《Edge Of The Frozen Dawn - Condensed》


 ARC 1 - Chapter 1 : A Mundane End, An Unexpected Beginning

    A modest apartment. The walls are white, the furniture simple yet neatly arranged. The sound of running water echoes continuously from the small bathroom. Steam rises, fogging up the mirror above the sink.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Nothing beats a good shower after a long day...


    He turns off the water. The warmth of the room contrasts with the cold air seeping under the door. Veil pulls back the shower curtain, reaching for the towel hanging to the side, but it slips to the floor.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    Veil (sighs): "Of course... Figures..."


    He steps one foot out of the bathtub, still wet, and places it on the smooth floor. The sole of his foot slides. His balance breaks.


    Veil (grimacing): "No, no, no!"


    He flails his arms in an attempt to steady himself, but he loses control. His head hits the edge of the sink with a loud thud. The sound reverberates in the bathroom, followed by an eerie silence. His body slowly slumps to the floor as his vision blurs. The white ceiling becomes fuzzy, shading into gray, then black.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Huh... is this... the end... already...?


    The warmth of the floor against his skin fades. His mind drifts. Total darkness surrounds him, but in the distance, a bright light bursts forth.

 Chapter 2 : The Eyes of the Void

    Floating in an endless space, there is neither up nor down. An absolute void¡ªno sound, no sensation of cold or warmth. Just the feeling of "being there."


    Veil (voice trembling): "What... is this?"


    Specks of white and golden light appear in the distance, swirling like fireflies. These lights gather into a large circle, expanding more and more. A luminous halo engulfs him.


    Veil (panicking): "Wait, wait! What''s happening?! Am I falling?!"


    His body is pulled through the circle. The sensation of falling becomes real. Wind lashes against his face as his arms flail in the emptiness. The sky shifts colors, from black to deep blue, then to blinding white. Clouds spiral around him, and the specks of light multiply.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    Veil (screaming): "No, no, no, NO! Stop! Stop this!"


    His body keeps plummeting, endlessly. Time seems to stretch, each second feeling like an eternity.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Is this... is this a dream? No... I can feel it... All of this... I can feel it...


    He glances downward. Below him lies an absolute nothingness¡ªa black, infinite expanse, incomprehensible and vast. The white lights swirl around him as though observing him.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Where is... the ground? Where is... anything?


    A thick mist begins to form around him. It spreads slowly, covering the infinite horizon with a milky haze. The contours of this space blur, as if reality itself is uncertain.


    Vague shapes emerge from the mist. Ephemeral shadows, shifting and unidentifiable. They don''t speak, but an invisible presence weighs on his shoulders.


    Veil (internal thoughts): What is that...? Why does it feel like I''m being watched...?


    The oppressive feeling of being observed grows stronger. Veil turns around quickly, but nothing solid comes into view. The mist moves, writhing like tendrils of smoke.


    He closes his eyes as the specks of light intensify, wrapping his body in a radiant cocoon.


    Silence.

 Chapter 3 : In the Embrace of the Cold

    Silence. Then, a faint rustling of wind through the trees. Whirling snowflakes dance in the air. The ground, a radiant white, sparkles under a diffuse light. A column of brilliant light pierces the heavens, fading slowly.


    At the center of this column lies Veil, arms outstretched, his back against the snow. His breathing is slow, his eyelids quivering.


    Veil (groaning): "It''s... cold... so... cold..."


    He slowly opens his eyes. A grayish sky looms above him, framed by snow-covered branches of towering conifers. He blinks several times, his thoughts struggling to settle.


    Veil (staring at his hands): "My... hands? Why... what¡¯s happening to me?"


    His gaze falls on his fingers. His skin looks smoother than before. He flips his palms, inspecting his nails. Not a single sign of wear, no calluses, no scars he would have expected to see. An unsettling chill runs down his spine.Stolen novel; please report.


    Veil (internal thoughts): This isn¡¯t right... This body... it¡¯s not mine.


    He struggles to sit up, his body still numb. His muscles react sluggishly, as though they¡¯re learning how to move for the first time. The snow beneath him melts slightly, leaving a clear imprint of his form on the ground. He scans his surroundings with wide eyes.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Where am I? This... this isn¡¯t home.


    He stands slowly, his legs trembling. The icy wind bites at his skin, and he wraps his arms around himself in an attempt to stay warm. His clothing is ill-suited for the biting cold. His gaze drops to his frame. His torso is leaner but more defined. A strange sensation of "newness" washes over him, as if he¡¯s rediscovering every movement of his body.


    Veil (whispering): "I need to move... I¡¯ll freeze here..."


    He glances around, searching for a landmark, but the forest stretches endlessly in every direction. There are no roads, no houses, nothing familiar. The towering trees loom over him, their branches heavy with snow. Faint cracks echo as ice shatters on the branches, punctuated by the howling breaths of the icy wind.


    Veil (internal thoughts): I have to stay calm. Move... just... move.


    He begins walking, his heavy steps sinking into the deep snow, every motion requiring immense effort. The cold pierces through his legs, each step more painful than the last. But he presses on, one foot in front of the other, his teeth clenched.


    Unbeknownst to him, he was being watched from the shadows.

 Chapter 4 : The Watcher in the Shadows

    Several meters away, perched on a branch, a woman observes. Her piercing gaze never leaves Veil.


    ???? (internal thoughts): A human... here? And that column of light... What¡¯s going on?


    Her wolf-like ears twitch, alert. Her tail, white as snow and silky, sways gently from side to side. Her ebony fur catches the daylight, reflecting faint bluish hues. Her expression is both curious and wary, a spark of caution shining deep within her vivid blue eyes.


    Her face exudes a fierce yet soft intensity. Her features are delicate, but her striking eyes seem to pierce through anyone who dares meet her gaze. Her lips are pressed tightly together, a testament to her focus. Her posture, even while perched, conveys total mastery of balance. She embodies elegance and wildness in equal measure, her body honed by a life lived amidst nature.Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Beneath a fur cloak of ashen gray, hints of lightweight, functional clothing peek through¡ªdesigned for freedom of movement. Her arms are partially bare, revealing fair skin marked by faint scars, evidence of countless battles.


    She narrows her eyes, scrutinizing Veil¡¯s every move.


    ???? (internal thoughts): He doesn¡¯t seem very strong... But he¡¯s not panicking. He moves slowly, deliberately.


    The wind picks up, blowing harder. She adjusts the fur cloak on her shoulders, briefly revealing a dark leather pauldron beneath. Leaning forward, her vivid blue eyes study every detail of Veil.


    ???? (internal thoughts): Let¡¯s see how he handles the cold... Hang in there, stranger.


    With a fluid motion, she straightens up and leaps into the shadows of the branches, her movements as silent as a breath of wind. The forest shadows envelop her entirely, leaving behind only the faint impression that she was never there at all.

 Chapter 5 : The Hunt Begins

    Veil trudges through the forest, his breath transforming into puffs of mist. The cold gnaws at his skin, his damp clothes clinging to his body. Each step grows heavier, the snow seeping through his shoes. His teeth chatter involuntarily.


    Veil (panting): "It''s... so cold..."


    A sharp crack echoes behind him. Veil spins around, his eyes wide. The wind carries a dull noise¡ªlight but steady footsteps in the snow.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Someone¡¯s following me? No... Not someone... something.


    He quickens his pace, his breathing growing faster, but the steps draw closer. The cracking sounds multiply. Low growls emerge, soft at first, then more pronounced.


    Veil (internal thoughts, panicked): Animals? No... This isn¡¯t good, not good at all!


    He glances to his left, then his right, searching for the source. Three pairs of yellow eyes glare at him from the snowy underbrush. Wolves. Their bluish fur blends into the landscape. Their teeth gleam between curled lips.


    Veil (cold sweat): "Wolves... No way! They think I¡¯m prey!"


    He steps back, but a branch snaps under his foot. The wolves¡¯ ears perk up. Their growls deepen. A fourth wolf emerges from the thicket, cutting off his retreat.


    Veil (internal thoughts): I have to defend myself... I¡¯m not dying here!A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.


    His eyes dart around, searching for anything useful. A broken branch lies on the ground, half-buried in the snow, hardened by the cold. He bends down, grabs it, and shakes off the snow. The wood is cold but firm.


    Veil (grimly): "Alright... okay... I¡¯ll make do."


    The first wolf lunges. Veil reacts purely on instinct, throwing himself to the side and rolling through the snow. The cold bites at his neck. The wolf lands inches away, scattering snow. Veil scrambles to his feet, breathing heavily, clutching the branch in both hands.


    Veil (gasping): "Too close! Way too close!"


    The wolf turns, growling louder. It leaps again. Veil raises the branch with both hands and swings it down with all his remaining strength. CRACK! The sharp sound echoes, and the wolf¡¯s head hits the ground with a yelp of pain.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Did I... hit it? Did I do it?


    His eyes widen, his hands trembling. But there¡¯s no time to celebrate. Two more wolves charge simultaneously. Veil retreats, slipping on the snow and crashing into a tree trunk. The impact knocks the air out of him. A wolf lunges from the right; he rolls to the ground, the snow scraping against his face. Jaws snap near his arm, missing his flesh by inches.


    Veil (internal thoughts): No... no, no, no! I refuse to die here!


    He spots a stone half-buried in the snow. Reaching out, he grabs it and grips it tightly. He rolls to the side and rises to one knee.


    Veil (shouting): "TAKE THIS!"


    He hurls the stone with all his strength. It slices through the air and strikes a wolf¡¯s snout. A sharp yelp echoes as the wolf shakes its head and retreats, growling.


    Veil seizes the opportunity. He charges the wolf, screaming with every ounce of energy. Grabbing the broken branch, he swings it down in a fierce arc. CRACK! The blow lands on the wolf¡¯s skull, accompanied by a dull thud and a muffled whimper. The wolf¡¯s body collapses into the snow, its eyes staring blankly into the void.


    Veil (gasping): "Did I... do that?"


    The remaining three wolves don¡¯t retreat. Their ears twitch, their muscles tense as they circle him, trying to trap him. Their predatory instincts remain unbroken.


    Veil stands his ground, the branch still in his grip. Blood trickles from his forehead, the cold gnaws at his muscles, but his eyes burn with ferocity. The wolves watch him intently, their yellow eyes gleaming through the frosty haze. They don¡¯t flee. They prepare their next attack.


    He remains motionless, his legs trembling. The cold engulfs him, his breath coming in ragged bursts. His eyes drop to the lifeless wolf¡¯s body, the snow around it stained red.


    Veil (internal thoughts): I killed it...


    His fingers tighten around the branch. The reality hits him like a tidal wave. His body buckles, his knees sinking into the frigid snow.


    Veil (gasping): "I won¡¯t... DIE HERE!"


    His breathing grows ragged, his legs faltering with every step. The icy wind tears at his skin, but he keeps moving, one step at a time. Each step is a battle.

 Chapter 6 : The Will of a Survivor

    The wolf-woman perches on a high branch, observing the scene below. Her gaze remains steady, her ears twitching at every sound.


    ???? (internal thoughts): He doesn''t run... He fights. No panic... just raw determination. Interesting.


    Below, the last wolf growls, its muzzle bloodied. Its fangs gleam under the light filtering through the snow-covered branches. Veil is out of breath, his shoulders rising and falling erratically. His right leg bleeds profusely, a deep gash leaving a vivid red trail on the white snow. Pain surges through him with every step.


    Veil (panting): "Hah... hah... it¡¯s... not over yet..."


    The wolf lunges, its fierce eyes locked on him. Veil shifts to the side, grabs a broken trunk at his feet, and with a desperate cry, swings it down with all his might as the wolf leaps.


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    CRACK!


    A dull snap echoes. The wolf collapses to the ground, lifeless. The force of the impact sends vibrations through the branch where the observer watches. Snowflakes fall gently around them, carried by a light breeze.


    Veil (panting): "Hah... hah... it¡¯s... done..."


    He drops to his knees, his hands pressed against the snow. The cold bites at his palms, but all he feels is exhaustion. His breath is ragged, his shoulders trembling. A fleeting smile crosses his face.


    Veil (internal thoughts): I survived... I¡¯m alive...


    He lowers his head, staring at the snow stained red beneath him. His gaze shifts to the icy wolves¡¯ bodies scattered around. Their bluish fur glimmers faintly before dimming entirely.


    Faint blue lights rise from their bodies, floating for a moment before converging on the ground. Objects materialize: a rudimentary dagger, some dried meat, and makeshift bandages rest amidst patches of melted snow and blood.


    Veil (looking at the objects): "What... is this?"


    He stares at the items, his eyes narrowed with fatigue. He hesitates to reach out.


    Above him, the wolf-woman continues to observe. Her sharp gaze never leaves Veil, studying his every move with silent focus. Her tail sways slowly from side to side, exuding a feline patience. Her breathing is light, measured.


    ???? (internal thoughts): Stay on your feet, stranger. Show me what you''re made of.


    She narrows her eyes before vanishing into the shadows of the branches, leaving behind only a faint rustle. The snowflakes continue to fall, undisturbed.

 Chapter 7 : The Fall into the Cold

    Veil, drained from his battle with the wolves and the relentless freezing air, clutches the items he salvaged in his trembling hands. His breaths are shallow, and each step feels heavier than the last. The trees around him blur as his eyelids grow heavier.


    Veil (internal thoughts): Just a bit farther... just a little more...


    But his body refuses to comply. His legs buckle, and his shoulder slams into the trunk of a tree before he collapses onto the snowy ground. His vision blurs further, the cold creeping into every fiber of his being. Snow slowly engulfs him, each flake settling on him like a frozen shroud.


    Veil (whispering): "Not... here..."


    Darkness envelops him.


    The faint rustle of a branch pierces the forest''s stillness. A figure descends from a tree with fluid, silent movements, as precise as a predator¡¯s. Wolf-like ears perk atop her head, and her tail sways gently behind her.


    The wolf-woman approaches Veil, her piercing blue eyes studying him intently. She kneels beside him, extending her hand toward his neck. Two fingers press lightly against his skin, searching for a pulse.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    ???? (internal thoughts): He''s still alive. Stupid human. You should already be dead.


    She glances at the horizon, scanning the forest around her. The icy wind howls, carrying with it a mist of fine snow. Her gaze hardens.


    ???? (internal thoughts): If he stays here, he won''t last an hour.


    With a smooth motion, she leans down, sliding her arms under his shoulders and legs. Veil is light¡ªmuch lighter than she expected. With a quiet grunt, she hoists him onto her back, wrapping his arms around her neck.


    ???? (under her breath): "Don''t make this harder than it already is, human."


    Her steps are light but swift. She weaves through the forest with remarkable agility, her feet avoiding roots and hidden snowdrifts. Her breathing remains steady, even with the added weight on her back. The wind lashes at her, but she doesn¡¯t falter.


    After several minutes of graceful strides, she stops near a rocky outcrop, partially concealed by bare, windblown bushes. A cave.


    ???? (internal thoughts): This will do.


    She nudges the bushes aside with her foot, carrying Veil inside. She places him gently against the rocky wall. Her tail sways slightly as she examines him, ensuring he¡¯s still alive. His chest rises and falls slowly but steadily.


    ???? (internal thoughts): At least you''re still breathing.


    She turns away, retrieving a small piece of flint from her leather belt. Scanning the cave floor, she gathers dry twigs and a few pieces of brittle wood, snapping them with her hands.


    TCHAK! TCHAK! Sparks leap from the flint. TCHAK! TCHAK! Flames flicker to life, casting a faint, dancing glow on the cave walls.


    She sits down, arms crossed, her sharp gaze fixed on Veil.


    ???? (internal thoughts): Stay alive, stranger. You¡¯ve piqued my curiosity.

 Chapter 8 : The Encounter with Alynia

    Veil slowly opens his eyes. The flickering glow of a fire dances along the walls of the cave, casting shifting shadows. The air is warmer than the biting cold of the forest outside. A silhouette sits beside the fire. His vision remains blurred for a few seconds as the shapes gradually come into focus.


    He rubs his eyes with the palms of his hands, his muscles still sluggish. A faint crackle of burning wood fills the air. His gaze moves slowly across the contours of the cave before stopping on two piercing blue eyes staring back at him, unmoving. A wolf¡¯s tail sways gently at her side.


    ???? (calmly): ¡°You¡¯re lucky to be alive.¡±


    Veil (startled): ¡°What... who... who are you?¡±


    She watches him silently for a moment, her eyes scanning him from head to toe. Her tail stills briefly. Her face remains expressionless, but her wolf ears twitch slightly.


    ???? (calm and direct): ¡°My name is Alynia. Stay still, human.¡±


    Silence. The fire crackles softly. Shadows on the walls shift to the rhythm of the flames. Veil freezes, the gravity of the situation hitting him like a wave.


    Veil (hesitant): ¡°Why... why did you save me?¡±


    Alynia doesn¡¯t answer immediately. She turns her gaze toward the fire, watching the embers dance. The silence stretches on, heavy and tense.


    Veil (more firmly): ¡°Why did you save me?!¡±Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    Alynia slowly turns her head toward him, her blue eyes piercing him with a calculated coldness.


    Alynia (coolly): ¡°You want a reason? Let¡¯s just say I don¡¯t like seeing useless corpses in my forest.¡±


    Her words drop like stones. She rises slowly, stretching slightly, her tail swaying gently in the air behind her.


    Alynia (calmly): ¡°Show me your leg. The wound.¡±


    Veil frowns but complies. He slowly rolls up his pant leg, revealing the gash. Blood has dried around the cut, but the wound is red and swollen. His breathing becomes more anxious at the sight.


    Alynia (examining the wound): ¡°Hmph. Not pretty. You can walk on it, but it¡¯ll get worse if you try anything stupid.¡±


    She kneels beside him, rummages through a small leather pouch at her belt, and pulls out a tiny glass vial filled with a bluish liquid. She pours some of the liquid onto a scrap of fabric torn from her clothing.


    Alynia (locking eyes with Veil): ¡°This is going to sting.¡±


    She presses the cloth to the wound without waiting for his response.


    Veil (groaning): ¡°Grrr... ARGH! You warned me, but come on, that¡¯s not fair!¡±


    Alynia doesn¡¯t react to his complaints. She methodically cleans the wound with cold precision.


    Alynia (focused): ¡°Complain all you want, but don¡¯t move. I¡¯m not doing this twice.¡±


    She finishes cleaning the wound, then pulls out a bandage and wraps it tightly around his leg. Her movements are quick and practiced, showing experience with this kind of field care.


    Veil (exasperated): ¡°You¡¯re not exactly gentle, are you...¡±


    Alynia raises an eyebrow and lets out a faint chuckle.


    Alynia (smirking): ¡°I¡¯m here to heal, not coddle.¡±


    She stands, crossing her arms, and looks down at Veil. Her tail sways gently behind her.


    Alynia (seriously): ¡°If you plan on surviving here, you¡¯d better toughen up. This forest doesn¡¯t forgive. Make a mistake, and you¡¯re dead.¡±


    Silence. She fixes Veil with an intense stare, waiting for a reaction. He lowers his gaze to his bandaged leg, takes a deep breath, then looks back up at her.


    Veil (defiantly): ¡°I don¡¯t plan on dying here.¡±


    Their gazes lock for a moment, a silent exchange passing between them. Then, Alynia narrows her eyes, a faint smile curling at the corner of her lips.


    Alynia (smiling): ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±


    She turns and sits back down by the fire, her eyes fixed on the dancing flames. The fire crackles softly, filling the space with a comforting warmth. Veil exhales a long sigh, his body heavy against the cave wall.


    The night drags on slowly, the flames casting flickering shadows on the rocky walls. Veil¡¯s breathing grows lighter, his eyelids slowly closing. He casts one last glance toward Alynia, still seated by the fire, her silhouette illuminated by the orange glow.


    Veil (internal monologue): This time... I can sleep.

 Chapter 9 : Revelation of Magic

    The fire crackles softly, its dancing light illuminating the cave walls. The comforting warmth contrasts sharply with the bitter cold still lingering outside. Veil leans against the rocky wall, his bandaged leg stretched out before him, his gaze lost in the flames.


    Alynia rises without a word. Her steps are light, silent, almost feline. She fixes her gaze on the cave walls, following the droplets of water trickling down the stone. The tiny droplets glisten in the firelight.


    Alynia extends her hand, her focus sharpening. Her palm opens wide toward the wall. The droplets stop falling, trembling slightly as if drawn by an invisible force. Slowly, they lift from the stone, gathering into a perfect sphere of water floating before her hand, which she gently pours into her small flask.


    Veil (eyes widening): ¡°That¡¯s... How did you do that?¡±


    He sits up straighter, his mouth slightly open. Alynia creates another sphere of water with ease. Veil¡¯s eyes follow the fluid movement of the water sphere, captivated by its simple yet mesmerizing beauty.


    Alynia (with a faint smile): ¡°I have an affinity for water magic. I¡¯m not a master, but I know how to use it.¡±


    She glances at Veil, noting the mixture of surprise and envy in his expression.


    Alynia (subtle smile): ¡°Want to try?¡±


    Silence. Veil looks at the water sphere, then at Alynia. At first, his expression is wary, but slowly, a spark of curiosity ignites within him.


    This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.


    Veil (hesitant): ¡°Try? Me? I don¡¯t even know if I can.¡±


    Alynia (gently): ¡°You¡¯ll never know unless you try. Come on, give it a shot.¡±


    He hesitates a few moments more before using the wall to help himself stand. His legs are still stiff, his injured leg protesting with every step, but he moves forward. He limps slightly but doesn¡¯t stop. Alynia watches him out of the corner of her eye, her ears perking up as he approaches.


    He stops near a small puddle on the ground, formed by the dripping walls. He leans down slightly, extending his hand over the water.


    Alynia (calm, measured voice): ¡°Focus on the movement of the water. Feel it. It¡¯s alive, always in motion, even when it seems still. Sense it flowing beneath your skin, listen to it.¡±


    Silence envelops the cave. Only the faint crackle of flames can be heard. Veil¡¯s fingers tremble slightly. He closes his eyes, his breathing slows.


    Veil (internal monologue): Feel the water... How am I supposed to do that? This is stupid...


    He grits his teeth, then loosens the tension in his hand. He takes a deep breath. His breathing grows calmer.


    Veil (internal monologue): Feel it... just feel it...


    The surface of the water ripples. Small circular waves spread gently around his hand. A light vibration passes under his skin, an unfamiliar sensation, but not unpleasant. His fingers flex slightly, and the ripples in the water respond to the motion.


    Alynia (mildly surprised, softly): ¡°Not bad... You¡¯ve got potential.¡±


    Veil cracks one eye open, surprised by the water¡¯s reaction. He sees it shift slightly beneath his hand, moving in time with his fingers.


    Veil (whispering): ¡°Did I... did I move it?¡±


    He pulls his hand back, slightly shaken. His breathing quickens, his eyes fixed on the water, now still again.


    Alynia (firm but not harsh): ¡°That wasn¡¯t an accident. Your body reacted. You felt the flow of mana. It¡¯s in you, whether you know it or not.¡±


    She kneels beside him, one knee on the ground. She points to the puddle with her index finger.


    Alynia (intensely): ¡°You felt that, didn¡¯t you? The sensation under your skin? The shiver inside? That was mana. Everyone has it, but few people access it naturally without training.¡±


    Veil stares at her, still unsettled by the experience. He doesn¡¯t fully understand, but he knows something within him has shifted.


    Veil (internal monologue): Mana... That¡¯s what I felt? It¡¯s been inside me all along?


    Alynia stands, shaking her head slightly, but a fleeting smile crosses her face. She turns her back to him and walks toward the fire.


    Alynia (without looking back): ¡°Rest, human. That was just the first step.¡±


    The fire crackles softly. The ripples in the puddle fade, but Veil continues to stare at its surface with newfound intensity. His fist tightens slightly.


    Veil (internal monologue): I can do it. I can do it again.

 Chapter 10 : Sharing the Fire

    The fire crackles softly in the cave. Shadows dance along the walls, their shapes shifting to the rhythm of the flames. The warmth gradually fills the space, driving away the biting cold of the forest outside.


    Veil sits close to the fire, placing the items he had scavenged from his battle on the rocky ground before him. The rudimentary dagger, bandages, and small pieces of meat land with a faint thud. Alynia watches silently, her wolf ears slightly perked. Her sharp gaze scrutinizes each object, though she remains quiet.


    Veil (internal monologue): Not much, but it''ll have to do.


    He grabs one of the pieces of meat, skewers it on a stick, and plants it near the flames. The grease begins to melt, dripping into the fire with a soft sizzle. The aroma of roasting meat fills the cave, an inviting scent that makes Veil¡¯s stomach growl faintly.


    Carefully turning the meat, he glances at Alynia. She remains still, but her eyes are locked on the meat.


    Veil (with a faint smile): "Want some?"


    Alynia narrows her eyes, but a faint grumble escapes her stomach. She pretends not to notice, though her ears twitch slightly toward him.


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    Alynia (coldly): "I don¡¯t bite strangers, but I don¡¯t expect anyone to share with me, either."


    Veil (chuckling lightly): "It¡¯d be dumb to eat alone. Food tastes better when you share."


    He pulls a piece of the cooked meat off the stick and offers it to Alynia. She eyes it cautiously, her gaze shifting between the meat and Veil as though searching for a hidden trap.


    After a moment, she takes it silently, pulling it from the stick with her fingers. She bites into it slowly, her sharp teeth briefly visible. Her jaw moves deliberately, savoring each bite.


    Veil (internal monologue): She eats carefully... Looks like she hasn¡¯t eaten well in a while.


    Silence falls again, broken only by the faint chewing sounds and the fire¡¯s steady crackle. Alynia shifts her gaze toward Veil while still chewing, studying him with a poorly concealed curiosity.


    Alynia (fixing her gaze on Veil): "What¡¯s your name, human?"


    Veil remains still for a moment, staring into the flames as if the fire itself had asked him the question. Finally, he draws a slow breath and turns his head toward her.


    Veil (hesitant but firm): "Veil. My name is Veil."


    A flash of recognition flickers in Alynia¡¯s eyes. Her tail sways gently behind her. Her gaze becomes more calculating, though tinged with a playful edge. She takes another bite of the meat, a faint half-smile forming.


    Alynia (mocking tone): "Alright, little cub. Thanks for the meat."


    Veil (surprised): "I give you my name, and you change it immediately?"


    Alynia raises an eyebrow, her tail wagging more energetically. A teasing smirk spreads across her lips.


    Alynia (with a sly grin): "I¡¯ll call you by your name the day you¡¯re my equal."


    Silence. Veil stares at her, then lets out a quiet, frustrated laugh through his nose, tinged with defiance. Shaking his head, he picks up another piece of meat to cook.


    Veil (muttering to himself): "We¡¯ll see, Alynia. We¡¯ll see."


    The fire continues its endless crackling. The sound of wood snapping fills the space with its soothing melody. Alynia crosses her arms, leaning against the wall with her eyes half-closed. Her tail sways lazily to the rhythm of the flames.


    Veil (internal monologue): If I have to become her equal, then I¡¯ll do it. No matter how long it takes.

 Chapter 11: First Battle as a Duo

    The fire dies down, its dancing flames reduced to faint red embers. Veil and Alynia, their stomachs full of grilled meat, sit near the fire. The cave has grown quiet, the sound of burning wood filling the space.


    A piercing scream echoes in the distance. It¡¯s a sharp, high-pitched sound, almost metallic. Veil¡¯s eyes snap open as he listens carefully. A second scream follows, closer this time. This one is accompanied by a deep growl, distant but menacing.


    Alynia (fixed gaze): "They''re coming. The smell of meat must have drawn them in."


    She stands with a fluid motion. Her ears swivel toward the noise, and her tail flicks slightly, a sign of heightened alertness. Veil grits his teeth, wincing in pain. His injured leg protests with every move, but he refuses to stay seated.


    Veil (panting): "I... I can walk... I can fight."


    He rises with difficulty, briefly leaning against the cave wall. The pain is sharp, but he bites down and follows Alynia slowly, dagger in hand. The cold bites at him once again, but this time, it''s not the cold that concerns him.


    Outside, the forest is cloaked in dim light. The pale gray sky is heavy with thick clouds, and snow crunches softly beneath their feet. Three ice wolves emerge from the edge of the forest, their piercing yellow eyes glowing like torches. Their growls rumble like distant drums.


    Above them, two snow raptors circle in the sky. The large birds have dazzling white feathers, but their plumage looks rigid, almost as sharp as blades.


    Alynia (cold gaze): "I¡¯ll handle the birds. You take care of the wolves."


    She doesn¡¯t leave him a choice. Alynia leaps forward, her feet gliding across the snow with ease. She raises her right hand toward the sky, and water swirling around her gathers into liquid spears. With a swift motion, two water lances shoot toward the raptors.Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Veil (internal thought): Three wolves... Three against one...


    He backs away, dagger in hand, his gaze locked on the wolves advancing slowly, circling their prey. Each step the wolves take sinks into the snow, creating an oppressive, steady rhythm.


    Veil (breathing heavily): "Too close... Too close!"


    The first wolf lunges, fangs bared. Veil rolls to the side, his shoulder slamming into the icy ground. He scrambles to his feet, but the second wolf is already upon him. He raises his dagger just in time to block the bite. The wolf¡¯s teeth clamp down on the blade, the sound of metal ringing out.


    Veil (shouting): "Let go of me!"


    He pushes with all his strength, but the wolf doesn¡¯t relent. The third wolf attacks from the flank. Veil pulls his leg back just in time, but the pain from his injury makes him grimace. His breathing becomes erratic as his body starts to falter.


    Above, Alynia engages the raptors. One of her water lances pierces the first bird. A sharp cry echoes through the forest. The second raptor dives toward her. Alynia sidesteps, narrowly avoiding its talons.


    Veil (panting, panicked): "I can¡¯t... I can¡¯t do this!"


    A wolf pins him down. His head slams into the snow, and his vision blurs. The wolf¡¯s claws dig into his coat, the weight on his chest suffocating. The fangs draw closer to his face.


    Veil (screaming in rage): "NO!"


    A sharp sound. A blurred figure moves across his vision. A swift, precise strike.


    The wolf is thrown aside. Blood stains the snow. Alynia stands over him, her posture low, her eyes fixed on the remaining wolves. She holds her dagger in one hand, her claws extended.


    Alynia (firm tone): "Get up. Now."


    Veil slowly rises, his breathing heavy, his gaze hollow. A mix of shame and anger flashes across his face. His hand grips the dagger tightly, his knuckles white.


    Alynia (icy stare): "They won¡¯t give you a second chance."


    She leaps at the nearest wolf, her dagger plunging into its side. The wolf struggles, but she ends it swiftly by slashing its throat with a precise stroke of her claws. Her gaze remains steady and cold.


    The two remaining wolves growl, their ears pinned back, but they don¡¯t retreat. They charge head-on. Alynia sidesteps, her claws flashing through the air in a clean arc. The wolves collapse into the snow, motionless. Her claws drip with their blood as she stands.


    Silence.


    Veil remains on the ground, his eyes fixed on his trembling hands. His breathing is ragged. He clenches his fists, a mix of shame and frustration clouding his expression. His gaze drops.


    Veil (internal thought): I was useless... Again... Too weak...


    Alynia wipes her dagger and claws clean on a corner of her coat, her eyes locked on Veil. Her gaze is harsh, but not cruel.


    Alynia (calm voice): "Rest now. But next time, you will stay on your feet."


    The icy wind sweeps through the forest.

 ARC 2 - Chapter 12 : A Request for Training

    The icy wind howled through the forest, carrying with it the scent of blood and freshly trampled snow. The bodies of wolves and snow raptors lay scattered across the ground, their fur and feathers strewn about after the battle. Veil collected the spoils¡ªa wolf pelt, sharp feathers from the raptors, and the dagger Alynia had plunged into a wolf¡¯s flank.


    Alynia watched silently, her arms crossed. She adjusted her fur coat before turning on her heels and heading toward the cave. Her steps were sure and calm, a stark contrast to Veil¡¯s still hesitant movements. He followed behind, limping slightly as pain shot through his injured leg with every step.


    The fire in the cave crackled softly. Alynia rekindled it, settling herself near the flames as their warmth began to fill the space, driving out the relentless cold from outside. She sat with her tail swaying gently beside her, her sharp eyes fixed on the flickering light.


    Veil remained standing, his gaze locked on the ground, his fists clenched tightly. His knuckles turned white under the strain. His breathing was heavy, his chest rising and falling rapidly.


    Alynia (calmly, without looking): "Are you planning to stand there all night?"


    Veil didn¡¯t respond. His chest heaved, his shoulders trembling slightly.


    Veil (voice trembling but determined): "... Teach me."The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    Alynia turned her head slowly toward him. Her piercing blue eyes scrutinized him without blinking. Her tail froze mid-sway. She narrowed her eyes slightly, clearly surprised by his request.


    Alynia (neutral tone): "What?"


    Veil (raising his voice, gaze fixed on her): "Teach me! Magic! Teach me how to fight!"


    His gaze was unsteady, but his expression was resolute. Tears brimmed at the edges of his eyes, but he refused to let them fall. Shame, anger, and the desire to improve¡ªall of it burned in his eyes.


    Alynia (staring at him for a long moment): "You lost once, and you''re already crying?"


    Veil (shouting): "I would¡¯ve died! You saw it! Without you, I was finished!"


    A heavy silence falls. The flames from the fire dance along the walls of the cave. Veil¡¯s words still echo in the space. His breathing is ragged, his shoulders rising and falling unevenly.


    Alynia studied him for a long moment. Then, with a sharp exhale, she closed her eyes briefly.


    Alynia (getting up slowly): "Magic isn¡¯t a toy. It¡¯s a force you can¡¯t control with willpower alone."


    She took a step forward, standing face to face with Veil. Her gaze was cold, but her words were clear.


    Alynia (seriously): "I won¡¯t go easy on you. If this is truly what you want, you¡¯ll have to push beyond your limits."


    Her sharp eyes locked onto his. She leaned in slightly, her gaze intense and unyielding, as if daring him to falter.


    Alynia (cold voice): "You have four days. Not a second more. I don¡¯t have time to stay here longer."


    The words dropped like blades. Four days. No more.


    Veil stood frozen, his fists still clenched. But this time, he wasn¡¯t trembling. He didn¡¯t lower his gaze.


    Veil (exhaling slowly): "Four days... That¡¯s enough."


    Alynia held his gaze for another second before a faint smirk tugged at the corner of her lips. She turned back to the fire, sat down, and stared into the flames, her eyes half-closed. She didn¡¯t say another word.


    Veil didn¡¯t sit. He remained standing, his eyes fixed on the fire. His gaze had changed. It was harder.


    Veil (internal thought): Four days... I¡¯ll do it. No matter what.

 Chapter 13 : Day 1 – Learning the Mana Thread

    The dawn light filters through the entrance of the cave, casting a soft yet cold glow inside. The campfire¡¯s remains smolder, leaving behind red, smoky embers. The forest is silent, save for the occasional distant chirp of a bird.


    Veil sits cross-legged in the center of the cave, hands resting on his knees, his gaze fixed on the ground but his mind focused. Alynia stands before him, arms crossed, her piercing gaze locked on him.


    Alynia (calm but firm): "Sensing mana is like reaching out to an invisible thread running through your body. It¡¯s there, within you, but you can¡¯t see it. To find it, you must listen¡ªnot with your ears, but with your whole being."


    Silence falls. The faint crackling of the dying fire echoes softly in the cave.


    Veil (sighs): "Sounds so easy when you say it¡­"


    Alynia steps closer and presses a finger against his forehead. Veil flinches slightly at the contact.


    Alynia (piercing gaze): "It is simple. But simple doesn¡¯t mean easy."


    She pulls her finger back and moves to sit cross-legged in front of him.


    Alynia (calmly): "Close your eyes. Breathe slowly. Focus on the flow within your body¡ªevery heartbeat, every subtle vibration of your skin. That¡¯s where the mana resides."


    Veil closes his eyes. His breathing slows, but his body remains tense. His face is tight, his jaw clenched.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    Veil (internal): Finding an invisible thread¡­ Feeling my body¡­ All I feel is the pain in my leg, and that¡¯s not helping me find this damn mana¡­


    Minutes stretch on, the stillness growing oppressive. His fists clench on his knees, and his breathing becomes heavier.


    Alynia (sharp tone): "If you try to force it, you¡¯ll find nothing. The thread doesn¡¯t appear through willpower; it reveals itself. Relax."


    Veil takes a deep breath, then exhales slowly. He releases the tension in his fists, and his jaw loosens. Gradually, his breathing evens out, leading him to a state of calm he hasn¡¯t experienced in days.


    A faint tingling.


    Veil (internal, startled): What¡­ is that?


    He feels something. Light, fragile¡ªa pulse. It¡¯s not a heartbeat but a shiver running up his spine.


    Veil (internal, excited): I felt it!


    His eyes snap open, and his breathing quickens. Alynia shakes her head slowly.


    Alynia (watching him): "Close your eyes. If you lose it, it won¡¯t return easily. Try again."


    Frustrated but resolute, Veil closes his eyes once more. This time, he focuses on the same shiver, the faint pulse deep inside him. His breathing becomes steady and deliberate, as if he doesn¡¯t want to scare the sensation away.


    Mid-afternoon


    Veil sits before a small puddle of water on the cave floor, his hand hovering above its surface.


    Alynia (arms crossed behind him): "Connect the thread¡ªnot with your mind, not with brute force. The thread. Feel the resonance. If you force it, the water will resist you."


    He stares at the water¡¯s surface¡ªstill, smooth, unyielding. Closing his eyes, he calms his breathing.


    Veil (internal): The thread. The resonance. Focus¡­ Focus¡­


    Ripples emerge. Gentle at first, faint vibrations on the water¡¯s surface. His fingers tremble slightly as he senses the reaction.


    Veil (internal, astonished): It¡¯s moving! Is this¡­ because of me?


    The thread snaps. The water returns to its still state. Veil¡¯s eyes shoot open as he gasps, his hands shaking. Exhaustion washes over him.


    Alynia (calmly): "You felt it, didn¡¯t you?"


    Veil (panting): "Yes¡­ but¡­ I lost it."


    Alynia steps forward, crouching beside him. She places a hand on his shoulder.


    Alynia (serious): "You found it once. That means you can find it again. This is your first step. Tomorrow, the thread will be easier to reach. Every failure brings you closer to success."


    Veil¡¯s eyes brighten with determination. He stares at the water, his fingers clenching slowly.


    Veil (internal): I¡¯ll grasp it. Tomorrow, I¡¯ll make it mine.

 Chapter 14 : Day 2. The Impatient Student

    The dawn light streams through the cave entrance. Soft rays of light cut through the morning mist, illuminating the cold stone walls. The campfire has almost died, with only a few red embers stubbornly glowing.


    Veil sits cross-legged, eyes closed, his back straight. His breathing is slow and steady, and unlike the previous day, his face no longer shows tension. He is calm.


    Alynia watches in silence, leaning against the wall, arms crossed. Her sharp blue eyes follow every subtle movement of Veil. Her expression remains neutral, though her ears perk slightly as she notices his measured breathing.


    Veil (internal thought): Feel the thread. Don¡¯t force it. Light¡­ fragile...


    He recalls Alynia¡¯s instructions. This time, the tingling sensation comes more quickly¡ªa faint tickling climbing up his spine, and he senses it faster than yesterday.


    Veil (internal thought): I can feel it. I¡¯ve got it.


    He remains still, his body relaxed and his mind focused on this subtle sensation. No clenching, no tension. His breath flows soft, almost imperceptible.


    Alynia (internal thought): Not bad, Cub¡­ It¡¯s only the second day, but he¡¯s making progress.


    She closes her eyes briefly, a faint smirk appearing at the corner of her lips, only to disappear immediately.


    Mid-morning


    Veil crouches before the shallow puddle of water, one hand hovering above its surface. This time, his eyes are open, focused on the ripples.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    Alynia (firmly): "You¡¯ve found the thread. Now you need to connect it. Not by force. You don¡¯t command it. You guide it."


    Veil stares at the still water, his gaze intense, more determined than yesterday.


    Veil (internal thought): Connect the thread. The resonance. Don¡¯t force it...


    He inhales softly and raises his hand. His fingers tremble slightly but steady themselves. His focus sharpens, his jaw tightens. The water ripples begin to form, more pronounced than the previous day.


    The ripples grow stronger. Veil¡¯s brows furrow, and his breath quickens.


    Veil (murmuring): "Move... move!"


    The water quivers but doesn¡¯t lift. It vibrates violently but remains anchored to the ground.


    Alynia (sternly): "Stop!"


    Veil flinches, his concentration broken. He drops his hands to the ground, panting. Frustration clouds his face.


    Alynia (coldly): "I told you not to force it. The water isn¡¯t your slave. It¡¯s like pulling a nonexistent rope. You don¡¯t pull it¡ªyou glide it. Gently."


    The silence is broken only by distant forest sounds. A faint, cool breeze drifts in.


    Veil (gritting his teeth): "I get it, but¡­ it was moving! Why didn¡¯t it work?"


    Alynia approaches and crouches next to him. Her face remains calm, her gaze piercing.


    Alynia (intense gaze): "Because you tried to impose your will on it. That¡¯s not how this works. If you want the water to follow you, you have to dance with it, not push it. Understood?"


    Silence. Veil meets her gaze, processing her words. He takes a deep breath, calming himself once more.


    Veil (quietly): "I¡¯ll try again."


    Late afternoon


    Veil sits with his hand stretched above the water. The daylight dims gradually, painting the cave in hues of orange. His eyes are half-closed, his breathing steady and smooth.


    The ripples reappear, but this time, they¡¯re not erratic. They flow in a slow, harmonious rhythm.


    Veil (internal thought): Slowly¡­ gently¡­ follow it, don¡¯t push it.


    The ripples converge at the center of the puddle. Gradually, a single droplet of water lifts off the surface. Just one drop. It trembles, fragile, almost imperceptible. It rises slowly, floating above Veil¡¯s palm.


    Veil (internal thought, awestruck): I did it¡­ It¡¯s rising¡­ It¡¯s rising!


    He opens his eyes, astonished. His gaze locks onto the droplet as it hovers. His hand moves slightly upward, following it.


    The droplet wavers, trembles, and then falls. It splashes back into the puddle, but there¡¯s no frustration on Veil¡¯s face. A small, subtle smile forms instead.


    Alynia (calmly): "Not bad, Cub. You¡¯ve stopped being a spoiled child and started to understand."


    Silence. Veil doesn¡¯t reply. He continues to stare at the water, his faint smile unwavering.


    Veil (internal thought): Tomorrow¡­ I¡¯ll lift it higher.

 Chapter 15 : Day 3. An Unexpected Manifestation

    Dawn breaks gently over the forest. The first rays of light pierce through the gray clouds, bathing the cave in a soft, diffused glow. The campfire has long since died out, leaving only a faint morning chill lingering in the air.


    Veil is already seated in front of the puddle of water, cross-legged, his gaze fixed on the surface. He wastes no time today. His hand hovers above the water, his eyes wide open this time.


    Alynia (observing from a distance, arms crossed): "In a rush today, Cub? Don¡¯t forget¡ªpatience is your most valuable weapon."


    Veil (focused on the water): "I know. But I can do it."


    Silence descends. His breathing slows, becoming controlled. He closes his eyes briefly to center himself. The tingling sensation comes almost instantly. The shiver he sought so desperately over the past two days now feels familiar.


    He doesn¡¯t tense. His breathing stabilizes, and the thread connects almost naturally. His hand hovers a few centimeters above the water. Ripples form on the surface¡ªslow, fluid, perfect circles radiating from the center.


    The water trembles beneath his hand.


    Veil (internal thought): Stay calm¡­ Slowly¡­ Attract it, don¡¯t force it.


    Droplets begin to rise from the surface. Not one, but three. They float gently, trembling in the air like liquid stars. The droplets oscillate, ready to fall at any moment.


    Veil (smiling): "That¡¯s it¡­ more¡­ higher!"The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.


    His gaze sharpens, and he raises his hand slightly, attempting to gather the droplets. But the shiver in his spine shifts. His breath quickens.


    Alynia (with a steady gaze, a slight frown): "Easy, Veil. Control yourself."


    Veil (internal thought): No, I can do better! Higher! Bigger!


    He forces it. His fingers tighten, his teeth clench, and the flow becomes chaotic. The droplets vibrate more violently, and instead of rising, they are flung into the air.


    A sudden gust of wind sweeps through the cave.


    The remaining flames extinguish instantly. Embers scatter, and ash swirls in the air. The puddle of water bursts into dozens of droplets, which spray in all directions.


    Veil (startled, eyes wide): "What?!"


    The wind intensifies. A swirling gust emerges from his left hand. The air pressure scatters the dust and ashes, and a cold draft courses through the cave, making Alynia¡¯s fur stand on end.


    A small whirlwind springs from his palm.


    Alynia (eyes widening): "Impossible..."


    The whirlwind expands abruptly before dissipating as quickly as it appeared. The wind dies with a sharp stillness, leaving only the pounding of Veil¡¯s heart.


    Veil (panting): "What¡­ was that?"


    He stares at his hand, his gaze unfocused, his breath shallow. His fingers tremble.


    Alynia (serious): "That was wind."


    Veil (slightly shocked): "Wind?"


    Silence. Alynia steps forward, her sharp eyes fixed on him. She analyzes him, her ears upright, her gaze intense.


    Alynia (low, serious tone): "The mana of water and wind sometimes respond to each other¡­ but you did more than respond. You called it."


    Veil clenches his left hand, his gaze drifting into the void for a moment. A thought begins to form deep within him.


    Veil (internal thought): The wind¡­ Was that me?


    Alynia steps back. Her gaze lingers on him for a few seconds before turning toward the cave entrance.


    Alynia (distant voice): "You did something even I don¡¯t do. Think about what that means, Cub."


    A cold wind blows through the cave¡¯s entrance.


    End of the day


    The daylight dims. Twilight casts a deep orange hue across the cave. Veil remains seated, his hand hovering above the puddle. This time, he is calm. His breathing is smooth, his expression resolute.


    Droplets of water levitate above his hand. Not one, but several. They gather slowly, very slowly, forming a small, unstable sphere. The water shifts in tiny jerks, as if struggling to break free from his control.


    Veil (smiling faintly): "Stabilize it¡­ gently¡­"


    The sphere continues to vibrate, but it doesn¡¯t break. Alynia observes silently.


    Alynia (internal thought): It seems the wind woke something in him.

 Chapter 16 : Day 4. A Surprising Combination

    Dawn gently breaks over the forest. The pale light filters through the cave¡¯s entrance, casting long shadows on the rocky ground. A faint but constant wind whistles outside, finding its way into the cave.


    Alynia sits near the entrance, her eyes fixed on the horizon. Her tail sways gently, a sign of deep thought. Her gaze is distant, but her mind is on Veil. The memory of the wind from the previous day still lingers in her thoughts.


    Alynia (internal thought): He shouldn¡¯t have been able to do that¡­ Not at this stage. Not like this.


    She turns her head toward him. Veil is already seated for training. Sitting cross-legged before the puddle of water, his eyes are closed, his face calm. His breathing is slow and steady.


    Alynia (soft sigh): "Today, I take control."


    She stands and moves slowly toward him, positioning herself just behind him. She crouches and places a firm hand on his shoulder.


    Alynia (sharp but steady voice): "Today, we go further. I¡¯m in charge. No excuses, no breaks. You¡¯ll do exactly what I say, when I say it. Got it?"


    Veil (serious, without opening his eyes): "Got it."


    Alynia lifts her hand from his shoulder and positions herself beside him. She extends her own hand over the puddle. A perfect sphere of water forms instantly. No trembling, no ripples. Stable and smooth.


    Alynia (calm voice): "You¡¯re going to do this. Not drops, not fragments. One sphere."


    Veil opens his eyes, fixing them on Alynia¡¯s sphere. His gaze carries a hint of defiance. He regulates his breathing and extends his hand over the puddle.


    Veil (internal thought): Step by step¡­ Bit by bit¡­


    Droplets rise. Two, three, then six. They tremble, but Veil maintains control. This time, he doesn¡¯t rush. Slowly, he gathers them at the center of his palm. They orbit a shared focal point, forming a small, unstable sphere.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Alynia (eyebrows raised): "Not bad. Now bigger. Gather more droplets."


    Veil inhales, then exhales slowly. His focus remains on the forming sphere. He draws more droplets from the puddle. The circle widens, and the sphere grows in size. It quivers occasionally, but he stabilizes it with each tremor.


    Alynia (internal thought): He¡¯s more precise. He¡¯s finally starting to understand.


    Mid-Afternoon


    Veil¡¯s sphere of water floats above his hand. It¡¯s larger than the one he managed the day before, but it still vibrates, unstable. Alynia approaches and crouches at his level.


    Alynia (calm tone): "You¡¯ve taken control of the water. Now, you¡¯re going to do something else."


    She lightly taps the sphere with her finger, creating ripples across its surface.


    Alynia (intense gaze): "Feel it. Not just its surface¡ªfeel inside it. You see the flow of water, right? Now, you¡¯ll tint it with a breeze. Not a gust. A breeze."


    Veil (confused): "Tint it? What does that even mean?"


    Alynia (serious): "Water flows. Wind is free. You must merge the wind¡¯s freedom with the water¡¯s flow. Focus on the sensation of the wind in your hand and push it into the sphere."


    Silence. Veil closes his eyes, his hand steady over the water. He feels the liquid, senses the thread, but the wind eludes him.


    Veil (internal thought): Feel the wind¡­ Feel it¡­ But where?


    Multiple attempts end in failure. The water falls repeatedly, and the sphere collapses each time.


    Alynia (sighs, arms crossed): "We¡¯re stopping. This was my mistake."


    Just as she turns her back, a cold gust flows through the cave.


    A frosty breath.


    Alynia spins around abruptly, her ears erect.


    Veil¡¯s sphere of water rotates slowly. Not a gust, but a steady, fluid motion. The surface of the water begins to crystallize.


    Veil (staring at the sphere): "It¡¯s¡­ cold."


    Fragments of ice emerge on the surface. The sphere turns translucent and takes on a bluish hue.


    Alynia (whispering, wide-eyed): "¡­Ice?"


    The wind subsides. The sphere falls, shattering on the ground into shards of ice.


    Total silence. Only the faint wind at the cave¡¯s entrance lingers.


    Alynia steps forward cautiously. Each step is deliberate, her eyes fixed on the shards of ice. She crouches near one fragment, picks it up delicately, and holds it to the light. The crystalline blue catches the fading sunlight.


    Alynia (murmuring): "Pure ice¡­ You¡¯re not just some ordinary cub, are you?"


    Veil remains motionless, his hand still raised, his eyes wide. His breathing is light, almost inaudible. He stares at his fingers as if they belong to someone else.


    Veil (internal thought): I did that¡­ Was that¡­ me?


    His hand closes slowly. The chill he felt doesn¡¯t fade immediately. The sensation lingers, etched into him.


    Alynia (intense gaze): "Congratulations, Cub."


    She stands and looks down at him, arms crossed. Her posture is commanding, but her expression has changed.


    Alynia (serious): "You¡¯ve achieved more than I planned for. And that¡¯s rare."


    The wind sweeps through the cave again, lifting the ashes of the extinguished fire and swirling them around. The shards of ice on the ground glisten briefly in the sunlight.


    Veil exhales a long, heavy breath. He lowers his head, but a faint smile graces his lips. His hand clenches again¡ªnot from fear, but from determination.


    Veil (internal thought): I¡¯m not the same as I was four days ago¡­ And I never will be again.

 ARC 3: A New Horizon - Chapter 17: Departure to Unknown Lands

    The morning sun slowly rises, its light creeping across the landscape. The forest awakens with the distant songs of birds and the soft crackle of melting ice. A cold breeze sweeps through the cave, stirring the ashes of the extinguished fire.


    Alynia stands near the entrance, her silhouette framed by a halo of golden light. She gazes at the horizon with a contemplative look, her arms crossed, her tail swaying gently from side to side.


    Veil (stretching): "Hmm... Have you been up for long?"


    Alynia doesn''t respond immediately. Her eyes remain fixed on the distance, piercing and distant.


    Silence. Only the wind whispering through the cave fills the space.


    Finally, she breaks the quiet.


    Alynia (calm but firm): "I''m leaving."


    Veil (startled): "What? You''re leaving?"


    Alynia tilts her head slightly toward him but doesn¡¯t meet his eyes.


    Alynia (calmly): "I have a mission to complete. This isn¡¯t my territory. I only stayed because of you."


    Her words leave an emptiness in their wake. Veil stares at her, his mouth slightly open, as though searching for the right words, but nothing comes.


    Veil (after a pause): "Can I come with you?"The narrative has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the infringement.


    Alynia shrugs without turning around.


    Alynia (neutral tone): "That¡¯s your choice. If you¡¯d rather go your own way, do it. I don¡¯t have time to escort you elsewhere."


    Silence returns. It isn¡¯t an uncomfortable silence, but one in which Veil is lost in thought. His gaze drops to the cave floor, feeling the weight of his decision.


    Veil (internal monologue): Does she want me to follow her? Or does she not care? If I leave, will she watch me go?


    He looks up.


    Veil (deep sigh): "I¡¯ll come with you."


    Alynia doesn¡¯t respond immediately. No smile. No visible reaction.


    Alynia (calm, almost indifferent): "Then don¡¯t lag behind."


    She exits the cave without even looking back.


    Veil remains still for a moment, but a faint smile forms on his face.


    Veil (internal monologue): She could have said no¡­ but she didn¡¯t.


    The snow-covered forest stretches out before them. Thick tree trunks rise like pillars, and golden sunlight filters through the snowy canopy, creating radiant columns of light.


    Alynia walks ahead, her steps silent. Veil follows, matching her pace. They move in silence, but the cold begins to seep through their clothes.


    Snap.


    A faint noise echoes through the forest¡ªa soft crack, but enough to make them both halt.


    Alynia turns her head slowly, her ears perking up.


    Alynia (low voice): "Don¡¯t move."


    The silence grows heavy.


    A second crack, louder this time. Trees in the distance shudder. Deep creaking noises follow, as if the roots themselves are twisting.


    Veil (whispering): "What¡­ is that?"


    Alynia crouches slightly, her gaze locked in the direction of the noise. Her entire body is tense. Her tail stiffens, her claws unsheathing slightly.


    He understands. His breath quickens.


    Veil (internal monologue): She¡¯s in combat stance...


    Slowly, he sets his bag on the ground, drawing his rudimentary dagger, and positions himself. His eyes are fixed on the horizon, where the sounds grow louder.


    Every second stretches out, as if time itself is holding its breath.


    A heavy thud. Then another. Thud. Thud. The sound becomes rhythmic, weighty.


    Branches bend under the weight of something immense.


    A shadow spills through the foliage.


    A deep growl echoes¡ªa low, rumbling sound that presses down with an undeniable threat.


    The trees part.


    A massive bear emerges slowly from the forest. Its fur is as white as the snow, but patches of its body are covered in jagged, gray stone-like plates.


    Its warm breath creates clouds in the icy air, and its fierce yellow eyes lock onto them.


    Alynia doesn¡¯t move, her gaze steady on the bear. Her breathing is calm, ready to react at the slightest motion.


    Veil (internal monologue): It¡¯s gigantic... bigger than anything I¡¯ve ever seen.


    The bear growls, the vibration resonating in Veil¡¯s chest. The forest transforms into their arena.

 Chapter 18: No Room for Error

    The forest is calm, yet the tension is palpable. A biting wind weaves through the trees, making the leaves quiver and stirring faint wisps of snow. The bear¡¯s gaze never leaves Veil and Alynia.


    Alynia moves slowly, her motions fluid but deliberate. Her ears are perked, her tail slightly raised. Each step is calculated.


    Alynia (low voice): ¡°Don¡¯t move, Louveteau. Watch and wait.¡±


    Veil remains frozen, his muscles tense. His grip tightens around the hilt of his dagger, his breathing quickening. His eyes are fixed on the bear, and a sense of d¨¦j¨¤ vu washes over him.


    Veil (internal monologue): I¡¯ve been here before¡­ like with the wolves. But this time, it¡¯s worse¡­ much worse.


    Suddenly, Alynia accelerates. Her blurred figure darts between the trees, swift and precise. She leaps onto the trunk of a tree, using it as a springboard to launch herself toward the bear. Her claws glint as they catch the light.


    The bear roars, shifting abruptly, but Alynia adjusts her trajectory at the last second, grazing its flank with her razor-sharp claws. White fur flies into the air, but the skin beneath its stone-like plates remains untouched.


    Alynia (frustrated): ¡°Tsk¡­ too thick.¡±


    She leaps onto another tree trunk to reposition herself, but this time, the bark splinters under her foot.


    Snap.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Her footing slips. Her balance breaks, and her body twists. She reaches out to steady herself, but the frozen ground greets her harshly.


    Veil (internal monologue, shocked): She fell?!


    Alynia rolls to the side, but the bear has already seen its opportunity.


    It charges. The ground shakes with each step. The trees tremble, and a thunderous noise accompanies every impact.


    Alynia tries to get up, but she¡¯s out of time.


    Veil (internal monologue, panicked): She doesn¡¯t have time! She¡¯s going to¡ªNO!


    His body reacts before his mind. His hand instinctively opens, and the thread of the wind activates without his conscious control.


    A sudden gust surges beneath his feet.


    BOOM!


    Veil vanishes from his spot. His vision blurs for a moment as the violent push of the wind propels him forward at an uncontrollable speed.


    Veil (internal monologue): What is¡­ am I flying?!


    His body cuts through the air. The trees blur past on either side. His eyes lock onto Alynia, still on the ground.


    Veil (internal monologue): Not her! Not her!


    Impact.


    He reaches Alynia at full speed, grabbing her by the waist. The force of his momentum propels them both far beyond where she had fallen, sending them rolling across the ground.


    Snow swirls into the air around them, and the forest wind echoes the breach he created.


    Silence. For a moment, even the bear¡¯s heavy steps pause.


    Alynia is in his arms.


    Her eyes lock onto his, a mix of astonishment and confusion on her face. Their gazes meet.


    Alynia (wide-eyed): ¡°¡­You¡­¡±


    An odd stillness settles over them, as if the world itself has paused.


    Suddenly, Alynia furrows her brow, her tail flicking the air.


    Alynia (mocking but slightly flustered): ¡°I know I¡¯m beautiful, but you can put me down now.¡±


    Veil realizes what he¡¯s doing. He looks at his arms, then back at her. His cheeks redden.


    Veil (awkwardly): ¡°Ah! Yes, yes! Sorry!¡±


    He gently sets her down and stands, his gaze darting away.


    Alynia adjusts her coat, brushing the snow off her shoulders, and casts him a sidelong glance.


    Alynia (sighs): ¡°You¡¯re fast¡­ faster than I expected.¡±


    They stand together.


    The ground trembles again. The bear¡¯s roar tears through the air, and the branches above shake violently. It hasn¡¯t given up.


    Alynia¡¯s eyes shift to the bear. Her posture becomes more focused. This time, her claws are fully extended.


    Alynia (intensely): ¡°No falling this time.¡±


    Veil takes his position at her side.


    Veil (seriously): ¡°No running this time.¡±


    They exchange a brief glance, a silent synchronization. The wind calms before the storm.


    The bear charges.

 Chapter 19: A Sparkling Duo

    The bear''s roar splits the air. The trees tremble, and the snow covering their branches falls in delicate wisps. The ground shakes with every step of the creature. Alynia and Veil stand side by side. Their breath is visible in the cold air. Alynia''s gaze is determined, her claws extended, ready to strike. Veil grips the hilt of his dagger tightly, but his eyes betray a hint of apprehension.


    Alynia (commanding voice): "Do that thing you just did. That propulsion. Do it again."


    Veil (breathless, uncertain look): "I... I don¡¯t know how I did it! My body just moved on its own!"


    Alynia turns her head toward him, her eyes narrowing, slightly frustrated.


    Alynia (sighing): "Then make your body move again, Pup."


    The bear slams its front paw into the ground. A deep, heavy sound echoes as the earth cracks, shards of ice breaking under the impact.


    Alynia (fixed gaze, ready to leap): "We split up. Don¡¯t stay still. If you don¡¯t move, you¡¯re dead."


    Without waiting, she dashes forward. Her silhouette blurs into a fleeting streak. Her steps are swift, her movements fluid. Her eyes never leave the bear.


    Veil (internal thought, panicked): Move. Move! She said it!


    He takes a step to the side, then another. His eyes are locked on the bear, his breathing quickening. His body is tense, every muscle on edge.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.


    The bear charges.


    Its massive body displaces the air around it, snow swirling into a vortex.


    Veil (shouting): "It¡¯s coming for me!"


    Alynia (dry tone): "Then get out of the way, Pup!"


    The ground trembles. Veil dives to the side, but the bear alters its trajectory at the last moment. Its right paw strikes the ground near Veil, sending snow and debris flying into the air.


    Veil (panting, snow clinging to his face): "It almost got me! It almost got me!"


    Alynia approaches from the left flank. She leaps from a tree, claws extended, and strikes the bear¡¯s back. Her claws rake against its fur but fail to pierce the stone-like plates.


    Alynia (frustrated): "Too thick¡­ And you, pull yourself together, Pup."


    The bear roars and twists violently. Its massive paw swipes through the air in her direction. Alynia ducks to evade it, but the gust of wind from the swing knocks her off balance. She rolls backward on the ground before springing to her feet, claws at the ready.


    Veil (internal thought): I have to do something... I have to...


    He grips the hilt of his dagger tighter, his eyes fixed on the bear. He steps back with one foot, as if preparing to run. The memory of the earlier sensation flashes through his mind¡ªthe feeling of the wind at his back.


    Veil (internal thought, focused): It was like¡­ a gust. I felt it behind me. If I can just... feel it again...


    He closes his eyes. His breathing slows, and his hands loosen slightly. He searches for the thread.


    Alynia, still on guard, notices Veil standing still.


    Alynia (intense gaze): "Pu¡ªPup, move! This is no time to daydream!"


    The bear turns its glowing yellow eyes toward Veil. It sees him.


    It charges again.


    The wind around Veil shifts. A shiver runs down his spine.


    He opens his eyes.


    Veil (internal thought, fixed gaze): I can feel it.


    He bends his knees, pushes off sharply, and...


    BOOM!


    The wind explodes beneath his feet. The propulsion is brutal, stronger than expected. Veil is launched forward at a speed he can¡¯t control, disappearing from the bear¡¯s trajectory.


    Alynia (faint smile): "Not bad¡­ Pup."


    The bear skids to a stop, its eyes scanning for its prey.


    Veil lands in a roll but quickly gets back on his feet. He wipes the snow off his face, a fiery smile breaking through.


    Veil (determined gaze): "I can do it again!"


    Alynia takes her position beside him.


    Alynia (ready for battle): "This time, we do it together."


    They lock eyes for half a second. The connection is made.


    They lunge at the bear in unison. Alynia attacks from the left flank, while Veil propels himself again from the right. Their battle cries mix with the bear''s roar.


    The final fight begins.

 Chapter 20: Deadly Combination

    The bear¡¯s roar echoes like a clap of thunder. Its power is palpable, shaking the ground as snow falls from the branches, scattering around the clearing.


    Alynia and Veil move forward together, their breaths synchronized by the intensity of the moment. Alynia glances at Veil and notices the fatigue etched on his face.


    Alynia (focused gaze): "You''re getting tired, Pup. You had your fun, but you''re not there yet."


    Veil (breathless but determined): "I''ll... hold on as long as it takes."


    Alynia (stepping slightly away): "Tsk. Don¡¯t act tough. If you collapse now"¡ª(she eyes the bear, speaking to it)¡ª"I¡¯ll let it turn you into mush."


    The bear charges forward with brutal strength. Its massive paws pound the ground with each step, creating a heavy, oppressive rhythm.


    Alynia leaps to the left, leaving a trail of kicked-up snow in her wake. Veil does the same to the right, his movements heavier, but he keeps pace. Their coordination begins to show.


    Alynia (shouting): "We have to stop it! If we let it move like this, we¡¯ll wear out before it does!"


    Veil (fixed gaze): "And how do you plan to do that?!"


    Alynia (piercing eyes): "I¡¯ll freeze it. But I¡¯ll need time."


    The bear pivots sharply and strikes a tree. The trunk splinters under the impact, sending shards of wood flying. Snow swirls through the air.


    Alynia (yelling): "Then keep it busy!"If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    Veil reacts instinctively. He bends his knees, takes a deep breath, and feels the shiver of the wind again.


    Veil (internal thought): I can do this. This time, I¡¯ll trigger it myself.


    He pushes off with force. BOOM! The wind explodes beneath his feet, propelling him forward. This time, he manages to maintain a bit of control over his trajectory, though his balance remains shaky.


    He passes the bear on the right, dagger in hand. He strikes the creature¡¯s flank, but the blade bounces off the stone-like plates.


    Veil (grimacing): "Even the dagger?! Are you kidding me?!"


    The bear swipes at him with its massive paw, but Veil propels himself again, narrowly avoiding the attack.


    Alynia (piercing gaze): "Nice work! Keep it distracted!"


    Alynia closes her eyes. She raises both hands and focuses her breathing. The thread of mana extends from her.


    Droplets of water rise from the surrounding snow and begin to float. The icy wind carries the particles toward her, forming a sphere of water above her hands.


    Alynia (low voice, concentrated): "Calm¡­ slowly¡­ denser¡­"


    The bear senses the threat and charges directly at Alynia.


    Veil (yelling): "No, not her!"


    He bends his knees and pushes off again. BOOM! He launches himself straight at the bear. This time, he doesn¡¯t evade; he faces it head-on. He stretches out his arm and strikes the creature¡¯s head with all the force of his momentum.


    Impact.


    The bear staggers back two steps. Veil¡¯s gaze is fiercer than ever, his breathing ragged.


    Veil (shouting): "Now, Alynia!"


    The water sphere above Alynia is ready.


    Alynia (fixed gaze, sharp voice): "Catch the wind, Pup! Add it in!"


    Veil extends his hand toward her.


    Veil (internal thought): The wind¡­ into the water¡­ I can do it!


    He focuses, dispelling his doubts. The wind responds to his will. A current of air surges toward Alynia¡¯s water sphere.


    The water begins to swirl. The sphere becomes a spinning liquid vortex.


    Alynia (yelling): "Take this!"


    She hurls the sphere with tremendous force. The wind wraps around the water, sharpening it like a blade.


    The impact is devastating.


    The water smashes into the bear¡¯s head, the pressure shattering the stone plates, and the cold freezing the fur from within. Shards of ice explode outward, and the bear collapses heavily to the ground.


    Silence falls. Snow drifts down gently, and the only sounds are Alynia and Veil¡¯s labored breaths breaking the stillness.


    Veil (panting): "¡­Did we¡­ get it?"


    Alynia slowly approaches the bear. She stares at its motionless body, then relaxes her shoulders.


    Alynia (calm voice): "It won¡¯t move again."


    Veil collapses onto the ground, exhausted but smiling.

 Chapter 21: A Never-Ending Path

    Snowflakes fall gently, swirling in the icy wind. The crunch of footsteps in the snow echoes steadily through the silent forest. Towering trees, coated in frost, form a natural labyrinth that only the wind seems able to navigate.


    Veil follows closely behind Alynia. Each step leaves a deep imprint in the thick snow. His breath forms clouds of white mist that dissolve into the cold air. His muscles still ache from the fight with the bear, but he keeps pace.


    Veil (panting): "This forest... does it ever end?"


    Alynia doesn¡¯t turn around.


    Alynia (without looking back): "For those who don¡¯t know where they¡¯re going, no."


    Veil furrows his brow. His gaze fixes on Alynia¡¯s back. Her dark fur coat sways gently with each step. Her wolf tail barely moves, a sign of her apparent calm. Yet her ears are upright, attentive to every sound.


    Veil (curious): "And you, do you know where we¡¯re going?"Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Alynia stops abruptly.


    Silence falls like a weight.


    She turns slowly, her eyes cold but direct. The wind lifts a few strands of her silver hair, adding to her imposing presence.


    Alynia (staring at Veil): "Yes."


    Veil (intrigued): "Then¡­ where are we going?"


    Alynia (serious tone): "To the dungeon."


    A silence settles, broken only by the wind whistling through the trees. Veil stares at her, surprised, trying to grasp the meaning of her words.


    Veil (worried): "A dungeon? You mean those places full of monsters and deadly traps?"


    Alynia nods.


    Alynia (calmly): "Exactly. My goal was to explore it alone, but¡­" (she looks him up and down) "with your progress, you might actually be useful."


    Veil¡¯s eyes widen, caught off guard.


    Veil (hesitant): "Me? In a dungeon?"


    Alynia (dryly): "You don¡¯t have a choice. I¡¯m not escorting you back to town just to watch you laze around. Follow me, and you¡¯ll learn more in this dungeon than in any forest."


    Veil¡¯s gaze grows more intense. His eyes drop to the ground as he reflects, clenching his fist. It¡¯s not as if he has other options. His jaw tightens, and he lifts his eyes to meet Alynia¡¯s.


    Veil (with determination): "Fine. But if I¡¯m coming, it¡¯s not to be dead weight. I want to learn."


    A faint smirk crosses Alynia¡¯s face.


    Alynia (mocking): "Then don¡¯t slow me down, Pup."


    She turns and resumes walking. Veil follows closely, his gaze fixed straight ahead, his resolve strengthened. The sound of their footsteps echoes through the forest, a steady rhythm like the beat of a drum.


    Alynia (whispering, almost to herself): "Even so, when you saved me, you surprised me."


    The forest stretches endlessly before them, vast and silent.

 Chapter 22: A Brief Pause

    The cold wind blows softly through the trees. Snowflakes drift down slowly, settling on the treetops and forming a fresh layer of snow.


    Alynia raises her hand and stops.


    Alynia (scrutinizing gaze): "We¡¯ll take a break here."


    Veil exhales deeply. He feels the weight of fatigue on his shoulders and the ache in his muscles, still tense from the fight with the bear.


    Veil (exhaling): "Finally... I was starting to think we¡¯d never stop."


    Alynia ignores the comment and approaches a large tree with a broad base. She examines the trunk, placing her hands on the rough bark to check for signs of animals or nests.


    Alynia (calm): "Here. We¡¯ll have some shelter from the wind."


    Veil sits down nearby, leaning his back against the tree. He watches as Alynia pulls a small flint from her pocket and expertly starts a fire. The first sparks catch on the dry moss, and the fire begins to crackle softly.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.


    The warmth rises faintly.


    Veil (eyes fixed on the fire, curious): "This dungeon... Why do you want to go there, anyway?"


    Alynia doesn¡¯t lift her gaze from the fire. She watches the flames dance, her hands resting on her knees.


    Alynia (without turning): "For the object inside it."


    Veil (frowning): "What object?"


    Alynia (dryly): "If I knew, this would be easier."


    Veil raises an eyebrow, puzzled.


    Veil (worried): "Wait, you¡¯re saying we¡¯re looking for something, but we don¡¯t know what it is?"


    Alynia exhales loudly.


    Alynia (exasperated): "Not exactly. What I know is that it¡¯s at the bottom of the dungeon. And if it¡¯s at the bottom, it¡¯s important."


    Veil (more sarcastic): "Great, so we¡¯re diving in blind, hoping to stumble on something ¡®important.¡¯ I love it."


    Alynia turns her head toward him, her piercing eyes giving him a frosty stare.


    Alynia (stern gaze): "Done whining? Dungeon artifacts aren¡¯t sitting on store shelves. These things are always guarded by monsters or trials. If that scares you, you can always head back into the forest and hope another bear doesn¡¯t find you."


    Veil clenches his jaw, stung by her words. He lowers his gaze, exhales through his nose, then lifts his head again, his expression determined.


    Veil (determined): "I came here to learn. Don¡¯t count on me to run away."


    Alynia¡¯s lips curl into a faint smirk.


    Alynia (mocking smile): "Hmph. Then stop asking pointless questions."


    Veil shifts his position, wrapping his arms around his knees. He watches the fire crackle and narrows his eyes slightly.


    Veil (muttering to himself): "An artifact at the bottom of a dungeon... Sounds like the start of a bad tale."


    Alynia raises an eyebrow and pokes the embers with a small stick.


    Alynia (dry tone): "Then make sure it has a good ending."


    A moment of silence follows. Only the crackling of the flames fills the air.


    Snowflakes continue to fall gently, creating a serene atmosphere laden with the promise of danger.

 Chapter 23: The Opening of the Sealed Doors

    The wind blows gently through the forest, carrying with it the last echoes of the snowstorm. The fire still burns faintly, the vibrant red embers glowing under the ashes.


    Alynia sits with her back against the tree trunk and pulls a small flask from her pocket. She unscrews it slowly, then hands it to Veil without even looking at him.


    Alynia (calm): "Drink. After this, we move on."


    Veil takes the flask and drinks in long gulps, feeling the cool water slide down his throat. He hands the flask back to her.


    Alynia (taking the flask): "Not too much. We don¡¯t know when we¡¯ll find another source."


    They eat in silence, their gazes lost in the void. The fire crackles softly, but they both know it¡¯s time to move on.


    After a moment, Alynia stands, dusting off her coat, and glances at Veil.


    Alynia (dryly): "Let¡¯s go."


    They extinguish the fire and resume their march. The crunch of snow beneath their boots replaces the crackling flames. No words are exchanged. Only the wind and the sounds of the forest fill the air.


    After two or three hours of walking, they finally see it.


    The entrance to the dungeon.


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Alynia stops abruptly, her eyes widening.


    Alynia (internal thought): ... It¡¯s... incredible.


    Before them stands a massive structure, an entrance formed by two imposing doors at least five meters high. Strange carvings cover the doors, intricate symbols unknown to either of them. The craftsmanship is so exquisite that every detail looks as if it were hand-sculpted by a master artisan.


    Alynia slowly ascends the frost-covered stone steps, her eyes fixed on the carvings. She runs her fingers along the symbols, her gaze filled with wonder.


    Alynia (whispering): "How... What kind of craftsman could make this?"


    She steps forward and pushes against the doors with both hands. Nothing moves. She presses harder, her teeth clenched. Still nothing.


    Alynia (frustrated): "Hmph. Not that simple, huh?"


    She steps back and examines the surface of the doors. Her eyes scan every line, every curve of the symbols.


    Alynia (internal thought): There must be a mechanism... A panel? A lever?


    She crouches down, searching for any clue. Her tail sways nervously from side to side.


    Veil (curious): "Find anything?"


    Alynia (focused): "Not yet... These doors are too precise. They have to open somehow."


    Veil approaches slowly, his eyes drawn to the door. The carvings catch his attention, and a faint tingling sensation rises in his head, just behind his forehead.


    Veil (internal thought): ... Why... Why do I feel this?


    He lifts his hand and touches one of the carvings with his fingertips.


    Suddenly, a flash of light.


    The carvings light up one by one, like a network of energy connecting symbol to symbol. Along the lines, bluish glows spread across the surface of the door.


    Alynia (surprised): "What?!"


    A deep rumble fills the air.


    The doors tremble, frost shards falling as a metallic groan echoes throughout the area.


    The doors begin to open slowly. Ice on the hinges cracks, releasing a gust of ancient, cold air.


    Alynia stares at Veil, her eyes wide.


    Alynia (in a sharp tone): "What did you do?!"


    Veil (bewildered): "Nothing! I just... I just touched the door."


    Alynia narrows her eyes, her piercing gaze scrutinizing him.


    Alynia (suspicious): "Don¡¯t lie to me. I tried to open it, and nothing happened."


    Veil (hesitant): "I swear, I just touched it..."


    A moment of silence.


    Alynia (sighing): "Tsk. We¡¯ll talk about it later. For now, we¡¯re going in."


    They advance cautiously, stepping through the massive doors that release a frigid breath of air. The shadows inside slowly engulf them.


    Behind them, the doors tremble again. With a slow, deep rumble, they close with a resounding thud, sealing away the light from outside.


    Total darkness envelops them. The silence grows oppressive, broken only by the faint echoes of their breathing in the enclosed space.


    The wind stops. Absolute stillness.

 Chapter 24: A Too Quiet Entrance

    Total darkness.


    An oppressive silence, broken only by the faint sound of two light breaths. The air inside is colder, almost freezing. The stone walls are damp, and the ground feels hard beneath their feet.


    Veil (whispering): "Are we... are we really trapped?"


    Alynia moves forward slowly, her tail swaying gently, a sign of her heightened vigilance.


    Alynia (dryly): "Don¡¯t panic, Pup. Find a way to open it."


    Veil stretches his arms out in front of him, his fingers brushing against the cold, rough walls. Every movement produces a faint scraping sound against the stone.


    Veil (internal thought): Cold... slippery... and nothing familiar.


    He carefully moves along the wall, occasionally tapping it with his open hand.


    Veil (groaning): "Nothing... I¡¯m not finding anything..."


    Alynia (exasperated sigh): "Try harder."


    Veil shrugs, visibly frustrated, and continues his search. He taps harder on the stone with each step, but no sound of a mechanism is heard.


    Veil (panting): "I¡¯m telling you, there¡¯s nothing. This thing doesn¡¯t open from the inside."


    A heavy silence falls. The darkness is absolute. Veil and Alynia can¡¯t even see each other¡¯s silhouettes.This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Alynia (calm, almost murmuring): "If we can¡¯t get out, we move forward."


    Veil (hesitant): "Move... in the dark?"


    Alynia (calm but serious): "Would you rather stay here and wait for something to come find us?"


    A shiver runs down Veil¡¯s spine. He grits his teeth and takes a deep breath.


    Veil (low voice): "Alright... Let¡¯s move forward."


    They step forward cautiously, Alynia in the lead, her ears swiveling in every direction. Their footsteps echo on the stone floor, creating a distant sound that returns to them as if someone were walking far away.


    Veil (nervously): "These sounds... we¡¯re alone, right?"


    Alynia (half-turning her head): "Keep moving. Talk less."


    They proceed a few more meters, then¡ª


    FWOOSH!


    Wall-mounted torches suddenly ignite on both sides. The flames are a bluish-black, flickering faintly with shimmering sparks. The light is strangely dim but enough to reveal the corridor ahead.


    The walls are covered in carvings and intricate symbols, some of which resemble those from the outer door.


    Veil (surprised): "Oh... What¡¯s... that?"


    Alynia (staring at the torches): "These flames... They¡¯re not normal. That¡¯s not fire. It¡¯s... something else."


    She approaches one of the torches and reaches her hand toward the flame. As her hand nears, there¡¯s no heat. She pulls her hand back.


    Alynia (serious murmur): "No heat. An illusion? No... It¡¯s real, but it¡¯s not fire."


    Veil (looking at the carvings): "These symbols... Didn¡¯t we see them outside? On the door?"


    Alynia casts a quick glance at him.


    Alynia (dryly): "Good observation. Now focus. These symbols could be clues¡ªor warnings."


    They continue forward. Their steps are more confident thanks to the light, but the echoes persist. The feeling of being watched grows stronger. The silence is punctuated by the steady crackle of the torches.


    Veil (whispering): "I don¡¯t like this. It¡¯s too quiet."


    Alynia (eyes straight ahead): "It¡¯s never quiet without a reason."


    The corridor gradually widens. The carvings become more elaborate, and the passage expands into a large chamber. Stone columns rise on either side, supporting a ceiling lost in shadow.


    Alynia (dryly, in a low voice): "Stay close to me."


    They advance together toward the center of the chamber. Their footsteps echo louder, amplified by the walls.


    At the far end of the room, they see a staircase leading downward.


    Veil (relieved): "Stairs. Do we go down?"


    Alynia scans the surroundings before answering. Her ears swivel left and right, catching every sound.


    Alynia (calm but firm): "We go down. But not quickly."


    They approach the stairs cautiously. Their steps grow lighter, their breathing slower. The tension mounts with each step closer.


    Veil (internal thought): This is it... We¡¯re really going in now... No turning back.


    They descend the steps, each footfall echoing in the empty chamber. The flickering torchlight casts wavering shadows on the walls of the corridor.


    Their silhouettes fade into the darkness of the passage.

 Chapter 25: Floor 1, The Trial of Hearing

    Their footsteps echo faintly on the cold stone. The bluish-black flames of the torches continue to burn behind them, but the descent is shrouded in an almost absolute silence.


    Alynia (ears alert): "No sound. Be careful. Silence here is never natural."


    Veil frowns, focusing on every noise. The crunch of his shoes on the stone feels unnaturally loud. The sound reverberates more than it should, as though the room itself amplifies every noise.


    Veil (quiet voice): "Are we supposed to walk like shadows?"


    Alynia (dryly): "If you can be as silent as a shadow, yes. Otherwise, shut up."


    They proceed slowly, their steps taking them onto a wider, smoother floor. The walls around them change. The engraved symbols are no longer simple lines but stylized ears. Alynia suddenly stops and raises her hand.


    Alynia (dry, focused): "Stop."


    A dull noise echoes in the distance¡ªa dry, metallic scraping sound. The grinding of stone against stone.


    Veil (whispering): "What was that?"


    Alynia doesn¡¯t reply immediately, her eyes fixed on the ground ahead.


    Alynia (serious tone): "A test."


    A faint "click" sounds under Veil¡¯s foot.


    Veil (panicking): "Oh no..."This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    A distant rumble reaches them, growing louder. Mechanisms activate. Stone plates shift around them, and the walls close behind them.


    Alynia (dryly): "Stay calm."


    A mechanism clicks above them. Stones descend, sealing off their way back.


    Alynia (calm but sharp): "Don¡¯t move. Listen."


    An absolute silence settles. Not a sound. Nothing.


    Veil (whispering): "Is it over?"


    A sharp "tick" echoes to the left.


    Alynia (sharp gaze): "No. It¡¯s starting."


    Their breathing slows. The "tick" repeats to the right, then the left, then closer. The sounds draw nearer.


    Veil (worried look): "Is something coming?"


    Alynia (quietly): "Not something. Several."


    Stealthy footsteps echo ahead, to the left, and to the right. Claws scrape against the stone.


    Three pairs of glowing yellow eyes appear in the distance, piercing the darkness. Eyes bright, surrounded by shadows.


    Alynia (through clenched teeth): "Shadow wolves."


    Veil (dryly): "Great... Three this time."


    The wolves advance slowly, their movements almost inaudible. They glide through the shadows, their eyes the only visible feature.


    Alynia (dryly): "Don¡¯t make unnecessary noise. They can¡¯t see anything, but they hear everything."


    One of the wolves leaps at Veil from the right.


    Veil (shouting in surprise): "Oh no!"


    He rolls on the ground as the beast lands on the stone with a sharp thud. Alynia leaps forward, claws extended.


    Alynia (yelling): "Get off him!"


    She strikes the wolf¡¯s shoulder with her claws, throwing it back.


    Veil (getting up): "These things don¡¯t make a sound, but they hit hard!"


    Alynia (dryly): "Then move!"


    The other two wolves lunge. Veil dodges the first, but the second charges straight at him. He raises his dagger just in time, the blade grazing the creature¡¯s snout. The wolf retreats with a yelp.


    Veil (panting): "That was lucky!"


    Alynia (dryly): "Luck never lasts."


    They stand back-to-back. The three wolves encircle them, moving slowly, their steps nearly inaudible.


    Veil (focused look): "They¡¯re surrounding us. What do we do?"


    Alynia (calm, faint smile): "We surprise them."


    She closes her eyes for a moment, takes a deep breath, and raises her hand.


    Alynia (calm voice): "Focus on the sounds. Not on what you see."


    Veil reluctantly closes his eyes. His breathing slows. He listens.


    A step to the left. A step to the right. A step ahead.


    Veil (internal thought): There...


    The sound of a paw on stone.


    He reacts suddenly. He pivots, dagger raised, and strikes the wolf in the throat before it can pounce.


    A sharp yelp echoes.


    Alynia (yelling): "Well done! Keep going!"


    The second wolf attacks from the left. Alynia pivots and drives her claws into its side.


    The third wolf leaps at Alynia, but Veil strikes its flank, breaking its momentum.


    The wolves fall, one after another.


    Total silence.

 Chapter 26: Floor 1, Trial Completed

    The ragged breaths of Veil and Alynia echo throughout the room. The sound of their breathing is the only noise, amplified by the echo, making it even more oppressive. The tension in the air remains palpable, as if the room itself is still holding its breath.


    Veil (panting): "Are... are we done?"


    He looks around, searching for any sign of another enemy. His eyes lock onto the shadow wolves'' bodies, which are slowly dissolving into black smoke, leaving behind gems and various objects on the floor.


    Alynia (sighing slightly): "Yes. But don¡¯t let your guard down too soon."


    Veil slowly lowers his guard, but his dagger remains firmly in his hand. His legs give out, and he falls to his knees, his free hand pressing against the ground to keep from collapsing completely.


    Veil (tired voice): "Those things... they move like shadows. No sound. No way to see them coming."


    Alynia (steadfast gaze): "Exactly. If you can¡¯t see them, you listen. If you can¡¯t see or hear them, you move."This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    She approaches him and crouches to his level.


    Alynia (calm but stern): "You listened well, Pup. But you¡¯re still moving too late."


    Veil gives a tired smile, his eyes half-closed.


    Veil (exhausted smile): "I moved, at least. That¡¯s something, right?"


    Alynia (sighing but with a slight smile): "Hmph. Yeah, it¡¯s something."


    A low rumble echoes through the room.


    Both of them lift their heads, their gazes fixed on the far wall. The engravings on the walls begin to glow, blue lines connecting like veins of energy. The sound of mechanisms engaging fills the air, distant gears turning slowly.


    Veil (taking a step back): "Again? What¡¯s happening now?"


    Alynia (watching the wall): "Look."


    The floor in the center of the room trembles slightly. A stone slab splits in two, revealing a spiral staircase leading deeper underground. A rush of cold, ancient air rises from the depths.


    Alynia (frowning): "The way to the second floor."


    She stands and extends a hand to Veil.


    Alynia (firm gaze): "Get up, Pup. We¡¯re moving on."


    Veil stares at Alynia¡¯s hand for a moment. His breathing slowly steadies. He grabs her hand and stands up with a slight effort, his legs still heavy.


    Veil (serious look): "Yeah. No rest, huh?"


    Alynia (smirking): "Not in a dungeon."


    They gather the loot and approach the opening. The cold wind gently blows from the depths below. The darkness beneath them seems endless.


    Veil (gazing at the stairs): "Deeper, huh?"


    Alynia (soft voice): "Always deeper."


    Together, they descend the staircase, step by step, slowly and cautiously. The bluish-black flames cast their flickering silhouettes, which gradually fade into the shadows of the next floor.

 Chapter 27: Floor 2, The Trial of Sight

    Total darkness engulfed them the moment they stepped into the new room.


    The cold deepened, and silence reigned. No torchlight, no reflections on the stone, nothing. Only pure darkness surrounded them.


    Veil (low voice, fumbling): "I can''t see a thing..."


    He moved forward in small steps, his arms stretched out in front of him, fingers searching for any reference point. His footsteps echoed softly, the sound strangely distant.


    Alynia (calm but alert): "Stay calm, Pup. Look for what stands out."


    Veil (whining): "How am I supposed to find anything? We can¡¯t see a thing!"


    Alynia (dryly): "Sight isn''t just about light. Open your eyes differently."


    He rubbed his eyes and tried to calm down. His pupils were fully dilated, but the darkness was absolute.


    Then, without warning, points of light flickered to life on the ceiling, one after another.


    Stars.


    They twinkled softly, like a night sky, forming shifting constellations. The points of light crossed and uncrossed slowly, changing position over time.


    Veil (looking up, amazed): "Stars? Wait... No, it¡¯s a puzzle."


    Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences.


    Alynia (slight smile): "Ah, you figured it out. Not so slow after all."


    He squinted, placing his hands on his hips, studying the moving points.


    Veil (internal thought): If this were a normal sky, the constellations wouldn''t move. But here, some stars stay fixed.


    He raised his hand and touched one of the stars. A faint warmth radiated from it.


    Veil (struck by an idea): "These fixed points... I think we have to connect them."


    Alynia (dryly): "Then do it. Fast. These stars won¡¯t stay still forever."


    He moved his fingers from star to star, tracing glowing lines between them. The connected stars shone more brightly, while the others continued to drift.


    Veil (focused): "Almost... almost..."


    A sharp noise echoed.


    Scraping.


    A harsh dragging sound, like claws skimming the stone floor.


    Alynia (low, cold voice): "Move faster, Pup."


    She slowly drew her dagger, her ears twitching left and right. The shadows on the ground seemed denser.


    Veil (worried): "What¡¯s happening?"


    Alynia (low, ready for combat): "The shadows are moving."


    Dark silhouettes began to rise from the floor. Their forms were blurred, as if made of liquid smoke. Three humanoid figures took shape, their glowing eyes locked onto them.


    Veil (panicking): "What are these things?!"


    Alynia (staring at the creatures): "Living shadows."


    The first shadow leaped toward Veil.


    Alynia (shouting): "Get down!"


    Veil dove to the ground. The creature soared over him, landing with a sharp snap.


    Alynia (yelling): "Hit them with light!"


    Veil (bewildered): "What?!?"


    Alynia (dry, commanding): "Shadows hate light, idiot! Touch the stars!"


    He scrambled to his feet and reached for the nearest fixed star. The moment his hand touched it, an explosion of light burst forth.


    One of the creatures recoiled, screaming in pain, its body gradually dissolving into wisps of smoke.


    Veil (watching in awe): "Light... Light hurts them!"


    He rushed forward, activating another fixed star. The light spread, illuminating the entire room in bright bursts.


    Alynia fought the remaining two shadows. Her dagger danced through the air, each strike slicing through the smoke, but their wounds closed almost instantly.


    Alynia (breathing hard, fierce): "Hurry up, Pup! I can''t hold them forever!"


    Veil hurried, touching the stars and connecting the points. Each line shone brighter than the last, forming larger patterns across the ceiling.


    Veil (panting): "Just... one more!"


    He reached the final star and connected it. The entire ceiling lit up with an intricate constellation pattern.


    A flood of light engulfed the room. The shadows let out a piercing shriek before vanishing into plumes of smoke.


    Alynia (panting, sheathing her dagger): "Good job, Pup."


    Veil (breathless): "I hate these trials."


    Alynia (dark gaze): "Let''s move. We''re not done yet."

 Chapter 28: Floor 2, The Finale

    A clicking sound echoed throughout the room.


    The bright glow of the constellations gradually dimmed, allowing darkness to creep back in. The stars on the ceiling remained lit, but this time, they were motionless. No movement, no shifting points. A fixed pattern was now displayed above them.


    Veil (looking around, panicked): "What? Why is this happening again?!"


    A second, louder click followed, accompanied by a deep rumbling from the far end of the room.


    Alynia (sharp, reactive voice): "There! Look at the ceiling!"


    Veil looked up and saw what she meant. The stars formed a clear path¡ªa luminous trajectory stretching from a point near them to the other side of the room.


    Veil (surprised): "A path? But why..."


    A guttural growl echoed behind them.


    Alynia (shouting): "No time to think! Follow me!"


    She grabbed Veil''s hand and yanked him forward.


    Alynia (yelling): "That¡¯s the exit! We have to get there before the door closes!"


    They took off running. Their footsteps echoed across the stone floor, their breaths short and quick. The clicking sound repeated at regular intervals, growing faster and faster.


    Unlawfully taken from Royal Road, this story should be reported if seen on Amazon.


    Veil (panting): "Wait! Wait! What? Why are we running?!"


    Alynia (gripping his hand tighter): "Shut up and run! The door is closing!"


    Another deep growl sounded, closer this time. The scraping of claws against stone reached their ears¡ªa sharp, grating sound approaching rapidly.


    Veil (panting, glancing over his shoulder): "Something''s behind us!"


    A shadow shot past them on their left. Veil barely had time to turn his head before he felt a claw graze his cheek.


    Veil (grimacing, clutching his cheek): "Argh! What the hell was that?!"


    He felt the warmth of blood trickling lightly down his cheek. The pain was sharp but bearable.


    Alynia (eyes fixed straight ahead): "Don''t look back! Just keep moving!"


    They continued running at full speed, following the path traced by the constellations. The stars above served as their guide, illuminating the way forward, while the shifting shadows on the sides were nothing more than fleeting presences.


    Veil (panting): "We¡¯re... not gonna make it..."


    Alynia (gritting her teeth): "You don¡¯t have a choice!"


    The clicking sounds accelerated again. The noise grew frantic, accompanied by the deep rumbling of a massive stone door moving in the distance. A heavy, resonating vibration, like a slab slowly lowering into place.


    Alynia (eyes locked ahead): "The door! It¡¯s closing!"


    They pushed themselves harder, forcing their legs to the limit. Their pounding hearts thundered in their ears, synchronized with the clicks and the rumbling stone.


    Veil (shouting): "We¡¯re not gonna make it!"


    Alynia (yelling): "Yes, we will!"


    The door was within reach. A massive stone slab descending slowly from the ceiling, leaving a gap of less than a meter. Alynia dived forward, sliding under the slab in a fluid motion.


    Alynia (turning to Veil, shouting): "Veil, now!"


    Veil didn¡¯t think. He threw himself forward, sliding on his stomach like Alynia, the rough stone scraping his arms and legs. The slab continued its relentless descent.


    Veil (internal thought): "Come on! Come on!"


    He rolled just in time under the door. His ankle nearly got caught, but with a desperate yank, he pulled his leg free just before the slab slammed into the ground with a muffled thud.


    Silence.


    Veil remained on the ground, panting, his gaze fixed on the ceiling. The cold stone beneath his back was both painful and reassuring.


    Veil (gasping): "... I hate... this dungeon..."


    Alynia (standing up, dusting herself off): "No one likes dungeons, Pup."


    As always, she extended her hand to him. Veil looked at it for a moment before letting out a faint smile and taking it.


    Veil (sighing): "... Thanks."


    Alynia (glancing aside): "Yeah, yeah. Get up."


    They stood up again. Before them, a spiral staircase descended into darkness.


    Alynia (gazing at the stairs): "Ready for floor three?"


    Veil (wiping his wounded cheek, staring at the stairs): "No, but we¡¯re going anyway."


    Together, they stepped forward into the darkness.

 Chapter 29: Floor 3, The Sense of Touch

    The cold from the stone floor grew more intense with each step they took. Veil narrowed his eyes, scanning the room ahead. This time, there was no natural light to guide their way. The only source of illumination came from a few bluish crystals embedded in the walls, emitting a faint and flickering glow.


    Veil (frowning): "This room... something feels off."


    Alynia (cautious gaze): "Watch where you step. Touch... This must be the trial of touch."


    No sooner had she spoken than a sliding noise echoed beneath their feet. Veil jumped back as a floor tile slowly sank into the ground, sending shards of stone and dust into the air.


    Veil (heart pounding): "Trap tiles?"


    Alynia (dryly, pointing): "Not just that, look."


    Geometric patterns lit up along the walls¡ªcircles, triangles, squares, and more complex shapes. Alynia narrowed her eyes, examining the symbols.


    Alynia (serious expression): "We have to follow the sequence. The shapes on the walls must correspond to our steps."


    The floor was made up of irregular tiles, each marked with a unique symbol.


    Veil (studying the floor): "So we have to step on the right tiles?"


    Alynia (nodding): "Exactly. And no mistakes, or..."


    She gestured toward the sunken tile further ahead.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.


    Veil swallowed hard, then bent his knees and stepped forward cautiously. His eyes darted between the wall symbols and the floor beneath him. He placed his foot on a tile marked with a circle. Nothing happened.


    Veil (relieved): "It works!"


    Alynia (focused): "Don¡¯t let your guard down. Look at the next symbol."


    She leaped onto a triangular tile, landing with precision.


    Veil (grinning slightly): "We just have to follow the order... But look over there."


    In the center of the room, movement caught their attention. A stone statue, towering over two meters tall, began to stir. Its red eyes glowed with a sinister light.


    Alynia (drawing her dagger): "A sentinel... It¡¯s moving."


    The golem took a heavy step forward, each movement causing the ground to tremble.


    Veil (frightened): "If it steps on a trapped tile, we''re doomed!"


    Alynia (tense): "We don¡¯t have a choice, Pup. Move!"


    They leaped onto the next set of tiles. Veil landed on a hexagonal tile, Alynia on a diamond. Their movements were precise, but the golem picked up speed.


    Veil (panicked): "It¡¯s getting closer!"


    Alynia (sharp gaze): "Stay focused! No mistakes!"


    But Veil made a mistake.


    He accidentally stepped on the edge of a tile. The tile sank with a mechanical click, and spears shot out from the walls.


    Veil (frightened): "NO!"


    He rolled to the side just in time, but one of the spears grazed his arm. He grimaced, clutching his wound with one hand.


    Alynia (worried): "Pup! Are you okay?!"


    Veil (panting): "Yeah... Just a scratch."


    The golem was now dangerously close. Its massive form shook the ground with every step.


    Veil (pressing his lips together): "It''s breaking the tiles! We won¡¯t be able to follow the sequence!"


    Alynia (shouting): "We have to finish before it does! I¡¯ll distract it! Follow the sequence!"


    She leaped onto a tile to the right, then quickly jumped to another.


    Alynia (yelling): "Hey! Over here, you pile of rocks!"


    The golem turned toward Alynia and picked up speed. Veil looked at the wall, focusing on the symbols, and began reciting the shapes aloud.


    Veil (focused): "Circle... Square... Diamond... Hexagon..."


    His legs moved as fast as they could, hopping from tile to tile. His heart pounded in his chest. He was two steps away from the end.


    Veil (panting): "Come on, come on, come on!"


    He reached the final tile, planting his foot firmly on the last symbol. A deep, resonating sound filled the room.


    The wall symbols glowed with a golden light. The golem stopped, its red eyes gradually fading to darkness.


    Alynia (panting, hands on her knees): "... Is it... over?"


    Veil (short of breath): "... I hope so..."


    At the far end of the room, a large stone door slowly opened. A descending staircase appeared.


    Alynia (faint smile): "Not bad, Pup."


    They moved toward the exit together.

 Chapter 30: Floor 4, The Sense of Smell

    As soon as they entered the next room, a thick mist rose from the ground, enveloping them in a dense, whitish shroud. Veil squinted, but this time, sight wasn''t the issue.


    Veil (sniffing the air): "It smells weird..."


    He sniffed again, wrinkling his nose.


    Veil (internal thought): What is that? It smells like...


    Alynia (gritting her teeth): "Wilted flowers and... sulfur."


    She raised a hand to her face, her ears flattening against her head. Her nose twitched uncontrollably.


    Alynia (grimacing): "Damn... it¡¯s disgusting..."


    Veil (worried): "Can you handle it?"


    Alynia (tense voice): "I don''t have a choice... But hurry up, this smell is driving me crazy."


    Her pupils were slightly constricted, a sign of her struggle against her heightened senses.


    Veil (looking around): "What''s the trial this time? Do we have to figure out where it¡¯s coming from?"


    He turned in circles, arms raised, trying to feel the air, but without success.


    Alynia (focused gaze): "Smell. We have to identify the scent that doesn''t belong."


    Alynia (pressing voice): "Move, Pup. Find that damn scent."


    Veil inhaled deeply again. This time, he closed his eyes and focused on each scent note.


    Veil (concentrated): "Pine... lilac... vanilla..."


    His nose wrinkled.


    Veil (frowning): "But this... No, this isn¡¯t natural."


    He pointed toward the direction of the metallic smell.


    Veil (serious): "We go that way."


    Did you know this story is from Royal Road? Read the official version for free and support the author.


    They moved forward cautiously, their feet sliding over the damp floor. The closer they got, the stronger and sharper the scent became, until Veil felt his throat tighten.


    Veil (coughing): "Damn... It reeks of burnt metal!"


    He covered his nose with his arm.


    Alynia (grimacing in pain): "I hate this... It''s unbearable."


    Her breathing quickened, and every breath seemed to sting.


    A slow, steady scraping sound echoed, like claws dragging against stone.


    Veil (freezing): "Did you hear that?"


    Alynia (ears perked): "Yeah. Up ahead."


    She shook her head, trying to focus despite the overwhelming scent.


    Alynia (low voice): "Don''t move, and above all... be quick."


    A ragged breath escaped from the mist. Two red points pierced the fog a few meters away.


    Alynia (whispering): "Pup... slowly... step back."


    Her muscles tensed like a drawn bowstring.


    He obeyed carefully, but his foot slipped on the damp floor, producing a sharp scraping noise.


    The growl intensified, and a creature lunged out of the mist.


    The beast resembled a feline, but its black, glossy skin looked as if it were coated in tar. Its claws were long and razor-sharp, and its red eyes gleamed with a predatory intelligence.


    Veil (shielding himself): "Shit!"


    Alynia reacted in a flash. She dashed forward, rolled, and struck the creature with her dagger.


    Alynia (grimacing): "Its skin is too tough!"


    The creature turned its head toward her, jaws open, revealing fangs dripping with a viscous fluid.


    Veil (panicked, eyes wide): "That thing¡¯s armored! What do we do?!"


    "Focus on the smell!" Alynia shouted, her pupils contracted from pain and instinct. It¡¯s the source of the metallic scent! Her voice was rougher now, almost animalistic¡ªher wolf instincts taking over in the face of danger.


    Veil (fixing his gaze on the creature, eyebrows furrowed): "The smell is the key, huh? Then we need to..."


    He grabbed a stone from the ground, his eyes sharp and calculating, and hurled it with all his strength towards the creature.


    The rock cut through the mist and crashed onto the ground further away. The noise caught the beast¡¯s attention, and it whipped around abruptly, its glowing red eyes locking onto the source of the sound.


    Veil (exhaling in surprise): "It works! It reacts to sound!"


    Alynia (her eyes squinting from pain and focus): "Perfect!"


    She pulled a small vial from her belt and hurled it to the ground with a sharp motion.


    The vial shattered with the sound of breaking glass, and a thick white smoke spread around them.


    Alynia (yelling through the haze): "Find that scent, Pup! I can¡¯t stay here forever!"


    She lunged at the creature again, dodging its claw strikes with feline agility. Her movements were precise and controlled, but every strike she made was only to keep it at bay.


    Meanwhile, Veil focused. He blocked out the chaos of the battle and closed his eyes, his senses fully heightened.


    Veil (internal thought, breathing slowly): Lilac, pine... vanilla... but there... there''s something else.


    His eyes snapped open, sharp and determined.


    Veil (decisively): "There!"


    He sprang to his feet and followed the trail of gunpowder-like scent he had just detected.


    His movements were swift yet calculated. His eyes scanned the walls until he spotted a small alcove. Inside, he found an intricately carved stone mechanism.


    Veil (shouting): "It¡¯s here! There¡¯s a lever!"


    Alynia (gritting her teeth): "Pull it!"


    She dodged another swipe from the beast, bending just in time to evade the attack.


    Alynia (yelling): "Move it, Pup!"


    Veil grabbed the lever with both hands and pulled with all his might. His muscles strained, teeth clenched, and after a moment of resistance, the lever shifted with a grinding mechanical noise.


    A deep rumble echoed through the chamber. The mist gradually dissipated, carried away by a draft coming from the walls.


    The creature let out a piercing shriek, its body convulsing as if struck by an invisible force. It staggered back, visibly weakened, before dissolving into a cloud of black smoke.


    A heavy silence filled the room.


    Alynia fell to her knees, panting but alive.


    Alynia (wiping her forehead): "Damn¡­ That was too close."


    Veil approached her, extending his hand.


    Veil (still catching his breath): "Yeah¡­ but we did it."


    Alynia looked up at him and, after a moment, gave a faint smile.


    She took his hand and stood up slowly.


    Alynia (patting his shoulder): "We¡¯re done with the smell, Pup."


    She cast her gaze toward the far end of the room, where a large stone door was slowly opening, revealing a dark corridor beyond.


    Alynia (looking toward the door, eyes resolute): "Let¡¯s move on to the next one."

 Chapter 31: The Blooming Forest

    As they passed through the grand stone archway, a bright light blinded them. The mist and darkness vanished, giving way to a setting neither of them had expected.


    Before them stretched a vast forest bathed in the gentle light of a spring sun. The leaves were a soft green, and the trees were adorned with blooming flowers¡ªpink, white, and violet. A gentle breeze carried petals through the air in a delicate dance.


    Veil (gaping): "What¡¯s with this change of scenery? We''re still in the dungeon, right?"


    Alynia (squinting and sniffing the air): "Yeah, we''re still here. But they''re trying to make us lower our guard. Stay alert, Pup."


    The duo cautiously stepped onto the soft grass. Veil knelt by a small crystal-clear stream.


    Veil (dipping his hands in the water): "The water¡¯s real. It¡¯s just like an actual forest..."


    He splashed his face before adding,


    Veil: "We should stop for a bit. I''m exhausted."


    Alynia (scanning their surroundings): "Alright, but not for too long. We treat our wounds and move on."


    They moved slightly away from the stream, settling under the shade of a large oak tree covered in blossoms. Veil removed his jacket and stretched with a groan.


    Veil (observing a cut on his shoulder): "My shoulder¡¯s on fire..."Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.


    Alynia (searching through her satchel): "Alright, show me."


    She pulled out a small jar of balm, opening it with a swift motion, releasing a scent of mint and cedar. She applied it to Veil¡¯s wound, making him wince.


    Veil (grimacing): "Ah, ah! That¡¯s cold!"


    Alynia (smirking): "Stop being such a baby."


    They remained in silence for a moment, tending to their wounds and listening to the rustling leaves. The atmosphere was almost peaceful.


    A sharp crack sounded behind them.


    Alynia (snapping upright): "Pup... do you smell that?"


    Veil (sniffing the air): "Yeah... sap and freshly cut wood..."


    The trees around them swayed slowly, but something about the movement felt unnatural. Another loud crack made them turn.


    A figure peeled itself from the bark of a nearby trunk. The humanoid silhouette was covered in jagged branches and rough bark. It advanced with jerky steps, its hollow eyes locked onto them.


    Alynia (growling): "A Sylvoid...! We''re under attack!"


    She drew her dagger and dodged a swipe from its sharp branches, but another struck her shoulder, making her grunt in pain. She rolled to the ground, her breathing growing shallow and uneven. Her movements slowed, pain evident on her face.


    Alynia (gritting her teeth): "Damn it! These things hit hard! Pup, move your ass! I won¡¯t hold out long!"


    Veil tried channeling his mana. Water condensed around his fingers, and he launched a jet of water at one of the Sylvoids, but the creature didn¡¯t even slow down.


    Veil (shouting): "You¡¯ve got to be kidding me?!"


    Alynia (yelling): "It¡¯s not working! Try wind!"


    Veil extended his hands and summoned a gust of wind. But the Sylvoids remained unfazed.


    Veil (frustrated): "Damn... Damn it!"


    He gritted his teeth, frantically searching for a solution.


    Alynia (panting, fierce gaze): "Pup, hurry up! We¡¯re done for if you don¡¯t!"


    Suddenly, Veil¡¯s hands began to tremble. Water and wind fused without him realizing it. An intense cold spread through the room.


    Alynia (eyes widening): "Pup, stop!"


    But it was too late.


    The breeze turned into a freezing hurricane, icing over everything in its path. The Sylvoids were trapped in ice, frozen in grotesque postures.


    Alynia (shocked): "What the...?"


    She barely registered what had happened before smashing the frozen monsters with a swipe of her claws, their bark-like skin shattering like glass.


    Alynia immediately turned toward Veil. He was lying on the ground, unconscious. His breathing was weak but steady.


    She rushed to his side.


    Alynia (gently shaking his shoulder): "Pup!"


    He didn¡¯t respond. His chest rose and fell in a steady rhythm, reassuring her. She applied some balm to his forehead.


    Alynia (soft voice): "Rest, Pup. I¡¯ll keep watch."

 Chapter 32: The Temple of Judgment

    Veil¡¯s breath was still shallow as he opened his eyes. The warmth of Alynia¡¯s hand on his shoulder reminded him where he was.


    Alynia (firm, but not harsh): "Get up, Pup. We''re not done yet."


    He sat up slowly, his muscles heavy and aching, as if waking from an exhausting dream. His head spun, and his legs trembled with each step. He leaned against the nearest wall, taking deep breaths to steady the dizziness.


    Veil (hoarse voice): "What... what happened?"


    Alynia (scanning their surroundings): "You gave it everything you had, Pup. That much is obvious. But if you drag your feet, this dungeon will eat you alive. Move it!"


    He nodded, grimacing, and forced himself to follow Alynia. Every step was a struggle, every movement a battle against his weary muscles. But he kept going.


    Veil (thinking, with a hint of satisfaction): "She stayed by my side. She could¡¯ve just left me behind."


    Before them lay a vast circular room bathed in dim light. Massive black marble columns, etched with ancient symbols, stretched upward to a vaulted ceiling. The air was dry and eerily still. The floor, made of grayish tiles, was marked with golden lines forming an immense circular pattern.


    Alynia (eyes fixed on the room''s center): "The Temple of Judgment. And believe me, that name¡¯s no accident."Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    They moved cautiously, their footsteps echoing softly. A heavy presence filled the room, as if something unseen was watching them.


    Veil (muttering): "I don¡¯t like this..."


    He kept his hands close to his sides, ready to summon mana at the first sign of danger.


    Alynia (scrutinizing the room): "Of course not. No one likes being judged. This place won¡¯t test your strength or speed. Here, they¡¯ll test our worth."


    A deep resonance rippled through the room. The golden lines on the floor began to glow with a brilliant light. The columns trembled as unfamiliar symbols illuminated along their surfaces.


    Alynia (shouting): "Move!"


    She grabbed Veil by the arm and yanked him backward.


    A massive blade of light materialized in the center of the room, slamming into the floor with surgical precision. Veil tumbled awkwardly to the ground, his trembling arms barely holding him up.


    Veil (panting): "Traps?! Now it¡¯s light blades?!"


    Alynia (barking): "Focus, Pup! Look at the symbols! You want to die here? Move your legs!"


    The blades of light struck in succession, slicing through the room with predictable movements. Alynia dodged each strike with precision, her eyes locked on the rhythm of the symbols on the floor.


    Alynia (yelling): "Look at the golden patterns! They show where the next blade will strike!"


    Veil (shouting): "I see it! Right, then left!"


    They danced between the blades, dodging the luminous strikes that seemed intent on trapping them. Veil stumbled twice but caught himself each time, his breath ragged, sweat dripping from his forehead.


    Veil (shouting): "Alynia! We can do this!"


    Alynia (smirking): "Don¡¯t lose focus! You¡¯re about to find out what surviving the Temple of Judgment feels like!"


    The strikes grew faster and more unpredictable. The floor quaked with each impact. Veil¡¯s legs burned with exhaustion, but he refused to falter. His concentration was absolute.


    Then, it stopped.


    The trembling floor stilled. The light blades vanished in a final flash. The golden light on the tiles dimmed, leaving only a faint glow. Alynia placed her hands on her knees, panting heavily.


    Veil (breathing hard): "Did... did we do it?"


    Alynia (straightening, determination in her gaze): "Yeah... but that was just the first trial."


    In the center of the room, a pillar of light slowly rose from the ground. Floating above it was a crystalline blue sphere, pulsing with a gentle, mysterious energy.


    Veil (fixing his eyes on the sphere): "Looks like the Temple is offering us a reward..."

 Chapter 33: The Temples Reward

    The sphere spun on itself, its bluish glow vibrating with a gentle and steady energy. Its smooth surface reflected the ambient light, casting azure reflections on the temple''s black walls.


    Veil (squinting at the sphere): "Are we supposed to take it?"


    Alynia (calculating gaze): "If it were that simple, everyone would know about it."


    A deep clicking sound echoed from the back of the room. The golden engravings along the walls lit up with a vivid light, and a tremor shook the ground beneath their feet.


    Veil (jumping back): "What now?!"


    A marble golem, towering three meters high, slowly emerged from the back of the room. Its body was adorned with golden patterns that pulsed with energy at every movement. Its glowing red eyes locked onto Veil and Alynia.


    Alynia (drawing her dagger): "Oh, great... another guardian."


    The golem slowly raised its massive arm, preparing a heavy and deliberate strike. But its movements were so telegraphed that Alynia easily dodged it.


    Alynia (leaping aside): "Really? You move like an old tree!"


    Veil (grinning smugly): "This thing is slower than those light blades. Guess I was scared for nothing!"The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    He extended his hands, forming small orbs of water around his palms. He aimed for the golem''s head and fired a quick jet of water.


    Veil (shouting): "Take this!"


    The water jet struck the golem square in the face. Its head vibrated, and a visible crack formed where the water hit.


    Alynia (raising an eyebrow): "Are you kidding me? It¡¯s weak to water?"


    Veil (smirking): "Looks like it!"


    He repositioned himself and combined wind and water this time. The jet became a liquid blade that cleanly sliced off the golem¡¯s arm, which crashed to the ground with a resounding thud.


    Alynia (crossing her arms, amused): "Wait, wait... Are we fighting a fragile statue?"


    The golem tried to raise its other arm, but Alynia charged at it. She slid swiftly beneath its massive body, her claws leaving glowing streaks across its legs.


    Alynia (grinning): "If this were a real guardian, it would¡¯ve stopped me by now."


    The golem toppled backward, chunks of marble shattering into thousands of pieces. A final tremor shook the room as its red eyes dimmed and went dark.


    Veil (panting, hands on his knees): "We got it... I don¡¯t know if I should feel proud or ashamed."


    Alynia (glancing at the pile of rubble): "Proud of nothing. It was just some old decoration, Pup."


    They turned toward the blue sphere, still spinning at the center of the room. Its glow seemed brighter than before.


    Veil (taking a step toward the sphere): "Alright, can we take it now?"


    Alynia (fixing her gaze on the sphere, suddenly thoughtful): "Wait..."


    The sphere abruptly began to vibrate before disappearing in a flash of blue light. Alynia¡¯s eyes widened, and she pinched the bridge of her nose.


    Alynia (exhaling in frustration): "Damn it... That was the trial. We weren¡¯t supposed to touch the golem."


    Veil (stunned, frozen in place): "What?! Wait... Are you saying we failed?!"


    Alynia (grimacing): "Yes, Pup. We just destroyed the ¡®guardian¡¯ we were supposed to ignore."


    They stood still for a moment, the room silent around them. Veil blinked several times before burying his head in his hands.


    Veil (grabbing his head): "No... This can¡¯t be... I thought I was doing the right thing!"


    Alynia (turning to him, visibly tired): "Yeah, well, right or wrong, we¡¯re not getting the reward now. I should¡¯ve figured it out earlier. We¡¯re in the damn JUDGMENT ROOM for crying out loud."


    She lightly tapped Veil on the shoulder, a smirk curling at the corner of her lips.


    Alynia (mocking tone): "Don¡¯t worry, Pup. Maybe we¡¯ll find a consolation prize on the next floor."

 Chapter 34: The Battle of the Scarlet Lake Pt.1

    They descended the stairs and found themselves in a cavernous chamber.


    The air was light but damp. The scent of water and fresh moss filled their lungs. Before them stretched a vast lake of deep blue, bordered by black rocks and towering weeping willows, their branches trailing across the water''s surface.


    Veil (hands on his knees, breathing hard): "Are we resting here?"


    Alynia (eyeing the rocks warily): "No breaks this time, Pup. Look at the rocks. Too many hiding spots. This is an ambush waiting to happen. Remember the forest¡ªlet''s not make the same mistake twice."


    Veil (frustrated sigh): "Great... But you''re right..."


    He straightened up and got into position, scanning the surroundings. The breeze rippling across the lake''s surface suddenly picked up speed.


    CRACK


    A nearby boulder exploded into shards. Veil instinctively raised his arms as a creature emerged. It was massive, its limbs covered in dark stone plating. Its head resembled that of a ram, with twisted, razor-sharp horns.


    Alynia (shouting): "A Gravalorn! Those things are living tanks!"


    BOOOOM


    The ground trembled beneath their feet, fissures spreading outward from the Gravalorn''s impact. The tension in the air escalated instantly.Stolen story; please report.


    Alynia (dodging a horned charge): "We need strategy. Veil, keep it busy! I''ll take out its legs!"


    Veil (yelling): "Easier said than done!"


    He raised his hands, calling upon the water from the lake. A wave surged forth, crashing against the Gravalorn, drenching it.


    Veil (shouting): "Alynia! I can freeze its legs!"


    Alynia (leaping aside): "Do it! But do it fast!"


    Veil extended his hands, and a wave of cold spread outward. The water beneath the Gravalorn''s feet hardened into a thick layer of ice.


    Veil (panting, grinning): "Yes! It''s stuck!"


    A movement caught the corner of his eye. A Furilithe¡ªa creature resembling a panther, but larger, faster¡ªlunged toward him.


    Alynia (yelling): "Pup, get down!"


    She tackled him to the ground just as the Furilithe sailed over them. The beast landed with a heavy thud, its claws gouging deep into the stone floor.


    Alynia (growling): "Focus! I won''t be here to save you every time!"


    Veil (getting up, eyes resolute): "Yeah, yeah, I know... You handle the Furilithe! I''ve got an idea for the Gravalorn!"


    Alynia gave a quick nod before sprinting toward the Furilithe, claws bared. Veil turned back to the Gravalorn, which was desperately trying to break free, stomping its massive hooves against the ice.


    Veil (whispering, focused): "The more you move, the deeper you sink..."


    He called upon both water and wind. The cold intensified. The ice around the Gravalorn''s legs thickened and spread. The creature thrashed with all its might, but the more it struggled, the tighter the ice clenched around its limbs.


    CRUNCH


    The sound was like a tree snapping in half. The Gravalorn let out a furious roar, but its legs were completely immobilized.


    Veil (shouting): "Alynia! I got it!"


    Alynia (slashing into the Furilithe''s side): "Nice work, Pup! But I''m still busy here!"


    The Furilithe pounced on Alynia. This time, she couldn''t fully dodge. The creature rammed into her, sending her rolling across the ground. She got back up, wiping a thin trickle of blood from her lip.


    Veil (worried): "You okay?!"


    Alynia (wiping the blood away, eyes fierce): "I''m fine... I''ve had worse. Playtime''s over. We finish this together."


    Veil nodded and braced himself. They attacked in unison. Alynia dashed toward the Furilithe from the right, drawing its attention. The beast turned, readying a counterattack.


    Alynia (yelling): "Now!"


    Veil summoned a crashing wave, knocking the Furilithe off its feet. In an instant, Alynia pounced, sinking her claws deep into its neck.


    The creature thrashed but couldn''t rise again. The duo stood, breathing heavily but victorious.


    Alynia (wiping sweat from her brow): "Teamwork..."


    Veil (glancing toward the lake''s surface): "Yeah... but we''re not done yet..."


    A long, sinuous shape was slowly emerging from the depths of the lake.

 Chapter 35: The Battle of the Scarlet Lake Pt.2

    The roar shattered the air like thunder. A massive creature burst from the lake, breaking through the water''s surface in a vortex of foam. Its long, sinuous body was covered in shimmering silver-blue scales, and its fiery red eyes locked onto Veil and Alynia with chilling precision.


    Veil (breathing heavily, tension in his voice): "What the hell is that...? This is worse than a sea serpent..."


    Alynia (gritting her teeth): "It''s an Hydreon. And if you''re done gawking, look behind you!"


    Two more figures emerged from the surrounding rocks. The first was a Vortagene, a stocky reptilian beast with dark red scales and a back covered in bony plates. It dug its sharp claws into the ground, disappearing beneath the surface as if swimming through the earth itself. The second was a Corvaros, a massive black-feathered raptor with wide wings, circling high above them.


    Veil (yelling): "Three enemies this time?! This keeps getting worse!"


    Alynia (barking orders): "We can''t take them one at a time! You handle the Hydreon! I''ll keep the Corvaros away! And stay moving¡ªthe Vortagene won''t give you a break!"


    Veil focused, feeling mana pulse through his veins. His hands lifted, and a surge of water shot from the lake, striking the Hydreon square in the face. The beast growled, shaking its head, then dove back beneath the surface in an instant.


    Veil (shouting): "It''s fast!"


    He stepped back, scanning the ripples for any sign of movement. Meanwhile, Alynia was leaping from rock to rock, dodging the Corvaros'' vicious dives. The raptor swooped down, talons extended, ready to grab her. Alynia rolled to the ground, but the Corvaros'' claws grazed her arm, leaving a long gash.


    Alynia (grimacing): "Tch... You''re gonna regret that."


    She sprang onto a higher rock, calculating its next dive. The Corvaros folded its wings, diving at full speed. This time, Alynia leaped against its trajectory, slamming into it mid-air with her claws. The bird screeched in pain but managed to recover, its wings flapping furiously.


    At that moment, the ground beneath Veil trembled.


    Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    Veil (shouting): "The Vortagene... it''s right under me!"


    He threw himself sideways just as razor-sharp claws erupted from below. The monster shot out of the ground like a projectile, its snout splitting the earth open.


    Alynia (yelling): "Veil, stop running! Immobilize it!"


    Veil (panting): "Easier said than done!"


    He extended his hands toward the ground, summoning water and instantly freezing it. Jagged spikes of ice shot up right where the Vortagene was emerging.


    CRACK


    The creature collided with the ice, partially stuck, but not for long. With a powerful swipe of its claws, it shattered the frozen spikes, sending shards flying everywhere.


    Alynia (shielding her face): "Pup! Don''t mess this up, or I swear¡ª"


    Veil (gritting his teeth): "I know, I know!"


    He slammed his hands onto the ground, summoning thicker sheets of ice that locked the Vortagene''s legs in place.


    Veil (shouting): "Got it!"


    Alynia (yelling): "Don''t celebrate yet! Veil, get down!"


    Veil barely dodged as the Corvaros swooped again, but one of its talons slashed across his shoulder.


    Veil (grimacing): "Argh!"


    Alynia (lunging at the Corvaros): "It''s just a scratch¡ªkeep going!"


    She leaped onto the raptor''s back, digging her claws deep into its feathers. The Corvaros let out a pained screech as it crashed into the ground.


    Alynia (shouting): "Veil, together!"


    Veil staggered to his feet, raising his hand. A whip of water lashed out from the lake, wrapping around the Hydreon''s throat. He pulled with all his strength.


    Veil (yelling): "Alynia, finish it!"


    Alynia dashed forward, leaping from rock to rock before landing on the Hydreon''s head. With one swift motion, she plunged her claws into its eyes. The beast let out a guttural scream, its massive body thrashing before finally collapsing into the lake.


    Silence fell, broken only by the sound of waves lapping against the shore.


    Alynia (panting, slowly standing up): "We... we did it..."


    Veil (grinning): "Yeah... but next time, try not to get your shoulder slashed."


    Veil pushed himself upright, swaying slightly.


    Veil (wiping sweat from his forehead with his sleeve): "I''m doing my best, alright?"


    Alynia walked over, unhooked a small pouch from her belt, and pulled out a tiny vial. She uncorked it and handed it to him.


    Alynia (calm but firm): "Drink this. Unless you want to collapse like a sack of bricks."


    Veil took it without protest, downing the liquid in one gulp before immediately grimacing.


    Veil (grimacing): "Ugh... What is this?!"


    Alynia (raising an amused eyebrow): "A mix of bitter roots and bark. Would you rather pass out?"


    Veil (shaking his head): "Okay, okay... You win this round."


    A faint warmth spread through his limbs as the potion''s effects kicked in. Alynia sat down on a nearby rock, arms crossed, while Veil settled beside her.


    They both sat at the edge of the lake, resting on the cool stones. Their bodies were exhausted, but their minds were still racing.


    Alynia (appreciating the rare moment of peace): "You fought well, Pup."


    Veil (small grin): "So did you."


    He glanced at her from the corner of his eye, smirking slightly.


    Veil (short of breath): "We''re still alive. That''s something."


    Alynia didn''t respond immediately. She gazed up at the sky, briefly closing her eyes, savoring the fleeting calm.


    Alynia (soft but firm): "Rest, but not for too long, Pup. We''re not out of this yet."


    Veil (leaning back, exhaling): "I know, I know..."


    He let his head rest against the rock, his eyes fixed on the sky above.


    The lake''s surface, still turbulent from the battle, gradually returned to a peaceful stillness. No cries. No movement. Just the wind and the water, flowing calmly once more.

 Chapter 36: The Interlude by the Lake

    The silence of the lake was almost soothing. The gentle lapping of the water against the rocks set the rhythm of the air, while the wind whispered softly through the branches of the weeping willows. Veil and Alynia sat side by side, their backs resting against a rock.


    Veil (glancing at Alynia from the corner of his eye): "You moved like a ghost back there. Seriously, it looked like you knew what they were going to do before they even moved."


    Alynia (turning her head toward him, a glint of amusement in her gaze): "That¡¯s the difference between you and me, Louveteau. My senses are far sharper than yours. I can hear the tension in the muscles before they strike."


    She tapped her ear lightly with two fingers, a faint smirk on her lips.


    Alynia (adding with a teasing tone): "Wolf instincts, you see?"


    Veil (a look of fascination and envy): "Wolf instincts, huh¡­ You must be an incredible hunter with senses like that."


    Alynia (shrugging): "Not just a hunter. That¡¯s why I¡¯m an A-rank in the adventurer¡¯s guild."


    Veil (narrowing his eyes): "A-rank? The adventurer¡¯s guild? What¡¯s that?"


    Alynia (freezing for a moment, then slowly turning to face him): "Are you serious? You¡¯ve never heard of the guild?"


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


    Veil (shrugging, giving a nervous smile): "Actually, I need to tell you something. I lost my memory. I don¡¯t remember anything."


    Alynia (running a hand over her face, shaking her head): "Tsk¡­ That explains a lot¡­ Alright, listen up, I¡¯ll give you a quick rundown, but you¡¯ll tell me your story afterward. Deal?"


    Veil (nodding, attentive): "Deal."


    Alynia (stretching, letting her arms rest on her knees): "Alright, the adventurer¡¯s guild is simple. It¡¯s an organization present in almost every major city. Adventurers take quests, contracts. Protecting merchants, hunting monsters, retrieving rare artifacts¡­ that kind of thing. In return, we get paid in gold, rare items, or access to special privileges."


    Veil (frowning slightly): "So, it¡¯s like a job?"


    Alynia (giving him a pointed look): "Yeah, but it¡¯s not for the weak."


    She eyed him mockingly before continuing.


    Alynia (serious tone): "Adventurers are ranked. Rank F is the newbies. Beginners. Rank E is slightly better, but still just basic tasks. Rank D and C start earning respect. Rank B deals with real monsters. Rank A, that¡¯s where I am."


    Veil (curious): "And above A?"


    Alynia (pausing slightly): "Rank S. The elites. The monsters they face are like natural disasters. But above them, you¡¯ve got SS and SSS. And finally, the legendary S+. Those are called Living Legends. There are maybe two or three in the entire world, no more."


    Veil (thoughtful): "And you? What¡¯s your goal?"


    Alynia (gazing at the sky, pensive): "I don¡¯t know yet. Maybe I just want to stay alive."


    She turned her head toward him, her sharp gaze locking onto his.


    Alynia (intense look): "And you, Louveteau? What rank do you aim for?"


    Veil (crossing his arms, tilting his head back): "No idea. But¡­"


    He stared at the sky above the lake.


    Veil (determined look): "Maybe I¡¯ll go for S+, just so people remember me."


    Alynia (raising an eyebrow, then bursting into laughter): "You? S+? I¡¯d love to see that. But start by not getting knocked around by Furilithes before you start dreaming."


    Veil (smirking): "Everyone¡¯s got to start somewhere, Alynia."


    The calm returned slowly, the sound of the water and wind filling the air. This rare moment of respite was necessary. Veil watched the lake, observing the gentle ripples on its surface.


    Alynia (without turning her head): "You promised to tell me your story."


    Veil (serious gaze): "Yeah¡­ I promised."


    She turned her head toward him, her golden eyes locking onto his.


    Alynia (staring at Veil): "So, spill it, Cub. I¡¯m listening."

 Chapter 37: Veil’s Story

    The silence between them was as heavy as the still air over the lake. Veil lowered his gaze to the water, watching the faint ripples breaking the surface. He seemed to be searching for words¡ªor perhaps even memories¡ªdeep within the blue expanse.


    Veil (murmuring, voice low): "Honestly¡­ I don¡¯t even know where to start."


    Alynia (gaze fixed on Veil): "Start from the beginning, Cub. Whatever you remember. Doesn¡¯t matter the order."


    He took a long breath, closed his eyes for a moment, then began to speak.


    Veil (slow, focused voice): "I¡­ I remember the sound of water first. Not like this lake, something¡­ more mechanical. Rhythmic. Drops falling at precise intervals. It was coming from a white room. But not a sterile, pure white¡­ something warmer, comforting. Like a¡­ I don¡¯t know."


    He grimaced, trying to put images to his words.


    Alynia (pensive, arms crossed): "A white room with the sound of water¡­ Interesting."


    Veil (eyes narrowing, concentrating): "There was something on the floor. Something that had fallen. I remember reaching for it. It felt important, but I¡­ I don¡¯t know what it was."


    He ran a hand through his hair, frowning.


    Veil (tense voice): "Then¡­ all of a sudden¡­ pain. Sharp, brutal pain. Here."


    He pressed his fingers against the side of his head, just above his ear.


    Veil (grimacing): "Like something was crushing my skull. Then, I felt something warm trickling down¡­ I knew right away it was my blood."


    Alynia (ears perking up, intrigued): "Your blood? You were injured back there?"


    Veil (uncertain): "Yeah¡­ or no? I don¡¯t know¡­ everything blurred after that. My vision went hazy. I remember dizziness, then everything turned black. Not like nighttime darkness, but¡­ absolute blackness. Like I was¡­"If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    Alynia (studying him carefully): "Dead?"


    Veil (silent for a moment, then shrugs): "Maybe¡­ yeah, maybe. But after that¡­ nothing. I don¡¯t remember anything else until I woke up in that forest."


    He shut his eyes again, as if trying to retrieve something lost deep in his mind.


    Veil (sighing, shaking his head): "It¡¯s all a blur. Like my memories are there, locked behind a door. I¡¯ve tried forcing it open, but the harder I try, the further away it feels."


    Alynia (watching him intently): "So, you woke up in the forest, no idea how you got there. And then, the wolves."


    Veil (glancing sideways): "Yeah¡­ wolves."


    Veil (bitter smile): "And they weren¡¯t the friendly kind. They were starving. I thought I was gonna die¡­ but¡­"


    He paused, searching for the right words.


    Veil (slower now): "I used branches, rocks. I ran, dodged, fought with whatever I could. No magic, nothing. Just¡­ luck and panic."


    Alynia (raising an eyebrow): "No magic?"


    Veil (shaking his head): "Nope. Didn¡¯t even know I had any. It was pure survival instinct. The kind of thing you do when you don¡¯t want to die."


    He tossed a pebble into the lake and watched it slowly sink.


    Veil (calmly): "I was exhausted. Kept tripping, getting back up¡­ but they kept coming. Eventually, I took them down. Their bodies were there, I grabbed whatever I could¡ªthis dagger, some meat that we shared, and a few bandages."


    He fell silent for a moment, staring at the still water.


    Veil (calmly): "Then I just kept walking. But I was done. Didn¡¯t take long before my legs gave out. I passed out. When I woke up, you were there. Not the best sight to wake up to."


    He added with a smirk.


    Alynia (smirking back): "You¡¯ve got some nerve for a Cub."


    They remained silent for a while before Alynia spoke again.


    Alynia (gaze steady on Veil): "Do you think you¡¯ll ever get your memory back?"


    Veil (watching the lake¡¯s surface): "I don¡¯t know."


    His eyes remained on the water, lost in the shimmering reflections.


    Veil (soft voice): "Sometimes, it feels like it¡¯s right there, within reach. But the moment I try to grab it¡­ it slips away."


    Alynia (raising an eyebrow, intrigued): "Maybe you don¡¯t need to force it. Sometimes, memories come back when you least expect them."


    She turned a flat stone between her fingers, looking thoughtful.


    Alynia (focused on the stone): "What matters isn¡¯t who you were before, but who you become now."


    Veil (a faint smile forming): "You always have something wise to say, huh?"


    Alynia (proud look): "I¡¯m a wolf-woman, Cub. We watch, we learn, and we only speak when necessary."


    She flicked the stone across the water¡¯s surface, making three perfect skips before it disappeared beneath the waves.


    Veil (impressed): "Nice one."


    He watched the ripples vanish.


    Veil (grinning slightly): "Think I could learn that too, or is skipping stones a wolf-only skill?"


    Alynia (mocking look): "You can barely walk without tripping, Cub. Save your strength for something useful."


    They laughed softly, both enjoying this rare moment of peace. Veil ran his fingers through his messy hair, still damp from sweat and the lingering lake mist. His smile gradually faded.


    Veil (more serious tone): "You know¡­ Sometimes I wonder if it¡¯s not just my memory that¡¯s missing. Like maybe¡­ I¡¯m incomplete."


    Alynia (silent, eyes locked on him): "Incomplete or not, you¡¯re still here, aren¡¯t you? You¡¯re not just a memory. You¡¯re real. So instead of dwelling on what¡¯s missing, use what you¡¯ve got."


    Veil (surprised, raising an eyebrow): "Hm¡­"


    He slowly nodded, a thoughtful expression settling on his face.


    Veil (pensively): "Yeah¡­ Yeah, you¡¯re right."


    They sat there a little longer, listening to the sound of the water and the distant chirping of birds in the trees. Peace was fleeting, but it was precious.

 Chapter 38: Floor 8, The Chamber of Echoes

    The peacefulness of the lake was now behind them. Before them stood a weathered stone archway, covered in vines and damp moss. The cool breeze from outside vanished the moment they crossed the threshold. The air inside was heavier, suffocating.


    CRACK.


    A sharp sound echoed beneath Veil''s feet. He looked down and saw that he had stepped on a fragment of bone. His body tensed as he lifted his head to scan their surroundings. Before them stretched a vast, winding corridor, its walls adorned with strange carvings¡ªtwisted faces, sculpted eyes that seemed to follow them.


    Veil (muttering): "Not exactly welcoming."


    Alynia (staring at the walls): "This is just the beginning, Cub. This room has one purpose¡ªto break you from the inside."


    They moved forward cautiously, each step carefully placed. The carvings shifted. At first, it looked like a trick of the light. But as they progressed, the movements became undeniable.


    Alynia (tense voice): "Cub... look at them."


    He slowly turned his head to the left wall. The sculpted faces had moved. Their eyes were now locked on him. One of them had a twisted grin that hadn¡¯t been there moments before.


    Veil (exhaling sharply): "Not normal... definitely not normal."


    BOOM.


    A deafening echo rang out, followed by a gust of air that made the walls tremble. Alynia grabbed Veil by the collar and yanked him backward just as an invisible projectile shot through the corridor at lightning speed, leaving only a sharp whistling in the air.


    Alynia (barking): "Stay behind me!"


    They pressed against the right wall, Alynia taking the lead. She crouched low, every sense heightened. Her ears twitched in all directions, picking up the slightest sounds.


    Alynia (whispering): "They''re testing us."


    Veil (worried glance): "Who is ''they''?"


    Alynia (eyes locked on the carvings): "These engravings. They¡¯re not just decoration. They¡¯re watching us, and they¡¯re reacting."


    She pointed at one of the faces¡ªits mouth was slightly open, releasing a faint stream of air.


    Alynia (serious): "They''re analyzing us. Our steps, our movements... even your breathing, Cub."Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Veil (taking a slow breath): "Alright... so we move carefully."


    They proceeded, one step at a time, Alynia leading the way. The faces followed them. Whenever they stopped, the faces remained still. But when they moved, the carved eyes tracked them.


    Alynia (raising her hand): "Stop."


    She was looking at a thin slit above them in the ceiling¡ªtoo perfectly straight to be a natural crack.


    CHAK!


    The slit suddenly widened, and a black energy spear slammed into the ground just inches from where they stood. If Veil had been one step ahead, it would¡¯ve impaled him.


    Alynia (shouting): "Move! Now!"


    They ran. Every step was a risk. The slits in the ceiling opened in a chain reaction, dropping more black spears that exploded on impact, scattering shards of dark energy. Veil¡¯s foot slipped on a damp tile, sending him tumbling to the ground. His hands scraped against the rough stone, leaving raw, bloody scratches.


    Alynia (yelling): "Cub! Get up!"


    He pushed himself up, his palms stinging, as another spear crashed inches away, sending debris slicing across his cheek.


    Veil (shouting): "I¡¯m up!"


    They finally reached an open space where the spears stopped falling. The floor was flat, the walls smooth and free of carvings. They panted, catching their breath.


    Alynia (checking Veil): "You''re bleeding."


    Veil (shrugging): "Better than getting impaled."


    She pulled out a makeshift bandage from her satchel.


    Alynia (firmly): "Wrap it properly. I¡¯m watching you."


    Veil sat against the wall, wrapping the bandage around his hand. Alynia sat beside him, her golden eyes scanning their surroundings.


    Alynia (after a pause): "We moving?"


    Veil (determined): "Yeah."


    She met his gaze, her expression slightly more serious.


    Alynia (eyes locked on him): "This time, stay close. Run beside me, not behind. Got it?"


    Veil (raising a brow): "Oh? Afraid I¡¯ll disappear on you?"


    Alynia (half-severe, half-amused): "Don¡¯t flatter yourself, Cub. I just don¡¯t want to explain for the tenth time how to dodge a spear to the face."


    Veil smirked but didn¡¯t argue. He stood up, his legs still shaky. Their short break had been enough to steady his breathing.


    Their path led to another narrow corridor, but this one had no engravings. The walls were made of smooth, polished stone, as reflective as glass, and the torches lining the sides emitted a wavering blue light. Their footsteps echoed loudly, the sound unnervingly amplified by the tight space.


    Veil (muttering): "This silence is worse than the noise."


    Alynia (nodding slightly): "The calm before the storm. Stay ready."


    They advanced cautiously, their movements in sync. Every step was calculated. Every noise was analyzed.


    One beat. Two. Three. Their instincts were on high alert.


    CLACK.


    Alynia froze. Veil saw her raise a hand.


    Alynia (staring at the ground): "Pressure trap triggered."


    She looked down at the tile that had slightly sunken under her foot.


    Veil (tense body): "Do we move or stay still?"


    CHAK-CHAK-CHAK.


    A series of sharp whistles came from both sides of the corridor. Alynia lunged forward, grabbing Veil¡¯s collar and yanking him with her as dark energy arrows shot from the left and right walls, crossing in deadly crisscrossing patterns.


    Alynia (shouting): "RUN!"


    They sprinted, arrows whizzing past their heads. A sharp crack¡ªVeil felt a burning sensation along his left arm. He gritted his teeth but didn¡¯t slow down.


    Alynia (yelling): "Are you hit?!"


    Veil (through clenched teeth): "Just a burn!"


    They reached the end of the corridor, where a small alcove allowed them to take cover. They pressed against the wall, gasping for air.


    Alynia (turning to Veil): "Let me see."


    She grabbed his arm and examined the wound. A long black burn ran down his forearm. She narrowed her eyes before reaching into her satchel.


    Alynia (serious): "You¡¯ll live."


    She pulled out a small jar of ointment and applied it to the wound.


    Veil (grumbling): "That stings..."


    Alynia (tapping his arm lightly): "Good news¡ªit means you¡¯re still alive."


    She stood up, scanning the corridor ahead.


    Alynia (assessing the situation): "The traps are getting worse. They¡¯re wearing us down before the next trial."


    Veil (wiping sweat from his forehead): "So¡­ ready for what¡¯s next?"


    He raised a fist, a defiant grin on his face.


    Alynia (shaking her head, small smirk): "Ready or not, we move forward. That¡¯s the only option."


    They set off once more, their footsteps echoing louder than before, as if something was listening.

 Chapter 39: Floor 9, The Shadow Wraith

    The narrow stone corridor suddenly widened into a vast, dark chamber. An oppressive silence filled the air, the only sound being the faint echo of their footsteps on the cold stone floor.


    Veil (whispering, eyes scanning the void): "I can''t see a thing¡­"


    Alynia (moving cautiously, ears sharp and alert): "Don''t move too much, Cub. This is the perfect spot for an ambush."


    CLICK


    Small violet lights flickered to life on the ceiling, like distant stars. Their dim glow barely illuminated the chamber, just enough to reveal its eerie details. The walls were covered in ancient runes¡ªcircular symbols that pulsed faintly, like they were alive.


    Veil (breathless, awed): "Beautiful¡­"


    SHAAAAK!


    A massive shadowy arm burst from the ground beneath Alynia. Before she could react, its clawed fingers coiled around her waist and yanked her up at terrifying speed.


    Veil (shouting in panic): "Alynia!"


    He reached for her, but it was too late.


    Alynia was lifted several meters into the air, her body dangling helplessly. The dark hand squeezed, its grip unyielding. She snarled and thrashed violently, but the spectral force wouldn''t let go.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    THUNK!


    Without warning, the hand disappeared, dropping her into the void. She twisted mid-air, desperately trying to grab onto something. The impact was brutal. She hit the ground hard, the force of the landing echoing throughout the chamber.


    Veil (screaming): "Alynia!"


    He rushed toward her, but something stirred at his feet. The shadows slithered unnaturally. The glowing symbols on the floor pulsed, and ghostly shapes began to rise from the darkness. Two violet eyes flared in the abyss, locked onto him.


    SWOOSH!


    Veil barely dodged a spectral claw that slashed through the air, leaving a trail of shimmering purple energy in its wake.


    Veil (panting): "Damn¡­ It''s fast¡­"


    The wraith hovered just above the ground, its entire form composed of writhing shadows. Twin twisted horns protruded from its head, and its elongated arms ended in claws crackling with dark energy.


    Veil (yelling): "You wanna play? Bring it!"


    He summoned his mana, feeling its familiar pulse in his veins. The air grew damp, the humidity thickening as water coalesced around him. He thrust his hands forward, conjuring a whip of water that lashed toward the wraith.


    But in an instant, the creature vanished. It reappeared to his side, untouched.


    Veil (gritting his teeth): "Too fast!"


    SWISH!


    A shadowy claw lashed out again. This time, Veil wasn''t quick enough. A searing pain sliced across his side as he staggered backward, clutching his ribs.


    Veil (wincing, voice strained): "Not good¡­ Not good at all¡­"


    He exhaled sharply, forcing himself to focus. Panic wouldn''t save him. Pain was real, but he could push through it. He steadied his breathing, channeling his mana more efficiently.


    A shift in the air. Wind coiled around him, forming a spiraling current. He raised a hand, calling upon water once more. This time, the elements fused¡ªcold, sharp, deadly.


    CRACK!


    Veil launched a blade of ice straight at the wraith. The attack sliced through the air at blinding speed. The creature dodged¡ªalmost. The tip of the ice blade nicked its form, instantly freezing part of its body into a jagged mass of frost.


    The wraith let out a ghostly, piercing shriek.


    Veil (grinning fiercely): "It works¡­"


    The specter retaliated. Dark limbs erupted from the ground, reaching for him in a deadly embrace. Three of them surged forward, but this time, Veil was ready. He propelled himself sideways using a gust of wind at his feet, narrowly evading the attack.


    Rolling to a stop, he pushed himself up and locked eyes with the creature.


    Veil (steadfast, unwavering): "Not this time¡­ Now, you move at my pace!"

 Chapter 40: Floor 9, The Temporary Awakening

    Veil¡¯s breath came in ragged gasps, his eyes locked onto the specter that never stopped moving. Every attack he launched was deflected, dodged, or absorbed into the wraith¡¯s shifting, vaporous form.


    Veil (internal, muscles tense): "It¡¯s learning¡­ It¡¯s adapting to my attacks¡­"


    He took a step back, narrowly avoiding a spectral claw that slashed past his face, leaving a trail of icy cold in its wake. The wraith was getting faster, more precise. Every new attempt Veil made ended in utter failure.


    Veil (hissing): "This is ridiculous¡­ It¡¯s predicting my every move¡­"


    He gathered mana in his hands, shaping a swirling whip of water. With a sharp crack, he lashed it toward the enemy at blinding speed¡ªbut the specter dissolved into mist, reappearing several meters to the left.


    SWOOSH!


    The wraith lunged. Veil barely managed to propel himself sideways with a burst of wind, but his landing was rough, his elbows slamming into the cold stone floor. He was losing his rhythm.


    SHRAAAAK!


    A direct hit. The specter¡¯s claw tore through his guard, carving a deep gash across his chest. Agony exploded in his body. His breath hitched, eyes widening in sheer shock.


    Veil (choking, gasping): "Argh¡­!"


    His knees buckled. He felt the hot trickle of blood soaking his clothes, his vision blurring at the edges. Each breath was a sharp stab of pain, his lungs barely cooperating. The metallic taste of blood filled his mouth. His eyelids grew heavy.Unauthorized duplication: this tale has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    Veil (internal): "No¡­ not like this¡­"


    His body was shutting down, his consciousness slipping into darkness.


    Then¡ªheat.


    No, not heat. A tingling. A strange vibration that started in his chest and spread outward. His entire body trembled as if unseen waves pulsed through him.


    BOOM¡­ BOOM¡­ BOOM¡­


    His heartbeat pounded in his ears. Slow at first, then steady, then stronger. Like the rhythmic pounding of a war drum. Something inside him was awakening.


    Veil (internal, fighting through the haze): "Move¡­ Move, damn it!"


    His fingers twitched. Then his arm. Then his entire body. His ribs felt like they were on fire, but he sucked in a violent gasp, eyes snapping open.


    A powerful surge of mana exploded from within him, forming a swirling vortex of green energy that lit up the chamber. The Shadow Wraith recoiled, hissing in discomfort.


    SPLASH.


    The blood pooling beneath Veil evaporated slightly, his veins glowing faintly as the wound on his chest slowly began to close. The pain didn¡¯t vanish completely, but it dulled to something manageable. He could move again.


    Veil (internal, breathless): "This¡­ whatever this is¡­ it saved me."


    His eyes burned with newfound determination. The wraith turned toward him, its violet gaze gleaming in the dark. It had sensed the shift.


    Veil (recalling Alynia¡¯s words): "Raw power will never be enough. Feel with precision, not brute force."


    He inhaled deeply. The wind coiled around him in a razor-thin spiral. Moisture gathered from the air, from the sweat on his skin. He shaped it.


    He didn¡¯t visualize a massive blade. Not a longsword. Not a greatsword. No, something finer. Lighter. Sharper than steel.


    SHIING!


    The ice took form. A thin, elongated blade¡ªno thicker than a needle. A rapier of pure frost, seamlessly fused with the handle of his dagger.


    Veil (murmuring, voice like ice): "I¡¯ve got you now¡­"


    The wraith reacted instantly. Four shadowy arms erupted from the ground, reaching for him in unison. But this time, Veil wasn¡¯t too slow.


    He ducked under the first, rolled to avoid the second, then slashed upward. His icy blade cut clean through the third arm¡ªsevering it completely. The limb disintegrated into dark mist.


    Then he moved.


    A gust of wind surged at his feet, launching him forward like a bullet.


    Veil (roaring): "This ends now!"


    CRASH!


    The wraith tried to shift away, but Veil was too fast. The wind carried him like a storm, the ice sharper than ever. He struck. The blade of frost pierced through the wraith¡¯s core, running it through completely.


    A deafening, ethereal shriek shattered the air. The chamber trembled as violet energy exploded outward.


    Veil crashed onto the floor, his limbs trembling from exhaustion. His breath was heavy, his vision swimming¡ªbut he forced himself to look ahead.


    His eyes locked onto Alynia, still sprawled on the ground.

 Chapter 41: The Fragile Bond

    The specter was defeated. The remnants of violet energy faded, dissolving into the air like ashes carried away by the wind.


    Veil was at his limit. His breathing was ragged, each inhale a monumental effort. His arms trembled, his legs threatened to give out at any moment.


    He planted a hand on his knee, forcing himself upright. Every movement was agony. His muscles screamed for rest, but when he lifted his eyes, he saw Alynia lying motionless on the ground.


    Veil (hoarse, panicked): "Alynia¡­?!"


    He took a step, then another. Each one was a trial. His side throbbed painfully, but he pressed on. His vision blurred. His hands brushed against the cold stone walls, desperate for balance.


    Veil (murmuring): "Move¡­ Please, move¡­"You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.


    His knee buckled. The air left his lungs in a sharp gasp.


    Veil (internal): "Not now. Move!"


    His hands clawed at the floor, seeking support. There was nothing left in him, but the fear of losing her burned stronger than anything. He forced himself up, stumbled forward, and kept moving. The pain was unbearable, but he no longer listened to his body. His legs felt like lead, his back was tight with strain¡ªevery step was a victory.


    He reached her side, his eyes wide with desperation. She lay on her side, her face turned toward him, her eyes closed. Her chest wasn¡¯t moving.


    Veil (shouting): "No, no, no¡­!"


    He collapsed to his knees beside her. His shaking hand slipped beneath the nape of her neck, lifting her head gently, but his fingers trembled so much he struggled to hold her properly.


    His forehead pressed against hers. He closed his eyes, his silent tears falling onto Alynia¡¯s face, mixing with the dust and blood smeared across her skin.


    Veil (whispering, broken voice): "Wake up¡­ Alynia, wake up¡­"


    He felt it¡ªthe faint warmth of her breath, barely brushing against his cheek.


    She was still breathing.


    The realization almost shattered him.


    Veil (shaky exhale, relieved): "You''re here¡­ You''re here¡­"


    His strength abandoned him. His arms gave out, and his head fell gently against hers. Their breaths mingled, warm against the cold air.


    Neither of them moved.


    Exhausted. Broken. But alive.


    Total silence.

 Chapter 42: Mutual Relief

    Hours later.


    The steady drip of water against stone was the only sound in the room. Drop. Drop. Drop. Their breaths were light, barely perceptible. The calm after the storm.


    A faint groan broke the silence. Alynia slowly opened her eyes. The violet light still flickered above, but it was dimmer now. Pain radiated through her body. A sharp sting in her ribs, her right arm, and her left leg.


    Alynia (internal thought): Broken bones...


    She bit her lip, stifling a cry. Her head was slightly tilted, and she felt something heavy against her. She lowered her gaze.


    Alynia (whispering): "Veil..."


    He was there. His head rested against her chest, his tear-streaked face motionless. He wasn¡¯t moving.


    Her heart clenched.


    With trembling fingers, she reached into her pouch and pulled out a small vial. Not a healing potion¡ªit would be useless in this state. Just something to dull the pain. She uncorked it and drank in one gulp, the bitter taste spreading across her tongue.


    Her breathing steadied.


    She carefully moved Veil¡¯s body, laying him gently to the side. Her sharp gaze studied him. His body was exhausted, but his breathing was still there¡ªweak but present. Then, she noticed the wound on his chest.


    The scar was fresh, but... it was there.


    Alynia (frowning): "How¡­?"


    She placed a hand over the scar, surprised by the unnatural coolness of his skin. Her golden eyes narrowed in disbelief.


    Alynia (murmuring, exhausted): "You''re tougher than you look, Pup¡­"


    Veil''s eyelids twitched.


    Slowly, painfully slowly, he opened his eyes.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    Their gazes locked.


    Alynia (softly tapping his cheek): "Rest¡­ You need it."


    They prepared a makeshift fire, the silence stretching between them. The flames crackled, filling the empty room with their faint warmth. Alynia sat against the wall, her breath unsteady, her left arm pressed against her ribs. Pain was visible in every movement.


    Veil (frowning, watching her carefully): "You''re not in good shape. Let me help."


    Alynia (surprised, narrowing her eyes): "Fine¡­ Just be quick. I''m done with this pain."


    Veil nodded. He pulled out some cloth from his pouch, ripping it into long strips. He knelt beside her, carefully unfolding the bandages. Alynia watched him for a moment before adjusting her posture, teeth clenched.


    Veil (hesitant): "I need access to your ribs. Pretty sure they''re cracked."


    She held his gaze for a second, then sighed.


    With slow, deliberate movements, she loosened the top of her tunic, sliding it down to reveal the bindings underneath. Her skin was covered in bruises, deep red marks spreading across her ribs. Her breathing was uneven, the pain barely restrained.


    Alynia (dry tone, slightly amused): "Don¡¯t stare too much, Pup."


    Veil (exhaling, focused): "Yeah, yeah¡­"


    He tore a long strip of fabric and began wrapping her ribs. His hands were unsteady from exhaustion, but he moved carefully, trying not to cause more pain.


    Alynia (gritted voice): "You''re too close, Pup¡­"


    Veil (not looking up): "If I move away, I can''t help you."


    Silence settled between them again.


    Alynia lowered her gaze. His hair was damp with sweat, his breathing was shallow, but he was still here. She watched his fingers adjusting the bandages, his touch rough but gentle.


    Alynia (soft, barely a whisper): "Be careful¡­ It hurts."


    Veil (pausing, guilty): "Sorry¡­"


    He loosened his grip, making the bindings less tight.


    They were close¡ªfar closer than usual. The warmth of his hands, the careful touch of fabric against her ribs, his scent mixed with blood and sweat. It was... natural. No tension, no awkwardness. Just survival. Just trust.


    The fire crackled loudly.


    Alynia (murmuring, watching him work): "You''ve changed, Pup. Before, you would¡¯ve just frozen."


    Veil (brief glance up, surprised): "Yeah¡­ But I still try not to freeze in front of you."


    A small smirk played at Alynia¡¯s lips.


    They stayed like that for a moment, just feeling the heat of the fire and each other''s presence.


    When Veil finished the last knot, he eased her arm gently onto her lap.


    Veil (exhaling, exhausted): "Done. Don¡¯t move too much¡ªit''ll hold better."


    Alynia nodded, looking down. She didn¡¯t speak, but the silence was comfortable. No words were needed.


    Alynia (soft voice): "And you? You look worse than me."


    Veil placed a hand over his chest, where the wound should have been. His fingers brushed over the fresh but clean scar.


    Veil (shrugging): "I don¡¯t know¡­ It still hurts, but there¡¯s no blood, nothing except this mark."


    They exchanged a glance. A deep, questioning look. Neither of them understood what had happened to him.


    Alynia sighed, her gaze lingering on him longer than usual. She didn¡¯t comment, but the intensity in her golden eyes said enough.


    The fire continued to crackle softly.


    They were both exhausted, on the edge of collapse¡ªbut this time, neither of them was alone. The fire¡¯s warmth, and the warmth of the other, was enough.


    Alynia (soft, looking at Veil): "Pup¡­"


    Veil turned to her, his eyes heavy with exhaustion but present.


    Alynia (gentle, almost a whisper): "Rest¡­ You¡¯ve earned it."


    He nodded slowly.


    Veil (weak voice, small smirk): "Yeah¡­ But only if you sleep too."


    Alynia let out a small laugh¡ªbut immediately winced, gripping her ribs. Her smile turned into a half-grimace.


    Alynia (sighing, pain evident): "Idiot¡­ Fine. Just this once."


    They leaned against the wall, side by side. The fire¡¯s light cast long, flickering shadows on the stone walls. Their heads drifted closer, almost touching.


    Their breathing slowed.


    The fire continued to crackle.


    Finally¡­ peace.

 ARC 6 - Chapter 43: The Awakening of the Boss

    The fire had burned down to little more than glowing embers, pulsing weakly in the cave''s darkness. The silence was heavy, disturbed only by the rhythmic dripping of water from stalactites above.


    Alynia sat against the wall, arms crossed, head bowed. She looked asleep, but Veil knew better. Her ears twitched slightly at every sound. Always alert.


    Veil stretched his arms, wincing. The soreness in his muscles reminded him of his limits, but he clenched his teeth. The last trial had drained more of his strength than he cared to admit. Slowly, he pushed himself up, then looked at Alynia.


    Veil (hoarse voice): "We moving?"


    Alynia¡¯s eyes opened slowly. She remained still for a few seconds, gaze fixed on the embers, before she gradually pushed herself up, using the wall for support. Her ears flicked back briefly as she gritted her teeth, but she made no sound of pain.


    Alynia (firm tone): "Yeah... We move, Little Wolf."


    Her steps were slightly unsteady, but she walked¡ªstraight and proud.


    Veil watched her from the corner of his eye. He saw how she masked the pain behind her stoic expression, but he said nothing. If he did, she¡¯d shoot him a look that would make him regret it.


    Veil (smirking slightly): "If you collapse, I¡¯m not carrying you."This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.


    Alynia turned her head toward him, raising an eyebrow. Her smirk was sharp.


    Alynia (mocking gaze): "You don¡¯t have the shoulders for that, Little Wolf."


    They advanced into the corridor, their footsteps echoing against the cold stone floor. The silence was oppressive, amplified by the sound of each step. It felt louder than it should.


    Veil (eyes narrowing ahead): "That sound¡­ Metal?"


    At the end of the corridor, a massive door loomed, adorned with golden symbols and intricate engravings. It appeared to be made of a dark, slightly reflective metal, covered in ancient inscriptions. Faintly glowing runes pulsed across its surface¡ªslow and rhythmic, like a heartbeat.


    Veil (awed expression): "Incredible¡­"


    Alynia stopped beside him, her gaze locked onto the runes. She ran a hand across the cold surface of the door, narrowing her eyes.


    Alynia (cautious): "This isn¡¯t just a door¡­ This is a sealing barrier. Whatever¡¯s behind this¡­ it¡¯s no simple guardian."


    CLICK.


    A deep, internal mechanism activated. The symbols across the door ignited from bottom to top, as if an energy source was surging through them. The golden engravings burned with a blinding light, and a metallic grinding sound echoed through the chamber, low and ominous.


    CRAAAAAAAAAC.


    The door began to open slowly, with a thunderous rumble, metal scraping against stone. A cold draft rushed out from the chamber beyond, carrying the scent of ash and ancient dust.


    Alynia (sharp gaze): "Get ready, Little Wolf. Whatever¡¯s in there won¡¯t show mercy."


    They stepped through the doorway, cautiously. Their eyes widened simultaneously.


    An immense hall. Towering pillars supported a ceiling so high that it vanished into darkness. The walls were covered in faded murals, depicting epic battles. A battlefield from a forgotten era.


    Veil (whistling softly): "It¡¯s an arena¡­"


    CLAC. CLAC. CLAC.


    Torches mounted along the walls ignited one by one, flooding the chamber in flickering golden light. Shadows stretched long across the ground, twisting like claws.


    Alynia (low, serious voice): "Little Wolf¡­ This isn¡¯t a guardian. It¡¯s the boss."


    CRRRRRRRRRRRR.


    A deep, fracturing sound. Like stone splitting apart.


    At the center of the room, a massive form began to move.


    Two red eyes snapped open in the darkness.


    A long, scaled neck slithered forward from the shadows. The creature lifted its head, staring down at them for a moment, before unleashing a piercing, feral shriek that echoed through the entire hall.


    The Hydra of Borgeal had awakened.