. Emphasizing the need for stealth, he honed their senses, allowing them to move unseen and strike undetected. Beet and Lia, on the other hand, nurtured their minds. They taught them to read and write, opening up realms of knowledge and understanding. They delved into the principles of energy summoning, explaining how it could be channeled and shaped into arrays that could manipulate reality, bestowing abilities and enhancing skills.  Beet showed them abilities based on elemental energy and manipulating the world around them and Lia showed them natural energy, using the plants and trees to work her abilities.  As such, they showed the three different facets that summons could affect, the body, the world and reality itself.


    While Nare found purpose in the physical aspects of their training, reveling in the battles and honing her strength, Dae excelled in stealth and knowledge. The two took different paths, Nare growing stronger and more robust, while Dae focused on speed and agility, becoming a nimble and elusive fighter.


    During their enslavement, they discovered that they were part of a more extensive world populated by various races, including humans, elves, dwarves, and others. However, they and their fellow captives in the Wilds were collectively referred to as Beasts or Beastfolk. They resided within the untamed Wilds, far from established civilization. None of the vanguard had witnessed a genuine city or country, despite their knowledge of a Beast capital situated in the Eastern Wilds.


    They learned that as slaves, they would be joining a group called the Vanguard, which served as a sacrificial unit utilized by the pack to absorb the initial casualties in battles or raids. While only four enhanced in the group possessed familiars when the two joined, every active member had the potential for such. This potential granted them various enhancements, including improved results from training, enhanced memory, and retention, as well as the ability to build and maintain their physical bodies, resulting in some members attaining extraordinary strength beyond mortal capabilities. Despite the group''s efforts to gather materials for summoning, the low quality of resources and the lack of assistance had prevented them from performing a successful summoning since the two had joined.


    By the age of six, both individuals bore a striking resemblance to someone in their early twenties. Nare, towering over six feet tall with well-defined muscles. Her wolf form was among the largest within the pack, yet she remained an outcast and a member of the vanguard due to her primary form. Nare''s combat skills had advanced, and she had transitioned from training under Zy''s guidance to sparring with Elias. Though it took some time for Elias to acknowledge the two due to their shared uniqueness, his proficiency with weapons, enhanced by his connection to a fire elemental as his familiar, complemented Nare''s fighting style admirably.


    Dae, determined to bolster his capabilities, continued his partnership with Zy. Fate smiled upon them this year, presenting him with the opportunity to learn from two additional teachers. The arrival of a pair of cat-like beasts, twin sisters possessing unique abilities named Mai and Sai, added a new dimension to the group''s dynamic. Similar to the wolves, these twins had the remarkable ability to shift forms, a skill not commonly found among their peers.


    Mai possessed a predilection for dark and stealthy activities. She expanded Dae''s training, introducing him to the art of assassination and the use of poisons. Her expertise in these areas pushed Dae''s skills to new heights, honing his precision and finesse.


    Sai, in contrast, harbored a passion for hunting and survival. She imparted her knowledge of tracking, foraging, and wilderness navigation to Dae and Nare. Her lessons instilled a deep understanding of the natural world and the skills necessary to thrive in harsh environments.


    Under the tutelage of these exceptional teachers, Dae''s abilities evolved and diversified. He embraced the stealth and cunning of the cat-like beasts, incorporating their techniques into his arsenal. At the same time, he developed a deep appreciation for the wilderness, learning how to navigate its challenges and exploit its resources.


    By the age of eight, both Nare and Dae had joined the vanguard and fought in numerous battles. Nare, with her indomitable spirit and unwavering determination, wielded a formidable great sword that was both ugly and capable. This weapon was a testament to her ferocity and her willingness to embrace her hybrid form, which she unleashed when her anger reached its peak. However, due to the immense power she possessed, she often lost a weapon like that every other battle. This particular great sword was different though, as it had once belonged to a summoner, making it less likely to shatter under the strain of her transformation.


    Nare''s armor was meticulously crafted from several layers of hides and other materials, designed to break away seamlessly when she shifted into her hybrid form, accommodating the changes in her body. She understood the importance of adaptability on the battlefield and had learned from her previous experiences.


    Dae, on the other hand, was smaller in stature and possessed a natural affinity for stealth. He preferred to lurk in the shadows, utilizing his agility and cunning to strike his enemies. While he carried a variety of tools and weapons, his favorite remained his own hands and claws. His wolf form had not grown significantly, but his agility with it allowed him to move like a phantom on the battlefield, seamlessly shifting from one location to another.


    Scars adorned their bodies, a testament to their intense battles and the risks they faced as mortals who lacked the enhanced healing abilities of their teachers. Despite the dangers, they fearlessly participated in raids, always positioning themselves in the thick of the fighting, eager to prove their worth and contribute to the pack.

 Awakening

    Dae exhaled a sigh of relief as his humanoid form rematerialized, the intricate belt encircling his waist shifting with him, offering both protection and access to his essential tools. With practiced ease, he reached for one of the many throwing blades suspended from the belt, preparing to strike as soon as the guard turned their back.


    Minutes ticked by, the guard''s movements becoming increasingly predictable. Finally, the opportunity presented itself, and Dae released the blade with uncanny precision. The metal projectile flipped through the air, finding its mark in the guard''s unsuspecting eye with a sickening thud.


    Dae swiftly moved in to retrieve his blade, a treasured possession among his limited arsenal. Though he preferred to avoid using ranged weapons, he acknowledged their necessity in certain situations.


    With the guard incapacitated, Dae assumed their position at the edge of the valley cliff, peering down into the abyss below. He could sense his fellow operatives already making their descent, their footsteps echoing off the sheer rock face.


    Nestled in the secluded valley below, the small camp buzzed with activity. Beastmen of various sizes and shapes worked diligently side by side, their claws and paws deftly handling tools and materials. At the center of the camp, near the shaman''s tent, a summoning circle was taking shape. Its intricate patterns and symbols radiated an ethereal glow, promising untold power to those who dared to unlock its secrets.


    This camp had been the object of a relentless search by the Bloody Pack. Rumors had spread like wildfire among the beastmen communities, whispering of a massive energy crystal and rare materials discovered by one of this camp''s members. The Alpha and his Circle, captivated by the allure of such treasures, had set their sights on acquiring them by any means necessary.


    Dae surveyed the scene with a heavy sigh. He knew all too well the terror that the Bloody Pack brought upon their victims. If not for the rumors that had led them here, he imagined that his pack would be enjoying the comforts of one of their familiar sites. Nearby was even one of his favorites, hot springs which bubbled and steamed, inviting weary travelers to relax and rejuvenate. But for the Bloody Pack, there was no respite tonight. Their mission was relentless, and their thirst for power knew no bounds.


    Dae''s heart sank as he contemplated the fate of the unsuspecting camp below. The beastmen, unaware of the impending danger, continued their work with fervor, unaware that they were about to become entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse. The Bloody Pack was closing in, and the tranquil valley would soon be transformed into a battleground where blood would flow freely.


    As the other members of the stealth team reached the bottom of the valley, Dae swiftly descended the rocky terrain to join them. He glanced at the empty space beside him, wishing that Nare, his trusted partner, was by his side. However, she had stayed back with the fighters at the head of the valley, her keen eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of movement. Her role was crucial, as she waited patiently for the prearranged signal that would trigger the next phase of their plan.


    The team split, slipping within the shelters where some of the enemy group were sleeping. Each designated to take them out of the equation by using toxins to enforce their slumber and increase the slaves captured tonight.


    Dae¡¯s target was unfortunately awake, as he was tasked with distracting the shaman once the signal to attack was given. Slipping into one of the shelters, he found the current inhabitants were already taken care of. This made it easy to grab a cloak one was sleeping under and wrap it around his body. The covering would give him the scent of the group in case one of the more bestial had sharp senses.


    His estimation was correct as he found himself just outside the shaman¡¯s tent wall. The tent was well made, and had to have been bought from a nearby city. There was only a moment as he wished to be able to see such a thing, but the vanguard was never allowed within sight of the walls. The fear that they would escape or be taken by a group within was too big a risk for the Circle and they were always denied.


    He also grumbled at the loss of any of these materials. They would die for them but the Circle would get the rewards. Even with the small items his group would already be collecting from the normal members of the camp, the rewards within this tent would allow a full summoning and awakening, something the vanguard hadn¡¯t been allowed to do since he was born.


    The signal, a fox call from the other end of the valley, caused Dae to reach for his sharpest blade, opening the side of the tent enough for him to slip inside. The shaman was there at the open entrance, an owl-like humanoid, known for controlling wind. He wished Zy was here instead, but he had died along with his mate several battles before and they had no summoned left since Mai was tasked with the Alpha of this camp who was one of the more dangerous beasts, a bear.


    The air grew thick with anticipation as the signal reached Dae''s ears. The familiar sound of the fox call, a piercing cry echoing through the valley, ignited a spark of urgency within him. This was their cue. The moment they had been waiting for, the culmination of their meticulous planning and preparation.


    He took a deep breath, his senses heightened. The shaman stood before him, his back turned, engrossed in his preparations for the summoning ritual. Dae''s hand tightened around the hilt of his blade, the cool metal a comforting reminder of his purpose. It was time to act.


    With a burst of speed, Dae lunged forward, the blade flashing through the air like a venomous serpent. His aim was precise, targeting a non-vital area to incapacitate rather than kill. The shaman let out a startled cry as the blade found its mark, a shallow wound opening on his shoulder.


    The owl-like beastman whirled around, his eyes wide with surprise and alarm. "Who are you? What is the meaning of this attack?" he demanded, his voice laced with a hint of fear.


    Dae wasted no time on explanations. He launched into a series of swift and calculated strikes, his movements fluid and graceful. The shaman, though caught off guard, was no pushover. He deftly parried Dae''s attacks, his own claws extended, ready to retaliate.


    The tent became a whirlwind of motion, the air filled with the clash of steel and the snarls of two predators locked in mortal combat. Dae''s agility and speed proved to be a formidable advantage, allowing him to evade the shaman''s counterattacks and land several blows of his own. But the owl-like beastman was resilient, his wind magic swirling around him like a protective barrier.


    As the fight intensified, Dae realized that incapacitating the shaman would be more challenging than he had anticipated. The summoning circle pulsed with energy, drawing upon the surrounding power and amplifying the shaman''s abilities. Dae knew he had to act quickly before the ritual was completed.


    With a surge of adrenaline, Dae changed tactics. He feinted a high strike, then ducked low, his blade aimed at the shaman''s legs. The owl-like beastman, anticipating another overhead attack, left himself vulnerable for a split second. Dae seized the opportunity, his blade slicing through the shaman''s hamstring.


    The owl-like beastman let out a pained cry as he stumbled and fell to his knees. Dae pressed his advantage, disarming his opponent and pinning him to the ground. The shaman struggled, but Dae''s grip was unyielding.


    "You will not complete this ritual," Dae hissed, his voice cold and menacing. "Your time is up."


    ¡°It¡¯s too late, it¡¯s starting.¡± The owl¡¯s beak cackled, and Dae pulled a toxin laden spike out and stabbed him in the neck, causing the beast to lose consciousness after several minutes.


    Dae looked at the array and shook his head. One of the Circle or their own shaman would deal with it. Then two shadows broke from the melee in the camp and hurried in his direction.


    "Nare!" Dae shouted with joy as he reached out to grab her hand. Elias was trailing behind her with a pack, which was strange because he was usually in the thick of the fight.


    ¡°Hush boy, we have little time before the Circle and their lackeys arrive to dismantle this and we can¡¯t have that, you and the girl are going to use this opportunity to complete your summoning.¡± Elias quickly removed his pack and pulled out some of the precious materials the vanguard had been able to gather.


    Dae looked stunned, but Nare smiled and pulled him within the array. ¡°It¡¯s ok, it¡¯s our turn and you know it. Wouldn¡¯t happen unless we took a chance and we can say it was already active, which it is.¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s why the signal was late?¡± Dae asked Elias, with a shocked look on his muzzle.


    ¡°Yes¡± Elias¡¯s grin showed his full set of teeth, ¡°And the Circle will be furious, but there isn¡¯t anything they can do about it and it¡¯s not like they can afford to kill any summoned.¡±


    Dae finally looked closer at the array and the gathered materials. There was the largest energy crystal he had ever seen at the center, the natural array that made it must have been huge and old. The rest of the array had materials from monsters around. No animal had bones that big or thick, but those who were enhanced or worse awakened would become something more, and their components were required for the best results during a summoning. Dae¡¯s sense of himself started to fade as he felt Nare¡¯s arms surround him in a hug.


    Time seemed to stop as the summoning portal''s energy enveloped the two figures within the array. Nare felt a tendril probe her body, latching onto an incomplete array within her. In a rush, the array connected to the surrounding energy, and a pulse surged through her. Her mind went blank as the summoning began, but something was amiss. Her connection faltered, lost in the swirling chaos beside her. Yet, her array remained linked to the immense power nearby, and she sensed a bond forming with her partner before she tried in vain to scream.


    Dae watched in astonishment as multiple tendrils of energy delved into his body. Unlike Nare, who had only one, the energy flowing into him was on a different scale entirely. Instead of drawing power from the array, he felt his body amplify its strength. The tendrils danced around him, intertwining with his groin, heart, and mind. Their pulsating energy coursed through him, establishing a connection to Nare. He reached out to her, but a resistance blocked his path. Sensing something was wrong, he pushed harder, feeling her pain as her energy waned and her connection to the summoning faltered but instead merged with his own.


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    He felt a surge of power as the array around him started to glow and pulse with energy. The tendrils started to fade as the array took over, and he felt a pull from somewhere far away. He could feel Nare¡¯s presence fading, but he couldn¡¯t do anything about it now. He had to focus on the summoning. He closed his eyes and let the array take over.


    The darkness was absolute, and Dae felt himself being pulled in all directions. The only constant was the pain, a searing, agonizing pain that tore through his very being. It felt as if his body was being ripped apart and put back together, over and over again. He wanted to scream, but no sound escaped his lips. He wanted to fight back, but his limbs felt heavy and unresponsive.


    Then, as suddenly as it had begun, the pain subsided. The darkness receded, and Dae found himself standing in a vast, empty space. The only source of light was a faint, ethereal glow emanating from a shimmering portal that hung suspended in the void before him.


    As he approached the portal, he could sense powerful presences on the other side, their energies intertwining and resonating with the portal''s pulsating power. While he could not see or hear anything, he could comprehend that those presences were godlike in their power.


    The first figure to appear was a creature of captivating beauty and alluring darkness. Her form, that of a succubus, was both seductive and intimidating. Her skin, as pale as moonlight, contrasted with her flowing raven hair and piercing crimson eyes. Bat-like wings unfurled from her back, their leathery membranes shimmering with an iridescent sheen.


    The second figure to step up to the portal was a magnificent phoenix, its feathers ablaze with vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold. Its eyes, like molten sapphires, burned with an intensity that spoke of ancient wisdom and boundless power. As it spread its wings, the air crackled with the heat of its fiery essence.


    The last figure to arrive was a dryad, her form a living tapestry of bark, leaves, and vines. Her eyes, as green as the forest depths, held a serene and gentle gaze. Her presence exuded an aura of tranquility and harmony, a stark contrast to the raw power of her companions.


    "How intriguing," purred the demon succubus, her voice like velvet laced with venom. "This portal pulses with an unfamiliar energy, a raw, untamed power I''ve never encountered before."


    A fiery phoenix, its feathers shimmering with iridescent flames, let out a melodious cry. "Indeed, demon of shadow. This realm, this... pocket dimension, seems to exist outside the known planes. But what truly perplexes me is the nature of this portal. The tendrils, they intertwine with the being''s mind, heart, and groin. Such intimacy, such vulnerability..."


    A dryad, her form composed of living wood and verdant leaves, spoke in a voice as gentle as a summer breeze. "It is unlike any bridge I have witnessed. This portal, it draws upon not one, but three distinct energies. The mind, the body, and the spirit. It is as if the summoner seeks to forge a bond that transcends the physical and delves into the very essence of being."


    The succubus chuckled, a low, sultry sound that sent shivers down the spines of her companions. "Perhaps this is why we were drawn here, sisters. This invoker, this... Dae, he offers a unique opportunity. A chance to explore the depths of power and pleasure, to experience a connection unlike any other."


    The phoenix tilted its head, its fiery eyes filled with curiosity. "And what of the risks? Such power, such intimacy, it could consume us, bind us to this summoner in ways we cannot foresee."


    The dryad nodded in agreement, her leafy brows furrowed with concern. "We must tread carefully. This summoning is unlike any we have encountered before. The consequences of our actions could be far-reaching."


    The succubus smiled, her fangs glinting in the ethereal light. "Fear not, sisters. We are creatures of power, of desire. We shall embrace this opportunity, this challenge. Together, we shall explore the depths of this summoning, and claim its rewards for ourselves."


    The dryad stepped forward, her ethereal form shimmering with a verdant glow. Extending a delicate hand towards the portal, she released a surge of pure, natural energy. The portal''s surface rippled and distorted, momentarily destabilizing the connection.


    "Foolishness," the succubus hissed, her crimson eyes narrowing. "Your meddling will only disrupt the summoning and doom us all."


    The phoenix, its fiery gaze fixed on the dryad, spoke in a voice that crackled with both curiosity and concern. "Sister of the forest, what is your purpose? Why interfere with the natural flow of this summoning?"


    The dryad''s voice, as gentle as a rustling breeze, carried a note of unwavering determination. "This portal is a bridge between worlds, a conduit for beings of immense power. But it is also fragile, its stability dependent on the delicate balance of energies. Our presence, as fully formed beings, would overwhelm this fragile connection and risk collapsing the entire dimension."


    The succubus scoffed, her wings twitching impatiently. "Then what do you propose, sister of the trees? Shall we simply stand aside and watch this opportunity slip through our grasp?"


    The dryad smiled serenely, her emerald eyes shining with wisdom. "Not at all, sister of shadow. There is another way, a path that allows us to partake in this summoning without jeopardizing its integrity."


    The dryad, her connection to nature as intrinsic as her bark-woven skin, reached deep within herself. Drawing upon the life force that coursed through her veins, she coaxed forth a seed, a tiny vessel of untapped potential. With a gentle touch, she placed the seed upon the ethereal ground, her fingers tracing intricate patterns around it, infusing it with her essence.


    As if awakened by an ancient spell, the seed trembled and sprouted, its roots burrowing into the nothingness with surprising tenacity. A delicate stem emerged, reaching towards the shimmering portal with an unwavering determination. Leaves unfurled, their vibrant green a stark contrast to the void that surrounded them.


    The seedling grew at an astonishing pace, its form becoming more defined with each passing moment. It stretched and twisted, its branches weaving together to create a small, humanoid figure. The figure''s features were still indistinct, but its outline bore a striking resemblance to the dryad herself, a miniature echo of her own form.


    With a final surge of energy, the dryad severed the connection between herself and the seedling, granting it autonomy and independence. The newly formed being opened its eyes, their emerald hue mirroring the dryad''s own. It turned its gaze towards the portal, a sense of curiosity and purpose radiating from its nascent consciousness.


    She gestured towards the seedling, its form now fully realized and standing beside her. "This is my offering, a vessel of pure potential, unburdened by the limitations of our own existence. It is a blank canvas, ready to be shaped and molded by the energies of this realm."


    The phoenix let out a soft cry, its feathers ruffling with a mix of awe and apprehension. "But will it be enough? Can such a young, untested being withstand the power of this summoning?"


    The dryad nodded confidently. "It is not strength or experience that this portal seeks, but potential and adaptability. This seedling, born of my essence and nurtured by the energies of this realm, possesses both in abundance."


    The succubus, her initial skepticism waning, stepped forward to examine the seedling. Her crimson eyes scanned its form, taking in its delicate features and the raw power that thrummed beneath its surface.


    "Intriguing," she purred, a hint of admiration in her voice. "Perhaps there is merit to your plan, sister of the forest. But what of our own desires? How do we benefit from this arrangement?"


    The dryad smiled enigmatically. "The rewards of this summoning are not limited to the summoner alone. The energies that flow through this portal will touch us all, shaping and transforming us in ways we cannot yet imagine. And as this seedling grows and matures, it will become a conduit for our own power, a vessel through which we can experience the wonders of this realm."


    The phoenix, its fiery gaze still fixed on the seedling, let out a cry that echoed through the void. Drawing upon the flames that danced within its being, it released a single, incandescent feather. The feather, ablaze with a brilliant light, floated gently towards the portal, its trajectory guided by an unseen force.


    As it approached the shimmering surface, the feather began to dissolve, its fiery essence merging with the portal''s energy. The portal''s glow intensified, its colors shifting and swirling in a mesmerizing display. From the heart of the portal, a new form emerged, a being of pure fire and light.


    The phoenix''s avatar stood tall and proud, its humanoid shape composed of flickering flames. Its eyes, like twin suns, radiated a warmth that was both comforting and awe-inspiring. Wings of fire unfurled from its back, their ethereal flames casting intricate patterns of light and shadow. It then shrunk, becoming a small bird with rainbow colored fire surrounding it.


    The succubus, her crimson eyes gleaming with anticipation, stepped forward. With a seductive smile, she extended a clawed hand towards the portal, her dark energy flowing into its depths. The portal''s surface rippled and pulsed, its colors darkening as it absorbed the succubus''s power.


    A shadowy figure emerged from the portal, its form shrouded in darkness. The succubus''s avatar was a creature of both beauty and terror, its features a blend of human and demonic. Its skin, as pale as ash, was marked with intricate tattoos that seemed to writhe and shift. Its eyes, like pools of liquid night, held a predatory glint. The form shrunk as well, becoming a smaller humanoid hidden by swirling shadows.


    As the three avatars started to cross the boundary, a second call sounded in the space around them. It was small but resilient. Nare was pulled forward to stand next to Dae.


    The demoness, her crimson eyes narrowed, scrutinized the newcomer with a mix of curiosity and disdain. "Another?" she hissed, her voice laced with a hint of possessiveness. "But this one bears no resemblance to me."


    The dryad, her gaze gentle yet perceptive, nodded in agreement. "Nor to me," she added.


    The phoenix, however, seemed intrigued. Its fiery eyes, usually burning with an intense heat, softened as it regarded Nare. "There is a familiarity here," it mused, its voice a melodious trill. "A resonance that calls to me, even though it does not mirror my own essence."


    With a graceful gesture, the phoenix released another feather from its resplendent plumage. This feather, smaller and less radiant than the first, still carried a spark of the phoenix''s immense power. It fluttered towards Nare, drawn by an invisible thread of connection.


    The feather, as delicate as a hummingbird''s wing, danced around Nare, its fiery essence tracing intricate patterns in the air. It seemed to be testing her, probing her energy, seeking a point of resonance. Finally, with a gentle touch, the feather landed upon Nare''s chest, its fiery tip nestling against her heart.


    A surge of warmth spread through Nare''s being, a sensation both comforting and exhilarating. The feather''s energy, like a gentle flame, intertwined with her own, forging a bond that was both unexpected and undeniable.


    The three avatars, their forms shimmering with otherworldly energy, converged upon Dae. The succubus''s avatar, a creature of shadow and seduction, reached out with an ethereal hand, its touch as cold as moonlight. It caressed Dae''s forehead, its essence seeping into his mind like a tendril of darkness.


    In that moment, Dae felt his consciousness expand, his perception shifting as he became attuned to the hidden currents of power that flowed through the void. The succubus''s power, a mastery over shadow and illusion, mingled with his own, granting him a newfound understanding of the subtle arts of deception and manipulation.


    The phoenix''s avatar, a being of fire and rebirth, approached next. Its fiery gaze met Dae''s, and a surge of warmth enveloped him. The avatar''s hand, radiating an intense heat, pressed against Dae''s chest, its essence flowing into his heart like molten lava.


    Dae''s body trembled as the phoenix''s power coursed through his veins, igniting a fire within him. His muscles swelled with newfound strength, his bones hardened, and his senses heightened. The phoenix''s gift of regeneration, a power to heal and restore, merged with his own, granting him an unprecedented resilience.


    Finally, the dryad''s avatar, a creature of nature and life, stepped forward. Its emerald eyes, filled with a serene wisdom, met Dae''s gaze. The avatar''s hand, as gentle as a spring breeze, reached for Dae''s groin, its essence flowing into him like a life-giving sap.


    Dae felt a connection to the natural world blossoming within him, his senses expanding to encompass the rhythms of the earth, the whispers of the wind, and the pulse of life that permeated the very fabric of reality. The dryad''s power, a mastery over growth and vitality, intertwined with his own, granting him an unprecedented affinity for the natural world.


    The kaleidoscope of sensations and emotions that had overwhelmed Dae and Nare began to recede, replaced by a growing awareness of their physical surroundings. The ethereal plane faded, and the familiar sights and sounds of the shaman''s tent rushed back into their senses. The summoning was complete.


    Dae''s eyes flickered open, and he found himself standing within the summoning circle, his body trembling with residual energy. Beside him, Nare stirred, her own eyes slowly opening to reveal a newfound clarity and focus. The tendrils of power that had connected them to the otherworldly beings had vanished, leaving behind a lingering warmth and a sense of profound transformation.


    Dae could feel the lingering presence of the succubus within his mind, granting him newfound control over shadows and the ability to weave illusions. The phoenix''s essence coursed through his veins, filling him with a sense of boundless energy and the ability to mend his wounds at an accelerated rate. The dryad''s connection to nature allowed him to sense the world around him with heightened clarity, drawing strength and vitality from the very earth beneath his feet.


    Nare, though her connection was primarily with the phoenix, had also been touched by the residual energies of the summoning. Her physical prowess had increased, her muscles rippling with newfound strength and her reflexes sharpened to a razor''s edge. A warmth radiated from her core, a testament to the phoenix''s gift of regeneration, which would allow her to recover from injuries faster than before.


    Though not as pronounced as Dae''s abilities, Nare''s newfound powers were a significant boon to her already formidable combat skills. She could feel the potential for even greater strength and resilience within her, waiting to be unlocked as she continued to explore the depths of her connection with the phoenix.

 Run Away

    The air crackled with the raw energy of unleashed magic as Dae and Nare stumbled back into awareness. The once tranquil atmosphere of the void was shattered, replaced by the deafening clamor of battle. The clash of steel and the roars of combatants filled the air, a chaotic symphony of violence that echoed through the valley.


    Vanguard members fought with a ferocity born of desperation. They formed a protective circle around Dae and Nare, their bodies a living barrier against the onslaught of the Circle and their minions. Blood splattered the trampled grass, painting a gruesome tableau of sacrifice and defiance.


    Elias, his eyes blazing with a fierce determination, appeared beside them, his voice cutting through the din of battle. "Hurry, run!" he shouted, his words barely audible above the cacophony. "We''ll hold them off long enough for you to escape. You have no control collar on, so you can flee and survive if you get away."


    Dae and Nare, still reeling from the intensity of the summoning, exchanged a bewildered glance. The sudden shift from the ethereal plane to the brutal reality of combat was jarring, their minds struggling to process the chaos that surrounded them. But they knew they had no time to hesitate.


    With a shared nod, they turned and fled, their newfound abilities propelling them forward with astonishing speed. The Vanguard members, their ranks thinning with each passing moment, fought valiantly to buy them time, their bodies a testament to their unwavering loyalty.


    As they reached the edge of the camp, Dae''s instincts screamed out a warning. He could sense figures moving in the shadows, flanking them, cutting off their escape route. He grabbed Nare''s hand, pulling her towards the dense undergrowth that bordered the camp.


    They plunged into the forest, the thick canopy of leaves providing a welcome cover. Dae, his senses heightened by the dryad''s blessing, could feel the pulse of the forest, the hidden paths and the subtle movements of the undergrowth. He guided Nare through the labyrinth of trees and vines, their footsteps silent and their movements swift.


    Behind them, the sounds of pursuit grew louder. The Bloody Pack, sensing their prey slipping away, redoubled their efforts. Dae could hear the heavy footfalls of their pursuers, the snapping of twigs, and the occasional curse as they struggled to navigate the dense forest.


    Dae, his mind racing, reached out to the shadows that surrounded them. He could feel the succubus''s power coursing through him, a dark and seductive energy that responded to his will. With a thought, he commanded the shadows to deepen, to thicken, to obscure their forms from view.


    The forest seemed to darken around them, the shadows stretching and twisting, forming a protective veil that concealed their movements. Dae and Nare slipped through the undergrowth like ghosts, their presence masked by the shifting darkness.


    Their pursuers, momentarily disoriented by the sudden shift in the environment, hesitated. They could sense their prey nearby, but their vision was clouded, their senses dulled. They stumbled through the forest, their frustration growing with each passing moment.


    Dae and Nare pressed on, their bodies moving with a grace and efficiency that surprised even themselves. Dae, his strength augmented by the phoenix''s blessing, felt a surge of power with every stride. He could leap over fallen logs with ease, his muscles rippling with newfound power.


    Nare, her own abilities enhanced by the summoning, kept pace with Dae, her movements fluid and precise. She could feel the warmth of the phoenix''s energy coursing through her, fueling her every move.


    As they ran, Dae noticed something strange. The forest seemed to be aiding their escape. Thorns and branches that would have impeded their progress seemed to bend out of their way, allowing them to pass unimpeded. The soft earth cushioned their footfalls, leaving no trace of their passage.


    Dae realized that the dryad''s connection to nature was not only enhancing his senses but also influencing the environment around him. The forest, sensing his presence, was protecting him, guiding him, helping him to evade his pursuers.


    Their pursuers, growing increasingly frustrated, began to fan out, hoping to cut off their escape route. Dae, sensing their movements, altered their course, leading Nare deeper into the forest.


    They ran for what seemed like hours, the sounds of pursuit gradually fading behind them. Dae and Nare, their bodies aching and their lungs burning, finally slowed to a walk. They found a hidden clearing, surrounded by a thick wall of brambles and ferns.


    Dae collapsed onto the soft moss, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Nare, though exhausted, remained alert, her eyes scanning the surrounding forest for any sign of danger.


    "We lost them," Dae said, his voice barely a whisper.


    Nare nodded, her brow furrowed with concern. "For now," she said. "But they won''t give up easily."


    Dae knew she was right. The Bloody Pack was relentless, their thirst for power and control driving them to hunt down their prey with a single-minded focus.


    "We need to keep moving," Dae said, pushing himself to his feet. "We can''t stay here."


    This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Nare nodded in agreement. "But where do we go?" she asked. "We''re surrounded by enemies."


    Dae looked around, his eyes scanning the forest. He could sense the presence of other beastmen nearby, their scents mingling with the earthy aroma of the forest floor. But none of them seemed to be from the Bloody Pack.


    "We need to find a safe haven," Dae said. "Somewhere we can rest and regroup."


    Nare nodded, her eyes filled with a newfound determination. "Then let''s find it," she said.


    Dae''s heart pounded in his chest, a frantic drumbeat against his ribs. He could feel Nare''s trembling hand clutched in his, a silent testament to her fear. They had to keep moving, but their pursuers were relentless, their dark forms weaving through the trees like shadows.


    Suddenly, a guttural growl ripped through the air, followed by a crashing behind them. A hulking figure, its body covered in thick fur and its eyes glowing with an unnatural red light, emerged from the undergrowth. It was a giant wolf, one of the bodyguards of the Circle, and its presence sent chills down Dae''s spine.


    Nare, her eyes wide with terror, squeezed his hand tighter. "Dae, we can''t fight him!" she whispered, her voice barely a tremor.


    Dae knew she was right. The wolf was a powerful creature, and they were already exhausted from their escape. But they had no choice. They had to fight their way through.


    With a deep breath, Dae summoned the shadows again, swirling it around him like a cloak. He could feel the succubus''s power coursing through him, causing his enemy to be distracted. He lunged at the beast, his claws flashing in the dim light.


    Nare, fueled by the phoenix''s fire, swung her sword, which started to flicker with fire. The beast roared in pain, fur burned where the sword hit but did not break the skin.  Its return attack by just twisting its body hit Nare fully and she flew back into a tree, the cracking not only being the branches but her ribs as well.


    But the creature was not easily defeated. It lashed out with its bite, tearing through Dae''s cloak of shadow and leaving deep gouges in the flesh of his left arm which he raised in defense.


    They were fighting a losing battle. The beast was stronger, faster, and more relentless than they were. Just as Dae felt his strength waning, he saw a flicker of movement in the corner of his eye.


    Another figure emerged from the shadows, its form cloaked in fire. It was Elias, his eyes blazing with determination. He had come to their aid, but would it be enough?


    The beast turned its attention to Elias, its guttural growl echoing through the forest. Dae and Nare, their bodies battered and bruised, watched in fear and anticipation as the two figures clashed.


    The battle was fierce, a whirlwind of teeth and fire. Elias, his agility enhanced by the heat, danced around the giant wolf, his claws striking with deadly precision. The creature roared in fury, its powerful blows raining down on Elias, but he dodged each attack with a grace that seemed impossible for his size.


    Nare, her voice hoarse from exertion, cried out, "Dae, we need to help him!"


    Dae, his own wounds throbbing, nodded in agreement. He gathered the last of his strength and launched himself at the wolf, his own claws glinting in the firelight.


    Together, Dae and Elias fought with renewed vigor, their combined attacks driving the beast back. The creature, weakened by the flames and the relentless assault, began to retreat.


    With a final roar, the beast vanished into the night, leaving Dae and Nare panting and exhausted. Elias, his breath ragged, stood beside them, his body covered in cuts and bruises.


    "We did it," Dae said, his voice barely a whisper.


    ¡°No, we survived but so did he.  We will be surrounded if we don¡¯t move.¡±  Elias spoke as he removed the pack from his back and threw it over to Nare.  He then pulled some objects from his own pouch to treat his wounds.


    Nare opened it, searching inside and pulled out some bandages.  Dae joined her, but noticed almost all the bite wounds on his arm had already stopped bleeding and were already sealing.  Nare¡¯s bleeding was slowing but not at the same rate, and her ribs were still either cracked or broken.


    Dae grabbed one of the larger bandages and started to assist in removing her armor.  Even though it was leather, it was tight, and the release caused her to pale and breathe easier.  Then he helped her remove the shirt underneath, her breasts still bound to avoid them shifting during battle, and Dae didn¡¯t think they also needed to be removed.


    Starting low, he began to bind Nare¡¯s torso to keep the ribs in place.  It would be difficult for her to run until they were healed.


    ¡°What now?¡± Dae asked, pulling the bandage tighter.  Nare¡¯s shocked intake of breath and her jerking away let him know it was tight enough as he started to tie it off.


    ¡°You two will continue on, and I¡¯ll head that way.  Get somewhere safe and remember your training.  Nare is going to need some time for those injuries to heal, although it appears you both got some healing out of your familiars.¡±  Elias stopped to eat something from his pouch.  The herb concoction was one to grant energy and pain relief.


    Dae and Nare pulled some out as well, knowing that the crash would come in a few hours but it would be worth it if they could gain more ground.  The bitter combination was difficult to swallow, but the pain relief which caused their mouths to feel odd had begun.


    Elias looked torn for a moment. ¡°You will search out my sister.  You¡¯ll find more information in the pack about her, I had to be careful so no one found out before now and tried to get a ransom for me.  If you find a village or city to the northeast, get your bearings and move on to the main capital.¡±


    Elias looked drained and tired, almost old as his memories clouded his emotions.  ¡°Just let her know I¡¯m ok, and not to search for me.  And that I love her and my nephew and wish I had never had a desire for adventure.  I know that won¡¯t work, but you can explain about the pack and she can make her own decisions.¡±  He paused, looking carefully at them both.


    ¡°Was it worth it?  Beet told me it was, but I still wonder.¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know, but I did get three familiars which wasn¡¯t what I expected,¡± replied Dae.


    ¡°And I got a strong fire and healing familiar, I don¡¯t know much about what they do, but I can feel them and I had fire appear on my weapon earlier.¡± Nare added.


    ¡°Three?¡± Elias looked shocked. Then he began to laugh.  ¡°Three, damn you Beet, you win.  Yes, it was worth it, even more so if you get away.¡±


    ¡°We¡¯re ready,¡± said Nare as she struggled up with Dae¡¯s assistance. ¡°Thank you.¡±